One Generation Away’s Chris Whitney Receives 2023 Caroline J. Cross Service Award

The Leadership Franklin Class of 2023 has selected Chris Whitney as this year’s recipient of the Caroline J. Cross Award. Whitney and his wife, Elaine, moved to Franklin in 2004 to start a church, and little did they know that in that process of pastoring a church for 14 years that One Generation Away would be birthed. One Generation Away is a nonprofit 501c3 food ministry a purpose to wipe hunger off the face of America by eliminating racism, denominationalism and poverty, and teaching people to love one another through service.

Thank You To Our Newest Platinum Sponsor

Leadership Franklin is pleased to announce that Gray Line Tennessee is the official transportation provider for the Class of 2023-2024. Gray Line is Middle Tennessee’s leader in transportation services for the past 50 years. Special thanks to Chuck Abbott, President and CEO, for this generous sponsorship.

Leadership Franklin Announces 2023-2024 Class

Leadership Franklin is pleased to announce its twenty-sixth class.

1. Drason Beasley - Williamson County Government

2. Matt Brown - BrandMETTLE

3. Clair Cochran - Williamson County Government

4. Mary Michael Cross - Oversite

5. Jessica Davey - City of Franklin

6. Geri Eaves - The Bone and Joint Institute of Tennessee Surgery Center

7. Armando Estrada - The Innovations Group

8. Greg Freeze - FirstBank

9. Steve Groom - Wesley, LLC

10. Maureen Haley Thornton - Williamson County Convention & Visitors Bureau

11. Carl Haynes - Lineage Bank

12. Shannon Lambert - Barge Design Solutions, Inc.

13. Jaclyn Ledbetter - Roundtable Software

14. Allen Long - High Hopes Development Center

15. Amanda McKeehan - Truland Development Co

16. Lauren Paxton Roberts - Stites & Harbison, PLLC

17. Scott Quinn - City of Franklin Police Department

18. Alan Thompson - Ragan Smith Associates, Inc.

19. Elaine Whitney - One Generation Away

20. Richard Wright - CBL Properties CoolSprings Galleria

Robert Blair Receives Caroline J. Cross Award

The Board of Directors of Leadership Franklin has selected Franklin native Robert Blair as this year’s recipient of the Caroline J. Cross Award.

Blair has served on the Board of Education for the Franklin Special School District since 2003, and was elected as the Chair of the Board in 2020. He has been recognized by the Tennessee School Boards Association among the Scholars Circle and the All-Tennessee School Board.

His community service includes work with Leadership Franklin and Youth Leadership Franklin, My Friend’s House, WAVES, Franklin/Williamson County Boys and Girls Club, and Franklin Tomorrow. He is a past recipient of the Monroe and Mary Booker Award for Community Service and the Boys and Girls Club “Ed Moody Award for Excellence” for his advocacy on behalf of children. Blair is the Education Director at Cummins Street Church of Christ. He owns B. Media Communications, a strategic planning and board development agency that provides communications strategies for non-profits.  

According to Leadership Franklin Board Chair Julian Bibb, “Robert Blair is a leader with a servant heart. He has a long history of community engagement working with the Franklin Special School District and many other nonprofits in our community. Over the years, Robert has received many honors and awards. Leadership Franklin is delighted to recognize Robert’s lifelong commitment to improving our community by presenting him with the annual Caroline J. Cross Leadership Award.”

Created as a class project in 2007, the Caroline J. Cross Award was established to honor Caroline J. Cross, Founding Executive Director of Leadership Franklin, and create an ongoing award that identifies a leader in the community who exemplifies the values and lessons of Leadership Franklin. Criteria for nomination include leadership that motivates and inspires other individuals along with traits of creativity, character, dedication, and community service.

Past recipients of the award are (LFA: Leadership Franklin Alumnus): Jimmy Gentry; Rogers Anderson (LFA); Julian Bibb III (LFA); Scott Roley (LFA); Janice Keck; Alma McLemore (LFA); Rick Warwick; Emily Magid; Paige Pitts (LFA); Dr. Joseph Willoughby; Mary Mills; Judy Hayes; Brandy Blanton (LFA); Tom Lawrence (LFA), and Debbie Henry (LFA).

Leadership Franklin class members announce statue project to honor legendary Coach Jimmy Gentry

On April 21, Williamson County lost Jimmy Gentry, one its our favorite sons. The 96-year-old World War II veteran, coach, teacher, farmer, story-teller, artist, father, grandfather and friend left an indelible mark on the community and a dedicated group of citizens are committed to making sure he will be remembered in a prominent and permanent way with a bronze statue placed at Five Points in Downtown Franklin.

Gentry’s influence and impact has been poured into generations of locals – for some that was in a classroom, for others on a football field and for many, on the bucolic grounds of the beloved Gentry Farm. Throughout the last two decades he would share the stories of his life as depicted in his book “An American Life” and became a gifted story-teller to captivated audiences from one to hundreds.

It became tradition for him to speak annually to the classes of Leadership Franklin as a part of History Day. Gentry would sit on the wooden swing in front of his home at Gentry Farm under the century-old Magnolia tree. The Franklin native would share glimpses into his childhood and growing up without the influence of his father who passed away when he was 12-years-old. Stories of a simpler time when he and his brother would hunt rabbits for their dinner and later bask in the sun and jump in the water of the famed Willow Plunge. It was a time when everyone knew each other and Franklin was a very small town – one where the telephone operator could tell you who was at the doctor or grocery when you tried to reach them by phone.

Gentry would talk about his love and admiration of his mother who raised eight children alone and declared that “anything good about me is because of my mother”. The same woman who instilled in their children to “never take the last biscuit” because there is always someone who needs it more.

Gentry’s stories would come to life with his talent of painting a picture with his words – making you feel like you were in the moments with him. One of his memories was of a particular “rock fence” that still stands today that surrounds the Historic Presbyterian Church on the corner of 5th Avenue and Main Street. Gentry shared the significance of that wall as farmers used to gather on Saturdays to sell their wares, or children would climb atop it and balance their way from end to end. However, one of the most poignant things that happened at that wall was in the mid-1940s when young men would sit there waiting for a particular bus to arrive. And when it did, if your name was called … you were headed off to war to serve your country. Even after losing his brother to war, Gentry would enlist and his name would be called along with several of his friends. Many of those young men would not return, but thankfully, he did.

His voice would soften as he moved on to the next chapter of his life as a young man far away from home who served in the United States Army as a foot soldier, witnessing one of the most horrific scenes, as he and his troop stumbled upon the concentration camp at Dachau.

