Tom Parker was a trailblazer in developing nonprofit mental health and substance abuse services in Greene, Hawkins, and Hancock counties. In the late 1960s, he joined a small group of concerned citizens to form the Nolachuckey Holston Area Mental Health Center, becoming its first Executive Director. Under Parker’s leadership, the center expanded from its modest beginnings in Greeneville to establish a network of services across three counties, including outpatient psychiatric care, crisis intervention, and school-based programs like Project BASIC.

Parker’s passion and dedication were evident in his tireless work to secure funding and resources, ensuring no one was turned away due to inability to pay. He fostered collaboration with other mental health centers, leading to initiatives such as Rainbow Homes, which provided group homes and apartments for adults transitioning out of state psychiatric hospitals.

Beyond his work with Nolachuckey, Parker was a respected leader on regional and state levels. He served as Chair of the Region I Mental Health Planning Council and helped shape mental health funding priorities. He was also a founding member of the Laughlin Memorial Hospital Foundation Board.

When Medicaid managed care emerged in Tennessee, Parker played a key role in merging several regional centers to form Frontier Health, which now serves over 60,000 individuals annually. He ensured a smooth transition, protecting jobs and maintaining leadership roles for his staff.

Tom Parker retired in 1998 after a lifetime of service. Remembered for his compassion, dedication, and collaborative spirit, he was deeply respected by his peers and staff. Though known as a private person, Parker loved to talk about his rose garden, one of the most beautiful in Greeneville. He was a devoted family man, deeply proud of his wife, children, and grandchildren. His legacy continues to inspire and guide the work of Frontier Health today.

This past August, Bristol Behavioral Health Services, formally known as Bristol Regional Counseling, celebrated the grand opening of its new location along Volunteer Parkway. This new facility is dedicated to providing the community with comprehensive mental and behavioral health care.

Bristol Behavioral Health Services offers services to support adults, children, and youth facing mental health challenges. These services include counseling, psychiatric care, school-based employment services, peer support, and addiction recovery programs. The new facility is designed to provide a welcoming and supportive environment for patients and their families.

“Frontier Health has proudly served this community since 1957, and this marks an exciting milestone in our journey. We are incredibly proud to bring our many different programs and services under one roof, creating a more holistic and streamlined environment for providing care. In the past, accessing multiple services often meant traveling to various locations, which could be both time-consuming and challenging. Now, with everything conveniently housed in this beautiful new facility, you only need to come to one easily accessible location to receive comprehensive care.” – Kristie Hammonds, President & CEO

The grand opening consisted of a ribbon-cutting ceremony by the Bristol Chamber of Commerce, state officials, and the Tennessee Department of Mental Health Services. After the ribbon cutting, people enjoyed refreshments and visited the new facility.

In the heart of Tennessee, Nashville, the first annual School Based Behavioral Health Liaisons (S.B.B.H.L.) Summit took place! Over 250 liaisons from all across Tennessee gather together for a two-day event full of networking and fabulous speakers! A group of Frontier Health liaisons and supervisors across Region 1 made the journey together, each bringing unique perspectives and experiences. This year’s Summit was titled Uniting Forces- Bridging Gaps to Build Futures! Each day presented itself with keynote speakers, panels, and networking opportunities to connect with liaisons across Tennessee. After opening remarks from Assistant Commissioner Beth Goodner, a panel of six individuals, including our very own Kaylee Murphy, took the stage! This panel spoke on the art of collaboration, engagement, and integration of the S.B.B.H.L. program. Day one also included speakers from the Jason Foundation, Coordinated School Health, D.A.R.E., and the Office of Crisis Services and Suicide Prevention and Safety Net. After an eventful day, staff gathered together over a variety of Nashville’s wonderful restaurants! 

Day two brought another panelist of guests who took on new, engaging questions regarding the S.B.B.H.L. program. Speakers for day two included individuals from the Tennessee Office of Homeland Security, University of Tennessee M.T.S.S., Principals from Willamson County schools, and the Office of Prevention and Early Intervention Services. Deputy Assistant Commissioner Keri Virgo gave closing remarks that ended this year’s S.B.B.H.L. Summit.

Now back in their respective schools, our therapists felt rejuvenated and more connected with the Frontier Health team, equipped with new knowledge and strategies, and ready to begin another school year with confidence! We look forward to another S.B.B.H.L. Summit in the future! 

Here’s a glimpse from the recent Resource Fair at Sullivan Heights Middle School, held during their homecoming game! Local organizations set up outside the football stadium, tailgate-style, to share information about their services available for children in our community.

As part of the event, Jill White had the opportunity to represent Frontier Health at the school, where she provided alcohol and drug prevention groups to students. It was a wonderful occasion to engage with the community, connect with families, and spread awareness about the resources available to support our youth!

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JCVC hosted a series of fun-filled events in August to continue building team morale and camaraderie. The month kicked off with a Baked Potato and Salad Bar, a hit among employees! Many team members participated, enjoying a delicious buffet-style lunch together.

To celebrate the start of the school year, employees brought in their grade school photos for a fun “Guess Who” game. The ballot challenge sparked laughter and friendly conversations, with many remarking how little some faces have changed over the years.

The festivities continued with a “Dress Like a Nerd or Pirate Day,” where a few adventurous employees dressed up for the occasion. Their creative outfits brought joy and laughter to the entire team, showing how a little extra effort can go a long way in making the workplace fun!

These events brought smiles and strengthened connections among the team, making August a memorable month at JCVC!

15 Years

Jeremy Page

10 Years

Kori Miller