After serving families for almost nine decades, East Tennessee Children’s Hospital is entering a historic new chapter with a meaningful name change. The beloved nonprofit institution will now be known as Dolly Parton Children’s Hospital, honoring the legendary entertainer and philanthropist whose lifelong commitment to children and community care has touched millions.
The renaming reflects both the hospital’s deep roots in the region and Dolly Parton’s enduring dedication to improving the lives of young people. Known worldwide for her music and generosity, Parton has long supported education, healthcare, and humanitarian causes across Tennessee and beyond.
In an official press release, Parton shared a heartfelt message about the honor. Growing up in the mountains of East Tennessee, she said, taught her the importance of compassion and looking out for one another. She emphasized that every child deserves access to world-class medical care delivered with kindness, warmth, and love. Parton added that she feels deeply honored to stand alongside the hospital in its mission to bring greater hope, comfort, and healing to children and their families.
While the name is changing, the hospital’s core mission remains the same. As a nonprofit pediatric healthcare provider, it will continue delivering advanced medical treatment and specialized care to families throughout the region. Hospital leaders reaffirmed their commitment to ensuring that every child who walks through its doors receives high-quality care regardless of background or circumstance.
The new name symbolizes more than recognition—it represents a shared vision centered on compassion, community, and excellence in pediatric medicine. For many families in East Tennessee, the hospital has long been a place of healing and reassurance. With this new identity, leaders hope to expand its impact while strengthening its legacy for generations to come.
As Dolly Parton Children’s Hospital begins this next era, the change stands as a tribute not only to one of Tennessee’s most beloved figures but also to the countless healthcare professionals who continue to dedicate their lives to caring for children every day.