Class Notes

Allie Horvath Burns completed her master’s degree in English Literature at the University of Tennessee-Knoxville in May.

Allie Horvath Burns ’15 accepted a position as career coach for students with disabilities at Pellissippi State Community College.

Lakewood Police Identify Injured Agent: On Monday, December 27th, the Lakewood and Denver communities faced an unimaginable tragedy when a gunman opened fire in both cities, killing five and injuring others. Among those injured was a Lakewood Police Agent.  After shooting and killing 38-year-old Danny Scofield at the Lucky 13 tattoo shop, the 47-year old male suspect traveled to the Belmar shopping area where he gunned down 28-year-old Sarah Steck as she worked at the Hyatt House. At several points during this situation, the suspect exchanged gunfire with Lakewood and Denver Police. From there, the shooter headed to the area of Alaska and Vance when he encountered Lakewood Police Agent Ashley Ferris. Agent Ferris ordered him to drop his weapon as he approached her. The suspect ignored her commands and shot Agent Ferris, striking her in the abdomen. Agent Ferris, shot and wounded on the ground, was able to return fire on the suspect. The suspect was shot by Agent Ferris and died on scene. If not for the heroic efforts of Agent Ferris and other law enforcement, this incredibly violent tragedy could have been even worse. Two photos of Agent Ferris are included in this release. Agent Ferris remains in a local hospital with her family by her side. Her family is asking for privacy during this time of healing.  “All of us at the Lakewood Police Department are incredibly proud of Agent Ferris and the bravery shown by her and her fellow law enforcement officers during this active shooter situation. The entire Lakewood Police family will be here to support Agent Ferris and her family as she embarks on this recovery process.” says Lakewood Police Chief Dan McCasky, “Our hearts are incredibly heavy with the loss of life and injuries suffered by others during this rampage. Our thoughts and prayers are with the Cardenas, Gunn-Maldonado, Scofield, Steck and Swinyard families, as well as the families of those injured.” Donations to help support the victims, families & survivors of Monday’s mass shooting incident in Lakewood & Denver can be made through the Colorado Healing Fund at https://www.coloradohealingfund.org/.  More about Ashley:  https://www.maryvillecollege.edu/academics/learn-by-experience/research/search/ashley-ferris-15/

Linda Hinkle ’15 continues her service to veterans while graduating with her MSW in May 2018. In 2016, Linda started a group devoted to connecting female veterans on the UTK campus. Read more here: https://on.wbir.com/2G980Yq

Is now working at Crisp Accounting Firm in Maryville, TN.

On February 9th, 2023 I was named the next Varsity Head Football Coach at Fort Chiswell High School in Max Meadows, Virginia. I will also be teaching Health & Physical Education at Fort Chiswell High School.

Deputy at Blount County Sheriff’s Office, receives Lifesaving Award. Deputy Patrolman Rodgers was awarded for helping to save the life of a man who was trapped inside a vehicle that had become submerged upside down in the water on the night of April 21. Deputy Rodgers, along with a citizen, Mr. Scott Snipp, entered the water and freed the victim. Their actions likely saved the victims life. Rodgers and his brother, Reuben are MC alumni and they both played football for the College.

Zachary Selby has been accepted into the Masters program at the Philip Merrill College of Journalism at University of Maryland.

Todd graduated from Tennessee State University with a Doctorate in Physical Therapy. He also passed the National Physical Therapy Examination to be licensed as a Physical Therapist.