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Covenant Health Celebrates Recreational Therapist Al Kaye’s 45-Year Legacy with “Al Kaye Day” Proclamations

  • 5 minute read.
  • Last Updated: 6/24/2026

Covenant Health‘s Fort Sanders Regional Medical Center honored longtime rehabilitation leader, Al Kaye, with a surprise anniversary celebration on June 22, 2026.  

Together, team members, previous patients and community members recognized his extraordinary 45-year career and impact. As part of the event, officials from the City of Knoxville and Knox County formally proclaimed June 22 as “Al Kaye Day.” 

Care That Comes Full Circle 

Kaye has been a visionary in rehabilitation and community-based care. He has spent more than four decades helping individuals recover from life-changing injuries. His leadership helped transform rehabilitation beyond the clinical setting through innovative programs that connect patients to active, engaged living. 

A highlight of the celebration was the presentation of official proclamations by some of Kaye’s former patients. In a full circle moment, Stephanie Brewer Cook, ADA coordinator for the City of Knoxville and Carly Pearson, ADA Coordinator for Knox County, both presented the proclamation honors. 

“When I met Al, I was 14 and didn’t want to be seen in a wheelchair, he changed that completely. He helped me see it wasn’t about the wheels; it was about living my life. Nearly four decades later, I’m one of thousands whose life he’s impacted. His influence continues to shape our entire community,” said Cook. 

Pearson added, “When I first met Al, I was recovering from a catastrophic injury and truly believed the life I knew was over. He helped open the door to see there was still a full, active life ahead. His impact through his work and rehabilitation advocacy in our community will be felt across Knox County for generations.” 

Two women in wheelchairs hold certificates while a man stands behind them, smiling. Behind them is a table with a blue cloth, a book, and large blue balloons shaped as the number 45.
Stephanie Brewer Cook, Al Kaye and Carly Pearson pictured with the mayoral proclamations.

Expanding Rehabilitation Through Innovative Programs 

In 1994, Kaye was instrumental in founding the Innovative Recreation Cooperative (IRC). This groundbreaking program has since served more than 15,000 participants. The IRC introduced pioneering adaptive recreation opportunities in Tennessee, including water skiing, scuba diving and other activities. The program has helped individuals with disabilities build confidence, independence and improved quality of life. 

“The IRC continues to be a vital extension of rehabilitation, connecting individuals to community experiences,” said Tab Culbertson, chief administrative officer of Fort Sanders Regional. “For 45 years, Al has been a champion for our patients and our community. He has driven innovation and positively impacted countless individuals as they work to restore mobility and quality of life. His leadership has helped position Fort Sanders Regional as a leader in advanced care, and his vision has extended that care far beyond our walls.” 

“After four decades, you realize it’s not about the programs themselves. It’s about the lives changed along the way. It’s been a privilege and an honor to touch so many lives over 45 years. If I’ve learned anything, it’s that the real legacy is the people who carry the work forward,” said Kaye. 

In addition to his work in rehabilitation, Kaye has supported broader community wellness initiatives, including the Covenant Health Knoxville Marathon. He has remained committed to supporting recovery beyond medical treatment and into active living. 

Carrying On Kaye’s Legacy 

During Kaye’s 45th anniversary celebration, Chip Bryant, chief philanthropy officer of Covenant Health also announced the creation of the Al Kaye Excellence Endowment. This will further cement Kaye’s legacy and commitment to advancing rehabilitation and community wellness efforts. 

Two men smiling, one in a blazer and the other in a polo shirt holding a plaque. Behind them are large balloon numbers 65 and a blue table with a Patricia sign, suggesting a celebration or award event.
Chip Bryant and Al Kaye

As Kaye prepares to retire later this year, colleagues, patients and community members were thrilled to celebrate his career defined by innovation, compassion and a dedication to improving lives. 

To learn more about the IRC and the activities scheduled throughout the summer visit the website. 

A smiling man stands behind a large cake that reads Celebration of 45 Years! as he prepares to serve a slice. He wears a navy shirt with a name badge and stands in a room with beige walls and chairs.
A display table at an event features a blue tablecloth with “Covenant Health Patricia Neal Outpatient Center” branding, folded t-shirts, buttons, balloons, and photo boards against a beige wall.
A man speaks to an audience seated in rows at an indoor event. Blue number balloons reading 45 are displayed on the wall behind him. Some attendees listen attentively, and a blue banner is partially visible.
Several round buttons featuring a smiling man wearing a blue cap, with the text We love you ALways! printed beside his photo, are laid out on a table.
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