16th Annual Emerald Youth Legacy Dinner Honors Mary Slack
By Jamie Schnell
schnellj@knoxfocus.com
The Emerald Youth Foundation hosted its 16th annual Legacy Dinner on October 21 and honored Mary Slack with the prestigious 2024 Legacy Award. Slack has been involved with Emerald Youth for almost 30 years, serving on the organization’s board from 1998 to 2007 and as chair from 2000 to 2004. Slack, a lifelong Knoxville resident and businesswoman, played a crucial role in leading the organization through significant growth.
The evening gave a fitting tribute to Slack, whose unwavering dedication to Emerald Youth for nearly three decades and her commitment to service and community should serve as an inspiration to all.
The dinner took place at the Knoxville Convention Center and was attended by over 1,000 people. Legacy Dinner Chairman Richard Johnson started the evening with a prayer and acknowledged Slack’s influence and dedication, which he believed made her “more than deserving of the award.”
Emerald Youth students also gave a prayer and discussed how the organization has impacted their lives by helping them discover and utilize their strengths and abilities to serve the community.
EY CEO Steve Diggs described Slack as an admired Christian leader in the community and a devoted friend to the ministry. He referred to her as his “sister in Christ” and expressed his gratitude, saying, “It wouldn’t be possible without Mary Slack. I thank God for you and your family.”
The Emerald Youth House Band performed “You Know My Name” and Sharlene Provilus recited a mesmerizing and thought-provoking spoken word piece titled “Jesus, You Were There.”
Leonard Weaver’s powerful and emotional performance of “Send Me” brought all in attendance to their feet for a standing ovation.
The talented and spirited cheerleaders of the Emerald Academy performed and the Emerald Youth Choir sang their uplifting renditions of “Trust in God” and “I Believe.” Friends of Emerald, volunteers who serve various roles across the city, came on stage to discuss the need for hundreds of volunteers to help serve the city’s youth.
A tribute video was shown, followed by an introduction of the honoree by Jody Wright, the 2023 Legacy Award recipient. The evening concluded with a prayer by Chairman Dr. Keith Gray.
For those interested in supporting the Emerald Youth Organization through donations or volunteering, can find more information at thetimeisnowemerald.org and eyfdonate.org.
