A native Tennessean with a deep commitment to his community, Joe Thompson has played a significant role in recognizing and supporting student-athletes throughout the eastern part of the state as president of the NFF
East Tennessee Chapter.
Working closely with the University of Tennessee, Thompson and the
East Tennessee Chapter have helped make a profound impact on amateur football throughout the region. The chapter annually stages its awards banquet in conjunction with Tennessee's spring football game, bringing together the local football community to celebrate high school scholar-athletes who have distinguished themselves on the field, in the classroom and in their communities.
The banquet also recognizes individuals who have positively impacted amateur football with the chapter's Amateur Football Awards, Community Service Awards and Distinguished American Award. The Knoxville Quarterback Club presents the Lindsey Nelson Broadcasting Award and the General Robert R. Neyland Trophy as part of the event. The East Tennessee football community also boasts a remarkable NFF College Football Hall of Fame legacy with 27 inductees, including 23 players and four coaches, highlighted by Bowden Wyatt, one of only four individuals ever inducted as both a player and a coach.
A graduate of the University of Tennessee in Knoxville, Thompson has spent his entire life in Memphis and Knoxville. Professionally, he serves as a managing director at Raymond James & Associates, overseeing the firm's retail operations in Knoxville and the Tri-Cities region of Tennessee.
Thompson has devoted considerable time to charitable and civic organizations throughout East Tennessee. He currently serves as chairman of the board of the East Tennessee Historical Society Foundation, helping preserve the region's rich history. He also served as chairman of the 2014 and 2022 Medal of Honor Conventions in Knoxville, working closely with the Congressional Medal of Honor Society and its Foundation to protect, preserve and perpetuate the legacy of the Medal of Honor and its recipients.
His extensive record of community service also includes serving as chairman of the boards of directors for the American Red Cross of the Tennessee Valley and the East Tennessee Historical Society.
Thompson and his wife, Becky, have two children, Madeline and Harrison.
