1974, degree in Industrial Management, University of Tennessee. Formerly: four years as construction superintendent; started own construction company which expanded to operations in 18 states; acquired and developed commercial real estate; led creation of Chattanooga Neighborhood Enterprise, a non-profit organization providing affordable housing through low-interest loans; 1994, two years as Tennessee Commissioner of Finance and Administration; 2001, Mayor of Chattanooga. Since November 2006, current position; Member, US Senate Committees on Foreign Relations (Chairman), Banking, Budget and Special Committee on Aging.