After he returned from the war Gentry would marry “the prettiest girl in Franklin”, Rebecca Chanell, and build their lives on her family property, Pleasant View Farm (circa 1849). Gentry would spend 66 years coaching football at three local schools: Franklin High School, Brentwood Academy and Battle Ground Academy. The seven-generation farm would become Gentry Farm and diversify their farming efforts over the years to include raising beef cattle and growing hay, although they would become widely known for their pumpkin crop as school groups and the public visit every fall to experience the nostalgic slice of Americana. For natives and newcomers alike, the Gentry family is an iconic part of who we are as a community, although the origin of that notoriety is through their patriarch, Jimmy Gentry.

Paying Homage

The idea of honoring Gentry with a statue came years before his recent passing. Franklin Vice-Mayor Brandy Blanton (Leadership Franklin Class of 2007) experienced Gentry speak from his swing on her class’ History Day and a close friendship was spawned.

Ten years later, as the City of Franklin Public Arts Commision was being formed, Blanton was struck with an idea for the perfect piece of public art, a bronze statue of Gentry on the “rock fence” celebrating his contribution to our country, but also the other boys who would leave Franklin from that rock wall to do the same.

Blanton shared that vision with her good friend, Carrie Drury (Director of A Vintage Affair), who whole-heartedly agreed with the idea. Soon after, Drury would be selected for the Leadership Franklin Class of 2020 and placed in a project group alongside Ondrea Johnson (Director of Williamson County Animal Center), Lance Jordan (Executive Director of Waves, Inc.), Michael Damico (owner of Damico Frame and Art Gallery) and Stacey Downs (Owner, Cobra LLC). Tasked with finding a group project, this team would grab the baton and give the vision legs. Their passion for the project was bolstered after experiencing Gentry speak to their class from that same swing under the Magnolia on History Day and the opportunity to capture a video of him speaking about that memory.

The groundwork was laid, including permission from the Gentry family and securing a sculptor, Clarksville resident and firefighter, Scott Wise. The initial plan was to feature Gentry as a young man sitting on the “rock fence” as depicted in the story he shared. However, the group pivoted to create the art piece of a modern-day Gentry sitting on a bench at Five Points reflecting on his memories situated directly in front of the rock wall. Jimmy Gentry actually posed for the piece in his likeness and fundraising efforts were set to begin, however, the pandemic brought a halt to their efforts and the remainder of their Leadership Franklin experience.

After Gentry’s recent passing, it was evident the project must happen, and the group came back together to see it to fruition with the family’s blessing. With their focus on public art, Franklin Tomorrow has been identified as an additional partner, who will accept tax-deductible donations from everyone who wants to be a part of this legacy project accompanied by a plaque that will read:

This statue in the likeness of Franklin, Tenn. native and World War II U.S. Army veteran Jimmy Gentry (1925-2022) as he reflects on the rock wall and the memories of waiting there for the bus that would take him and many others off to war to fight for our country – man of whom would never return.

The goal is to secure the estimated $85,000 from all of those who were influenced by this incredible man and host a community unveiling in the spring of 2023.

Tax-deductible donations will be accepted by Franklin Tomorrow (online) after the Franklin Board of Alderman’s expected approval of the project on Tuesday, August 16. Checks may be sent to P.O. Box 383, Franklin, TN 37065.

FRANKLIN TOMORROW: Franklin Tomorrow is an independent, community-visioning nonprofit created in 2000 by a group of forward-looking business and community leaders to safeguard the attributes that made Franklin special then for future generations. The mission is to engage the community, foster collaboration, and advocate for a shared vision for the future of Franklin. Through research, programs and engagement with citizens, that shared vision is for Franklin to be a city with robust neighborhoods, a vibrant economy, distinct character and great people.

Leadership Franklin Announces 2022-2023 Class

Leadership Franklin is pleased to announce its twenty-fifth class:

• Amy Alexander, The Refuge Center for Counseling

• Don Alexander, Southeast Venture

• Patrick Baggett, Boxwood Insurance Group

• Bryan Brooks, Franklin First United Methodist Church

• Clayton Cates, City of Franklin Police Department

• April Eaton, Allstate Insurance Company

• Tucker Herndon, Burr & Foreman

• Angie Langford, Zeitlin Sotheby’s International Realty

• Diane LeBlanc, Renasant Bank

• Jessica Lucyshyn, Gresham Smith

• Jim Martin, Circuit Court Judge, 21st Judicial District

• Mary Catherine Mousourakis, The Heritage Foundation of Williamson County

• Rebecca Ozols, Bell and Associates, LP

• Aubree Parker, Aubree P. Boutique

• Tameka Sanders, Williamson County Sheriff’s Department

• Derrick Solomon, Hard Bargain Association

• Lauren Ward, Visit Franklin

• Raymond Waymon, Jr., Williamson County Juvenile Court

• Dr. Tonja Williams, New Hope Academy

• Nathan Zipper, Williamson, Inc.

Leadership Franklin Awards College Scholarship to Local Student

Leadership Franklin has awarded a $1,500 college scholarship to Williamson County student Chandler Bell.

This scholarship is awarded annually to high school seniors or current college students who display their commitment to Williamson County through service and demonstrated community leadership. Applicants are selected based on grade point average, quality of essay, and scholarship application points.

Bell will graduate in May from Franklin High School where she is a member of Winter Guard and Marching Band. She is also an active member of Southeastern Color Guard Circuit, Winter Guard International, and Bands of America. Bell frequently volunteers through Mu Alpha Theta, Habitat for Humanity, and Threads of Care (TOC) – a Williamson County organization that coordinates clothing drives. In addition, she has held multiple leadership positions in TOC, including Vice President, Deputy Director, and Executive Director. She has participated in the Tennessee Governor’s School for the Arts at Middle Tennessee State University, recently received recognition from National African American Recognition Program, and was selected as a National Merit Commended Student.

Bell is the daughter of Gary and Allena Bell. She plans to attend Lipscomb University in the fall.

Debbie Henry Receives Caroline J Cross Award

The Board of Directors of Leadership Franklin has selected Debbie Henry as this year’s recipient of the Caroline J. Cross Award.

Henry is the Executive Director of Franklin’s Transportation Management Association. She is also the Associate Executive Director for Leadership Franklin. She has served on the boards and advisory committees of organizations including Franklin Tomorrow, the Education Foundation of Williamson County, Williamson Inc., Middle Tennessee Clean Fuels, and the Mid-Cumberland Region Coordinated Public Transit Advisory Committee.

She has been recognized as a Williamson County Hall of Fame Impact Award winner by the Nashville Business Journal, as a Franklin Tomorrow Exemplary Community Volunteer Spirit Award winner, a Woman of Influence in Nonprofit Leadership, and as an Outstanding Chamber Member of the Year, among other honors.

According to Leadership Franklin Board Chair Julian Bibb, “Debbie Henry is such a well-deserving recipient of the Caroline Cross Award. Debbie’s investment in our community has been sustained over many years. She leads with a servant heart and is an inspiration to others in our community because she consistently ‘gives back.’ All of us involved with Leadership Franklin are so happy that Debbie has received this outstanding, well-deserved honor.”

