2025 Speaker Series: In HER Arena - Where Women Lead the Game Follows

The chamber's Speaker Series events provide an opportunity for businesses and the public to hear from speakers on specific topics or issues that are of importance to them, their business, and our community. Members receive discounted pricing as a benefit of membership. Attendees from the community are always welcome. 

It’s no secret that Knoxville is home to a beloved ranking SEC Football team, Elite 8 NCAA basketball, championship baseball, hockey, and the new Smokies baseball stadium now in the heart of downtown.

But women’s sports are expanding fast as an industry and an opportunity for aspiring players here, too. Join us for a fun morning that will speak to the rise of women’s sports here with a look at our history, recent developments and the future. Our panel includes Joan Cronin, UTK Women’s Athletic Director Emeritus and first female AD at Tennessee, WVLT's Brittany Tarwater, 2007 SEC Champion and 7-time All-American for Lady Vols swim team, and One Knoxville Soccer, who just launched their pre-professional women’s league in 2025 playing at the new baseball stadium.

Emceed by Missy Kane, Olympic middle-distance runner and Tennessee Sports Hall of Fame inductee, this inspiring session will give you insight into just how far female sports have come, where they’re headed within our metro region, and how businesses/individuals can support the growth of the aspiring athlete leaders and opportunities in our community.