Women We Admire is pleased to announce The Top 50 Women Leaders of Tennessee for 2023. When people envision Tennessee, they typically associate it with its delectable fried cuisine, renowned whiskey, and a rich musical heritage that birthed various genres such as country, blues, and rock. The state is also the proud host of the Great Smoky Mountains National Park, the most frequented national park in the U.S., welcoming over 12 million visitors annually. However, Tennessee offers much more than these well-known aspects, including a diverse and thriving economy. Notably, the area houses several major corporations, such as FedEx, the world's largest courier company, and AutoZone, the largest retailer of automotive parts in the country.
Fortunately, there has been a significant evolution within Tennessee's wide range of industries, marked by an increasing focus on women assuming leadership roles. This positive development signifies not only progress in the quest for gender equality but also underscores the invaluable contributions women have made across the various sectors that drive economic health for the Volunteer State — and beyond. In fact, some of the recipients of this year's accolades are associated with well-known brands in the country, including FedEx, AT&T, Dollar General, and others.
This year's honorees include Stacy Mill, the VP of IT and CISO at Nashville Electric Service. Globally recognized for her leadership and and technical vision, Mill is accountable for all IT strategy and execution across corporate systems including cybersecurity for the 11th largest public utility in the U.S. Awardee Nicole Bulgarino is an EVP for Ameresco, supporting the company’s mission to mitigate climate change and energize a more sustainable world. An industry veteran with 25 years of experience, Bulgarino's numerous accomplishments include overseeing the development and implementation of over $3 billion of sustainable solutions in federal and government energy projects.
Lastly, we have the CHRO for Ardent Health Services, Carolyn Schneider, who has worked in the private equity-backed and investor-owned health system sectors throughout her entire career. This includes spending a decade at Capella Healthcare, which consistently received Best Place to Work designations from Modern Healthcare, Becker's Review, The Oklahoman, and The Tennessean, all while under Schneider's leadership.
Please join us in celebrating the accomplishments of The Top 50 Women Leaders of Tennessee for 2023.
1. Jill Brannon
EVP & Chief Sales Officer, FedEx
Jill Brannon is EVP & Chief Sales Officer of FedEx Corp. She leads a global organization of over 15,000 team members responsible for more than $90 billion in worldwide revenue across multiple FedEx operating companies. Her Global Sales and Solutions organization includes large enterprise portfolio sales, sector, geographic, and small customer selling. She oversees strategic customer and supply chain-related activities and leads sales operations, analysis, education, and customer solutions teams.
Brannon serves on the Strategic Management Committee of FedEx Corp., a select group of the company’s top leadership which sets the strategic direction for the FedEx enterprise. Brannon’s career at FedEx spans over three decades. Prior to her current role, she served as senior vice president of Sales in Europe, the Middle East, the Indian Subcontinent, and Africa. In this role, she led a team of over 6,000 strong providing strategic direction for sales performance and results. Before relocating to Europe, Brannon served as SVP of international sales. Her previous experience also includes operations, marketing, and strategic planning and analysis.
Brannon served on the International Leadership Council, was integral in the planning and execution of the TNT acquisition, and was directly responsible for the sales integration of TNT globally. She has also served on the boards of the US-ASEAN Business Council and the International Children’s Heart Foundation.
In 2016, Brannon was recognized by Diversity Journal Women Worth Watching and was awarded Hot Topics Top 100 Sales Leaders in their 2015 Future of Sales edition. She is a three-time winner of the FedEx Five Star Award, the company’s highest team member honor. She holds degrees in international business and French from Lenoir-Rhyne University.
2. Joelle Phillips
President, AT&T Tennessee
Joelle Phillips has served as President of AT&T Tennessee since 2013. She brings more than a decade of experience in the telecommunications industry and two decades of experience in the legal profession to her current position. In her role, Phillips works closely with community and business leaders, elected officials, and others at AT&T to continue to bring advanced communications technologies, including mobile 4G LTE and other broadband services, to consumers and businesses. She is also responsible for managing AT&T’s extensive philanthropic and community engagement efforts in Tennessee, including the AT&T Aspire program which focuses on high school success and workforce readiness, and the AT&T It Can Wait campaign to end texting while driving.
Phillips is a 12-year veteran of AT&T and its predecessor companies. She began her career in the legal department and moved through positions of increasing responsibility at the state and regional levels. Prior to joining AT&T, Phillips practiced law with firms in Nashville and Atlanta and served as a judicial law clerk to US Court of Appeals Judge Rhesa Hawkins Barksdale. She is a summa cum laude graduate of Washington and Lee University School of Law and holds an undergraduate degree from Birmingham-Southern College in theatre.
3. Emily Taylor
EVP & Chief Merchandising Officer, Dollar General
Emily Taylor is Executive Vice President and Chief Merchandising Officer at Dollar General.
She leads the company’s merchandising, marketing, global sourcing, digital, merchandise operations, customer insights, channel innovation, and in-store experience efforts for Dollar General and its more than 18,000+ stores. Emily joined DG in 1998 and has held roles in numerous areas within the organization including pricing, merchandising, merchandise planning, financial planning & analysis, and investor relations.
In 2014, Emily was named SVP of non-consumable merchandising where she helped create and launch the company’s non-consumable initiative. In 2019, she led the development and launch of the company’s most recent concept store, pOpshelf, as SVP of channel innovation. Emily is an active member of Women in Retail Leadership, Shoptalk, Network of Pricing Champions, Professional Pricing Society, and the Retail Industry Professionals Group. She earned an undergraduate degree from the University of North Carolina Asheville and an MBA from Owen Graduate School of Management at Vanderbilt University.
4. Sara Correa
Chief Marketing Officer, Bridgestone Americas
Sara Correa is the Chief Marketing Officer for Bridgestone Americas. In this role, Correa leads the company’s Marketing Center of Excellence and all marketing activations for the company’s tire and solutions businesses in the US and Canada. She oversees all brand and digital marketing efforts for the Bridgestone and Firestone brands; the company’s sports and engagement platforms; corporate communications; research and insights; and the company’s training initiatives. An accomplished senior marketing executive with diverse, cross-industry experience, Correa has achieved nearly two decades of success identifying, developing, and commercializing B2B technology-based solutions in complex global markets.
