Monika Hancock
Executive Director, EFET
Monika Hancock is a seasoned nonprofit leader with a distinguished record of advancing organizational missions and expanding community impact through strategic leadership and philanthropy. As Executive Director of the Epilepsy Foundation of East Tennessee, Monika brings years of nonprofit experience and a deep commitment to improving the lives of individuals and families affected by epilepsy. Throughout her career, Monika has successfully raised significant funding to support vital programs, increase public awareness, and strengthen resources for those living with neurological conditions. She is known for her ability to build lasting partnerships with donors, sponsors, and community stakeholders, ensuring that every effort contributes directly to improving the quality of life for those the Foundation serves. Monika’s leadership is defined by compassion, innovation, and collaboration. She has guided the organization through growth and sustainability, empowering staff and volunteers to deliver high-impact services across East Tennessee. Her vision continues to drive the Foundation’s mission forward — providing education, advocacy, and essential support for individuals living with epilepsy and their families. Dedicated to making a difference, Monika Hancock exemplifies what it means to lead with purpose and heart. Her commitment to advocacy and community service has helped strengthen the network of care and understanding for those navigating life with epilepsy.
Arlene Walston, MA, MAC
Wellness and Public Educator
Arlene joined the Epilepsy Foundation of East TN in 2022. Previously, she was an Adjunct Professor and Counselor at a community college, teaching both on- and off-campus students, including those in prisons. She also served as a Parole Education Teacher and Mentor Teacher for GED programs, focusing on soft skills like Workforce Readiness, Anger Management, and Substance Abuse. Arlene has a strong background in counseling, having worked with teens, parents, and individuals with mental health and addiction challenges. She holds a Bachelor’s in Collaborative Health and Human Services, and Master’s degrees in Education Administration and Counseling Psychology, along with various certifications. Now living in Seymour with her husband, a former Parole Officer, Arlene returned to work after two years of retirement, accepting the Wellness Coordinator position. In October 2024, Arlene stepped into the role of Interim Executive Director, then became the full time Wellness and Public Educator
Chuck Walston
Advocate and Community Leader
Chuck Walston has deep roots in East Tennessee. His family descends from the father of Bonny Kate, the wife of John Sevier, Tennessee’s first governor. In the waning days of the Vietnam War, Chuck joined the U.S. Army, where he graduated from Airborne School and Ranger School and served with the 1st Ranger Battalion and The Old Guard.
After more than a decade of military service, Chuck dedicated nearly 25 years to law enforcement. Following his retirement, he authored roughly 500 articles focused on investing in the stock market.
Chuck’s commitment to community service continued when he spent nine months as a full-time volunteer for the Epilepsy Foundation of East Tennessee, serving as the foundation’s grant writer, advocate, and fundraising assistant. He now serves part-time as an advocate and community leader, continuing his dedication to supporting individuals and families affected by epilepsy.
After more than a decade of military service, Chuck dedicated nearly 25 years to law enforcement. Following his retirement, he authored roughly 500 articles focused on investing in the stock market.
Chuck’s commitment to community service continued when he spent nine months as a full-time volunteer for the Epilepsy Foundation of East Tennessee, serving as the foundation’s grant writer, advocate, and fundraising assistant. He now serves part-time as an advocate and community leader, continuing his dedication to supporting individuals and families affected by epilepsy.
Vicki Knisley
Art & Support Group Leader
icki Knisley – Therapeutic Art Leader, Epilepsy Foundation of East Tennessee
Vicki Knisley studied fine art at the Dayton Art Institute in Ohio and earned a Bachelor of Science degree in Art Therapy from Bowling Green State University. She has worked in a variety of human service roles and currently teaches art to homeschoolers in Jefferson County.
Vicki joined the Epilepsy Foundation of East Tennessee in June 2022, advancing from co-leader to leader of therapeutic art support groups. She enjoys helping others and is experienced in assisting with neurology appointments, supporting fundraisers, answering phones, connecting people with community resources, and leading art-based support groups.
Vicki is married to Tim and has raised five children alongside a household full of cats. In her free time, she enjoys reading Jane Austen, volunteering at cub scouts, church, attending live theatre, and—always—singing show tunes!
Vicki Knisley studied fine art at the Dayton Art Institute in Ohio and earned a Bachelor of Science degree in Art Therapy from Bowling Green State University. She has worked in a variety of human service roles and currently teaches art to homeschoolers in Jefferson County.
Vicki joined the Epilepsy Foundation of East Tennessee in June 2022, advancing from co-leader to leader of therapeutic art support groups. She enjoys helping others and is experienced in assisting with neurology appointments, supporting fundraisers, answering phones, connecting people with community resources, and leading art-based support groups.
Vicki is married to Tim and has raised five children alongside a household full of cats. In her free time, she enjoys reading Jane Austen, volunteering at cub scouts, church, attending live theatre, and—always—singing show tunes!
Bobbi Frasca
Client Services Coordinator
Bobbi serves as the Client Services Director for the Epilepsy Foundation of East Tennessee. She brings a wealth of experience and compassion to her work supporting individuals and families affected by epilepsy. With years of dedication from other epilepsy services and as a board member for the Epilepsy Alliance in Florida, she has built a strong reputation for advocacy, client care, and community engagement.
Passionate about empowering others, Bobbi works tirelessly to connect clients with vital resources, education, and support that improve their quality of life. Outside of her professional role, she enjoys singing in a barbershop quartet, where she finds joy and connection through music.
Passionate about empowering others, Bobbi works tirelessly to connect clients with vital resources, education, and support that improve their quality of life. Outside of her professional role, she enjoys singing in a barbershop quartet, where she finds joy and connection through music.
