Dedication. Expertise. Passion.
At SOAR TN, we strive to be the difference-makers in our community. Our team is made up of people with the mission of helping those in need. Our team is reliable, friendly, and dedicated to making a difference in the lives of those we serve.
We are always looking for volunteers and supporters. Click Here to learn more about how you can help us make a difference in the world and join our team!
Cheryl Hintz
Chief Executive Officer
Ms. Hintz is an accomplished executive with over 40 years’ experience in the financial service industry, driving business strategy to achieve optimal performance. She recently retired from U.S. Bank where her responsibilities included improving profitability through economic analysis and leveraging strategic partnerships.
Cheryl has a bachelor’s degree in both Marketing and Finance from Alverno College in Milwaukee, Wisconsin. She moved to Blount County in 2016 where she currently resides with her husband, David and intellectually disabled son, Richie.
Nikki Jackson
CEO
Janika “Nikki” Jackson has dedicated her life to improving the lives of individuals with intellectual and developmental disabilities and strengthening her community. She has served on multiple boards and committees through her church and within Blount County, reflecting her deep commitment to service and community engagement.
A member of Leadership Blount Class of 2026, Nikki is known for her exceptional leadership and relationship-building skills. Her ability to connect with others, paired with a genuine passion for helping people, positions her to successfully lead and grow SOAR Tennessee’s mission and impact.
Nikki and her husband, Kevin, reside in Alcoa with their son, Rashad, who has intellectual disabilities. Her personal and professional experiences continue to fuel her dedication to advocacy, inclusion, and person-centered support.
Sandy Smith
Operations Director (OPS)
Sandy brings more than 30 years of personal caregiving and corporate management experience to SOAR Tennessee. Caring for her son, who was diagnosed with severe cerebral palsy, gave her firsthand knowledge of the challenges families face while navigating long-term support services.
Sandy holds a bachelor’s degree in business management and administration, with certifications in project management and web development. As Operations Director, she strengthens organizational systems, supports department leaders, and helps prepare SOAR Tennessee for continued growth while advancing its mission of meaningful, independent living.
Mia Goodwin
Residential Director
Madison Williams
Program Manager/EMC
Briana Williams
Program Director Manager, Transitions and Family Model Services
Lashelle Hamilton
Family Model Program Director
Sandra Freeman
Human Resource Manager