Prior to joining Bridgestone, Correa was VP and segment CMO at TE Connectivity, a publicly traded company and global leader in connectors and sensors for the transportation, medical technology, energy, and data communications sectors. Before joining TE Connectivity, Correa functioned in marketing roles encompassing a broad scope of responsibilities, including domestic and global marketing, marketing strategy, organizational development, transformational leadership, and project management. She previously worked for Thomson Reuters, Robson Forensic, and the Federation of the American Societies for Experimental Biology. Correa is a graduate of The Elliott School of International Affairs at George Washington University.
5. Rosslyn Cooper
Senior Vice President, WSP
As Strategic Business Architect for WSP's Project Horizon Business Platform, Rosslyn Cooper is responsible for cross-functional processes across all modules and for interactions and integrations with other WSP initiatives. She plays a key role in leading the deployment of a fully integrated Oracle Cloud ERP platform and ensures that critical deliverables, process improvement, and value streams for the organization are developed and deployed. She is passionate about bringing efficiency and consistency to the forefront of the ERP journey for both projects and clients.
Rosslyn is helping to improve operational excellence through simplification and standardization of business processes. She has strong project management skills and extensive experience in the financial and commercial management of projects. She is solution-focused and experienced in Lean Six Sigma principles.
Rosslyn first joined WSP in Australia in 2008 and has enjoyed a varied and exciting career during this time, including a move to Nashville, TN in 2016. She was awarded WSP USA's Business Support Extra Mile Award in 2019.
6. Lisa Bellamy
Chief Recruitment Officer, Northwestern Mutual
Lisa Bellamy is the Chief Recruitment Officer of Northwestern Mutual. She helps talented professionals discover an extremely fulfilling and lucrative career they can adore at Northwestern Mutual, the nation’s premier financial planning firm. As the Talent Acquisition Leader, Lisa finds her fulfillment by showing the hardworking professionals in her community that work doesn’t have to be the traditional nine to five. Before joining Northwestern Mutual, Bellamy was a chief marketing officer at Insurance and Planning Solutions and before that a director of client services at The LeBlanc Group.
7. Carol Owen
Chief Counsel of Commercial Litigation, TeamHealth
Carol Owen is Chief Counsel for Commercial Litigation at TeamHealth, a leading clinician services organization. TeamHealth has more than 20,000 affiliated physicians and advanced practice clinicians through which it offers outsourced emergency medicine, hospital medicine, critical care, anesthesiology, and other specialties to more than 3,200 acute and post-acute facilities and physician groups nationwide.
Owen was previously a shareholder at Baker Donelson, where she concentrated her practice in complex litigation and risk management on behalf of clients in the healthcare, financial services, and automotive manufacturing industries. She has extensive experience successfully defending private and government clients against claims of securities fraud, breach of fiduciary duty, waste of corporate assets, and other matters. She has been qualified as a Certified Information Privacy Professional (CIPP/US) and was a law clerk to the Honorable Robert L. Echols, former Chief Judge of the US District Court for the Middle District of Tennessee.
8. Carolyn Schneider
Chief Human Resources Officer, Ardent Health Services
Carolyn Schneider has worked in the private equity-backed and investor-owned health system sectors throughout her entire career. Most recently, she served as Chief Human Resources Officer at Corizon Health in Brentwood, Tennessee. She also led human resources for 10 years at Capella Healthcare, integrating the conversion of legacy Capella and Regional Care facilities to RCCH Health. Under Schneider's leadership at Capella, the company received Best Place to Work designations from Modern Healthcare, Becker's Review, The Oklahoman, and The Tennessean over multiple years.
Carolyn majored in humanities at Southern Methodist University in Dallas, Texas, and received her MBA from Vanderbilt University's Owen School of Management in Nashville. She is a member of the Society for Human Resource Management, the American Society for Health Care Human Resources Administration, and the Middle Tennessee SHRM Executive Forum. Schneider has been recognized with the Nashville Business Journal Women of Influence Award in 2011 and serves on the board of Gilda's Club, the HR and Finance advisory committee to the board of Alive Hospice, and is an active member of Impact100.
9. Laura Drew
Chief Operating Officer, Piedmont Healthcare
Laura Drew is a dynamic leader with a dual role as the Co-Founder of Elements Massage Nashville Green Hills and the Chief Operating Officer in the healthcare industry. With a deep passion for wellness and a commitment to operational excellence, she combines her entrepreneurial spirit with extensive healthcare management expertise to create a seamless blend of healing environments and efficient healthcare operations. With a profound understanding of the transformative power of massage therapy and the complexities of healthcare administration, Drew embarked on a mission to bring together the best of both worlds. Drawing from her personal experience and appreciation for the healing arts, she co-founded Elements Massage Nashville Green Hills with the goal of providing a nurturing space for individuals to experience the benefits of massage therapy.
Drew holds an undergraduate degree in industrial management and an MBA, providing a solid foundation for her dual role. She is certified in healthcare management as a Fellow of the American College of Healthcare Executives and is Six Sigma Black Belt certified. She has also received training in massage therapy modalities to ensure excellence in both the massage studio and healthcare sectors. In her role as COO in the healthcare industry, Drew brings her extensive experience in strategic planning, operations management, and quality improvement. She works closely with the executive team to optimize operational efficiency, enhance patient care, and implement innovative solutions to meet the evolving needs of the healthcare organization. Drew is skilled at balancing regulatory compliance, financial stewardship, and patient satisfaction, all while fostering a culture of excellence and collaboration.
With an unwavering commitment to patient-centered care, Drew believes in the integration of wellness practices with traditional healthcare to provide holistic healing. She strives to create an environment where the mind, body, and spirit can find harmony, both within the massage studio and the broader healthcare system. She actively promotes collaboration to enhance patient outcomes and overall well-being. Drew is dedicated to giving back to the community and actively supports initiatives that promote wellness and access to healthcare. She serves on advisory boards, participates in Rotary, and collaborates with local organizations to create a positive impact on public health.
