MURFREESBORO, Tenn. — Lt. Governor Randy McNally has appointed Kelly G. Rollins of Murfreesboro to serve on the Tennessee State Board of Education, the governing body responsible for establishing policy and long-term educational standards for Tennessee’s K–12 public education system.
Rollins will represent Tennessee’s Fourth Congressional District on the board, providing oversight and policy leadership for approximately 200,000 students across 15 counties and 17 public school districts in Middle and East Tennessee.
In a statement, Lt. Governor McNally said Rollins has demonstrated a lifelong commitment to serving others and strengthening communities across Tennessee. He added that Rollins’ leadership experience and dedication to students, families, and community organizations will be a strong asset to the State Board of Education as it continues working to ensure every Tennessee student receives a high-quality education.
Sara Morrison, executive director of the Tennessee State Board of Education, also expressed support for the appointment, noting that Rollins brings decades of leadership experience and a strong commitment to serving Tennessee communities. She said the board looks forward to his perspective.
The Tennessee State Board of Education is responsible for establishing statewide academic standards, setting policies governing Tennessee’s public education system, and working closely with the Tennessee Department of Education and the Tennessee General Assembly to advance student achievement statewide.
Rollins retired after a 37-year career with United Parcel Service (UPS), where he began as a part-time employee while attending college and advanced through numerous leadership roles in operations, marketing, supply chain solutions, and business development. He concluded his career as a Business Development Sales Manager in the Mid-South District.
He has also been actively involved in community leadership and youth development initiatives across Tennessee. Rollins currently serves as Chair and President of Boys & Girls Clubs in Tennessee and as Chair and President of the Community Foundation of Rutherford County, which he helped establish in 2017.
Additionally, he serves on the Board of Directors for the Blue Raider Athletic Association at Middle Tennessee State University and on the Leadership Rutherford Council. Rollins is also a member of the Murfreesboro Planning Commission, where he contributes to planning and development efforts for the city.
His previous service includes a role on the Board of Trustees for the Middle Tennessee State University Foundation, along with various volunteer leadership roles throughout Middle Tennessee.
Rollins, a first-generation graduate of Middle Tennessee State University, earned a Bachelor of Business Administration in Marketing and Management.
In response to his appointment, Rollins said he is honored by the confidence placed in him and emphasized that education plays a critical role in shaping the future of communities and the state. He stated that he looks forward to working with fellow board members, educators, and policymakers to strengthen opportunities for students across Tennessee.
Rollins and his wife, Cindy L. Sullivan Rollins, have lived in Murfreesboro since 1986. They have two children and three grandchildren.
The Tennessee State Board of Education consists of members appointed by the Governor, the Speaker of the House, and the Lt. Governor. Its responsibilities include setting statewide education policy, approving academic standards, and providing oversight for Tennessee’s public education system.

