Mayor Indya Kincannon has accepted the resignation of Deputy to the Mayor and Chief Economic Development Officer Stephanie Welch. 




Welch, who has a long history of serving the people of Knoxville, announced that after 27 years in East Tennessee, she is moving back to New England to be closer to family.

“Stephanie has been a key player in my Administration and a key player in this city for nearly three decades,” said Mayor Indya Kincannon. “She gives 100 percent to everything she touches, and she will be missed. However, family must come first. I respect and support her decision.”

Welch was President of the Great School Partnership, Community Health Director at the Knox County Health Department, and most recently served on City Council before joining the Kincannon Administration. 

“Deciding to leave Knoxville was bittersweet, but after a family meeting this spring, I knew it was time for me to return home,” Welch said. “I am grateful to have served on Mayor Kincannon’s team, and for all of the opportunities I’ve had to support important work in the city. I will always treasure the people I have worked with, and will carry Knoxville in my heart as I move north.”

Welch’s last day will be September 2, 2022.

Mayor Kincannon is working on a transition plan and will announce more details soon.