The Caroline J. Cross Award was established to honor Caroline J. Cross, Founding Executive Director of Leadership Franklin, and create an ongoing award that identifies a leader in the community who exemplifies the values and lessons of Leadership Franklin. This award was created as the class project in 2007. Criteria for nomination include leadership that motivates and inspires other individuals along with traits of creativity, character, dedication, and community service.

Past recipients of the award are (LFA: Leadership Franklin Alumnus): Jimmy Gentry; Rogers Anderson (LFA); Julian Bibb III (LFA); Scott Roley (LFA); Janet Keck; Alma McLemore (LFA); Rick Warwick; Emily Magid; Paige Pitts (LFA); Dr. Joseph Willoughby; Mary Mills; Judy Hayes; Brandy Blanton (LFA); and Tom Lawrence (LFA).

Class of 2021-2022 Deferred to August 2022

Due to continued uncertainty regarding the COVID-19 virus, the Board of Directors of Leadership Franklin has decided to defer the next class until August 2022. After much deliberation, we believe the upcoming class will have a more complete experience in the Leadership Franklin program when we are able to safely, confidently gather in person once again. 

Leadership Franklin Announces Scholarship Recipient

Leadership Franklin has awarded a $1,500 college scholarship to Williamson County student M.J. Brown.

Class of 2021 Postponed

Over the past few months the Board and Leadership Team have worked to develop a plan to support the Class of 2020-2021 program starting in August. However, with the continued rising number of positive cases of COVID-19 in our community, the Board of Directors has decided to defer beginning the class until the Fall of 2021.

It was a difficult decision, but one that we feel is right in order to best protect our participants and the places we might be able to visit. Plus, we want to give this class the best of a Leadership Franklin experience. We will take this time to look strategically at the program and how we can continue to make each program day and each topic relevant and impactful.

Tom Lawrence Receives Caroline J. Cross Award

Leadership Franklin has selected alumnus Tom Lawrence as this year’s recipient of the Caroline J. Cross Award.

As a Williamson County native, Lawrence is best known for his time at Franklin radio stations WFLP, WIZO, and WAKM. After he and his partners sold WAKM in 2017, he continued on the radio as the host of the “Hometown Radio Show.” He is also a Community Liaison at the Franklin branch of Landmark Community Bank. An active board member for Leadership Franklin, Lawrence joined the class this year as the facilitator for the caucus sessions that are a part of each program day. He treated the class with letters before each program day, get togethers to discuss their experience with Leadership Franklin, and a special gift of a book from his private collection.

The Caroline J. Cross Award was established to honor Caroline J. Cross, Founding Executive Director of Leadership Franklin, and create an ongoing award that identifies a leader in the community who exemplifies the values and lessons of Leadership Franklin. This award was created as the class project by Dan Klatt, Charles Pareigis, Chris Clausi and Brandy Blanton in 2007. Criteria for nomination include leadership that motivates and inspires other individuals along with traits of creativity, character, dedication, and community service. Each year’s class submits nominations and selects an individual who makes a true impact in the community.

Past recipients of the award are: Jimmy Gentry; Rogers Anderson, Leadership Franklin Alumnus (LFA); Julian Bibb III, LFA; Scott Roley, LFA; Janet Keck; Alma McLemore; Rick Warwick; Emily Magid; Paige Pitts; Dr. Joseph Willoughby; Mary Mills and Judy Hayes; and Brandy Blanton, LFA.

Leadership Franklin Awards College Scholarship to Local Student

Leadership Franklin has awarded a $1,500 college scholarship to Williamson County student Rithika Tummala.

This scholarship is awarded annually to high school seniors or current college students who display their commitment to Williamson County through service and demonstrated community leadership. Applicants are selected based on grade point average, quality of essay, and scholarship application points.

Rithika is a May 2020 graduate of Ravenwood High School where she was the president and previous vice president of the Medicine Club, co-president of Ravenwood’s chapter of Tennessee Junior Classical League, and a member of the Latin Club. Rithika is a frequent volunteer at the Vanderbilt Children's Hospital Summer Volunteer Program and the nonprofit organization Operation Broken Silence. She is also a National Merit Finalist and plans to attend Vanderbilt University in the fall.

Brandy Blanton Receives Caroline J. Cross Award

Leadership Franklin began its 24th program year on August 27, 2019, and announced Leadership Franklin alumnus Brandy Blanton as this year’s recipient of the Caroline J. Cross Award.

Blanton grew up in Franklin, Tennessee, and has been involved in the community as a community volunteer, elected official, entrepreneur and member of the media with her creation of Southern Exposure Magazine. In 2018, she compiled “Legacy – The Stories of Williamson County from 2002 – 2018.” Among her volunteer activities are board member for Leadership Franklin, Franklin Tomorrow, Franklin’s Charge, the Williamson County Library Foundation, Williamson County Homeless Alliance and the Franklin Public Arts Commission.

According to Leadership Franklin Board Chair Julian Bibb, “Brandy is deeply involved in the fabric of our non-profit life – building on community, making lives better. She has brought her skills to the Franklin Board of Mayor and Alderman (elected in 2011), and because of her dedication to her granddaughter Ellie G, she saw a means to help other families and joined High Hopes as its development director.”

The Caroline J. Cross Award was established to honor Caroline J. Cross, Founding Executive Director of Leadership Franklin, and create an ongoing award that identifies a leader in the community who exemplifies the values and lessons of Leadership Franklin. This award was created as the class project by Dan Klatt, Charles Pareigis, Chris Clausi and Brandy Blanton in 2007. Criteria for nomination include leadership that motivates and inspires other individuals along with traits of creativity, character, dedication, and community service. Each year’s class submits nominations and selects an individual who makes a true impact in the community.

Past recipients of the award are: (LFA: Leadership Franklin Alumnus): Jimmy Gentry; Rogers Anderson (LFA); Julian Bibb III (LFA); Scott Roley (LFA); Janet Keck; Alma McLemore (LFA); Rick Warwick; Emily Magid; Paige Pitts (LFA); Dr. Joseph Willoughby; Mary Mills and Judy Hayes.

Leadership Franklin Announces 2019-20 Class
 

Leadership Franklin is pleased to announce its twenty-fourth class:

Mike Alday, Alday Communications, Inc.

Sydney Ball, First Citizens National Bank

Kerri Bartlett, The Tennessean

Bari Beasley, The Heritage Foundation

Mary Lee Bennett, Community volunteer

Tara Blue, Community Child Care Center

Ken Chin, KAC Sports & Events

Brent Culberson, Lipscomb University

Michael Damico, Michael Damico Designs, Inc.

