News Summary
Dr. H.M. “Hash” Hashemian has officially taken office as president of the American Nuclear Society, bringing over four decades of nuclear sector experience. His leadership during this pivotal time for nuclear energy will focus on innovation, safety, and public understanding of nuclear technologies. Alongside his ANS role, Hashemian continues to lead the Analysis and Measurement Services Corporation in Knoxville. Additionally, significant changes in regional leadership and clean energy initiatives are underway, including the development of a nuclear fusion power plant prototype by the Tennessee Valley Authority.
KNOXVILLE, TN — Dr. H.M. “Hash” Hashemian has officially taken over as president of the American Nuclear Society (ANS), a leading professional organization dedicated to advancing the fields of nuclear science and technology. His term began on July 3, 2025, succeeding his role as vice president/president-elect. With over four decades of experience in the nuclear sector, Hashemian’s leadership comes at a critical moment for the industry.
As president, Hashemian highlights that the current landscape represents a pivotal time for nuclear energy. He has outlined his intentions to focus on promoting innovation, enhancing safety practices, and improving public understanding of nuclear technologies. Following his leadership role at ANS, Hashemian also serves as president and CEO of the Analysis and Measurement Services Corporation (AMS), located in Knoxville, which specializes in ensuring safety and performance in nuclear power plants across North America, Europe, and Asia.
Dr. Hashemian holds triple doctorates in nuclear, electrical, and computer engineering and has made significant contributions to the field, including authoring three technical books and holding 22 U.S. patents. His collaborative work with various U.S. agencies and organizations has influenced international standards in the nuclear industry, further enhancing his qualifications for leading ANS.
In related news, significant changes are occurring within the Tennessee Valley Authority (TVA). Jeff Hagood, a Knoxville attorney and a long-time supporter of the Tennessee Vols, has been nominated by President Donald Trump for a position on the TVA board, with his term set to expire on May 18, 2029. Hagood graduated from the University of Tennessee and began his legal career in 1986. He co-founded Hagood Moody Hodge PLC five years ago.
The TVA board is in the process of expanding to include seven directors, although Hagood’s appointment will require confirmation from the U.S. Senate. The TVA has been actively involved in clean energy initiatives, including the retirement of the Bull Run Fossil Plant in Claxton in 2023, which was the only single-generator coal-fired plant in its system.
As part of its clean power initiatives, TVA demolished the Bull Run plant and its smokestacks on June 28, 2025, and plans to develop a nuclear fusion power plant prototype on the same site in collaboration with Type One Energy. This project aims to explore the use of stellarators for nuclear fusion technology, aiming for the operation of TVA’s first synchronous condenser by 2027.
Meanwhile, Daniel Watson, co-founder and executive director of The Restoration House, is stepping down after nearly 20 years of service. This organization focuses on providing supportive housing and advocacy for low-income single mothers and their children. In 2023, The Restoration House launched the Olive Tree Early Learning Academy to enhance early education opportunities for families in need. Lori Haskell has been announced as the incoming CEO of The Restoration House and will also serve as board president of the Olive Tree Academy, officially taking on her responsibilities on October 15, 2025.
Other notable changes in leadership within the region include Will Reid, who is set to become the new commissioner for the Tennessee Department of Transportation (TDOT) on July 10, 2025. Reid, who has served as TDOT’s chief engineer since August 2022, takes over from Butch Eley, who played a crucial role during the Lee administration, managing several departments and overseeing Tennessee’s fiscal response to the COVID-19 pandemic.
Additionally, Gorney Realty Company LLC has acquired the Cedar Ridge at the Cedar Bluff office building in Knoxville, a five-story structure offering 90,000 square feet of space, which is currently 93% occupied. In school leadership, Nick Corrigan has been appointed as the new principal of Oak Ridge High School, although his start date will follow his current deployment with the National Guard. Dr. Beth Fisher Estep will continue as interim principal in the meantime. Furthermore, Brian Tinker has accepted the role of interim principal of Robertsville Middle School.
Finally, TVA is currently addressing multiple offline nuclear reactors due to electrical issues, prompting advisories for electricity conservation in light of adverse weather conditions. However, TVA assures the public that there are no safety impacts related to these offline reactors.
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Additional Resources
- Knox News: Bull Run Fossil Plant Imploded
- Inc: Type One Energy Deal for Nuclear Fusion Plant
- WBIR: TVA Nuclear Power Reactors Down
- Wikipedia: Nuclear Energy
- Encyclopedia Britannica: Nuclear Energy
Author: STAFF HERE KNOXVILLE WRITER
The KNOXVILLE STAFF WRITER represents the experienced team at HEREKnoxville.com, your go-to source for actionable local news and information in Knoxville, Knox County, and beyond. Specializing in "news you can use," we cover essential topics like product reviews for personal and business needs, local business directories, politics, real estate trends, neighborhood insights, and state news affecting the area—with deep expertise drawn from years of dedicated reporting and strong community input, including local press releases and business updates. We deliver top reporting on high-value events such as Dogwood Arts Festival, Big Ears Festival, and Knoxville Asian Festival. Our coverage extends to key organizations like the Knoxville Area Chamber Partnership and United Way of Greater Knoxville, plus leading businesses in healthcare, education, and energy that power the local economy such as Covenant Health, University of Tennessee, and Tennessee Valley Authority. As part of the broader HERE network, including HEREBristol.com, HEREChattanooga.com, HEREMemphis.com, and HERENashville.com, we provide comprehensive, credible insights into Tennessee's dynamic landscape.
