News Summary
In December 2024, Nashville’s ATHENA Award recipients, Dr. Phyllis Qualls and Dr. Katherine Y. Brown, visited the Parthenon in Athens, Greece, celebrating their achievements. Their journey highlighted the strong connection between Nashville’s own Parthenon replica and the original, fostering a deeper appreciation for history and cultural legacies. This memorable trip showcases the dedication of these influential women and their commitment to leadership and community service.
Nashville’s ATHENA Award Recipients Enjoy a Majestic Experience at the Parthenon in Athens
Nashville has officially made its mark on the ancient world! In December 2024, two outstanding women, Dr. Phyllis Qualls and Dr. Katherine Y. Brown, both renowned recipients of the ATHENA Award, traveled all the way to Athens, Greece. Their adventure turned into a remarkable journey as they visited the iconic Parthenon, providing a delightful connection between the ancient structure and its full-scale replica right here in Nashville.
The Journey of Excellence Begins
Dr. Qualls earned the distinguished ATHENA Award in 2016, while Dr. Brown received the Young Professional award in 2015 and eventually the traditional ATHENA award in 2021. These accolades highlight not only their professional accomplishments but also their commitment to serving their communities with immense passion and dedication.
A Step into History
During their enchanting visit to the Parthenon, both women found themselves marveling at the magnificent architecture and rich history that stood before them. The original Parthenon has long been celebrated for its beauty and significance in ancient Greek culture. Dr. Qualls emphasized that every visitor should embrace the opportunity to witness such historical splendor firsthand. After all, how amazing is it to stand before a landmark that has inspired countless artists and thinkers over the centuries?
Nashville’s Own Parthenon
For those who may not know, Nashville is home to a stunning replica of the Parthenon, situated in the beautiful Centennial Park. This full-scale replica proudly earns the title of being the “Athens of the South.” The Nashville Parthenon was originally constructed for the 1897 Tennessee Centennial Exposition and later reconstructed in concrete during the 1920s. Today, it houses a remarkable collection of American art, including the impressive Cowan Collection and rotating temporary exhibits that draw in about 370,000 visitors each year!
Women Making a Difference
As both women explored the ancient site, they couldn’t help but reflect on how their achievements intertwine with the ideals of Athena, the Greek goddess of wisdom and warfare whom the Parthenon is dedicated to. Dr. Qualls has been instrumental in promoting her ideals through various leadership initiatives while Dr. Brown is well-known for her invaluable contributions to the world of CPR (Cardiopulmonary Resuscitation) and her impactful work with the Dr. Katherine Y. Brown Leadership Academy. Both women embody the spirit of leadership and servitude, which has been crucial in empowering others.
A Memorable Experience
Several honored guests who have played an important role in Nashville’s ATHENA Program have showered praise on this incredible journey. Candace Rhodman, associated with NAWBO, commented on how unforgettable this trip was for the ladies as they experienced the Parthenon in two locations. Yvonne Wood, a 2005 ATHENA recipient, celebrated Dr. Qualls and Dr. Brown, cherishing the unique chance they had to view the original Parthenon in person.
Bringing Cultures Together
As Nashville continues to attract visitors and showcase its vibrant art scene, the connection between the original Parthenon and its replica creates an exciting cultural exchange. The Nashville Parthenon stands as a fantastic educational hub too, providing engaging programs that promote history and art, enriching the lives of many within the community.
Conclusion
It’s evident that the adventurous spirits of Dr. Qualls and Dr. Brown resonate with their commitment to leadership and dedication to their communities. Their trip to Athens not only highlights the incredible achievements of women in Nashville but also fosters a deeper appreciation for cultural legacies that withstand the test of time. Who knows? Perhaps their journey will inspire others to follow in their footsteps, celebrating not just the beauty of history, but the spirit of those who continue to lead with grace and strength.
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Additional Resources
- Tennessee Tribune: Athena Recipients Take Nashville to Athens
- Wikipedia: Parthenon
- Tennessean: Jeopardy Contestants Fail Nashville Athena Statue Question
- Google Search: Nashville Athena Statue
- Nashville Post: On-Site Work for West End Park Project
- Google Scholar: Athena Nashville
- WKRN: Athens of the South – The Parthenon
- Encyclopedia Britannica: Athena
- Fox17: Nashville’s Parthenon Hosting New Music Series
- Google News: Nashville Parthenon
Author: HERE Nashville
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