Leadership Tennessee

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Leadership Tennessee

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Leadership Tennessee fosters collaborative, non-partisan dialogue on issues of state importance conn

Leadership Tennessee, an initiative of the College of Leadership and Public Service at Lipscomb University, will provide:

* Collaborative learning and dialogue spanning the three grand divisions
* Issue specific education for demonstrated leaders
* Diverse representation of participants
* Opportunities to affect change

Citizens with demonstrated community and professional leadership from every region of the state bring their diverse backgrounds and experiences to an in-depth exploration of the complex issues facing Tennessee, with a focus on how leaders can collaborate to effectively address those issues. Just as the Andrews Institute for Civic Leadership believes great communities are intentional, not accidental, we also believe great states are intentional, not accidental.

08/25/2026

Today, Tennessee — and the world — lost someone who seemed, somehow, as though she would always be with us.

Dolly Parton belonged to the world, but she was always Tennessee’s.

She carried the story of our state far beyond our borders with extraordinary talent, unmistakable authenticity and a generosity that changed lives. Through her music, her philanthropy, her commitment to children and families, and her enduring love for the place that raised her, Dolly showed us that leadership does not require a title. It requires a willingness to use what you have been given in service to others.

Leadership Tennessee had the extraordinary privilege of honoring Dolly in 2018 as the first recipient of our Excellence in Leadership Award. In the years that followed, we were even more privileged to carry her name forward through the Dolly Parton Excellence in Leadership Award, recognizing Tennesseans who embody the kind of leadership she demonstrated throughout her life — leadership grounded in service, humility, respect and a genuine love for people.

That she entrusted Leadership Tennessee with her name is something we have never taken lightly. Today, it means even more.

The Dolly Parton Excellence in Leadership Award will continue to recognize remarkable Tennessee leaders. But it will also forever remind us of the woman who set its standard: a daughter of the Smoky Mountains who never forgot where she came from, who believed deeply in the potential of others, and who showed generations of Tennesseans just how far a life of purpose and generosity can reach.

We are profoundly grateful for her trust, for her example and for the legacy she leaves in our care.

Our hearts are with Dolly’s family, loved ones and the countless people whose lives are better because she was here.

Thank you, Dolly.

For Tennessee. For the music. For the books. For the laughter. For the generosity. For showing us what it looks like to lead by lifting others.

We will always love you.

08/03/2026

What a night. 🏆

Last week, Leadership Tennessee celebrated the inaugural Civic Leadership Award honoree and our inaugural class of Civic Leadership Pillar Awards — honoring leaders who’ve shaped Tennessee across all three Grand Divisions and on the national stage.

Swipe through to relive the moments and meet this year’s honorees ➡️

Many thanks to our sponsors.

07/29/2026

🌟 Introducing the inaugural Civic Leadership Award recipient: Randy Boyd 🌟

Leadership Tennessee Signature Program Class I alum. President of the University of Tennessee System ! Now our first-ever honoree for this award.

🎟️ And thanks to our incredible sponsors, this celebration is officially SOLD OUT!

Congratulations, Randy Boyd. 🎉

Thank you Home Caregivers Pinnacle Financial Partners Ayers Foundation Trust Howard H. Baker Jr. School of Public Policy and Public Affairs ETSU EPB Partners Development Scarlett Family Foundation Stones River Group TBR - The College System of Tennessee WestStar Leadership Tennessee Valley Authority Athens Distributing AllianceBernstein (+The Haslam Family Foundation, The Boyd Foundation, Ajax Beverage Distributing - Clarksville)

02/10/2026

🚨 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

01/19/2026

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.

01/14/2026

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.

08/29/2025

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!

07/04/2025

Happy 4th of July!

06/26/2025

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.

02/27/2025

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.

Address

718 Thompson Lane Suite 108/141
Nashville, TN
37204

Website

http://leadershiptennessee.org/

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