Homecoming week in Knoxville has come to a close, with many of the usual activities being either cancelled or significantly altered. Each member of the Homecoming court shared a message of advice for the underclassmen as they were introduced at Thursday’s Coronation. Queen Jalen Nelson and King Mason Murphy say that their main focus is making a positive impact on their school and community.

“For the underclassmen, I said, ‘Seek respect, not attention, it lasts longer.’ That’s been my big thing, I’ve always wanted to be respected and well-known. My life motto is ‘Mistakes are proof that you’re trying.’ Everybody trips up sometimes, but it shows that you are putting effort out there.”

“Live your life, follow your dreams, show everybody else that doubted you what you can do. Because I want to be able to follow my dreams while I have the chance, even through the midst of all this. Maybe one day I can come back and support the people of Knoxville, and be a part of everybody’s life, that’s what I want to do.”