Tess Rollins
Tess Rollins is a Creative Strategist and Director of Programs & Events at River City Company in Chattanooga, Tennessee, where she focuses on placemaking, community engagement, and downtown economic development initiatives. With a strong background in graphic design, advertising, and brand development, she specializes in creating meaningful experiences that connect people, activate public spaces, and strengthen local business ecosystems. Her work is rooted in strategic planning and creative storytelling, blending visual communication with community-centered programming to foster lasting civic impact.
In addition to her role in nonprofit economic development, Tess is the founder of Simply Enhance, a brand identity and marketing strategy consulting firm originally launched in the Washington, D.C. metro area and later relocated to Chattanooga. Through her consulting practice, she supports small businesses and entrepreneurs in developing cohesive branding, improving marketing strategy, and building stronger connections with their communities. She draws from her extensive experience in corporate sports technology, advertising, and content production to help businesses translate their ideas into clear, consistent, and compelling brand identities.
Tess’s career reflects a long-standing commitment to empowering others through creativity, collaboration, and storytelling. She is especially passionate about supporting small business growth and elevating women and emerging leaders in her community. Having transitioned from corporate roles to entrepreneurship and civic leadership, she brings a unique perspective on resilience, adaptability, and purpose-driven work. Across all her endeavors, she remains focused on building inclusive spaces where people and ideas can thrive.
• High School & Middle School Soccer Referee
• Level 1 Tackle Coach Certification Course/Heads Up Football
• USSF F Module
• USSF E Certificate
• Soccer Referee Grade 8
• USSF C License
• USSF D License
• 2014 Volunteer of the Year - Town of Herndon Parks & Recreation Department
• 2000 Volunteer of the Year - Virginia Youth Soccer Association
• Herndon Reston Wrestling Association
• Demo Design Dream Team
• Asian Festival on Main
What do you attribute your success to?
I attribute my success to my ability to listen deeply and build meaningful connections, the power of storytelling, and the example set by my entrepreneurial mother, whose work ethic and dedication have continuously inspired me.
What’s the best career advice you’ve ever received?
The best career advice I've ever received comes from watching my mother, an inspiring entrepreneur. She came to the U.S. from the Philippines on a nursing exchange, built a home health and staffing business in Virginia, and later opened the first adult residential care home in Hawaii at 82. Through her example, and her mottos “You sit, you rot” and “Listen to connect,” I’ve learned the power of listening, identifying real needs, and turning them into meaningful opportunities.
What advice would you give to young women entering your industry?
My advice to young women entering this industry is simple: listen and make meaningful connections. One lesson I’ve learned from my mom, who is 82 and still an entrepreneur, is to “listen to connect.” By paying attention to those around you, you can identify gaps where you can help and make an impact. I also emphasize the importance of giving your time, prioritizing health over hustle, and returning to timeless practices like sending handwritten thank-you cards—what I call “paper hugs”—to build genuine relationships. In short: listen to connect, purposefully.
What are the biggest challenges or opportunities in your field right now?
One of the biggest challenges in my field is that many small businesses lack a defined, consistent brand, often using mismatched templates that dilute recognition. At the same time, there’s a tremendous opportunity to help these businesses establish clear brand identities and consistent marketing. Additionally, community development projects, like riverfront parks, present exciting opportunities to create programs and events that engage and strengthen the community.
What values are most important to you in your work and personal life?
The values that guide me in both my work and personal life are listening, building meaningful connections, and generously giving my time. I prioritize community service, mentorship, and the personal touch of handwritten communication, believing that these practices create authentic relationships and lasting impact.
Locations
River City Company
Sale Creek, TN 37373