Staff Testimonial - Lacey Weese

WITH Gratitude

Loyal. Trustworthy. Energetic. Faithful. Fun. These are all words that define the Ultimate Bulldog, Dr. Harley Knowles. I have had the pleasure of being on staff at TWU prior to Dr. Knowles’ first day, and let me tell you: he truly has breathed life back into this University. I remember back when he was a candidate for President, he stood in front of the staff and truly listened as we poured our hearts out about what this school means to us. And he got it. He truly understood what makes TWU so special, why we care so deeply about each other, and he quickly learned to love this school as much as we do.

Over the years, Tennessee Wesleyan has blossomed under the care of Dr. Knowles, but even more so, the employees have blossomed. Dr. Knowles has a way of finding the very best in people, pushing employees to go further than they ever thought they could go. I remember a conversation with him several years ago where he told me he trusted me to run a department, that Tennessee Wesleyan needed me, and I was scared. But the good thing about having a President like Dr. Knowles is that he helps you grow, shows grace and compassion when you need it, and is fully supportive in every way. What I admire most about him is that even in the face of conflict, he stops and listens to all details before he makes any decisions. He wants staff input in the big decisions and in the small decisions because he knows that every decision matters. Bottom line, he supports his staff. And for that, we can never thank him enough.

But not only is he President Knowles, he is also a friend to all. Sitting in the dining hall, he listens to stories of our kids, our vacation plans, our “games” and even shares a few stories of his cat as well! When I first came back to work after a death in my immediate family, he sought me out on orientation day just to see how I was doing and tell me that he was glad I was back. That is just the kind of man that he is.

I cannot say enough good things about Dr. Harley Knowles, but I will leave it at this: We will follow you anywhere. Thanks for all that you do for so many. We love you, Our Fearless Leader!

Lacey Williams Weese, ‘08 Associate Vice President for Student Financial Services

“Dr. Knowles has a way of finding the very best in people, pushing employees to go further than they ever thought they could go.”