Stacey Downs, Cobra LCC.

Carrie Drury, A Vintage Affair

Chase Harper, TMA Group

Ondrea Johnson, Williamson County Animal Center

Lance Jordan, Waves, Inc.

Tommy Justus, City of Franklin Police

Allison Noah, Franklin Synergy Bank

Todd Palmer, Middle Tennessee Electric Membership Corporation

Jordon Shaw, City of Franklin, TN

Cindy Siler, Mercy Community Health Care

Luis Sura, Better Options TN

Williamson Source: Tinkerbell Pavillion Ribbon Cutting

From: Williamson SOURCE

(Wednesday, April 17, 2019) 

By Donna Vissman

The City of Franklin Parks, Friends of Franklin Parks and the Franklin Leadership Class of 2018 held a ribbon cutting of the upgraded Tinkerbell Pavilion in Pinkerton Park located at 109 3rd Avenue South, Franklin. [More at Williamson Source]

Williamson Herald: Leadership Franklin Presents Special Pavers at Harlinsdale

From: Williamson Herald

(Wednesday, April 17, 2019) 

By Derby Jones

The setting was perfect at The Park at Harlinsdale Farm last week where 12 leaders in the community were honored with a special presentation from Leadership Franklin. The presentation was held at the park near the equestrian arena, where inscribed pavers will now line the entrance, bearing the names of all previous Caroline Cross award winners. [More at Williamson Herald]

Leadership Franklin Successfully Kicks Off Program

(Slideshow: Click far right to view next photo.)

Opening Day and Retreat

We welcomed the Leadership Franklin Class of 2019 on August 29 at Eastern Flank Park. Day Chairs Kristine Tallent and Torrey Barnhill led the group in discussions about the upcoming program year, what to expect, class projects, and the impact of LF in the community. That evening over 80 alumni, class members and guests welcomed the new class at a reception and dinner at the Vanderbilt Legends Club.

Early the next morning, the group met at Deer Run Camp in Thompson’s Station for great fellowship and team building. Assistant Commissioner, Trish Holliday, facilitated the morning session and closed with a memorable example of leadership. Special thanks to Pinnacle Financial Partners and LFA Vickie Manning for their continued support of our opening retreat. 

(Slideshow: Click far right to view next photo.)

History Day

History was made at this year’s History Day Program. Rick Warwick began the day with an overview of the history of Franklin. During the day, we experienced Eastern Flank Battlefield, the Carter House, time under the tree with Jimmy Gentry, McLemore House, and downtown Franklin. At the close of the day, the class participated in a community meal on Natchez Street. Day Chairs Kevin Riggs and Cyril Stewart  the discussion of Franklin’s history to the present. 

JUDY HAYES RECEIVES CAROLINE J. CROSS AWARD
 

Judy Hayes is the 2018 recipient of the Caroline J. Cross Award for Leadership Franklin. The award was presented during the organization’s August 29 opening celebration for the upcoming class year. 

Hayes, a Franklin High School alumna, graduated from Lipscomb University with a degree in education and taught an extended time at Bethesda Elementary and Grassland Elementary. A few years later, Hayes and her husband Jim were co-owners in the former WIZO radio station that later became WAKM. Hayes assisted in selling advertisements, and it was then she cultivated a passion for her community, Williamson County.

She is no stranger to community service in Williamson County. Hayes’ 28-year service as commissioner is highlighted with numerous influences on county life, such as the Broad Base Tax Relief for the Elderly program and Agricultural Exposition Park. She was also a member of the Special Courthouse Committee that oversaw construction of a new judicial center on 4th Avenue while preserving the historic building just a few blocks away. She retired from the commission in 2014.

Hayes’ influence goes well beyond local government with leading roles in consolidation of Williamson County’s local chambers of commerce – today’s Williamson, Inc. She is also a founding member of the renowned Williamson County Fair, creating the Historic Village exhibit that showcases local farming and rural communities. Hayes holds the honor as Williamson County Convention and Visitors Bureau’s first chairman of the board.

An advocate of recycling, Hayes continues today to serve on the county’s Municipal Solid Waste Board and volunteer on Household Hazardous Waste Collection Day. She is a member of the Heritage Foundation and Williamson County Historical Association.

The Caroline J. Cross Award was established to honor Mrs. Cross (Founding Executive Director) and create an ongoing award that identifies a leader in our community who exemplifies the values and lessons of Leadership Franklin. Criteria for nomination

include leadership that motivates and inspires other individuals along with traits of creativity, character, dedication, and community service. Each year’s class submits nominations and selects an individual who makes a true impact in the community.

Past recipients of the award are: (LFA: Leadership Franklin Alumnus): Jimmy Gentry; Rogers Anderson (LFA); Julian Bibb III (LFA); Scott Roley (LFA); Janet Keck; Alma McLemore (LFA); Rick Warwick; Emily Magid; Paige Pitts (LFA); Dr. Joseph Willoughby; Mary Mills

LEADERSHIP FRANKLIN ANNOUNCES 2018-19 CLASS
 

Leadership Franklin is pleased to announce its twenty-third class:

Tony McAlister, QuikQ

Cole Hodges, Franklin Synergy Bank

Lee Hunter, Capstar Bank

Steve Bacon, Harpeth Associates

Jimmy Philips, BMC Metal Works

Jason Kaplan, Franklin Synergy Bank

Tina Lilly, First Tennessee Bank

B. Walker Entwistle, Stites & Harbison, PLLC

Eric McElroy, WSP USA

Shedrick Wright, Caterpillar Financial Services Corporation

Kurt Winstead, Rudy Winstead Turner, PLLC/Brigadier General Tennessee National Guard

Lacie Simonton, The Parkes Companies, Inc.

Lynn Maddox, Vanderbilt University

Michelle Hatcher, City of Franklin Water Department

Leslie Mitchell, Williamson County Government

Chad Schmidt, Sheridan Public Relations

Scott Legieza, City of Franklin Police Department

Megan Weisinger, Williamson County Convention & Visitors Bureau

Christopher Whitney, One Generation Away

Jenny Clarke, Mallory Valley Utility District

2017 | 2018 GROUP PRESENTATIONS NOW ONLINE

Leadership Franklin's class of 2018 showcase their project work during this year's graduation ceremony. 

PRISCILLA KIRKPATRICK AWARDED LEADERSHIP FRANKLIN  SCHOLARSHIP
 

Leadership Franklin has awarded its $1,500 scholarship to recent Franklin High School graduate Priscilla Kirkpatrick. She plans to attend Samford University this upcoming fall.

Kirkpatrick is an active Franklin High School honor student. She is involved in theatre and is a member of the tennis and swimming teams. She has volunteered extensively outside of school at the Veterans Hospital, Williamson County Animal Control, and Grace Community Church.