10. Staci Jackson
Managing Partner, LPL Financial
Staci Jackson is the Managing Partner of LPL Financial, a leader in the retail financial advice market and the nation's largest independent broker/dealer. She brings over 24 years of experience to Wealth Management. During that time, Staci has developed a multigenerational practice that includes working with extended family units and individuals. She believes leading clients in transition is one of the most valuable services a wealth advisor can provide. During transitions such as the loss of a spouse, divorce, retirement, and financial reset, clients are looking for leadership, empathy, guidance, and patience from someone they can trust. Staci’s mission is to provide essential coaching and guidance to her clients to accomplish the things in life that are truly important to them. She does this with the highest level of integrity, honesty, and above all else, great personal care for her clients’ personal needs, giving them the confidence to pursue their personal, professional, and financial goals.
Before joining LPL Financial, Jackson was a managing partner and wealth advisor at Paragon Wealth Solutions and before that a VP of investments at Raymond James. Earlier in her career she worked with Lambuth University as an alumni director. Jackson graduated from Lambuth University with an undergraduate degree.
11. Olivia Kew-Fickus
Chief Data Officer & Executive Director of Data & Strategic Analytics, Vanderbilt University
Olivia Kew-Fickus became the Chief Data Officer and Executive Director of the Office of Data and Strategic Analytics in the Office of the Chancellor in August 2021, after having served as assistant provost and executive director of planning and institutional effectiveness in the Office of the Provost for two years. She has also been Vanderbilt’s SACSCOC Institutional Liaison since September 2020, leading on accreditation. As Chief Data Officer, Kew-Fickus and her team work with leaders from across Vanderbilt to collect and use data more effectively and strategically. Kew-Fickus came to Vanderbilt in 2019, following seven years as the director of strategic planning and 16 years in total at the University of Birmingham in the UK.
Kew-Fickus began her career working in international development, serving as deputy project director for the USAID-funded US-Ukraine Community Partnerships Project in the late 1990s, after having lived in Ukraine for a year as a Rotary International Fellow (sponsored by Middle Tennessee’s Rotary Clubs). She then managed international training programs for California State Polytechnic University in Pomona, before moving to the UK to lead projects for the International Development Department at the University of Birmingham. Kew-Fickus speaks Ukrainian, Russian, and Spanish. Kew-Fickus holds an AB in History from Princeton University and an MBA from the University of Leicester in the UK.
12. Whitney Johnson
Chief Experience Officer, Pilot Flying J
Whitney Johnson serves as Chief Experience Officer (CXO) for Pilot Flying J. She joined the company’s board of directors in 2015. Johnson currently oversees all marketing, branding, public relations, corporate communications, digital and loyalty strategy. She has been instrumental in making Pilot Flying J one of the most dynamic and recognizable brands across North America. Johnson is responsible for the entire guest experience with a focus on loyalty and satisfaction. Through customer research, she helps the company better understand the needs of customers. Johnson previously served as a category manager and creative services manager for Pilot Travel Centers LLC.
Prior to joining Pilot Flying J, Johnson served as assistant controller at Marriott International Hotels. She earned an undergraduate degree in finance from the University of Georgia in Athens, Georgia in 2001. Johnson led the Southeast fundraising efforts for the 2004 Bush- Cheney reelection campaign. She has served on the board of directors for the Knoxville Museum of Art and Second Harvest Food Bank of East Tennessee, as well as on committees for the United Way of Greater Knoxville.
13. Deb Kirinovic
VP of Enterprise Strategy, St. Jude Children's Research Hospital - ALSAC
As Vice President of Enterprise Strategy at ALSAC, the fundraising and awareness organization for St. Jude Children’s Research Hospital, Deb Kirinovic leads the development and execution of the enterprise strategic plan. Her team works cross-functionally to explore incremental revenue opportunities in new and adjacent markets; identify cost-alleviating measures; apply macroeconomic analyses and trend research; and set and track strategic performance metrics to streamline accountability across teams. Deb also oversees strategic relationships with external consultants to explore blue-sky opportunities for the business.
Deb has deep experience across various industries including non-profit, marketing, sales, professional sports, and international consulting – driving awareness and impact for purpose-driven brands. Her diverse professional accomplishments include the development and deployment of national brand marketing campaigns; corporate prospect and partnership sales; relationship management with professional sports leagues, teams, players, and associations; and consulting with sports federations and sports cities on an international stage. Deb received her bachelor’s degree in Marketing with a specialization in international business, MBA, and master’s in sports administration from Ohio University.
14. Laura Templeton
EVP & Chief Operating Officer, Compassus
Laura Templeton is the Executive Vice President and Chief Operating Officer at Compassus. She leads the operations of all service lines, including home health, infusion therapy, hospice, and palliative care.
Before joining Compassus in 2012, Templeton worked at various health centers near Jefferson City, Missouri, most recently serving as the director of maternal child health, ICU, telemetry, and cardiac short stay at St. Joseph Hospital West in Lake Saint Louis, Missouri. At Compassus, she has held many roles, including chief clinical operations officer, hospice division president, managing clinical director, executive director, director of operations, and regional vice president of operations. Her natural leadership skills and operational experience, combined with her nursing background, drive excellence across the enterprise to benefit patients and families.
Templeton earned an undergraduate degree in nursing from Central Methodist University and an MBA in health care from William Woods University. She also serves on several national organization committees, including the National Association for Home Care and Hospice, the Home Care and Hospice Financial Manager Association, and the National Hospice and Palliative Care Organization.
15. Lisa Stinnett
Chief Executive Officer, Inhabit®
As Founder and Chief Executive Officer of Inhabit, Lisa Stinnett has overseen the growth of Inhabit and its residential and vacation PropTech portfolio. Since 2015, she has led the acquisition, development, and integration of more than 30 technologies into Inhabit’s rapidly growing product portfolio. Stinnett combines decision-making and tactical expertise to take initiatives from concept to implementation. As CEO, she brings a customer-centric approach to all business strategies directly contributing to the company’s robust growth in the residential and vacation markets.
