Veteran and valued retiree honored with quilt for service
Surrounded by symbols of patriotism, BVI President, Kathy Black was recently honored by TVA’s Veteran’s Association in a ceremony that celebrated her dedicated service to both her country and TVA.
Kathy, a proud U.S. Army veteran, served five years as a member of the military police before transitioning to civilian life. After completing a degree with the G.I. Bill, she started her career at TVA and retired as the Chief Human Resource Officer.
“When I arrived at basic training, I was wondering what I had gotten myself into,” Kathy said. “However, I learned so much about myself—I was capable of more physically, emotionally, intellectually. They challenged me and set me up for a successful career at TVA.”
During her tenure, TVA was selected as the Employer of the Year for the Employer Support for the Guard and Reserve. She remembered it as being a “proud moment for all of us”. The following year, she was asked to serve on the selection committee for that award and recognized what went into that award selection.
“TVA got that recognition not because of me, or anyone that came before me, but because the Veteran’s Association highlighted the supportive environment that the employees fostered,” Kathy said. “When an employee deployed, teammates would check on their families, provide meals—whatever they needed.”
For the first time, the Veteran’s Association presented a handmade quilt given by the Itawamba Memory Makers Quilting Group of Fulton, Mississippi to an honoree.
“I’m honored and humbled by this recognition, my work with the Veteran’s Association during my time at TVA was a highlight,” Kathy said.
As a retiree Kathy continues to support the Veteran’s Association however she can.
“Kathy is the first person to receive a quilt from the Veteran’s Association. I couldn’t think of a more deserving person,” Kevin Baker, TVA Veteran’s Association president said. “When I got involved in the Veteran’s Association over 18 years ago, Kathy was the person I went to if the Veteran’s Association needed anything and she was always willing to provide support.” 
“Kathy is known for her work ethic and expertise but also for her mentorship and support of fellow veterans within the organization. We are lucky to have her continued support,” Allen Clare, SVP of Generation and Veteran’s Association Sponsor said.