Kirkpatrick has attended Girls State and is a past Governor of Volunteer Girls State. She is also a recent participant of the Young Women’s Institute at Indiana University’s Kelley School of Business. 

GRADUATES OF 2018 CLASS ANNOUNCED
 

Leadership Franklin held graduation ceremonies for its twenty-second class at Franklin City Hall on Wednesday, May 9. Graduates are executives and senior community leaders selected to represent a cross-section of Franklin and Williamson County.

2017-2018 Leadership Franklin Class:

Mike Alexander, Signs First – Franklin

Torrey Barnhill, Friends of Franklin Parks

Allena Bell, Community Volunteer, Franklin Special School District Board Member

Valencia Breckenridge, GraceWorks Ministries

Joni Cole, Gray’s on Main

Amy Dreiling, Attorney at Law Magazine

Nena Graham, Williamson County Government

Chris Henson, Columbia State Community College

Mark Hilty, City of Franklin

Ricki Keckley, GoodWorks Unlimited, LLC

Brian Stover, Town of Thompson’s Station

Zannie Martin, Williamson County Juvenile Court

Elizabeth McLaurin, The Land Trust for Tennessee

Sarah Meyerrose, Franklin Financial Network, Franklin Synergy Bank

Kevin Riggs, Franklin Community Church

Cyril Stewart, Cyril Stewart, LLC

Kristine Tallent, City of Franklin

JP Taylor, Franklin Police Department

John Wingo, Stites & Harbison

George Zubulake, Blue Dog Merch

RALPH DRURY NAMED 2018 LEADERSHIP FRANKLIN DIRECTORS AWARD RECIPIENT
 

The Kentucky native and insurance professional has been an active Franklin citizen since arriving in 1978. He is the founding member of Mercy Children’s Clinic, Franklin City Club, and The Hundred Club of Franklin. Drury is a member of the Williamson, Inc., and past board member of numerous organizations such as the Downtown Franklin Association, Williamson Medical Foundation, and Heritage Foundation.

In 2001, Drury founded A Vintage Affair (AVA), a nonprofit organization that leverages boutique wine and spirits to raise funds for local charities in Williamson County. Over $1.5 million has been given to organizations benefiting causes relative to local women and children. AVA has contributed $600,000.00 to equip the Neonatal Intensive Care Unit at Williamson Medical Center and the new adjoining Monroe Carell, Jr. Children’s Hospital Vanderbilt since 2005.

LISA CLAYTON JOINS LEADERSHIP FRANKLIN  BOARD OF DIRECTORS

Lisa Clayton, City of Franklin Parks Director, has joined the Board of Directors for Leadership Franklin. Clayton graduated from Leadership Franklin in 2014.

Clayton was named Franklin’s Parks Department Director in 2002 and is responsible for the City’s award-winning leadership, administration, and management. She is a recipient of Tennessee Recreation and Parks Association’s highest award, the Fellow Award, that recognizes members for their outstanding contributions to the recreation field throughout their career.

LEADERSHIP FRANKLIN BUILDS A COMMUNITY OF SERVANT LEADERS

Franklin Home Page

(Tuesday, April 17, 2018) 

By DEB ENRIGHT

“Serving the community in which you live has been foundational to me since childhood. It is essential to the health of any community that those within it take responsibility to make it better. Service comes in many forms because the needs of a community are vast and different. Yet it is because of the many diverse needs within our community that each of us can find our own way to serve. Franklin is blessed to have a large number of servant leaders and volunteers who collaborate in many ways to make our community a better place. For over 20 years, Leadership Franklin has been a driving force to bring those leaders together for the benefit of all.” — Founding Leadership Franklin Board member Julian Bibb

The impact of the Leadership Franklin program is storied and far reaching.

Jewels of the Franklin landscape including the brand-new Pocket Park, Bicentennial Park, the McLemore House Historic Audio Tour, and the Driving Tour from the Carter House to the Carnton Plantation. all are program projects of Leadership Franklin classes. An award-winning children’s book, Where Are Bucky and Bonnie? was published and Mimi’s Room – a space of comfort for little ones – at the Williamson County Juvenile Court – was renovated showing the bandwidth of the program’s impact.

Graduates of the Leadership Franklin program humbly continue to serve the community. They are a network of servant leaders lending their expertise and sweat equity throughout Franklin and Williamson County including the areas of historic preservation, elected government positions, non-profit boards, in churches, in schools, and answering emerging quality of life issues such as affordable housing.

And while the impact of the program is deep and wide in its reach, the more than 400 graduates of the program relate to each other as though family, seeking each other out for advice, help, or simply to check in with each other. This group is a force of folks leaning in on their talents to keep Franklin great.

A friendly family of over 400 members. That’s a big family tree with an exponential amount of connections brought together by a calling to serve.

The community of Franklin is sought after, internationally, as a place to live and to work. Growth in residents and businesses relocating to Franklin is exponential. With each new family that arrives, each corporation that changes their address to a Franklin zip code, or everny new small business putting out its shingle there, is a sense of belonging as they stroll past Franklin Theatre on their way to Puckett’s for a meal or descend on Cool Springs to shop.

But how does someone begin to bring their talents and expertise to help meet the needs of the community? How can someone get involved in service to have an impact on the Franklin community if you are in a career or life stage transition? What does it take? Who do I need to know? When can I begin to help my neighbor?

As a Leadership Franklin alum myself (Class of ’13-14), I knew reaching out to the program’s Executive Director Paula Harris ’10-11 and Associate Executive Director Debbie Henry, ’10-11 would help answer these questions. We invited members of this Leadership Franklin “family” to talk about their experiences in the program and how to get engaged in opportunities of community impact.

Leadership Franklin Executive Director Paula Harris ’10-11 and Associate Executive Director Debbie Henry ’10-11.

Meeting at City Hall in downtown Franklin, I had the pleasure of talking with City Administrator Eric Stuckey ,’09-10, Ernie Reynolds, ’16-17, CEO of Outdoor Classic Structures and a native of this area, Robert Blair, ‘’99-00, born and raised in Franklin consummate community leader whose service includes over 15 years on the Franklin Special School District School Board, Mark Hilty, ’17-18, Franklin assistant city administrator, and Paula Harris, ’10-11, current Leadership Franklin Executive Director whose Franklin roots reach back to the Pioneer days.

The room was buzzing as soon as we assembled. I realized that I would not have met these folks were it not for the program. We began by talking about how their favorite program day influenced their choices of service.

I am ahead of myself just a bit. Some important background information is necessary to fully understand the value of this program and the ease with which anyone can begin to serve in this community.