Stinnett first got her start in 1999 as a corporate customer relations supervisor at Goodys. From there, she went on to Ministry Brands, before eventually rising to managing partner at Greater Sum Ventures, her most recent position prior to founding Inhabit®. Stinnett graduated from the University of Tennessee, Knoxville with an undergraduate degree in retail and consumer sciences.
16. Jonna Thiel
Vice President of Learning & Development, Kenco Group
Jonna Thiel is the Vice President of Learning and Development of Kenco Group. She first joined the company in 2019 as a learning programs manager. Kenco provides integrated logistics solutions that include distribution and fulfillment, comprehensive transportation management, material handling services, and information technology, all engineered for operational excellence. Building lasting customer relationships for over 70 years, their focus is on common sense solutions that drive uncommon value. Bringing nearly two decades of experience in individual, organizational, and group development, Jonna connects people with the right tools to grow and forge essential partnerships. She has a wealth of experience offering a big-picture approach with laser precision insight. Jonna has demonstrated proven results in leadership development, coaching, and facilitation.
Previously, Thiel was an adjunct instructor at Trevecca Nazarene University and before that a lead organizational practitioner at Erlanger Health System. Earlier in her career she worked with Morris and McDaniel as a staff consultant. Thiel earned a PhD and an MS in industrial and organizational psychology from Capella University, an MS in higher education from Purdue Global, and an undergraduate degree in psychology from The University of Southern Mississippi.
17. Pamela Owen
Area SVP & Senior Strategic Benefits Consultant, Gallagher
Pamela Owen is an Area Senior Vice President and Senior Strategic Benefits Consultant with Gallagher. With over three decades of experience in mergers and acquisitions, she provides due diligence and insights into what drives performance for a company's sometimes second or third-largest expense item: employee benefits. Pamela is a transformational thinker who advises how an organization and its programs can be proactively, positively, and profitably transformed within the existing culture and business environment or when forming an entirely new culture or company. She bridges benefits and business, linking teams including employers, employees, payors, and providers in a unified goal toward improved performance.
Previously, Owen served as a vice president and welfare practice leader at Hub International. From there, she went on to Marsh, before eventually rising to president at TruHealth Management, her most recent position prior to joining Gallagher.
18. Abby Hamm
Vice President of Sales, Covenant
Abby Hamm is an accomplished and results-driven transportation professional with 15 years of experience in logistics organizations. She currently serves as Vice President of Sales at Covenant Logistics Group. Covenant is a solutions-based organization focused on continuous improvement initiatives for their customers’ supply chain. The company is founded on the pillars of empathy, servanthood, and virtue with the promise of the highest level of integrity in the treatment of both their customers and team members. Abby joined the organization in March 2022 as a senior director of sales and stepped into the VP role in August 2022. Abby oversees sales and pricing for Covenant’s Freight Management Division and is responsible for revenue growth, management, and sales strategy.
Abby has spent her career in logistics. Her first role was as a freight forwarder in Savannah, Georgia, but most of her career has been in sales-focused roles. Before joining Covenant, she spent nine years in a director of sales role and uses that sales experience to develop and implement best practices for the teams she leads. Abby is a dedicated leader and results-driven professional. In addition to her professional career, Abby is a devoted wife and mother to 3 young sons, 9, 6, and 4, and spends her free time living the boy mom life.
19. Lashell Vaughn
VP and CIO, Memphis Light, Gas and Water
Lashell Vaughn is the Vice President and Chief Information Officer of Memphis Light, Gas and Water (MLGW). She first joined the company in 2018. MLGW is the largest three-service public power utility in the nation, serving more than 444,000 customers in Memphis and Shelby County. Lashell is responsible for managing information technology services, data security, client services, and enterprise resources support.
Vaughn is an expert in information technology and holds over 35 years of experience in client management, application development, data center operation, network/telecommunication services, and security and compliance operations. Prior to joining Memphis Light, Gas and Water in 2011, she served as VP of information technology for Hilton Worldwide. She received a master’s degree in computer science from Christian Brothers University and an undergraduate degree in computer science from Mississippi State University.
Vaughn holds membership in a number of business leadership organizations. She serves on the dean's advisory council for the Mississippi State University Bagley College of Engineering, is a member of the Mississippi State University Computer Science Department Advisory Board, and is chairman of the board for the Greater Memphis IT Council. She is also a member of the Institute of Electronics Engineers, Inc. and the American Society for Engineering Education.
20. Nicole Bulgarino
Executive Vice President, Ameresco
Nicole Bulgarino is an Executive Vice President for Ameresco, supporting the company’s mission to mitigate climate change and energize a more sustainable world. With a focus on the cleantech strategy for the company, Bulgarino develops innovative solutions focused on energy efficiency and renewable energy. She is responsible for the overall management of Ameresco’s leading business unit serving the critical Federal government agencies. She also manages the Southeast regional business unit, focusing on customers in the municipal, higher education, K-12 schools, and healthcare markets.
Bulgarino has 25 years of experience in developing and executing innovative clean technology and distributed energy solutions through multiple diverse contract structures. She has overseen the development and implementation of over $3B of sustainable solutions in federal and government energy projects, including deep energy retrofits integrating Smart Building controls, advanced microgrids and energy storage solutions, and multiple clean generation systems. As the general manager for Ameresco’s Federal and Southeast group, Bulgarino oversees 315 professionals specializing in business development, engineering, commissioning, construction, operations and maintenance, and performance assurance. Under her leadership, Ameresco’s Federal Solutions group has developed and delivered projects featuring efficiency, generation, and resiliency solutions to the Department of Defense, the Department of Energy, the General Services Administration, the Veterans Administration, the Department of Justice, the Department of Interior, the Environmental Protection Agency, the Department of Commerce, and other civilian agencies.
