Data for Knoxville: Improving Housing and Community Resources by Jenna

Data for Knoxville: Improving Housing and Community Resources by Jenna - June 2026 Scholarship Essay

If I could design a project to improve Knoxville, Tennessee, I would focus on creating a Knoxville housing and resource analytics dashboard. One of the city’s most impactful challenges is affordable housing and stability. This affects students, families, and individuals experiencing homelessness. The project would combine data from local organizations, housing agencies, and community partners to identify which areas are in the most need, track available resources, and help nonprofits allocate support more effectively.

The dashboard would partner with organizations such as Knoxville Habitat for Humanity, Knox Area Rescue Ministries, and the Helen Ross McNabb Center to monitor trends in housing insecurity, transportation access, and mental health services. By using business analytics and data visualization, Knoxville leaders could make more informed decisions about where to invest funding and support programs.

I would choose this project because it combines my passion for analytics with a meaningful community need. As a business analytics students and future MSBA student, I believe data can be used not only to improve business performance but also improve the quality of life in Knoxville for its residents. In addition, this project could help organizations identify long-term trends and measure effectiveness of their programs, ensuring that resources are used where they can make the greatest impact. This project would allow me to apply my skills while helping address issues that directly impact the community.