The Great Smoky Mountains just got a little brighter. On February 26, 2026, the facility formerly known as East Tennessee Children’s Hospital in Knoxville officially changed its name to Dolly Parton Children’s Hospital. This major rebranding honors the legendary singer’s tireless commitment to her home state and her massive contributions to pediatric healthcare.

The "Jolene" singer has a long history of putting her money where her heart is. Parton previously made headlines for her $1 million donation to Vanderbilt University Medical Center, which helped fund the development of the Moderna COVID-19 vaccine. In addition to her medical philanthropy, her Imagination Library has gifted over 200 million books to children worldwide since its inception in 1995.

Local leaders and hospital staff celebrated the transition as a tribute to Parton's local roots in nearby Sevierville. The Dolly Parton Children’s Hospital will continue its mission as a not-for-profit pediatric facility, now carrying the name of the woman who has spent decades advocating for the health and education of Tennessee's youth. "I am so honored to have my name associated with such a wonderful place," Parton said regarding the dedication.