Boys & Girls Club prepare to honor Hall of Fame inductees

By Editor | October 14, 2025 |

Boys & Girls Club prepare to honor Hall of Fame inductees

Over the course of its history, the Boys & Girls Club of the Cumberland Plateau has served as a cornerstone for Scott County, continuously showcasing support, guidance, and example for the youth of the community. Following the example of clubs across the nation, the Oneida-based chapter was founded with a like mission – to provide a safe environment and healthy space for local children and teenagers, who will ultimately serve as Scott County’s leaders of tomorrow. As a result, the Boys & Girls Club has become an essential part of the fabric of communities from coast to coast, helping young people reach their full potential, achieve remarkable successes, and encouraging them to seek to be productive and responsible citizens of Scott County.

While its programs have shaped countless lives, one of the Boys & Girls Club’s most notable traditions is the naming of the local Hall of Fame, whose inductions stands as a testament to the organization’s great purpose. Established in 2003, the Hall of Fame honors outstanding individuals and businesses whose achievements reflect the character of Scott County and the continuation of the mission of its founder. Since its inception, more than 100 inductees have been recognized for their contributions in a variety of fields, men and women whose work ethic and dedication have left a profound mark on Scott County and its youth.

Each fall, new honorees are chosen. This year, seven new members join those ranks: Lanell Brennan, Jillian Cross, Jim Burchfield , Charlie Golden, Kevin Hailey, Emma Hughett, and a posthumous recognition for Dorothy King.

These men and women continue a long-standing tradition of service and betterment for the next generation of Scott County. SCN thanks them for their on-going service and honors their dedication.

