Emily Mack, former Preservation Planner and now the President and CEO of River City Company, discusses her journey in shaping urban development in Chattanooga. She shares how her early experiences with historic preservation ignited her passion for architecture. Emily emphasizes the importance of saying yes to new opportunities, even when feeling unprepared. She recounts behind-the-scenes insights into major projects like Hawk Hill and the ONE Riverfront Plan, and advocates for community involvement in creating inclusive public spaces.
Emily Mack highlights the importance of resilience and adaptability in leadership, especially during challenging times like the COVID-19 pandemic.
Her passion for architecture and urban planning was ignited through volunteer work, demonstrating the value of exploring diverse career paths.
Deep dives
Navigating Leadership During a Pandemic
Emily Mack discusses the challenges of stepping into her role as the CEO of River City Company in Chattanooga during the COVID-19 pandemic. She emphasizes how difficult it was to build relationships with her team and board while navigating the constraints imposed by the pandemic. The initial years were particularly trying, as her focus shifted to finding ways to support the community and adapt to changing circumstances. This experience reshaped her approach to leadership and engagement within the community, underscoring the importance of resilience and adaptability in such unprecedented times.
Influence of a Small-Town Upbringing
Growing up in a small town, Emily Mack reflects on the formative experiences that shaped her values and aspirations. She describes a close-knit community setting that instilled in her a strong sense of belonging and a connection to local culture. The influence of iconic figures, such as John Mellencamp and Princess Diana, also inspired her to become a strong leader. These early influences provide a foundation for her commitment to community service and her desire to create positive changes in urban settings.
Career Path and Discovering Passions
Emily shares her winding career journey that led her to pursue architecture and urban planning. After initially exploring various fields, including journalism, education, and finance, she found her passion for architecture during her time volunteering to work on a historic restoration project. This pivotal moment led her to shift gears, obtaining a master's degree in architecture and planning, which unlocked new opportunities for her career. Her evolving interests and experiences highlight the importance of exploring diverse paths in order to find one's true passion.
Community Engagement in Urban Development
Emily discusses her commitment to community engagement and how it drives her approach to urban development projects in Chattanooga. She emphasizes the significance of getting input and feedback from residents to shape future developments, such as the revitalization of the riverfront parks. The process includes conducting extensive surveys and stakeholder meetings to gather insights and ensure that the new spaces reflect the desires and needs of the community. This collaborative approach aims to create inclusive and accessible environments that cater to everyone in Chattanooga, reinforcing her belief in the value of community-driven development.
From Preservation Planner to Mayor’s Liason in Indianapolis, and now President and CEO of River City Company in Chattanooga, Emily Mack’s contributions have been instrumental in shaping downtown developments in both cities.
In this episode, Emily shares how volunteering at the Frank Lloyd Wright Home and Studio ignited her passion for architecture and historic preservation, why you should say yes to roles you might feel a little unprepared for, and how she draws inspiration from powerful role models like Wonder Woman and Princess Diana.
Plus, she shares what happens behind the scenes with major redevelopment projects like Hawk Hill and the ONE Riverfront Plan.
Emily Mack is the President and CEO of River City Company, the economic development engine for Downtown Chattanooga. You can connect with Emily on LinkedIn (linkedin.com/in/emilymack/) and learn more about River City Company on their website (rivercitycompany.com).