Leadership Tennessee

🚨 Nomination Deadline: March 15, 2026 🚨

Time is running out to nominate a leader for Leadership Tennessee -

We’re building the next cohorts of leaders who will help shape Tennessee’s future — and we need your help identifying them.

🔹 Signature Program – Designed for established leaders who are ready to broaden their perspective, deepen their impact, and engage in a 10-month statewide leadership journey.

🔹 LTNext – A 4-month experience for early- to mid-career professionals who are emerging in their fields and ready to expand their influence and network across Tennessee.

Leadership Tennessee convenes leaders across industries, regions, and backgrounds — creating a web of relationships that strengthens our entire state.

Know someone who should be in the room?

👉 Submit your nomination by March 15, 2026
🌐 leadershiptennessee.org/nominate

LeadershipMatters

Today we honor the life and legacy of Dr. Martin Luther King, Jr.

Dr. King reminded us that leadership is not defined by title or position, but by courage, service, and a commitment to justice that extends beyond ourselves.

At , we believe his words still call leaders forward—to listen deeply, act responsibly, and work toward a more just and unified future for all Tennesseans.

May we continue the work. Not just today—but every day.

“Everybody can be great, because anybody can serve.” — Dr. Martin Luther King, Jr.

Last night, our President & CEO, Dr. Alfred Degrafinreid, attended the 2026 Annual Opening Night Legislative Reception hosted by the Tennessee Chamber of Commerce & Industry at the Tennessee State Museum. It’s always energizing to connect with Leadership Tennessee Signature Program and LT NEXT alumni who are working every day to strengthen communities and advance our great state.

What an unforgettable evening!

Last night we had the privilege of celebrating the 2025 Dolly Parton Excellence in Leadership Award recipient, Janet Ayers. It was a truly inspiring night, filled with alumni, friends, and family gathered together to honor leadership that continues to shape Tennessee’s future.

The evening was made even more special by the spirit of community and connection in the room - reminding us of the lasting impact that comes when we lift one another up. True butterfly effects!

We extend our deepest gratitude to our generous sponsors, especially our Presenting Sponsor , for making this celebration possible. To our founders, board, alumni, and supporters - thank you for being part of a night that honored legacy, leadership, and service at its finest.

Make sure to tag us in your photos!

Happy 4th of July!

is proud to announce Class XII of our Signature Program — a dynamic group of leaders from across the state, representing diverse sectors, communities, and perspectives.

Over the next year, they will engage in meaningful dialogue, build connections, and work together to strengthen Tennessee.

Know someone who should be part of Leadership Tennessee’s Signature Program?

Nominations for Class XII are now open! This is your chance to nominate a leader who is making an impact across Tennessee.

✅ Who are the changemakers in your community?
✅ Who is shaping the future of our state?
✅ Who belongs in the next cohort of Tennessee’s top leaders?

Nominate them today! The deadline to submit nominations is March 15, 2025. Visit www.leadershiptennessee.org/nominate.

💙 Grateful for Our Leadership Tennessee Sponsors 💙

At , we know that building a stronger future for our state takes dedication, collaboration, and a shared vision. None of this would be possible without the incredible support of our sponsors and partners who believe in the power of leadership and the impact of meaningful connections.

Their generosity and commitment allow us to cultivate a network of changemakers, facilitate crucial conversations, and equip leaders with the knowledge and relationships needed to drive Tennessee forward. From immersive learning experiences to lifelong connections, their support makes it all possible.

Thank you for investing in the future of Tennessee. Your partnership fuels our mission, strengthens our communities, and empowers leaders across the state. We couldn’t do this without you!

💙 Leadership Tennessee: A Family Journey: Growing Together, Stronger Than Ever 💙

For Whitney and John Goetz, came at a pivotal time — during moments of transition that shaped both their personal and professional lives:

“We are thankful for the opportunities that Leadership Tennessee has provided to both of us. Leadership Tennessee has allowed us to join the incredible network of LT Alumni who touch many sectors across the state. We had very different experiences, but both were well-timed during a period of transition. Our family moved from Middle Tennessee to East Tennessee during ‘s LT NEXT term, which was in the midst of the COVID pandemic. made a major career change prior to being selected for LT NEXT.

The Leadership Tennessee experience allowed us to expand our personal and professional networks, learn more about areas of the state, and be better prepared as we grow and serve in our organizations and community. We are grateful to be a part of this group of people who are striving to make Tennessee a great place to live, work, and raise a family.”

From career changes to cross-state moves, Leadership Tennessee provides a network of support, learning, and opportunity — helping leaders navigate transitions while strengthening their impact on Tennessee.

👩‍👧 Leadership Across Generations: A Mother-Daughter Impact 💙

For Avice Reid (SP Class VII), was an eye-opening experience that deepened her understanding of Tennessee’s challenges and opportunities:

“Leadership Tennessee deepened my understanding of our state’s challenges and opportunities while connecting me with leaders who are driving change. The experience broadened my perspective and strengthened my commitment to making a lasting impact. I stay involved because Class VII of the Signature Program continues to be known as the ‘Best Class Ever,’ and LT’s network and mission continue to inspire me.”

Her daughter, Althea Jones (LT NEXT Class II), followed her own path through LT NEXT, reinforcing the importance of collaboration and leadership:

“LT NEXT connected me with emerging leaders who share a sincere desire for shaping Tennessee’s future. Seeing my mother’s journey through the Signature Program and experiencing my own path in an early LT NEXT class reinforced the power of collaboration. Leadership Tennessee isn’t just a program — it’s a lifelong commitment to progress.”

From one generation to the next, Leadership Tennessee continues to build a network of passionate changemakers who are committed to shaping the future of our state.

💡Leadership, Collaboration & the Tennessee Way 💙

For Rob Mortensen, Tennessee is more than just a place — it’s a community of driven, passionate leaders working together to create a stronger future. His experience with left a lasting impression:

“Tennessee isn’t just a place on the map — it’s a state of mind, a way of life. I’ve lived in Tennessee for the majority of my life and Tennesseans never cease to amaze me. I always told my children growing up, life’s all about relationships. Leadership Tennessee gave me the opportunity to see our state through a new lens while continuing to build foundational relationships. I’m grateful for the experience, the friendships, and the chance to be part of something that’s shaping Tennessee’s future, one conversation at a time.” - Rob Mortensen (SP Class V)

Leadership Tennessee is about more than just leadership — it’s about action, collaboration, and a shared vision for the future. Stay tuned as more alumni share why they !