David Needs is a graduate of Carson-Newman University with a degree in Political Science and History. He was President of Phi Alpha Theta the History Honor Society while a student at C-N. He was also in ROTC and was commissioned a 2nd LT in the Field Artillery. He currently serves Carson-Newman University as an Instructor and Director of the Nationally Ranked Track and Field Team. Among the many classes David teaches at C-N is “Mossy Creek History 1850 to 1900”. In 2019, David received the Community History Award from the East Tennessee Historical Society for his work in preservation and sharing the Mossy Creek Story. In 2019, he was also named the President of the Lakeway Civil War Preservation Association. In the Fall of 2021, he was named the first City Historian for Jefferson City. In 2023, he traveled to Austin, Texas and Colorado Springs, CO to share information and speak about the 160th Anniversary of the Battle of Mossy Creek. Additionally, he led the City of Jefferson City’s remembrance of the Battle on December 29th. David Needs has been active in our community, researching, cemetery preservation, historical documentation, archaeological work, leading tours, engaging student groups, and lecturing. He is also currently writing a book about the personal stories of the men and units who fought at the Battle of Mossy Creek.
David Needs
Director of Track&Field and Cross Country
Carson-Newman University
Coach of the Year 2019, 2022, 2023
22 National Championship Appearances
4 National Champions
59 All Americans