Serving as Women’s Athletics Director of the University of Tennessee for 25 years, Joan Cronan is a leader on campus and in the community. This summer she is serving the American Cancer Society as Co-Chair of The Hope Gala at Blackberry Farm in Walland, Tennessee, on August 2.
Q. What motivates you about working with young athletes?
A. I am very fortunate to make a difference in young women’s lives and help them become the best they can be.
Q. What makes the women’s athletics program so well-respected and successful year after year?
A. There is a definite pride and passion for what we do,
and I’ve been able to surround myself with excellent coaches
and administrators.
Q. What would readers be most surprised to know about you?
A. I am an LSU graduate. So I’m a Cajun with orange blood.
Q. How did you get involved with the American Cancer Society’s Hope Gala?
A. The national respect of the American Cancer Society and the organization’s professionalism attracted me. Cancer touches everyone, and research is the answer. Anything I can do to make my dream of a cure a reality is something I want to be involved with. The Hope Gala is a perfect title for a wonderful event, and I’m thrilled this year’s event is at Blackberry Farm. There is hope in the fight against cancer.
Q. For those who may not know, please share your connection to cancer?
A. My husband, Tom, was diagnosed with pancreatic cancer five years ago and died a year and a half ago. His diagnosis was a shock; he was the healthiest person I’ve ever known. We were married for 40 years. (Laughs) I got married when I was two.
Being part of the American Cancer Society Hope Gala is definitely something Tom would have wanted me to do. When he was diagnosed he said. “God didn’t give me cancer, but God really cares how we respond.”
I have the privilege of co-chairing The Hope Gala. Tom would be proud I have chosen to respond in this way.
Q. What do you enjoy most about your role with The Hope Gala?
A. I like to surround myself with great teams, and The Hope Gala volunteer leadership committee is focused, intense and enjoys having fun.
Q. What advice would you give people who are trying to reduce their cancer risk and improve their quality of life?
A. The American Cancer Society educates us all so well on prevention and early detection. It’s important to realize that we can control some cancer risks. There are also programs and services available for those with cancer. Contact the American Cancer Society for more information.
Q. You want to make a difference in the fight against cancer. How can people join you?
A. People can join me at The Hope Gala. Let’s increase our funding of research. Whether you volunteer, educate, advocate or donate you can help find a cure for cancer and do something good for the cause.
