For Abby Simpson, East Tennessee State University isn’t just a place to study. It’s a place to make a difference. From leading community projects to fostering connections through creative initiatives, she has spent her time at ETSU turning passion into action.
A rehabilitative health sciences major from Church Hill, Abby’s journey at ETSU began with the Roan Scholars Leadership Program, a prestigious scholarship that supports outstanding student leaders. Even before coming to ETSU, Abby was making an impact. She launched two service projects in her hometown – Warm Hands, Warm Hearts – which provides cold-weather items to shelters, and Community Cans, an initiative addressing food insecurity.
At ETSU, she has continued to find innovative ways to serve others. In her sophomore year, she combined a new hobby of crocheting with a mission to bring comfort to the campus community. She launched Sweaters for Cameron, a project where students, faculty, and staff crocheted squares to create a symbolic sweater for the Cameron Tree, a campus landmark dedicated to those lost during the COVID-19 pandemic.
“I didn’t want to just put the sweater on any random tree on campus. I wanted something that had meaning,” Abby said. “This project was about wrapping our community in love and remembering those we’ve lost.”
Abby’s commitment to bringing people together also led her to Letters of Love, an organization that encourages students to write uplifting notes to those in need. As outreach coordinator, she has played a key role in delivering thousands of handwritten letters to first responders, veterans, and individuals affected by natural disasters.
Such a project was especially meaningful following the devastation wrought by Hurricane Helene.
Through these projects, Abby has found more than just leadership experience – she has built lifelong connections.
“The community at ETSU is so welcoming and kind,” she said. “Since my first day here, I’ve felt at home.”
“Since my first day here at ETSU, I’ve felt at home.”
- Abby Simpson
Her time at ETSU has also prepared her for the future. An aspiring pediatric speech and language pathologist, Abby is developing the skills and empathy she will carry into her career. She earned an impressive second- place finish in the 2023 ETSU Elevates competition, a program that invests thousands of dollars into the community and partners students with area businesses to tackle challenges. Abby’s project aimed to prepare high school students for life after graduation.
For students looking for a university where they can develop their passions, take
on leadership roles, and make a real impact, Abby’s story is proof that ETSU is the
place to do it.
Take Your Next Step
Stay in Touch
Follow ETSU on Social