Employee Spotlight: Meet Angie Gwaltney

Angie Gwaltney, Director of FTAAAD

With more than 25 years of service and a deep commitment to community care, Angie Gwaltney has dedicated her career to improving the lives of older adults and individuals with disabilities across Tennessee. As Director of the First Tennessee Area Agency on Aging and Disability (FTAAAD)—a role she was promoted to in 2022 after serving in several different positions within the organization—she brings both professional expertise and personal compassion to leadership that continues to shape meaningful change.

Angie began her journey in healthcare as a Registered Nurse, earning her Bachelor of Science in Nursing from East Tennessee State University in 1994. She later expanded her knowledge with a Certification in Aging from Boston University, equipping her with specialized insight into the unique needs of aging populations.

For Angie, the most rewarding part of her role is the opportunity to make a tangible difference. Her work has always centered on ensuring that every Tennessean can age with dignity, purpose, and the support they deserve. Leading a passionate and dedicated team, she helps drive initiatives that directly impact the well-being of vulnerable populations. She also serves on the steering committee of Lifelong Tennessee, contributing to a statewide vision that promotes meaningful, connected aging experiences for all residents.

One of Angie’s most valued strengths comes from her experience as both a family and professional caregiver. These roles have given her a deep understanding of the challenges caregivers face—from emotional strain to navigating complex healthcare systems. This perspective continues to inform her leadership and advocacy, ensuring that both caregivers and those they support receive the resources and understanding they need.

Angie points to two major accomplishments in her career. She was instrumental in implementing Tennessee’s CHOICES program for Long-Term Services and Supports. Originally launched through a 1915(c) waiver in 2004, the program expanded access to home- and community-based care, allowing individuals to age in place. Today, CHOICES continues to provide essential services across nursing homes, assisted living, and community settings.

She also highlights her team’s extraordinary response to the aftermath of Hurricane Helene, which earned FTAAAD the first-ever Rural Resilience Award. The recognition celebrated not only their leadership but also the spirit of community—neighbors helping neighbors during a time of crisis. The impact of this work was so significant that the award will now be given annually, setting a standard for resilience across the state.

Angie describes her work at FTDD as both challenging and deeply rewarding. Each day brings new opportunities to support others, and she finds purpose in knowing her efforts help make lives better. What has kept her there for over two decades is the people. She credits her colleagues’ kindness, dedication, and shared passion as the true heart of the organization—and they would say the same about her. Colleagues consistently appreciate Angie’s kindness, her willingness to step in and help wherever needed, and, on a lighter note, her baking skills, which have been known to brighten the office and disappear quickly.

Through her experiences, Angie has gained a profound appreciation for humanity—the struggles people face, the victories they achieve, and the quiet courage shown every day. Her career reflects a powerful blend of leadership, empathy, and service, and her work continues to leave a lasting mark on communities across Northeast Tennessee.