On July 22, 2025, Knox County School Board Chair and 2026 Republican Mayoral candidate Betsy Henderson captivated attendees as the featured speaker at the Three Rivers Republican Club at Marbledale Baptist Church in East Knox County. Sharing her personal journey and vision for the future, Henderson connected with the audience through stories of her family’s legacy and her commitment to public service.
A Deeply Rooted East Tennessee Story
Henderson’s roots in East Tennessee run deep. She spoke warmly of her father, Victor Kampas, a Greek immigrant who arrived at Ellis Island at age 16. He built a life in Knoxville, meeting Betsy’s mother, Rebecca Lynch, at the University of Tennessee. Victor became a well-known restauranteur, owning the Varsity Inn, Lakeside Market at Topside Road and Alcoa Highway—a local favorite—and Kampas Liquor on Alcoa Highway.
Raised in East Tennessee with her sister, Betsy graduated from UT and embarked on a new chapter in Washington, D.C., moving there the week of September 11, 2001, to work for Congressman John J. Duncan, Jr. In D.C., she met her husband, Scott, and together they started a family with their two children, Logan and Molly. The pull of home brought them back to Knoxville, where they settled in Hardin Valley.
From Community Advocate to School Board Leader
Henderson’s passion for education took root when her children began attending Hardin Valley schools. Her involvement as PTO President at Hardin Valley Elementary led her to run for the Knox County School Board in 2020, where she won her seat. Now in her second year as Board Chair, she has championed literacy programs, special education improvements, and historic teacher pay raises. Her leadership during the COVID-19 pandemic, advocating for open schools and parental rights, earned her widespread respect.
Running for Knox County Mayor
Now, Henderson is setting her sights on the 2026 Knox County Mayoral race, driven by a vision to strengthen families, support businesses, and maintain fiscal responsibility. Her speech emphasized her commitment to quality schools, safe roads, and low taxes—values she’s upheld as School Board Chair. As a conservative leader, she aims to ensure Knox County remains a place where hard work thrives and opportunities abound.
A Personal Connection to Knox County
Henderson’s story resonates with many in Knox County. From her father’s immigrant journey to her own return to East Tennessee, she embodies the region’s values of resilience and community. Her campaign for mayor builds on her proven track record, promising to lead with integrity and a focus on the future.
Watch Her Speech
You can watch Betsy Henderson’s full speech at the Three Rivers Republican Club here on the The Mega Bullhorn of Truth YouTube channel, where she shares more about her journey and plans for Knox County.
As Henderson campaigns for mayor, her message of principled leadership and community pride is resonating across Knox County. With her experience and vision, she’s ready to guide the county toward a prosperous future.