For more than 20 years, Leadership Franklin has provided for a cohort of 20 members an almost year-long program aimed to provide class members with knowledge, network connections, and resources to bring forth new ideas to serve the citizens of Franklin and Williamson County. Created by a team of Franklin community leaders including long-time resident and first program Executive Director Caroline Cross, the program seeks to grow a citizenry of service-oriented people.

The monthly day-long session topics are: history, government, business, law enforcement, media, education, quality of life and land resources. Land resources is a brand-new program day this year. This exposure to Franklin and the county help groups within the class create a project that supports or improves some aspect of the community.

“It’s a sun up to sun down proposition,” says Debbie Henry. “And worth every minute of it. Most participants are amazed at the ground we cover, literally, in a day and how much they learn. I often hear them say, ‘I had no idea.’ or “Who knew?’ at the end of a program day.”

The previous class creates the current classes program days. According to Paula Harris, this attribute of the program, “… keeps Leadership Franklin nimble in its response to current concerns as well as our beloved traditions and history. The Land Resources Day stemmed from a growing concern of the consequences of unchecked growth to the quality of life here in Franklin. If we can’t protect what we have, we will lose it. We can’t recreate the green spaces and historical integrity of this area.”

I asked those assembled what was their favorite day. The top-rated program days were Quality of Life, History, Education, and Government. Paula Harris sees Government Day as essential: “you’d be surprised at how many people in our community have not attended a Commission meeting or any type of government meeting. And don’t get me started on the lack of voter participation. Increasing that number is passion of mine.”

Robert Blair cited Education Day as one of the most meaningful in part because he was a teacher, but that day he learned about all the educational opportunities offered in the area. And although he graduated years ago from the program, he joins the current class for program days such as Education to continue to stay current in his role on the FSSD School Board and as an active citizen.

Mark Hilty and Ernie Reynolds were most touched in the areas of serving Franklin’s children.

For the first time during a program day, Mark, a father of five, watched a Juvenile Court Session. “It blew me away what these kids go through on their own. I sat there knowing I had to help in some way. And I will.”

Ernie, who once served on the Board of CASA (Court Appointed Special Advocates) resigned from it to become an actual advocate for one child, told me, “Seeing the experiences of these children caused me to want a deeper connection to create a better future for at least one child. If walking alongside them through the court system because their parents couldn’t is helpful, then it is the least I can do.”

Eric Stuckey participated in a variety of other leadership programs in other states some larger than Leadership Franklin: “… [the program] showed me a depth in Franklin that I was not aware of before I moved here. It fascinates me that a city of 70-80,000 people has the reach Franklin has. It rivals larger cities in the quality and range of its citizens’ impact.”

Moving to the topic of connecting to the community to serve, everyone at the table suggested applying to Leadership Franklin by May 11, 2018 for next year’s class: www.leadershipfranklin.com/application/.

“I have lifelong friends because of Leadership Franklin’, Debbie Henry says. ‘If you live in Franklin or do business in this community, we would love to hear from you. And if you are a high school student who wants to learn about leadership in your community, we have the Youth Leadership Franklin program too: www.youthleadershipfranklin.org/.

Paula Harris adds, “The Leadership Franklin program helps people get involved if they are not already at the level of service they might want to be. This program embraces the good of what people bring to the community from their past communities to enrich Franklin.”

And if time doesn’t permit going through the Leadership Franklin program, what can someone do to get involved in the community?

“Oh goodness, says Robert Blair, just call me. I would be very happy to talk to you and introduce you to anyone in town that could be of help to you. I’ve done that for years. That’s what we all are supposed to do, welcome anyone in who says, “how can I help?”. All gathered suggested that before you commit to an organization spend some time learning about all the needs of the community and the organizations already providing services in those areas.

The Williamson Herald and Franklin Home Page were held up as great resources as well as the programming of Franklin Tomorrow with its Breakfast with the Mayors and Frank Talks events for folks looking for connections to serve. Joining the Rotary was also seen as an option for people transitioning to retirement or a career change.

As we close, Paula Harris sums it up best, “Serving in Franklin is so much more than just writing a check. You can see the impact you are having as you work along those you are serving. There are hundreds of opportunities to serve at very different levels of intensity. And the Franklin Leadership alums would be happy to help you find your way to a fulfilling place of service. Think of us as family. Just ask us for help.”

To help you find your way to serving:

Leadership Franklin is accepting applications for the Class of 2018-2019 through May 11.
http://www.leadershipfranklin.com/application/
 

Franklin Tomorrow https://franklintomorrow.org/

Deb Enright, Ed.D., Leadership Franklin class of 2013-14, is committed to helping folks find ways to bring their talents to nonprofit organizations just waiting to meet them.
debmenright@gmail.com

LEADERSHIP FRANKLIN NOW ACCEPTS APPLICATIONS FOR 2018-2019 CLASS

Leadership Franklin has announced that applications are now being accepted for its twenty-third class, 2018-2019.

Applications may be downloaded here. Completed applications are due on or before May 11, 2018. Questions regarding the application process may be directed to Paula Harris, Executive Director, at 615.491.6536 (paula.harris@bargedesign.com) or Debbie Henry, Associate Director, at 615.628.0264 (dhenry@tmagroup.org).

Leadership Franklin is a non-profit community leadership organization dedicated to educating, informing and empowering leaders to improve the quality of life in Franklin and Williamson County.  Participants meet once per month for nine months, for a series of classes aimed at presenting and analyzing a particularly important segment of the community.  Classes focus on the areas of history, government, business, law enforcement, media, education and quality of life. The class begins with an opening day and retreat in August. 

Each year’s class is divided into four groups who develop a class project to be presented on graduation day.  Recent class projects include the Lake Dock at Harlinsdale Farm, a pocket park on Old Liberty Pike, a partnership between the Williamson County Sheriff’s Drug Task Force to present Get RAD (aka Get Real Against Drugs) informational sessions, and a video presentation of local visionaries chronicling the business impact of well-known local leaders in Franklin.

LEADERSHIP FRANKLIN SCHOLARSHIP APPLICATIONS NOW AVAILABLE

High school seniors and current college students who live in Williamson County are encouraged to apply for the scholarship to be awarded by Leadership Franklin. The non-profit organization will award one $1,500 scholarship to a student who meets the scholarship criteria.

Applicants must have a minimum 3.25 cumulative grade point average to be considered. A copy of the student’s transcript and a 500-word essay are part of the application requirement.

Scholarships are awarded based on a scoring process of scholarship application points: a combination of grade point average, school extra-curricular activities including sports and community outreach, and strength of writing/quality of essay. All students are encouraged to apply.

Applications are due March 2, 2018. Applications may be obtained here.

MARY MILLS RECEIVES CAROLINE J. CROSS AWARD

Mary Mills has been named the recipient of this year’s Caroline J. Cross Award for Leadership Franklin.

