Women Celebrating Women
The word inspire is defined as the act of filling someone with the urge or ability to do something, and here in Chattanooga, we have no shortage of incredible women who motivate those around them day in and day out. Whether they intentionally set out to be a role model or random acts of kindness are simply in their DNA, these women are making the world a better place. Read on to learn more about the individuals who encourage others to be the best version of themselves, told by those they inspired most.
Photography by Emily Pérez Long
inspired: Allison Driver
inspiration: Shawn Kurrelmeier-Lee
When I moved to Chattanooga from Nashville in July 2017 with my daughter, Brooke, and son, Brandon, it was a step out of my comfort zone, to say the least. However, I knew I had the ideal opportunity in front of me: To lead a wonderful school community and promote the individualized and personalized Montessori instruction that I so strongly believe in.
Over the last few years, I’ve had the opportunity to lead and grow professionally under the mentorship of Shawn Kurrelmeier-Lee. Shawn is the Chief Reading Officer for Read 20 and serves on the board at The Montessori School. Also a mother of two, who, during her early career, balanced raising her children and a career in education, Shawn and I share many commonalities that have connected us over time. Shawn inspires me to remain true to my leadership style and is always there for me, to mentor, listen, and provide sound advice.
Shawn and I share a passion for education, and we both make professional and pedagogical decisions based on what is best for each child. We plan to collectively continue working to make a positive difference in education, leaving each child to be free to soar and reach new heights in their journey of life.
“Shawn inspires me to remain true to my leadership style and is always there for me, to mentor, listen, and provide sound advice.”
