08/25/2026
We are saddened to learn of the passing of music legend Dolly Parton, who was initiated as an SAI Honorary Member by the Knoxville Alumnae Chapter in 2011 at the Dollywood Heartsong Theater.
From the Fall 2011 PAN PIPES:
“Dolly Parton truly represents the ideals of our beloved fraternity. Her music career spans five decades. She has been recognized for her musical accomplishments many times over. Her distinctive soprano is known worldwide. But it is her philanthropic efforts that set her apart. Her initiatives have done much to improve the lives of East Tennesseans. Dollywood has brought jobs, as well as tax and tourist dollars, into the area. Her Dollywood Foundation provides college scholarships to graduates of her alma mater, Sevier County High School. The foundation also oversees the Dolly Parton Imagination Library, a project began in East Tennessee in 1996 that has expanded to include counties all over the United States, as well as the United Kingdom and Canada. Over 2.5 million books are distributed to children annually.”
A member of multiple music halls of fame as a performer and songwriter, her career spanned 7 decades and included writing, acting, and producing for the studio, stage, and screen.
Dolly, SAI will always love you. ❤️🌹