Mills, a lifelong Franklin resident, graduated from Franklin High School, and then headed for Tennessee State University where she earned an Administrative degree. She spent 39 years as a secretary at Johnson Elementary and as Principal at Franklin Middle School.

Mills once again served her community as Williamson County Commissioner for 17 years in the 11th district, after retiring from the school system. She is an active member of the African American Heritage Society and has been affiliated with the Williamson County Chamber of Commerce, Williamson Medical Center, Community Childcare, and the Williamson County Health Council.

The Caroline J. Cross Award was established to honor Mrs. Cross (Founding Executive Director) and create an ongoing award that identifies a leader in our community who exemplifies the values and lessons of Leadership Franklin. Criteria for nomination include leadership that motivates and inspires other individuals along with traits of creativity, character, dedication, and community service. Each year’s class submits nominations and selects an individual who makes a true impact in the community.

Past recipients of the award are: (LFA: Leadership Franklin Alumnus) Jimmy Gentry, Rogers Anderson, Julian Bibb III (LFA), Scott Roley (LFA), Janet Keck, Alma McLemore (LFA), Rick Warwick, Emily Magid, Paige Pitts (LFA), Dr. Joseph Willoughby

2016 | 2017 GROUP PRESENTATIONS NOW ONLINE

Leadership Franklin's class of 2017 showcase their project work during this year's graduation ceremony. 

ASHLEY HAYLETT AWARDED LEADERSHIP FRANKLIN SCHOLARSHIP

Leadership Franklin has awarded its $1,500 scholarship to recent Independence High School 2017 graduate Ashley Haylett. Haylett plans to attend the University of Tennessee, Knoxville this coming fall and will study courses to pursue a career as an animal nutritionist.

Haylett is an active student at Independence with leadership roles in clubs like Young Rotarian Interact Club and Girls Cotillion, as Student Ambassador and a student council representative. She volunteers outside of school extensively with both Williamson County and Tennessee 4-H programs, leading significant projects that mentor and develop teams. Haylett currently serves as the Tennessee Central Region All-Star Chief, as well as the Tennessee 4-H State Council Senior Representative.

The Junior Girl Scout Troop Leader has also volunteered with South Williamson Association and Special Olympic youth basketball leagues, GraceWorks Ministries, Inc., and Tennessee Baptist Children’s Home.

Scholarship applicants must have a minimum 3.0 cumulative grade point average to be considered. A copy of the student’s transcript and a 500-word essay are part of the application requirement. The contribution is awarded based on a combination of scholarship application points, community involvement, and quality of essay.

UNITED WAY AWARDS $2 MILLION IN GRANTS TO PARTNER AGENCIES

Brentwood Home Page

(Tuesday, June 27, 2017) 

United Way of Williamson County’s board of directors recently announced the recipients of more than $2 million in 2017-2018 program grants from the organization’s Community Care Fund.

The grants ranging from $347,000 to STARS, which serves students in Middle Tennessee with programs addressing violence, substance abuse and other issues; to $5,000 for Gentry’s Education Center at the Storefront, which provides tutoring and enrichment and other education programs.

The grants are the culmination of a months-long allocations process with more than 60 community volunteers serving on Citizens Review Panels. The goal of this process, which includes in-depth vetting of each applicant program’s administration, finances and effectiveness, is to ensure donor resources create the strongest impact on the individuals who comprise Williamson County and on the community as a whole.

“Our Citizens Review Panel volunteers live and/or work in this community, so they see its most pressing needs,” said United Way of Williamson County President and CEO Pam Bryant, in a press release announcing the grants. “These insights are crucial to ensuring Community Care Fund program investments create lasting solutions for our community’s Health, Education and Financial Stability needs.”

This year, volunteers allocated the most funding for Health-related programs at $1,381,911, or 69 percent of the total funds. This investment supports the community’s most vulnerable, providing access to health care, therapies, in-home assistance and supports needed to improve wellbeing and safety.

Education programs received $389,536 – 19 percent of the total fund – to remove barriers to learning and prepare students for successful, independent and productive futures.

Income-related programs help community members build more stable lives through job skills training and additional resources to achieve and maintain self-sufficiency. This year, volunteers allocated $242,000, or 12 percent of the total fund, to reduce the burdens of financial need.

With each of these investments, United Way of Williamson County’s Community Care Fund is investing in long-term, sustainable change for the community’s collective well-being. To view the details of this year’s community investments, visit uwwc.org/communityinvestments/.

ANNOUNCING THE 22ND CLASS OF LEADERSHIP FRANKLIN

Leadership Franklin is pleased to announce its class of 2017-18. 

Mike Alexander, Signs First – Franklin
Torrey Barnhill, Friends of Franklin Parks
Allena Bell, The Refuge Center for Counseling
Valencia Breckenridge, GraceWorks Ministries
Joni Cole, Gray’s on Main
Amy Dreiling, Attorney Law Magazine
Nena Graham, Williamson County Government
Chris Henson, Columbia State Community College
Mark Hilty, City of Franklin
Ricki Keckley, GoodWorks Unlimited, LLC
Zannie Martin, Williamson County Juvenile Court
Elizabeth McLaurin, The Land Trust for Tennessee
Sarah Meyerrose, Franklin Financial Network/FranklinSynergy Bank
Kevin Riggs, Franklin Community Church
Cyril Stewart, Cyril Stewart, LLC
Kristine Tallent, City of Franklin
JP Taylor, Franklin Police Department
John Wingo, Stites & Harbison
George Zubulake, Promotions, by George

IN THE NEWS: MAY 3, 2017

Williamson Herald

"Leadership Franklin 2017 group creates neighborhood park on Old Liberty Pike" | (Wednesday, May 3, 2017) | By Cassie Jones

A ribbon-cutting was held this week for a new neighborhood park at 204 Old Liberty Pike in Franklin. Leadership Franklin Class of 2017 members, Williamson Inc., the city of Franklin Parks Department, Aldermen Margaret Martin, 4th Ward, and Alderman at Large Brandy Blanton and community leaders attended the event.

Members of Leadership Franklin’s 2017 class worked with the city of Franklin to create the park in hopes to improve livability in the neighborhood by giving residents a place to sit, talk and enjoy the green space around them.   Franklin Synergy Bank sponsored benches for the park.

After the land was flooded in 2010, it was turned over to the city of Franklin with the thought that the land lying in the floodplain could never be built on.

“We wanted to partner with city parks to create a neighboring park for this area,” said Travis Dumke, one of the project members. “With it being in a floodplain, we had to figure out how to make this work.

“Our group worked with [Parks Director] Lisa Clayton and Brian Walker at the city of Franklin Parks Department to identify the need and to design the park itself.”

The city was looking to identify a usage of the land, and members of Leadership Franklin worked with city staff to design a peaceful space with benches and landscaping for the families nearby to walk to and enjoy.