Bulgarino is a seasoned industry executive with strong leadership, communications, and strategic execution talents. A recognized leader within the industry, she has presented on technical and business panels at major conferences and has skillfully developed solutions for some of the most highly regarded Federal agencies across North America. As a leading woman in technology, she demonstrates the unique balance of developing and managing complex technical projects, while promoting strategic, long-term corporate success. Bulgarino is a licensed professional engineer and earned an undergraduate degree in chemical engineering from the University of Tennessee and an Executive Management and Leadership Certificate from the Massachusetts Institute of Technology.
21. Tabitha Glenn
Vice President of Direct Response, USO
Tabitha Glenn began her professional career 31 years ago. Today, she is the Vice President of Direct Response at USO. Since 1941, the USO has strengthened America's military service members by keeping them connected to family, home, and country, throughout their service to the nation. Glenn is an organizational leader with a proven ability to create and execute critical development and fundraising strategies that lead to growth and enable the organization to execute its mission. She oversees funding from different sources including grants and contracts through corporate philanthropy and government entities and is an ambassador to donors and prospects, leveraging superior communication and influencing skills before diverse groups of donors, foundations, trustees, individual prospects, and volunteers. Tabitha promotes teamwork, enhances creativity and motivation, and builds consensus with senior executives and board members. She is culturally competent, self-reflective, and has a passionate commitment to children, women, equity, diversity, and inclusion.
Glenn first got her start in 1992 as an account manager at Great Lines. From there, she went on to Chandler Ehrlich, before eventually rising to CEO at Peer Power Foundation, her most recent position prior to joining USO. Glenn graduated from The University of Memphis with an MBA and from Arkansas State University with an undergraduate degree in communication and journalism.
22. Cici Ebersole
Chief Talent Officer, Ducks Unlimited
Cici leads the Human Resources function at Ducks Unlimited and is a member of DU's Executive Leadership Team. Before joining DU, she held senior HR leadership roles at several top organizations including Smith & Nephew, Express Scripts (now part of Cigna), and Jackson Hewitt. Cici began her career in Human Resources as an employment law attorney and has since had an extensive and successful history of working in the non-profit, supply chain, medical device, healthcare, financial services, and retail. She is skilled in proactive employee relations and engagement, culture building, organizational planning, recruiting, and leadership development. Cici has a passion for helping leaders in their professional development journey and finding strengths in their organizations. With over 20 years of experience in employment law and human resources, Cici brings credibility to the human resources function as a true organizational partner.
She is a member of the Society of Human Resources Executive Network, the SHRM Voice of Work panel, the Chief HR Officer Council at the Conference Board, as well as an Advisory Board Member of the Women in Leadership Program at the University of Tennessee, Knoxville. She holds an MBA from the University of Central Arkansas as well as a JD, and an undergraduate degree in economics from the University of the Philippines. In Cici's spare time, she enjoys traveling with her family, reading, yoga, and enjoying the outdoors. She manages a busy household, made up of two young children, two huge dogs, and a cat, with her husband of 18 years.
23. Rachel Lokitz
Chief Legal and Risk Officer, ORAU
Rachel Lokitz serves as Chief Legal and Risk Officer for ORAU. In this role, she provides ORAU’s programs and internal business clients with counsel concerning legal rights, contractual obligations, compliance, and risk.
Lokitz received an undergraduate degree in science from Millsaps College and a JD from the University of Tennessee College of Law. She received a master’s certificate in government contracting from the George Washington School of Business. Lokitz has participated in a variety of professional and community activities, including serving on the board of directors for CONTACT Care Line. She is a member of the DOE Contractor Attorneys’ Association and the Tennessee Bar Association. Lokitz was named one of the Greater Knoxville Business Journal’s 2018 40 Under 40 honorees.
24. Heather Williams
Vice President of Client Success & Broker Development, Steam Logistics
Heather Williams is the Vice President of Client Success and Broker Development at Steam Logistics. Steam was originally born out of Access America in 2012 to focus solely on international freight forwarding and customs brokerage. In 2018 and 2021 respectively, Steam expanded into Drayage and Domestic Transportation in order to meet customers’ needs for the entire life cycle of their freight. Today, Steam is one of the fastest-growing 3PLs in the US, delivering integrated logistics solutions across international, intermodal, and domestic modes. Williams has 13 years of experience. She began her career in 2010.
With years of experience in the logistics and supply chain industry, she is a passionate and skilled VP of Client Success and Broker Development at Steam Logistics. She leads a team of professionals who deliver value for their clients and stakeholders through various initiatives, such as customer onboarding, business reviews, customized reporting, broker training, and SOP creation and implementation. Before joining Steam Logistics, Williams was a senior customer experience manager at Covenant Transport Services and before that, a training manager of driver training and student program at US Xpress Enterprises Inc. Williams graduated from the University of Louisville with an undergraduate degree in exercise science and exercise physiology.
25. Cristy Ward
Chief Strategy Officer and Executive Vice President, Mortgage Connect LP
As Chief Strategy Officer at Mortgage Connect, Cristy Ward leads national revenue and business strategy, responsible for all lines of revenue within the company’s numerous divisions. She works closely with the nation’s largest lenders to foster greater innovation in mortgage lending to enhance efficiencies in cutting-edge technology.
Ward is known as a problem-solver whose ability to thoughtfully navigate complex issues has propelled Mortgage Connect to achieve unmatched operational execution. While Ward has led revenue and sales, Mortgage Connect has come to service the majority of the nation’s top lenders, helping them manage capacity, improve quality, keep abreast of regulatory standards, improve loan transparency, and meet the challenges of shifting markets.
26. Deanna Grubbs
VP of Apparel & Accessories Product Development, Johnston & Murphy
Deanna Grubbs is the Vice President of Apparel and Accessories Product Development at Johnston & Murphy. Since 1850, Johnston & Murphy has proven itself as a pillar of classic workmanship and timeless style, providing affordable quality products for generations of successful men. Today, its line has expanded to include re-imagined classic apparel and footwear for both men and women who appreciate its combination of craft and unconventionalism.
