Trailblazing History: The Impact from the First Lady Governors

Knoxville high school honors alumna who became one of the first female state governors

Feb. 5, 2026 at 1:31am

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Nearly 45 years after graduating from William Blount High School in Knoxville, Tennessee, Lisa Myers has been recognized by her alma mater with the Trailblazer Legacy Award. The award honors individuals who have broken barriers, set standards, and created opportunities for future generations through their pioneering achievements.

Why it matters

Myers' recognition highlights the growing impact and influence of women in positions of political leadership, as she was one of the first female state governors in the United States. Her story serves as an inspiration for young women aspiring to leadership roles and demonstrates the progress made in gender equality in politics over the past several decades.

The details

Lisa Myers graduated from William Blount High School in Knoxville in 1981. After a successful career in business and politics, she went on to become one of the first female state governors in the country, serving in that role from 1999 to 2007. The Trailblazer Legacy Award recognizes Myers' groundbreaking achievements and the doors she opened for future generations of women in government.

  • Lisa Myers graduated from William Blount High School in 1981.
  • Myers served as a state governor from 1999 to 2007.
  • William Blount High School recognized Myers with the Trailblazer Legacy Award in 2026.

The players

Lisa Myers

One of the first female state governors in the United States, who served from 1999 to 2007.

William Blount High School

A high school in Knoxville, Tennessee that recognized Lisa Myers with the Trailblazer Legacy Award for her pioneering achievements.

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What they’re saying

“Nearly 45 years after graduating from William Blount High School, it's an honor to be recognized by my alma mater for the work I've done to open doors for future generations of women in politics.”

— Lisa Myers

The takeaway

Lisa Myers' recognition by William Blount High School serves as a powerful reminder of the progress made in gender equality in politics over the past several decades, and the continued importance of celebrating the trailblazers who have paved the way for women in leadership roles.