Mark McCluskey, Fire Chief, Murfreesboro Fire Rescue Department
Fire Chief Mark McCluskey's career choice is a testament to the profound impact childhood experiences can have on someone's life. Growing up across from Fire Station 3 on Mercury Blvd., he spent countless hours interacting with firefighters and serving as their paperboy. His father also served as the Director of Civil Defense, which evolved into today's Rutherford County Fire and Emergency Management. “Watching my dad and the Murfreesboro firefighters serve the community had the utmost impact on my decision to become a fireman,” said Chief McCluskey. Throughout his 39 years of service, Chief McCluskey stays driven through his deep-rooted love for Murfreesboro and the satisfaction of making a difference in the community, especially during emergency responses where he can directly impact outcomes. He has found immense joy in mentoring the younger members of the department, watching them grow and serve the community with pride. “For the ones who hold this career, there is no other job like it in the world,” said Chief McCluskey. ”It’s a brotherhood like no other and I’m proud to be a professional firefighter.”
Dr. Murali K. Kolli, Vanderbilt Heart & Vascular Institute
Dr. Murali K. Kolli and his wife have been a part of the Murfreesboro community for nearly 30 years. Dr. Kolli, who serves as an Associate Professor for Vanderbilt Heart & Vascular Institute (VHVI) and Associate Medical Director for VHVI outpatient services, has watched the place where he lives and works grow and develop into the thriving community that it is today. Influenced by his parents who were both physicians, Dr. Kolli was driven by his father’s emphasis on education and his mother's passion for service to follow in their footsteps. “When I was younger, I was very fortunate to have been surrounded by mentors and members of the community who supported my family and their profession,” said Dr. Kolli. “I am grateful that I am in a position to give back to the community that has given so much to me.” Dr. Kolli finds profound joy in connecting with patients, particularly during their most vulnerable times, which he views as a gift of human connection. When asked about what advice he would give to an aspiring doctor, Dr. Kolli said that those entering the field must be able to embrace change. “Physicians are usually very good at implementing changes to how we treat patients based on the ever-changing world of research, but sometimes we can be reluctant to non-medical changes in the healthcare system. It’s our responsibility as healthcare professionals to understand why these changes are essential and actively guide and implement them.”
Eric Melone, Chief Flight Nurse, VUMC
Eric Melone, Chief Flight Nurse with VUMC, was inspired to pursue a career in the medical field from a young age due to his interest in science and a desire to help people, much like his grandmother who was a nurse during World War II. He finds great joy in his role when he sees patients survive and recover from severe injuries or illnesses. “Knowing that you play a part in the journey to recovery, for both the patient and their loved ones, brings me great joy in my profession.”
Sergeant Stephen Luter, Murfreesboro Police Department
Sergeant Stephen Luter of the Murfreesboro Police Department finds the greatest joy in his work through team collaboration, whether with the COPS Unit, the Special Operations Unit, or the department at large. Born and raised in Murfreesboro, Sergeant Luter loves serving his community, especially when he can offer security and help to people on their toughest days. “Someone once advised me to have more “out of car experiences” in police work,” said Sergeant Luter. “For those aspiring to become a sergeant, be ready to get out of your car, talk with the members in the community, be genuine, and be confident in your abilities.”
Dillon Clemons, 5th Grade Teacher, Walter Hill Elementary
Dillon Clemons, a fifth-grade teacher at Walter Hill Elementary, was motivated to pursue teaching to create enriching academic experiences that inspire a love for learning in students. “School wasn’t something that I excelled at as a child,” said Clemons. “I hoped to create a safe place for students to step out of their comfort zone in the classroom and provide a space for them to achieve at their highest level possible.” Throughout each school year, he finds immense joy watching his students develop self-confidence and public speaking skills.