Term: 2023-2028, Congressional District 9

Rachel Knox is the Senior Program Officer of the Thriving Art and Culture program at the Hyde Family Foundation (HFF), leading a $3 million portfolio focused on strengthening Memphis’ rich cultural sector in order to support a more equitable and inclusive arts community.

In her role, Rachel works to create and execute strategies for artists and cultural organizations that amplify the creativity and brilliance of Memphis. She is responsible for managing grants, collaborating with partners, and building strong relationships with funders to advance the Program’s goals.

Rachel graduated with her master’s in public policy and administration from American University. Previously, she completed her Bachelor of Fine Arts in Theatre from the University of Memphis with a concentration in Costume Design and Technology.

In 2016, Ms. Knox was nominated as one of the Memphis Flyer’s 20 Under 30. She also received the Salzburg Global Seminar Fellowship for Young Cultural Innovators in the Arts that same year. In 2018, she was named one of the 40 Under 40 Urban Elite recipients. In 2020, she received the Memphis Business Journal’s 40 Under 40 and the Association of Black Foundation Executive’s (ABFE) Connecting Leaders Fellowship.

Before joining HFF in 2017, she worked as a Program Associate at Innovate Memphis, tackling problems that hindered the City’s growth. She has also held positions with the Orpheum Theatre, Arena Stage, and Voices of the South Theatre Company.