Former Council Members

Council members are appointed to serve terms ranging from 3- 5 years. During their term, members attend quarterly meetings as well as emergency meetings held on an as needed basis. Members of the OAC serve in a volunteer capacity and do so in addition to their other responsibilities to the community. Below, the Opioid Abatement Council recognizes and thanks our former Council members for their dedication and service to the citizens of Tennessee impacted by the opioid crisis.

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Karen Pershing

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Thank you Karen for your commitment and service to the Council. Appointed by Lt. Governor Randy McNally, Karen's term began in July 2021 and ended in May 2025. When asked what she loved most about her time on the Council, Karen stated, "It was an honor to serve as a founding board member and to have the opportunity to invest resources in the continuum of care across our state, from prevention to recovery".

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Casey Cox

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Thank you Sheriff Casey Cox for your commitment and service to the Council. Appointed by Speaker of The House Cameron Sexton, Sheriff Cox's term began July 2021 and ended June 2025. 

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Charme Allen

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Thank you District Attorney General Charme Allen for your commitment and service to the Council. Appointed by Lt. Governor Randy McNally, Charme's term began July 2021 and ended June 2025. When asked what she loved most about her time on the Council, General Allen stated, "Serving on the Opioid Abatement Council has been an honor and an important chapter in my career in public service. I’ve seen firsthand how the opioid crisis devastates families and communities, and being part of a collaborative effort to direct resources where they are most needed – prevention, treatment, enforcement, and support – has been both humbling and rewarding.  I’m grateful to have worked alongside passionate leaders across Tennessee, all committed to saving lives and building safer, healthier communities.”