At Tennessee High School, seniors Zoe Coble and Aubrey Tester have proven themselves to be a dynamic duo, leading with purpose and passion. As co-presidents of the Civinettes, a service club for young women, Zoe and Aubrey have made history as the first known pair to share the role. Their complementary leadership styles and dedication to serving the community are a true testament to the power of teamwork.
The Civinettes’ mission is clear—serving the community comes first. Under Zoe and Aubrey’s leadership, the club has expanded dramatically, doubling in members over the last two years.
“Aubrey is kind of the spokesperson for the group,” Zoe explained. “She’s great at being out front and communicating with people, while I love working on projects, designing shirts and posters, and helping spread the word about what we’re doing. It’s a great balance.”
Though you would never know it based on the confidence they now exude, their journey to leadership began from a very different place. Both describe themselves as shy and introverted when they first entered high school, still searching for where they belonged.
“I was a quiet kid, just trying to find a place to connect,” Zoe reflected. “Civinettes gave me that. It’s not just about serving the community; it’s about helping other girls feel included and part of something bigger. That is what we have tried to encourage and build during our time in Civinettes.”
Zoe became involved with the Civinettes as a freshman and quickly found a home in the group. By sophomore year, she convinced Aubrey to join, and the two soon realized they had not only found a place to contribute but a calling.
Their passion for community service is most evident through the Civinettes’ work with the Johnia Berry Toy Drive. Named in memory of Johnia Berry, a 2001 Tennessee High graduate whose life was tragically cut short during a home invasion in 2004, the toy drive raises funds annually to purchase toys for children in need across the region.
“Johnia’s story has had a huge impact on me,” Aubrey shared. “Her life and legacy remind us why it’s so important to give back. I’m hoping to attend UT Knoxville, where she attended, and I want to continue her legacy of service when I’m there.”
The Civinettes fundraise for the toy drive through their annual Powder Puff Football Game, a fun and spirited event that brings the community together. In addition to the toy drive, the group sponsors the school’s Trunk-or-Treat and participates in the BTCS Reading Buddies program, where members read to elementary students at Reading Parties.
Zoe and Aubrey also share their love of soccer with the community. For two years, they have volunteered to coach a BTCS elementary youth soccer team, an experience they both describe as deeply meaningful.
“Coaching these kids has been incredible,” Zoe said. “It’s not just about teaching soccer—it’s about teaching teamwork and showing them what it means to be part of something. A lot of these kids wouldn’t have had the chance to play in travel or club leagues, and we’re so grateful to give them this opportunity.”
While Zoe and Aubrey’s leadership has been transformative for the Civinettes, they are quick to share credit for the club’s success. They expressed deep gratitude for Ms. Ellan Kitzmiller, one of the Civinettes’ sponsors, who they say has been a guiding force.
“Ms. Kitzmiller keeps us organized and on track but still gives us the freedom to develop our leadership skills,” Aubrey explained. “She’s been a huge part of this journey for us.”
"They are wonderful!" Ms. Kitzmiller said. "Also, our other two faculty sponsors, Julie Bittinger and Jessica Robinson, do so many things. It takes a lot to organize everything we do in our club, and Aubrey's and Zoe's leadership has been invaluable."
Aubrey and Zoe were also quick to give a huge shout-out to Mr. Derek Shipley, Tennessee High’s graphic design teacher, for his unwavering support.
“We couldn’t do what we do without Mr. Shipley,” Zoe said. “He helps us create promotional materials for our events, and he does so much for the whole school. Our school is incredibly lucky to have him.”
Finally, Zoe and Aubrey acknowledged Madison Moore, a former Civinette who graduated last year, for inspiring and mentoring them.
“Madison really helped us and showed us how to lead,” Zoe said. “She encouraged us, made us feel included, and taught us what it means to lift others up. We owe so much to her.”
As they prepare to graduate, Zoe and Aubrey leave behind quite a legacy—one that will continue to inspire Civinettes for years to come. Their partnership as co-presidents has shown what’s possible when passion, teamwork, and a shared sense of purpose collide.
(Photo left to right: Aubrey, Zoe, Roan Meares, and Evan Jones display toys collected at the Christmas in July event, sponsored by the Bristol TN/VA Association of Realtors, to collect toys for the Johnia Berry Toy Drive)