Jefferson County Schools is proud to highlight Lowell Luther Woods, a 1955 graduate of Maury High School. After graduating from Maury High School, Mr. Woods continued his education at the University of Tennessee, Knoxville, studying Industrial Engineering and competing on the University of Tennessee’s Track and Field Team. Mr. Woods exemplifies that hard work and determination enables you to overcome any obstacle and pursue any dream.

Raised on his family’s farm in Dandridge, Mr. Woods came to Knoxville with a little over $800 and a goal to be able to provide for himself and his family. He committed strongly to his studies, even retaking classes at times to ensure that he had the best grasp on any material he was given. He was resilient through challenge and intentional in his pursuit of greatness, setting himself up for success that would provide for generations.

During his time at the University of Tennessee, Knoxville, Mr. Woods earned a track scholarship. He graduated from the University of Tennessee in 1960 with a degree in Industrial Engineering. Following his completion at UTK, Mr. Woods served in the military as an officer and then returned to East Tennessee where he worked in multiple capacities as an engineer. Most notably, Mr. Woods has a successful career that included senior roles with Alcoa Aluminum and Clayton Homes.

In 2008, Mr. Woods started the Lowell Luther Woods Foundation, which has since provided hundreds of thousands of dollars to students pursuing education at Walters State Community College and the University of Tennessee, Knoxville. This year, Mr. Woods is funding 12 scholarships of $4,000 to 12 students at the Jefferson County High School Class of 2026. These students will go to UTK to study a variety of degrees in Biology, Business, Psychology, and Communications. These students aspire to continue onto graduate school or medical schools following their bachelor's degrees.

Mr. Woods firmly believes that education has the power to change lives and has built a legacy of empowering students to pursue a college degree. By providing essential financial support, especially as institutions become more expensive, Mr. Woods is helping build a community of educated professionals and helping the dreams of Jefferson County students come to life in real time. His impact is tangible, as the foundation has extended over 100 scholarships to date, and recipients regard him as a mentor and leader who gave them a piece of what they needed to succeed.

Primary Source: JCS Central Office Update: April Edition. Read the full COU to catch up on news highlights from across the district!