Emma Hughett – At just 11 years old, Emma was diagnosed with Acute Myeloid Leukemia on January 29, 2025. She spent 116 days in the hospital between Knoxville and Nashville, enduring 4 rounds of chemotherapy, 3 spinal taps, and 7 bone marrow biopsies. On June 10, 2025, she received a life-saving bone marrow transplant from a non-related donor, and on September 9, 2025, she was blessed with remission—her bone marrow cancer free.
Emma is the oldest of four sisters—Harper (9), Oaklan (7), and Wylder (2). She loves spending time with her family and discovered her passion for basketball at the Boys and Girls Club. She dreams of the day she can step back onto the court to play for Huntsville Middle School.
Emma’s story is one of courage, faith, and hope—a reminder of God’s light shining even in the hardest battles.
Lanell Brennan – For the past 20 years, Ms. Lanell Brennan has shared her passion for dance with the children of Scott County through her award-winning Gotta Dance Studio. Since opening in 2005, the studio has welcomed thousands of students, offering everything from kinderdance to competitive dance teams. Her expertise in choreography and various dance styles—tap, hip-hop, ballet, jazz, and musical theatre—has inspired countless dancers, some of whom have gone on to perform professionally or on college teams.
More than just a teacher, Ms. Lanell fosters a supportive, encouraging environment where older dancers mentor younger ones. Her studio emphasizes not only dance excellence but also community, creativity, and individuality.
Gotta Dance has earned numerous accolades, including choreography, entertainment, and ADCC Studio of Excellence awards. Yet, the most meaningful accomplishments are the memories shared by former students—and the new generation now returning with children of their own. Thanks to Lanell, the love of dance continues to thrive in Scott County for generations to come.
Jilian Cross – Jillian Cross is a 2025 graduate of Oneida High School. She was the Class of 2025 Class President, a four-year member and president of the student government, a three-year member and one-year vice president of the Beta Club, and a two-year member and one-year president of the National Honor Society. She participated in the science bowl and debate teams during high school. She maintained a 4.0 unweighted and 4.175 weighted GPA, earned over 35 college credit hours, and had a 30 on the ACT. She received both the Unicorn Fund Scholarship and the University of the Cumberlands Presidential Scholarship. On the soccer field, she was a three-time All-District player and an All-Region First Team player, as well as team captain in her senior season. Outside academics, she volunteered as a referee for AYSO and her church, the White Rock Baptist Church, earning over 100 service hours. Now, Jillian is at the University of the Cumberlands, pursuing a bachelor’s degree in chemistry with a minor in physics, and intending to attend optometry school. She works for the school’s newspaper, The Patriot, as a writer, and at Associates in Eye Care as a doctor’s scribe. She continues to volunteer for her church and as a referee for Ayso, but has also obtained her USA Soccer Referee Certification, and is now working as a paid referee.
Jim Burchfield – Coach Jim Burchfield, a proud Oneida High School Class of 1975 graduate, has dedicated his life to education, athletics, and the betterment of young people. After earning his degree from Middle Tennessee State University, he began his teaching career in 1979 and went on to serve more than 37 years in education, including 34 at Oneida High School. Throughout his career, he taught Social Studies, History, and Driver’s Education while also taking on leadership roles in discipline, facilities, and strength training. His commitment to the classroom and the field has left a lasting mark on generations of students. On the sidelines, Coach Burchfield built an impressive coaching legacy. He served as head football coach for Oneida in multiple seasons, most notably leading the 1998 team to an 11–1 record. He also guided the Indians to strong playoff runs in the late 1990s and 2000s, coached baseball and middle school football, and helped lead the Lady Indians basketball team to two state tournament appearances, including a Final Four finish in 1993. Over the decades, he coached hundreds of athletes, with many going on to play at the next level, always emphasizing hard work, integrity, and teamwork. Beyond wins and championships, Coach Burchfield is best remembered for his influence off the field. A man of faith, loyalty, and integrity, he has mentored countless students, supported the Boys & Girls Club, taught Bible history at OHS, and served his church and community with devotion. A devoted husband and family man, his dedication has spanned six decades with OSSD, making him not only a cornerstone of Oneida athletics but also a role model whose legacy of service and character will endure for years to come.
Charlie Golden – Married to the love of my life, Mashailla Golden, since 1984. Together, we have raised four incredible sons — Charles Jr., Bryan, Ryan, and Stephen — and opened our home to many other children along the way, building a family that extends far beyond blood. Today, we are blessed with 12 beautiful grandchildren who continue to bring joy and purpose to our lives. I have been honored to serve as a pastor since 1988, dedicating my life to ministry, community, and helping others find strength, hope, and healing. My heart has always been for people — especially youth — which has led me to wear many hats throughout the years. From serving as the first official Chaplain of the Scott County Sheriff’s Department to being a counselor, mentor, and coach, I’ve committed myself to walking alongside those who need guidance and encouragement. Outside of the pulpit, I’ve shared my passion for discipline and character through Martial Arts instruction, mentoring countless children, and giving them confidence, structure, and life skills that carry far beyond the mat. I also founded and operated a successful Drug Rehabilitation Program for 10 years, helping individuals break free from addiction and step into a new chapter of their lives. Through every role — pastor, instructor, chaplain, counselor, or simply a friend — my goal has always been the same: to be available to anyone who needs help, hope, or simply a listening ear. My life’s mission is to serve God, my family, and my community with love, dedication, and compassion.
Dorothy King -Ms. Dorothy (1949–2024) devoted her life to serving others with compassion, humility, and love. A beloved teacher’s aide at Oneida Elementary School for many years, Dorothy made a lasting impact on generations of children through her patience, encouragement, and heart for education. She was also a dedicated employee at the Boys & Girls Club of the Cumberland Plateau, faithfully serving in the homework room and supporting countless young people, helping them learn and grow. Known for her kindness and selfless spirit, Dorothy was a cherished mother, grandmother, sister, and friend. Her legacy lives on in the lives she touched and the community she so deeply loved.

Kevin Hailey – This year, we are proud to honor Kevin Hailey as our outstanding sponsor of the year – a well-deserved recognition for someone who has gone above and beyond in his commitment to our community and to the young people we serve. Kevin began his career with McDonald’s in 1995, Building his reputation through hard work, integrity, and a dedication to excellence. Since Christmas eve of 2004, Kevin has been a Cornerstone of the Oneida community, leading his team with the same values he lives by every day – respect, service, and a genuine care for others.
Alongside his wife, Crystal Hailey, Kevin has made this mission to give back in meaningful ways. Through his support, our programs have been able to reach more kids, create more opportunities, and make a greater impact on families across the area. Whether sponsoring events, providing meals, or stepping up
Whenever there’s a need, Kevin has consistently demonstrated that his investment in our community is not just professional – it’s deeply personal.
His partnership has helped fuel our mission at the boys &girls club, ensuring that every child who walks through our doors has a safe place to learn, grow, and dream big. Kevin’s leadership and generosity remind us that strong communities are built by people who care – people who show up, give back, and believe in a brighter future for all.
We are truly grateful for Kevin’s unwavering support and his belief in the Power of opportunity. His dedication to the people of Oneida and his commitment to helping young people succeed make him the perfect choice for our outstanding sponsor of the year.