Knox News will soon open nominations for the 19th class of its 40 Under 40 awards. This yearly event honors young professionals under the age of 40 who show leadership and commitment in their work and communities across East Tennessee. Nominations will begin online at knoxnews.com on June 24, 2025.
Anyone can suggest a co-worker, friend, or family member who lives and works in East Tennessee and has not received the award before. Nominees must be 39 years old or younger by December 31, 2025. The awards highlight people who inspire others through their dedication and achievements.
The winners will be announced in the fall, and each honoree will be featured in a Knox News article in January. There will also be an in-person event to celebrate the winners.
To nominate someone, you must fill out an online form starting June 24. The form requires details about the nominee’s professional work and contributions to the community. Strong nominations include clear examples of achievements rather than short or vague statements. You can add resumes, letters of support, and other documents to support the nomination.
If you nominated someone in the past who was not selected, it is encouraged to update the nomination with any new accomplishments. It is also helpful to inform the nominee beforehand so they can provide supporting materials and be ready if they win.
Make sure to verify the nominee’s age and job title before submitting the form. Thoughtful and detailed nominations are more likely to stand out among many others. Avoid copying nominations that others have already written.
