With a unique background as an entrepreneur in the behavioral-health field, J.R. Greene has witnessed firsthand the powerful role confidence and courage play in a child’s lifelong well-being. While academic and athletic achievements are often celebrated—and rightly so—he has seen how the everyday moments when a child chooses bravery, speaks up, tries again, or begins to truly believe in themselves can be just as transformative. As the Founder, CEO, and Chairman of a behavioral-health company, J.R. has observed the profound impact these qualities have on a child’s development.

The Magic Tux Confidence and Courage Award was created by J.R. to honor and celebrate children who consistently demonstrate these remarkable traits in their daily classroom lives. Launching in 2026, the program will begin in second-grade public school classrooms across Knox County, Tennessee.

Each year, every second-grade teacher will nominate one student who has shown exceptional confidence and courage throughout the school year. Nominated students will then create either a short written essay or an original art piece—such as a drawing, painting, or sculpture—sharing why they were chosen and describing a meaningful moment of courage they experienced. These submissions will be reviewed by the University of Tennessee’s Department of Libraries, which will select one boy and one girl as the annual recipients of the Magic Tux Confidence and Courage Award.

Each recipient will be celebrated with a truly unforgettable and magical experience. Winners will have the opportunity to participate in the Tennessee Volunteers football team’s “Vol Walk,” receive a signed copy of The Magic Tuxautographed by the team, collaborate with a designer to create their very own custom Magic Tux, and attend the final home game of the season with two lower-level tickets between the 20-yard lines—one for the student and one for a parent or guardian. Winners will also receive on-field passes for pregame warmups and will be recognized in front of the entire stadium during the game.

A moment of magic. A celebration of courage. A reminder that confidence built early can last a lifetime.