Board of Directors

Under the leadership of the Board of Directors, STANDING TALL LIFE SKILLS, INC. has been at the forefront of making a difference in children’s lives since 2019. Located at the intersection of community and life, STANDING TALL LIFE SKILLS, INC. is a life-affirming journey that builds on the richness and power of lifelong values. We have been providing young people with the values and skills they need to become exceptional community leaders.

Sarah Cannon- President

Sarah Cannon is the daughter of the John and Michelle Cannon who own and operate wildwood stables and founded Standing Tall. Sarah has been employed at the Avalon Center Domestic Violence and Sexual Assault program in Crossville for 18 years working with the community. She is the mother of 2 sons who she has raised in Cumberland County.
“Being a part of Standing Tall is a natural fit for me because of its origins. Being a leader in this amazing program that is available to local children and their families is a privilege.”

Abby Julian - Treasurer

With over 30+ years of experience in management, both in the nonprofit and corporate sector. I have also had the pleasure of serving on several boards and organizations. I enjoy the opportunity to give back to my community and make a difference in the lives of others.

Alicia Ricketts- Volunteer Coordinator

My name is Alicia Ricketts. I am a mother of two wonderful children ages 13 and 15. We reside in beautiful Crossville Tennessee. I enjoy staying active within my church, my family, and my community. Alongside serving on the Board of Directors for Standing Tall, I am also Director of Fair Park Senior Center. I am grateful for the opportunity to be a part of Standing Tall and excited to serve as the volunteer coordinator.

Amanda Drainas- Secretary

I grew up in Crossville, Tennessee, and have lived in Middle Tennessee with my family for most of my life. I hold a Bachelor's degree in Legal Studies from Purdue University and work as a Paralegal for a company based in Nevada. My passion lies in working for and with children. My journey began in the early 2000s when I worked as a paralegal in a local law firm specializing in family law and DCS cases. Later, I became a child advocate for CASA, helping children who were too scared to speak up for themselves during traumatic situations. All children should be able to express their emotions, which is why I strongly support the Standing Tall program. The program teaches children how to handle difficult situations positively and how to grow from them. I am thrilled to be serving as the Secretary for this program.

I look forward to serving this program as their Secretary.

Susan Fiebig- Board Member

Hi my name is Susan Fiebig, I grew up in Wisconsin, and graduated from The University of Minnesota with an Economics degree. I’ve lived on the west coast for the last 30 years in southern California and northern Washington state.
My husband and I have been living in Fairfield Glade for the past four years, and I enjoy all the outdoor activities, the lakes and the diversity of people. I currently am working as one of the event coordinators at The Center. My past experiences as an elementary school librarian and an active volunteer in both of my girls sporting and school activities, as well as a coach and coordinator with the YMCA “Girls On The Run” program, has allowed me to mentor children and inspire them to be the best they can be.“Being a part of Standing Tall is a natural fit for me because of its origins. Being a leader in this amazing program that is available to local children and their families is a privilege.”

Candace Gossett- Board Member

Hey friends! I am Candace Gossett I’m 41 years old my husband and I live in Cumberland County. I have been here most of my adult life. We’re involved in the community. We have 12 children, 10 that that still live at home. We are involved in the Cumberland County community needs. I am happy to be a part of this program.

Ernie Williams- Board Member

Coming Soon

Dana Kendall- Board Member

Coming Soon