Juanita McClure Lewis attended Athens City Schools from 1970 to 1980. During her time as a student, she attended Forrest Hill Elementary, Westside Elementary, and Athens Junior High School.
Juanita was an active and engaged student, participating in numerous clubs and school activities. She served on the student council, participated in YMCA Youth Legislature (under Mrs. Henderson), played basketball, and was a cheerleader. Some of her fondest memories include spending time before or after class with her mentors, Mrs. Henderson and Mrs. McGill.
After graduating from McMinn County High School, Juanita pursued higher education and earned:
A Bachelor of Science in Industrial Engineering from the University of Tennessee
A Master of Arts in Management from National University in Los Angeles
A Master of Divinity in Pastoral Care and Counseling from Gardner-Webb University School of Divinity
Ms. Lewis recently retired after a successful 38-year corporate career. She now serves as Pastor of First United Presbyterian Church in Athens, an Adjunct Professor at Tennessee Wesleyan University, and remains an active community volunteer. She is especially passionate about ministry and supporting teenagers and young adults as they navigate life’s challenges.
Juanita resides in Athens, Tennessee, and part-time in Charlotte, Tennessee.
A few words of advice from Juanita McClure Lewis to the current Athens City Schools students: “Fully study and apply yourself in every class. Learn as much as you can, because it will pay off in high school and college. Self-discipline and good study skills will be a great asset in life.”