KINGSPORT, TENN. – Kingsport City Schools (KCS) has announced the 2025 class of the Kingsport City Schools Hall of Fame - Inductees include: Ross N. Robinson, Walter Edward "Buck" Van Huss, Lora Fowler, and Dr. Carolyn McPherson. Established in 2015, this 11th class honors and recognizes employees that have made significant contributions to KCS and its students. The Hall of Fame serves as the keystone employee award celebrating the district’s history of excellence.

Ross N. Robinson (Legacy Era Category Inductee) - Ross Newman Robinson arrived in Kingsport in 1921 as principal of Kingsport High School and, at just 30 years old, became superintendent of Kingsport City Schools three years later. Over his 33-year tenure, the district grew from three schools to two high schools, a junior high, and six elementary schools. In recognition of his leadership, Ross N. Robinson School was named in his honor in 1955. It is noted the Board of Education once credited Robinson’s “sound and conservative educational policy” and “careful selection and development of a competent staff” as the foundation of the district’s success. After retiring in 1954, Robinson continued serving the Kingsport community through extensive volunteer work. His impact on local education remains deeply rooted in the district’s history.

Walter Edward "Buck" Van Huss (Tradition Era Category Inductee) - Born in 1919, Walter Edward “Buck” Van Huss grew up during the Great Depression and developed a lifelong passion for basketball at an early age. After serving in the U.S. Army during World War II, he graduated from East Tennessee State University on the GI Bill and began his teaching and coaching career. Van Huss first made his mark at Hampton High School, leading the “Minute Men” to a state championship in 1960 and earning a 484-133 record before becoming head basketball coach at Dobyns-Bennett High School in 1967. Over the next 23 years, he guided the Indians to 537 wins, 10 District titles, 11 Regional titles, and eight state tournament appearances. He also coached the golf team, taught mechanical drawing, and mentored generations of students, athletes, and non-athletes alike. Known as a devoted husband, father, educator, and community servant, Van Huss’s love for Dobyns-Bennett and the Kingsport community left a lasting mark. His legacy continues to inspire students, athletes, and coaches for generations to come.

Lora Fowler (Modern Era Category Inductee) - After earning her undergraduate and master’s degrees from East Tennessee State University, Lora Fowler began a teaching career spanning more than 40 years, including 30 years at Dobyns-Bennett High School beginning in 1986. At D-B, Fowler served as Wellness Department Chair and helped develop the district's wellness curriculum. She certified coaches and students in American Red Cross CPR and lifeguarding, mentored student teachers, and co-instructed self-defense classes for KCS teachers. In 2013, she was named Dobyns-Bennett Teacher of the Year. Fowler also built a strong coaching legacy. She led the D-B girls basketball team from 1986–1996, earning multiple regional titles, three state Sweet 16 appearances, and two state semifinal berths. She was named Northeast Tennessee Coach of the Year in 1993–94 and, in 2024, established the “Lora Fowler Big East Hustle Award” for girls basketball. Fowler also ran the FUNdamentals Basketball Camp for younger athletes and later spent 13 years as an assistant swim coach, launching the “Aqua-tic” swim school for children. Crediting her faith and family for supporting her lifelong calling as a teacher, Fowler retired from KCS in 2016, leaving an enduring impact on thousands of students and the Kingsport community.

Dr. Carolyn McPherson (Modern Era Category Inductee) - Dr. Carolyn McPherson began her 40-year career with KCS in 1971 as a special education teacher at Washington-Lee Elementary. Just three years later, at age 25, she became the district’s first Director of Special Education, developing a full range of services for more than 1,000 students, including the region’s first autism program, early intervention initiatives, and a special education transportation system. In 1988, McPherson became Director of Special Services, where she oversaw district wide staff development and launched the Early Childhood Learning Center. She later served as principal of Washington Elementary and John Sevier Middle School from 1990–2007, earning the title of Tennessee Middle School Principal of the Year in 1995. Known for her innovative leadership, she implemented programs like I-LEAP, a school-day enrichment initiative, and personally sent more than 10,000 handwritten birthday cards to students and staff. Under her leadership, Sevier secured more than $1 million in grants and launched the district’s first student home visit program. In 2007, McPherson was named KCS Assistant Superintendent for Academic Initiatives and Support, where she developed the KCS Teacher Leader Academy and expanded professional development district-wide. After retiring, she continued to serve the community through the Niswonger Foundation, Kingsport Music Club, Colonial Heights United Methodist Church Preschool Board, and the Forty Fingers Concert Series.

The KCS Hall of Fame features up to two inductees annually in each of the three categories – “Legacy” (Retired 50 years or more from potential induction), “Tradition” (Retired 25 to 49 years from potential induction), and “Modern Era” (Retired less than 25 years from potential induction). To be eligible for consideration, nominees must have been regularly employed by KCS for a minimum of five years and have been retired from the district for a minimum of five years. Any former KCS employee (teacher or non-teacher) meeting the eligibility criteria may be considered.

The 2025 KCS Hall of Fame Induction Ceremony was held on Tuesday, July 29, 2025 at 11 a.m. located at the Toy F. Reid Eastman Employee Center, 400 South Wilcox Drive, Kingsport. Click here for full bios, additional photos, and former KCS Hall of Fame inductees.

Kingsport City Schools (KCS) is a student-focused, world-class public school district located in Kingsport, Tennessee, proudly serving students across Sullivan and Hawkins counties. The district comprises 13 schools, including a Pre-K facility, eight elementary schools, two middle schools, one high school, a high school program of choice, and an alternative learning program. With a total enrollment exceeding 7,600 students, KCS is dedicated to fostering educational excellence, empowering student success, and ensuring all students are college and career ready. To learn more, visit www.k12k.com, tune in to WCSK 90.3 FM, The Voice of KCS, or contact the KCS Administrative Support Center at (423) 378.2100. Stay connected by following us on Facebook (@kcsdistrict), Instagram (@kcs__district), and YouTube (@kcs__district). 

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