CHAMBER HOSTED: 2026 Speaker Series: Economics of Housing & Health

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. 

Join us for a panel discussion on “Economics of Housing & Health” on Tuesday, Nov. 17, from 7:30 a.m. to 9:00 a.m. at Cokesbury United Methodist Church.

National statistics show that when an area experiences issues with housing affordability, workforce health is impacted. Whether it drives chronic financial or psychological stress, forces compromise on the most basic needs, or limits access to medical care when individuals must choose between routine healthcare costs and housing, the result is a less healthy workforce. Join us as we discuss how the higher costs of housing may be contributing to health issues in our community, as it relates to our workforce, and how East TN compares to other national statistics.

FEATURING emcee, Alan Williams, retired WVLT anchor, and Panelists:

• Dr. Matt Harris: Boyd Distinguished Professor of Health Economics - University of Tennessee
• Dr. Alicia Brooks: Executive Medical Director of Primary Care - Covenant Health
• Erin Read: Executive Director - Knoxville-Knox County Office of Housing Stability
• Tony Benton: CEO - Tennova Healthcare East Market