International Storytelling Center’s new president looks forward to the future
JONESBOROUGH, Tenn. (WJHL) – Michael Carson made the move from Washington D.C. to the historic Town of Jonesborough this year to begin his time as the International Storytelling Center’s third president.
Carson was born and raised in Chicago, Illinois, and started his international experience when he joined the Peace Corps.
“I joined the Peace Corps in 1989 and went to Kenya and really gained a perspective for African culture, for international cultures,” said Carson. “And [I] worked in International Affairs for almost 30 years.”
Carson’s father grew up in Greeneville, Tennessee. This led to pique Carson’s interest in East Tennessee. For him, the change in scenery is exciting.
“I get to meet so many people and interact with the community,” Carson said. “With shopkeepers, with cafe owners, with storytellers, and it’s amazing. It’s a great change.”
Since he is new to both the center and the town, Carson said he has much to learn about the area.
“[I want to] learn as much as I can about Jonesborough,” said Carson. “As much as I can about Tennessee, as much as I can about our founder, Jimmy Smith, and about the legacy he created, but the legacy that the storytellers we’ve been working with for many years have created.”
Overall, Carson said he has high hopes for his future in storytelling.
“I want to listen to the storytellers and enhance their voices and incorporate their voices into society,” Carson said.
The Storytelling Center announced that a meet-and-greet with Carson will be held later in May.
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