Group members that participated in this project included Denise Andre, Williamson County General Sessions Court Judge; Travis Dumke, Franklin Synergy Bank; Adam Hicks, Skanska, USA; Tim Stillings, NCR Inc.;and Franklin Special School District school board member Amy Diaz-Barriga, city of Franklin.

“We took the opportunity to utilize this property to bring something good to the community that they could use and enjoy,” said Hicks.

Phase two of the project is set to include picnic tables and additional landscaping and trees that will border the property line.

“Our group could not have completed the project without the help of Blake Shelton Lawncare & Landscaping, who was contracted to complete the park,” Dumke said.

LEADERSHIP FRANKLIN ANNOUNCES 2016 SCHOLARSHIP RECIPIENTS

Leadership Franklin recently announced its 2016 scholarship recipients, Madison Ovies and Valerie Romanko, during the organization’s Twentieth Anniversary Celebration on April 7.

Madison Ovies is a May 2013 Franklin High School graduate and a current student at West Virginia Wesleyan College (WVWC) in Buckhannon, West Virginia. Madison, a Girl Scout, co-founded her alma mater’s Buddies Club that mentors students with special needs. She has also volunteered with Habitat for Humanity and Franklin Girls Cotillion. Madison is now a member of the Alpha Delta Pi Sorority where she has served in various positions and co-founded the college’s WVWC Buddies program that pairs students with local elementary students.

Valerie Romanko will graduate from Fred J. Page High School in May 2016. Valerie is actively involved in the school’s Health Occupations Students of America (HOSA) chapter, YMCA Model United Nations, and United Way. She is a graduate of Youth Leadership Franklin and has participated in such programs as the Governor’s School for the Scientific Exploration of Tennessee Heritage and Vanderbilt University’s Summer Academy. Valerie plans to attend East Tennessee State University in Johnson City, Tennessee, after graduation. 

High school seniors and current college students who live in Williamson County were encouraged to apply for the scholarship awarded by Leadership Franklin. Scholarships are awarded annually based on a combination of scholarship application points, community involvement, and quality of essay.

Leadership Franklin is a non-profit organization to develop leadership and community engagement and further a vision for Franklin and Williamson County.

DR. JOSEPH WILLOUGHBY RECEIVES THE COVETED CAROLINE J. CROSS AWARD

Leadership Franklin began its twenty-first year on August 29, 2016 and announced Dr. Joseph Willoughby as this year’s recipient of the Caroline J. Cross Award.

Dr. Willoughby moved to Franklin in 1960 after service in the United States Navy. Over the last 55 years, while practicing medicine in Franklin, Willoughby has supported various organizations such as The Heritage Foundation, Carnton Plantation, and the Franklin Noon Rotary Club.

His strong belief in education led him to co-found Harpeth Academy (now Battle Ground Academy Lower Campus) and serve as trustee, board chairman, and benefactor. Willoughby is credited among other physicians who assisted in making Claiborne Hughes Nursing Home and Harpeth Terrace Nursing Home, now Grace Healthcare, a reality.

In 2016, Williamson County Mayor Rogers Anderson proclaimed March 19 on Dr. Joseph “Joe” Willoughby Day.

The Caroline J. Cross Award was established to honor Mrs. Cross (Founding Executive Director) and create an ongoing award that identifies a leader in our community who exemplifies the values and lessons of Leadership Franklin. Criteria for nomination include leadership that motivates and inspires other individuals along with traits of creativity, character, dedication, and community service. Each year’s class submits nominations and selects an individual who makes a true impact in the community.

Past recipients of the award are:

• Jimmy Gentry

• County Mayor Rogers Anderson (Leadership Franklin Alumnus)

• Julian Bibb III (LFA)

• Scott Roley (LFA)

• Janet Keck

• Alma McLemore (LFA)

• Rick Warwick

• Emily Magid

• Paige Pitts (LFA)

YOUTH LEADERSHIP FRANKLIN ANNOUNCES FIRST ANNUAL SCHOLARSHIP RECIPIENT

Youth Leadership Franklin is pleased to announce the first annual scholarship recipient, Julia Vesly. Julia will enter Tennessee Tech University in the fall of 2016, majoring in Human Ecology — Food, Nutrition and Dietetics.

Board President Diane Giddens stated, “It is exciting to be able to award our first scholarship to Julia for one thousand dollars ($1,000). In applying to the 2014-15 class, she noted her interest to learn about what goes on behind the scenes of a flourishing community. In her application essay, she wrote about her class visit to Williamson Medical, which sparked her interest to volunteer and explore career options. Now serving her community as a volunteer in the Nutrition Department, Julia has chosen to pursue a career as a dietician.”

“In reviewing the scholarship applications, the Board recognized Julia’s Youth Leadership Franklin experience as one which came full circle with the leadership program, established to help future leaders cultivate their leadership skills.”

Youth Leadership Franklin is a non-profit leadership organization founded in 1998 as a class project from the adult Leadership Franklin program and was funded in 2015-16 through sponsorships provided by Williamson Medical Center, Stites & Harbison, Franklin Synergy Bank, First Tennessee Foundation and MTEMC Customers Care Program.

LEADERSHIP FRANKLIN ANNOUNCES 2016-2017 CLASS

Leadership Franklin is pleased to announce its twenty-first class. Founded in 1996 to develop leaders in Franklin and Williamson County, Leadership Franklin endeavors to provide class members with knowledge, network connections, and resources to bring new ideas to the table for the community.

Each class day is focused on presenting and analyzing a particularly important segment of the city, including area history, government, business, law enforcement, media, education, and quality of life. Class members are grouped, and each group produces a leadership project for the year that is focused on improving some aspect of the community.

The following are the members of the next Leadership Franklin class:

Judge Denise Andre, Williamson County General Sessions Court
Patty Bearden, WAKM, Harpeth True Value
Tony Cassiol, CapStar Bank
Laura Chavarria, Williamson County Animal Center
Amy Diaz-Barriga, City of Franklin
Bryan Doleshel, Williamson, Inc.
Travis Dumke, Franklin Synergy Bank
Lenda Elmlinger, Pinnacle Financial Partners
Drew Freeman, YMCA of Middle Tennessee – Franklin Branch
Kim Hamner, SunTrust Bank|
Adam Hicks, Skanska USA Inc.
Reverend Kenneth Hill, Historic Shorter Chapel African Methodist Episcopal Church
Glenn Johnson, City of Franklin Fire Department
Cassie Jones, Williamson Herald and Southern Exposure Magazine
Wynn Lembright, New Hope Academy
Matt Magallanes, Southern Land Company
Julie Miller, Williamson Medical Center
Ernie Reynolds, Outdoor Classic Structures, LLC
Tim Stillings, NCR, Inc.
Joann Willhite, City of Franklin Police Department