03/20/2026
We are excited to welcome Hal Cato as the keynote speaker for our 2026 NJC Leadership Conference!
Hal is a respected leader in Nashville’s nonprofit and civic community who brings decades of real-world experience building organizations that create meaningful impact. He currently serves as CEO of the Community Foundation of Middle Tennessee, where he leads efforts to connect philanthropic resources with community needs across the region.
Prior to this role, Hal served as CEO of Thistle Farms, growing the organization’s mission to support survivors of trafficking, addiction, and exploitation, and he led the Oasis Center, significantly expanding services for at-risk youth. Earlier in his career he founded Hands On Nashville, helped build nonprofit capacity nationally, and held senior leadership roles in the corporate nonprofit sector.
Hal’s work has been recognized with honors including “Most Admired CEO” by the Nashville Business Journal, “Business Leader of the Year” by the LGBT Chamber of Commerce, “Community Champion” from the Human Rights Campaign, and ""Nashvillian of the Year"" by The Nashville Scene.
We look forward to the insights on leadership, community, and purpose that Hal will share with our young professional community!