Grubbs has 10 years of experience. In addition to her role with Johnston & Murphy, she and her family founded and run BOWS & BALLCAPS, an organization that provides bows, ballcaps, other accessories, and care packages to kids who have lost their hair from cancer treatments or alopecia. They have given out more than 21,000 bows and ballcaps in eight years and have grown to ten partner hospitals across seven states.
27. Stacy Mill
Vice President of IT & CISO, Nashville Electric Service
Stacy Mill is the Vice President of IT and CISO at Nashville Electric Service with accountability for all IT strategy and execution across corporate systems including cybersecurity for the 11th largest public utility in the US. Collaborating with her business partners, Stacy ensures enterprise risk is understood, and controlled to business-acceptable levels through building trust and awareness at all levels. Stacy has developed many global teams across several industries.
Prior to NES, Stacy served as the chief technology officer for the State of Kansas with accountability of core operations and overall IT strategy across 18 state agencies. As CISO and VP of enterprise risk and global compliance, for Spirit AeroSystems, Stacy led ethics, global compliance, trade compliance, cybersecurity strategy as well as M&A technical strategy. She developed and implemented Spirit’s first Global Enterprise Risk Program for all departments. At KAR Global, she built business continuity, disaster recovery, security architecture, security operations, information risk, and compliance programs. She participated in dozens of mergers and acquisitions which enabled the company’s move from a brick-and-mortar company to a Software as a Service business model over 5 years.
At Yum, Stacy built a dynamic international team to address all aspects of information security spanning 120 countries. Under her strategic leadership, Yum Brands achieved global PCI/SOX/HIPAA/Safe Harbor compliance, built out underlying security infrastructures, and kept ahead of the myriad of US and international data and privacy laws. As a Yum Brands representative, Stacy served on the Overseas Security Advisory Council. She started in security as Humana Military’s Chief Security Officer working with the Department of Defense as a member of the Information Assurance Work Group in support of the Tricare Management Agency and DITSCAP/DIACAP initiatives. Stacy is also a Qualified Technical Expert certified by Digital Directors Network to have the education, applied experience, and formal education necessary to work in the corporate boardroom and oversee risk in complex digital business systems.
Among her many board positions, Stacy serves as vice chair of the Utility Technology Council’s Technology Division, VP of the board of directors for the Utility Technology Association, board of directors for Cloud Security Alliance – Nashville Division, Pivot Technology School Board of Advisors, and the Executive Women’s Forum Board of Advisors. She has been globally and locally recognized for her leadership and technical vision many times. Stacy is a graduate of the 2019 Leadership Kansas class and the 2023 Leadership Nashville class. Her greatest joy is her family and mentoring rising leaders.
28. Kerri Davis
Chief Executive Officer, Fortress PropTech
Kerri Davis is the Founder and CEO of Fortress, a revolutionary software company shaping the future of property management. In her role as President of Elmington's property management division, she was dissatisfied with the current PropTech offerings in the market and set out to build a better platform for all users. Today, the company has Walker & Dunlop as an investor and 50,000+ units on the platform. Fortress started as an internal tool and is now actively onboarding clients across the country.
Davis earned an accounting degree from the University of Central Arkansas and received her JD from Case Western Reserve University. After graduating, Davis worked in Baghdad as a business manager for a Department of State contractor and in accounting before joining Elmington Property Management, where she ultimately became a partner and owner, roles she still holds today.
29. Holly Bischoff
Chief Financial Officer, EMJ Corporation
Holly Bischoff is the Chief Financial Officer of EMJ Corporation. She first joined the company in 2004 as a controller. Founded in 1968, EMJ is a commercial general contractor with national reach and local presence. It has diverse experience in many sectors, thousands of partnerships across the country, and numerous repeat customers. It strives to serve others, lead by example, and inspire those around them. Its mission is to deliver an exceptional experience to its clients, partners, and colleagues.
Previously, Bischoff was a controller at Signal Energy Constructors and before that an assistant manager of budgeting and planning at Brach's Confections. Earlier in her career she worked with Arthur Andersen as an audit senior. Bischoff earned an MBA from the University of Oregon Lundquist College of Business and an undergraduate degree in accounting from Tennessee Technological University.
30. Patricia Bible
Founder, President, and Chief Executive Officer KaTom Restaurant Supply, INC
Patricia Bible is a proud, lifelong East Tennessean who oversees a multi-million dollar business with an international impact. Alongside her late husband Tim and their children, Charley and Paula, she built a world-class company out of her home’s garage. She was one of the first and remains one of the only female executives in the food service equipment space.
Patricia and Tim found success with multiple businesses before the founding of KaTom, which happened by accident as they were building and opening Western Sizzlin’ steakhouses. They began stockpiling needed equipment and supplies to help with meeting demanding construction timelines and when word of their collection got out, they opened their home’s garage for sales to other food service operators. Patricia stepped into any role necessary to ensure the company’s success since its early days. She earned certification for forklift operation so she could pick up the slack if the warehouse was short, an accreditation that came in handy in 2012 when she helped move the company’s stock to a new headquarters. When travel demands from industry meetings and family trips became overwhelming, she earned her private pilot’s license and began ferrying folks across the country.
While the couple led the company together for nearly 15 years, Patricia assumed the helm alone following Tim’s unexpected passing in 2001. She worked tirelessly to see to fruition Tim’s vision of creating one of the industry’s first e-commerce sites, which remains the primary engine behind the company’s sales and growth to this day.
Patricia remains integrally involved in every aspect of the business, from personally managing stocking orders to giving direction on digital ad spending allocations. When she isn’t at KaTom, Patricia spends time hiking, playing, and exploring the world with her children and grandchildren. She also engages with numerous community organizations and activities, including many she and KaTom financially support, such as the Knoxville Symphony Orchestra and the University of Tennessee.
31. Mary Raphael
Senior Vice President, MP&F Strategic Communications
Mary Ruth Raphael is a Senior Vice President at MP&F Strategic Communications, where she leads national and regional communications campaigns and supports the overall management of the agency, including marketing and business development efforts. She joined MP&F in 2001.
