Distinguished Alumnus of the Year

Current Recipient

Frank Pinson, Class of 1974

The 2026 Distinguished Alumnus is Frank Pinson, a 1974 graduate of Volunteer State Community College and a former baseball player.

After his time at Vol State, he transferred to Trevecca Nazarene University, where he received a degree in Business Administration. Before retiring in 2024, he built an impressive career spanning more than 40 years in the property and casualty insurance industry. His passion for his alma mater is evident in the many ways he gives back to Vol State. Since joining the Foundation Board of Trustees in 2024, he has continued to make a meaningful impact through his service and leadership, including serving as Chair of the Alumni Advisory Council.

From left to right: Vol State President, Dr. Tostenson, Frank Pinson, Vol State Foundation Director Karen Mitchell, Vol State President, Dr. Tostenson (left), Jennifer Brown (center), Vol State Foundation Director Karen Mitchell, Alumni and Engagement Officer Alexis O'Malley

Previous Distinguished Alumnus of the Year Recipients

2013-2014

Bobby Hudson (Class of 1977)

2014-2015

Matt Ricker (Class of 1981)

2015-2016

Jerry Kirkman (Class of 1988)

2016-2017

Andrew Finney (Class of 1998)

2017-2018

Shirlene Campbell (Class of 1993)

2018-2019

Bill Sinks (Class of 1974)

2019-2020

Dennis Powers (class of 1973)

2020-2021

Evelyn Hill (Class of 2000)

2021-2022

Lori Johnson (Class of 2007)

2022-2023

Drew Rowley (Class of 2010)

2024-2025

Evan Jones (Class of 2012)

2024-2025

Kim Baker (Class of 2010)

2025-2026

Jennifer Brown (Class of 1996)