About Us

Be Aware Blount started as one of a number of “Action Teams” that came out of an initiative through the Blount Memorial Hospital Foundation, and were originally called, “Substance Abuse Prevention Action Team (SAPAT).” As restructuring happened at the Foundation, they released a few of the Action Teams to their autonomy. We were one of those teams and rebranded to become Be Aware Blount: Prevention & Wellness Coalition.

Be Aware Blount is one of about 50 local drugs-free coalitions across the state, and we work solely in Blount County to end substance misuse and overdose. We partner with schools, local governments, local law enforcement, health groups, pharmacies, and many others to achieve our vision of a drug-free community. We ask that you will also partner with us in this endeavor.

Our Team

Amanda Small, CPS I – Executive Director

Amanda has always called Blount County home. She currently lives in Maryville with her husband and two children. After spending years as an elementary school teacher, she has now been the Executive Director of Be Aware Blount since 2022. Her favorite hobbies include reading, baking, and spending time in the mountains with her family.

Chris Lee, CPS I – Prevention Coordinator

Chris grew up in Sevierville, TN. He spent much of his adult life as a musician before beginning his work in recovery. After recognizing that a better community approach to prevention might equal less people in need of recovery, he joined the BAB staff in December 2022, to focus on primary prevention efforts. Chris lives with his wife and two children in Knoxville. He loves traveling, sports, game nights with the family, fantasy and sci-fi novels, and coffee.

Carly Williamson – Media Specialist

Carly is originally from Cincinnati, Ohio, but moved to Maryville to attend Maryville College, where she is currently a student. She owns a photography business and loves capturing meaningful moments for her clients. When she’s not behind the camera, Carly enjoys hiking the local trails and spending time with her dog.

Priscilla Duenkel – Student Coalition Coordinator

Priscilla brings over 16 years of experience in higher education, where she has supported student success through leadership, coaching, and wellness-focused initiatives. She joined the BAB team in May 2025 to lead and support the student wellness coalition. Priscilla is known for her thoughtful approach where she brings energy, creativity, and a collaborative spirit to her work.