Raquetta Dotley

Raquetta Dotley’s story is one of resilience, leadership, and unwavering dedication to the community. Born and raised in Chattanooga, Tennessee, Raquetta grew up in the Boone-Hysinger (later Harriet Tubman) housing project off Roanoke Avenue in East Chattanooga. Her early years were marked by challenges, but she never allowed circumstances to define her future. With a positive outlook and strong support from her family, she always dreamed big.

Raquetta attended Mary Ann Garber and Orchard Knob Elementary Schools, followed by Orchard Knob Middle School, before graduating from Brainerd High School in 2000. Despite initially not planning to attend college, a guidance counselor at Brainerd saw her potential and encouraged her to apply. She earned a scholarship to the University of Tennessee at Chattanooga (UTC), where she obtained her undergraduate degree. She later pursued a Master’s degree from Temple Baptist Seminary. In total, Ms. Dotley holds a BS in Human Resource Management from the University of Tennessee at Chattanooga (UTC), Masters of Ministry and MA: Christian Education: Tennessee Temple University: Temple Baptist Seminary, also of Chattanooga.

After completing her education, Raquetta worked briefly in the insurance field before realizing that her true calling was in ministry and community service. She became deeply involved in church and civic activities, serving as Youth Pastor and Church Administrator at Westside Missionary Baptist Church. She also took on the role of Executive Director of The Net Resource Foundation, where she focused on mentorship and community building in South Chattanooga.

Raquetta’s passion for community advocacy grew through her involvement with the Servant Leadership Christian Fellowship and civic organizations such as Zeta Phi Beta Sorority, Inc. She took on leadership roles with the Hamilton County Voters Coalition and served on numerous advisory boards and committees dedicated to equity, public health, and neighborhood improvement.

In 2021, Raquetta made history as the first African American woman to serve as the City Council District 7 representative. Her leadership skills and dedication to the community were further recognized in 2023 when she became the first African American woman to serve as Chattanooga City Council Chairperson. In 2025, she reached another milestone by becoming the first person to run unopposed for re-election in City Council District 7.

Throughout her career, Raquetta has remained focused on building stronger communities through economic development, equitable policies, and community engagement. Her commitment to civic involvement and fostering connections within the community has made a lasting impact on Chattanooga. She encourages young people to dream big, pursue education, and give back to their communities. Her story is a powerful example of perseverance, faith, and the transformative power of community service.

One of Raquetta’s favorite quotes that inspires her work is from Coretta Scott King: "The greatness of a community is most accurately measured by the compassionate actions of its members."