Today we’d like to introduce you to Meghan Gadsden
Hi Meghan, so excited to have you on the platform. So before we get into questions about your work-life, maybe you can bring our readers up to speed on your story and how you got to where you are today?
Born and raised in Charlotte, North Carolina, I’ve always been driven by a passion for leadership, service, and the arts. My journey has taken me from the dance studio to the stage, shaping me into the person I am today. Currently, I have the honor of serving as Miss Gatlinburg, and I’m preparing to compete for the title of Miss Tennessee this June—a dream that has been years in the making.
From a young age, I immersed myself in the world of competitive dance, eventually founding the nonprofit organization Second Chance to Dance to provide scholarships and resources for young dancers in North Carolina. At the University of Tennessee, Knoxville, I’ve expanded my leadership through roles such as President of BOSS Dance Company, Director of Communications for the Student Government Association, and a strategic communications intern for Tennessee Athletics. Balancing these responsibilities has allowed me to develop a strong voice in advocacy, communications, and the arts—elements that fuel my passion for my post grad aspirations but also in my preparation for the Miss Tennessee competition.
Each step of my journey has been shaped by a commitment to personal growth, community impact, and storytelling. As I prepare to finish my undergraduate degree from UT and start a new chapter of my life, my focus remains on using this platform to inspire and uplift others, particularly young women who aspire to break barriers in their respective fields.
We all face challenges, but looking back would you describe it as a relatively smooth road?
It definitely hasn’t been a smooth road. Balancing multiple leadership roles, academics, and competition prep has been rewarding but also exhausting. For a long time, I equated success with nonstop achievement—constantly pushing forward without prioritizing my own well-being. Learning to step back, set boundaries, and take care of my personal health has been a challenge, but it’s been necessary. Unpacking the idolization of “success” has allowed me to redefine what fulfillment truly looks like, and I’ve come to realize that impact and purpose matter just as much—if not more—than titles and accolades.
Alright, so let’s switch gears a bit and talk business. What should we know about your work?
I’m currently a strategic communications intern with Tennessee Athletics, where I’ve had the opportunity to gain hands-on experience in sports PR, media relations, and branding. My passion lies in the intersection of public relations and sports, and I hope to pursue a career as a PR practitioner for professional basketball or within a sports agency.
What sets me apart is my ability to blend storytelling, strategy, and community engagement. Whether it’s through my work in athletics, my leadership as Director of Communications for UT’s Student Government Association, or my experience in the pageant world, I’ve developed a strong voice in advocacy and brand representation. I’m most proud of the impact I’ve made in these roles—creating meaningful connections, elevating important narratives, and paving the way for others who share similar aspirations.
We’re always looking for the lessons that can be learned in any situation, including tragic ones like the Covid-19 crisis. Are there any lessons you’ve learned that you can share?
One of the biggest lessons I learned from the COVID-19 crisis is the importance of cherishing moments with my family and taking care of myself. Family is everything to me, and the time we were forced to slow down made me realize just how precious those connections are. In the midst of chasing goals and staying busy, I’ve learned that true success isn’t just about accomplishments—it’s about the people you share your journey with and making sure you’re taking care of yourself along the way.
Contact Info:
- LinkedIn: https://linkedin.com/in/meghan-gadsden