Raphael manages the company’s work for its largest client, the US Department of Labor’s Job Corps program, which includes nationwide marketing, advertising, and communications initiatives targeted toward low-income 16- through 24-year-olds and their parents, community leaders, and employers.
Mary Ruth has worked on multiple high-profile campaigns during her time at MP&F, including leading the nationally award-winning Meth Destroys statewide awareness campaign on behalf of the state’s district attorneys. Her accolades include the Olympus Award for leadership from the Nashville chapter of the Public Relations Society of America and the Nashville Area Chamber of Commerce’s Nashville Emerging Leader Award for Public Relations, Advertising, and Marketing. She serves on the steering committee for Williamson Inc.’s Women in Business and volunteers with Girl Scouts of Middle Tennessee. She is a former president of PRSA Nashville and a 2017 graduate of Leadership Brentwood. A Middle Tennessee native, Raphael is a graduate of the University of Tennessee.
32. Donna Jones
President & Director of Associate and Client Experience, AdvoCap Insurance Agency, Inc.
Donna Jones is the President and Director of Associate & Client Experience at Advocate Capital, Inc., which became a part of Pinnacle in 2019. Jones joined Advocate Capital in 2008 having previously held two legal administrator positions with large regional law firms. Additionally, she brought to the firm 14 years of personal injury litigation experience as a trial paralegal, providing a unique perspective into the civil trial practice that is the basis for most Advocate Capital, Inc. customers.
Jones is a member of the Board of Directors of Advocate Capital, Inc. and serves as a member of the Credit Committee. Her responsibilities include education and training of Advocate Capital staff regarding civil litigation, coaching new clients on the fundamentals of Advocate’s online services, as well as its proprietary software application, AdvoTrac®, and all activities related to existing and prospective clients. Jones attended Austin Peay State University and graduated with honors from Southeastern Paralegal Institute. She is a former member of the Association of Legal Administrators (ALA) and a QuickBooks Certified ProAdvisor. In 2015, Ms. Jones completed the Dale Carnegie® Human Relations Training.
33. Ellie Kuhn
Vice President of Operations and Strategy, USA Today Network Ventures
Ellie Kuhn is the Vice President of Operations and Strategy at USA Today Network Ventures where they create impactful consumer engagements and experiences through world-class events, promotions, races, and technology. It strives to exceed expectations, create unforgettable memories, and drive value for its partners while leveraging its reputable institutions, including USA TODAY and more than 250 local media brands. Kuhn has 11 years of experience. She began her career in 2012.
Before joining USA Today Network Ventures, Kuhn was an account executive at Chattanooga Times Free Press. Kuhn graduated from the University of TN Chattanooga with an undergraduate degree.
34. Julie Henderson
Chief Revenue Officer, Data Facts
Julie Henderson, boasting nearly two decades of experience across sales, customer service, and management, is a dynamic leader and a driving force behind the success of Data Facts, Inc., a prominent consumer reporting agency specializing in background screening. As the Chief Revenue Officer (CRO) at Data Facts, Julie holds a pivotal role in the company's strategic direction, overseeing both the sales and client success teams. Her story is not just one of leadership but also of ownership, as she stands as one of the company's owners, steering it towards continuous growth and excellence. Julie's journey in the world of consumer reporting and background screening is marked by a passion for delivering trusted, accurate, and reliable information to clients. With a deep understanding of the industry's complexities and the critical importance of data accuracy, she has emerged as a respected authority in her field.
In her current role as CRO, Julie not only leads the sales team but also takes charge of the client success teams, exemplifying her dedication to not just acquiring new business but also ensuring the satisfaction and success of existing clients. Her client-centric approach and industry expertise have cemented Data Facts, Inc.'s reputation as a trusted partner in background screening. Beyond her day-to-day responsibilities, Julie is known for her industry advocacy, staying at the forefront of evolving regulations and compliance standards to ensure Data Facts, Inc. continues to provide clients with the most up-to-date and accurate information.
Julie Henderson's journey to becoming the CRO and an owner at Data Facts, Inc. is a testament to her relentless pursuit of excellence in the field of consumer reporting and background screening. Her leadership, ownership, and commitment to delivering unparalleled service continue to drive Data Facts, Inc.'s growth and success, making her a revered figure in the industry.
35. Sarah Timm
President & CEO, Parthenon Management Group
Sarah S. Timm, certified as an Association Executive by the American Society of Association Executives and a Certified Meeting Professional by Meeting Professionals International (MPI), has acquired and demonstrated her contract negotiation skills with current clients. Beginning her career at the Nashville Convention Center, she managed more than 250 tradeshows and public events. She then moved to Traveltime Meetings as their Director of Meetings. In that position, she planned and implemented meetings for a variety of major corporations and associations. She developed a reputation as a meeting planner who could not only plan and manage a great meeting but could do it within or under budget. Clients learned that she would not only save them money but would also negotiate a contract free of unpleasant “surprises.” Sarah serves as the Executive Director of the American College of Neuropsychopharmacology and as the President and CEO of Parthenon Management Group. As the CEO of PMG, she is responsible for the oversight of all staff, meeting management, and the day-to-day operations of a number of the world’s most prestigious scientific societies.
Sarah served on the Tennessee Chapter of Meeting Professionals International Board of Directors from 2004 to 2007 and is passionate about educating others in the industry on contract negotiations and facilitation. She was named the Tennessee Chapter of MPI Meeting Planner of the Year in 2006 for her contributions to the Tennessee Meetings and Hospitality Industry. Sarah now serves on the board of the Tennessee Society of Association Executives and the Association Management Company Institute.
36. Laura Deleot
Founding Partner, COO & Creative Director, Circa Creative Studios
In 2015, Laura Deleot co-founded Circa Design, a graphic design and branding studio that helps business owners, entrepreneurs, and visionaries grow their good ideas. Prior to launching Circa, Deleot served as a freelance designer for clients in real estate, finance, healthcare, and retail. She worked for Chronicle Books in San Francisco as a senior designer in their gift division and began her career with The Valentine Group in New York City. Her work has won countless awards and has been featured at the Museum of Design Atlanta. She holds a design degree from the Portfolio Center in Atlanta and an undergraduate degree in art from the University of the South.
