Phyllis Nichols

Keynote Speaker at 2026 MLK Breakfast

KNOXVILLE – The Knoxville Area Urban League (Knoxville, TN) just announced that their CEO, Phyllis Y. Nichols, will be retiring in September.

Serving in the role for over twenty years, Nichols is the longest-serving CEO since the start of the Knoxville non-profit in 1968. She joined the Urban League in 1994, after years of working in both private businesses and public education.

Her tenure as CEO of the Knoxville Area Urban League has included national recognition for her initiatives in economic and social equality. Her work and dedication to social justice, education, equity, and workforce development has impacted the community that she has so lovingly served.

The National League CEO, Marc H. Morial, said of Nichols, “For nearly 30 years, Phyllis has been the most dedicated public servant and tireless advocate, not only for the Knoxville Area Urban League, but also in our national fight for equality, civil rights, and social justice. We are grateful for her legacy of stability, growth, and creativity and look forward to what we can achieve over the next decades as we continue to build upon Phyllis’ vision.”

One of her trademark programs, Shoes for Schools, celebrates its 20th year of operation in August. The program gives school supplies and shoes to children for the upcoming school year. She also created The GEM Community Development Group, offers training for those who hope to seek employment in construction and similar fields.

In her letter announcing her retirement to her Board of Directors, Nichols said, “Leading the Knoxville Area Urban League has been challenging but also the most fulfilling work one can imagine. The people I have been privileged to work with, the engagement with our national organization, our board and the community we serve have all contributed to the accomplishments we have achieved.”