Tennessee Secretary of State

Thank you to Tennessee State Historian Dr. Carroll Van West for speaking today at the Tennessee State Library & Archives as part of Tennessee’s extended celebration. Dr. West discussed Tennessee’s history and its significance in the broader American story as the state marks its 230th anniversary.

We appreciate his continued efforts to share Tennessee’s history and thank everyone who attended today’s lecture, including Senator Ken Yager, Judge Andy Bennett, Treasurer David Lillard, Tennessee State Museum Executive Director Ashley Howell, and Tennessee Historical Commission Interim Executive Director Miranda Montgomery.

Happy , Tennessee! Today marks 230 years since Tennessee became the 16th state admitted to the Union. I am grateful to live in the greatest state in the nation.

Thank you to everyone who joined us for our celebration today at the Tennessee State Library & Archives, and a special thank you to the Tennessee Highway Patrol for helping safeguard our priceless historical documents throughout the event. We appreciate all who came out to celebrate Tennessee’s rich history with us and we hope you also made time to see Tennessee's Bicentennial Mall Park and visit the Tennessee State Museum.

Thanks to the Tennessee for the Tennessee Civics Academy K–12 Teacher Conference, part of the Institute of American Civics at the University of Tennessee, Knoxville for inviting me to speak at their conference.

About 125 educators gathered in the Senate Chamber to discuss the role of civics in education and the importance of civic engagement in our classrooms. I appreciate the continued efforts to promote student participation in civic learning opportunities, including programs like the student mock elections, Anne Dallas Dudley Award program, and the civics essay contest. Grateful for these dedicated educators who are preparing the next generation of engaged citizens.

Earlier this week, I was honored to speak with this year’s Tennessee Boys State delegation at Tennessee Tech University.

These outstanding young men represent the future of our great state, and it is important that we continue to invest in the next generation of leaders. Among them are future CEOs, governors, U.S. Senators, community leaders, fathers, and husbands who will help shape Tennessee for years to come.

Thank you to Boys State Chair Jim Reed for the invitation and for his continued dedication to investing in Tennessee’s future leaders.

Proud to host Tennessee Society Daughters of the American Revolution members from across the state at the Tennessee State Library & Archives this morning for their annual celebration.

This special event recognized outstanding Tennessee students for their achievements in Tennessee history, good citizenship, and american History.

Congratulations to all of the students honored for their hard work and academic excellence.

Grateful to join Governor Bill Lee, Commissioner MG Tommy H. Baker, and Major General Warner A. Ross II at the 2026 Governor’s Memorial Day Ceremony this morning to honor Tennesseans who died while serving our great nation.

As Memorial Day approaches, we remember the brave men and women who made the ultimate sacrifice in service to our nation and the freedoms we enjoy today. We also celebrate the families who carry their legacy forward and remain grateful for their courage, sacrifice, and dedication to our country.