Hi there Tennessee TSA! My name is Grace Deckard, and I am serving as your 2022-2023 State Vice President. This year, I am a senior at Hardin Valley Academy located in Knoxville, TN.
My TSA journey started in 10th grade during the height of the coronavirus pandemic. I quickly learned by joining TSA that even though we were separated in distance, TSA still allowed us to connect like family. It has introduced me to some of the most amazing people I’ve ever met who I continually look up to and given me a support system who I know will always have my back. By competing in events like Chapter team, I have learned how to step out of my comfort zone and speak my mind about issues even if they might be a little bit silly. TSA has shown me that I don’t have to give up my creative side for my nerdy side, but I can combine them by participating in events like Children’s stories. All in all, TSA has become a foundational part of my journey through STEM, and I’ll always be grateful for it. This year, my goal for TNTSA is to increase the personal connections between middle and high school chapters. Due to the years of separation, I believe partnering middle and high school chapters is an integral step to continue the community of TSA. Once again, I am extremely grateful for this amazing opportunity to serve TNTSA on the state officer team and cannot wait to see what this year brings us. I encourage everyone to look beyond their comfort zone and step out into their future with kindness. |