ETSU Dean Finds a New Home and Calling in Johnson City, TN

Ron Campbell

Jessie Wang is a Harvard University graduate who landed at East Tennessee State University (ETSU) in 2020 and now serves as the assistant dean of student success and access. She speaks about the region’s higher education landscape and what makes Johnson City a great place to live and work. 

What brought you to Johnson City and ETSU? 

I was finishing up my master’s degree at Harvard University, searching for jobs in student success, when I stumbled upon one at ETSU that checked all the boxes I was looking for. The only problem – I didn’t know where Johnson City was on the map. What I did know, though, was that I wanted to be a part of making a meaningful impact. After looking into ETSU, I realized it was a place committed to doing exactly that. 

How would you describe the region’s educational landscape? 

Our region offers a mix of public and private institutions, technical schools, and community colleges, all dedicated to bettering our community and meeting regional needs. This synergy helps us foster an environment that promotes lifelong learning and workforce development that’s aligned with our community’s business needs and values. 

ETSU is a tremendous resource to our community. At ETSU, we’re committed to increasing opportunity and raising the level of educational attainment in our region and state. We offer a broad range of academic programs that equip students with the skills and knowledge they need to be successful in their future careers. 

East Tennessee State University

What makes Johnson City a great place to live and work? 

When I first moved to Johnson City, I knew no one. I was 23, it was the middle of a global pandemic, and I was living alone. Yet, the week I arrived, I had multiple people offer to help me move, unpack, introduce me to others and show me around. I think kindness is just a part of the culture here. 

Whether you’re moving here as a college student, working professional, family or retiree, people here genuinely look out for and care about one another. Johnson City offers the best of both worlds – combining small-town charm with the amenities of a larger city. 

We have vibrant outdoor festivals, great local shops and restaurants, beautiful parks, and fantastic seasonal celebrations. Whether it’s hiking in our beautiful mountains, visiting our local farmers market or catching a Broadway show, there’s something for everyone here. 

Do you feel plugged into the Johnson City community? 

Through the Chamber, I’ve served on the Young Professionals of Johnson City’s Leadership Council, on the board of the Bob Owens Community Leadership Fund, as a member of the Workforce Development Council, and as an adviser for their 3D Youth Leadership Program. These programs gave me opportunities to engage more deeply in our community, contribute to our region, build connections and mentor future leaders. The Chamber, along with ETSU, helped make Johnson City home for me, and I’m so grateful for it.