Deleot balances the demands of running a studio with the challenges of raising two boys. She is dedicated to mentoring others. Thanks to Circa’s fellowship program, dozens of young designers have acquired jobs in the creative field. In a fast-paced, “me first” world, Deleot is a calm and humble escape. Her accomplishments reveal her design prowess, as well as her quiet, yet confident, leadership style.
37. Dora Taggart
Chief Executive Officer, Microbial Insights
Dora Taggart is the CEO of Microbial Insights. Since joining Microbial Insights in 2001, the array of MBTs developed and validated at Microbial Insights has been greatly expanded from the first commercial qPCR analysis (Dehalococcoides) through the development of the QuantArray® and commercialization of stable isotope probing (SIP) to the Microbial Insights Database. Dora personally analyzed the first commercial Dehalococcoides qPCR samples and continues to propel MI forward by collaborating with leading researchers in academia and federal agencies to ensure that MI remains on the cutting edge. As CEO, Taggart has become a global ambassador for MBTs, regularly presenting as an invited speaker at environmental and corrosion conferences, leading hundreds of technical workshops worldwide, and co-authoring guidance documents with groups like the Interstate Technology Regulatory Council (ITRC) EMD team and ER Wiki (Remediapedia) to support appropriate use and interpretation of MBTs. In 2011, Taggart was named the most valuable team member for the ITRC EMD team. She also serves on the Board of Directors of Bottle Rocket Productions, Boys and Girls Club of the Cumberland Plateau, Environmental Workshops, LLC as well as the Board of Visitors for the University of Tennessee Department of Microbiology. Taggart received her degree in Biomedical Engineering from Vanderbilt University.
38. Jennifer Outland
Chief Operating Officer, Rand Property Management
With a passion for real estate, leadership, and professional development, Jennifer Outland is a distinguished figure in the East Tennessee business landscape. Holding an undergraduate degree in psychology from the University of Tennessee Knoxville and a master's degree in marriage and family counseling from East Tennessee State University, Jennifer has seamlessly combined her academic background with her innate talents to excel in her current role.
Currently serving as the Chief Operating Officer at Rand Property Management, a prominent local real estate company specializing in multi-family housing, Jennifer has showcased her dedication and prowess during her 8-year tenure with the company. Starting as a property manager and subsequently advancing to the role of regional manager, she has consistently demonstrated an exceptional ability to streamline operations, elevate team performance, and foster a culture of excellence.
A visionary leader, Jennifer has also played a pivotal role in Rand Property Management's growth by establishing and developing the HR and Training Departments. Her dedication to cultivating a knowledgeable, motivated, and cohesive team has been a cornerstone of the company's success. Outside of her roles at Rand, Jennifer draws from a diverse background that includes experience in both the service industry and the counseling field. Her unique skill set extends to the realm of public speaking, where she thrives as a charismatic and experienced speaker capable of engaging audiences ranging from intimate gatherings to large crowds of 1,000 or more. In addition to her role at Rand Property Management, Jennifer is a valuable business coach for a reputable real estate education company. Through this role, she contributes her expertise to aspiring professionals in the industry, further establishing herself as a trusted authority in real estate and professional development.
39. Deidre Malone
President & CEO, The Carter Malone Group LLC
Deidre Malone is the Founder, President, and Chief Executive Officer of The Carter Malone Group, LLC (CMG), a public relations, marketing, advertising and government relations firm headquartered in Memphis, Tennessee. Prior to opening CMG in May 2003, Malone served as VP of marketing development for ALSAC/St. Jude Children’s Research Hospital and director of public relations for St. Jude Children’s Research Hospital.
Malone is a member of the Public Relations Society of America and a member of the PRSA Counselors Academy. She is a former Shelby County Commissioner and is very active in local and national organizations. She is currently the president of the NAACP Memphis Branch. Malone graduated from Jackson State University with an undergraduate degree in mass communications.
40. Monica Gawet
President, Tennessee Marble Company
Monica Gawet is President of Tennessee Marble Company (TMC) which she co-founded in 1993. TMC is one of the largest vertically integrated domestic marble companies in the United States and is the sole supplier of Tennessee pink marble in the world.
As a third-generation family member in the stone business, she carries on her father's legacy and takes pride in being one of a handful of women-owned quarriers in the world. Monica has given back to her local and professional community through a variety of active board member roles and is a lifelong supporter of Blount County where she has resided since 1993. Her career accomplishments and balance as a working mother would not be possible without the support of her husband, Gus Zacharias, who works alongside her for TMC's strategic development.
TMC is a quarrier of Tennessee pink marble and operates 3 quarries in Tennessee, and also owns and operates the historic Champlain black quarry in Isle LaMotte, Vermont. Through a strategic acquisition in 2007, TMC became the sole supplier of Tennessee pink marble in the country.
41. Kathryn Walker
Chief Executive Officer, Revitalist Lifestyle and Wellness
Kathryn Walker is the CEO of Revitalist Lifestyle and Wellness, which serves as a leading mental health and wellness company led by a comprehensive team of specialty providers. Walker worked at a Level 1 Trauma Center in Tennessee for 9 years before attending anesthesia school at the University of North Carolina-Charlotte. She practiced anesthesia of all specialties for 8 years before opening the first Revitalist location in Knoxville, TN in 2018. Today Walker operates as a leading advocate for psychedelic medicine as she continues to advance her comprehensive skill set recently graduating with her second master's degree in psychiatric nursing as a psychiatric mental health nurse practitioner.
Recognizing the need for community access, Walker founded the national mental health 501c3 nonprofit, Community Change Foundation (CommunityChangeFoundation.org). This nonprofit foundation focuses on providing financial assistance to veterans, frontline workers, and the financially disadvantaged seeking help with psychedelic therapies. Walker incorporated the Community Change Foundation in 2019.
Recognizing the need for education and training advancements, Walker founded the American Association of Psychedelics (AAPsychedelics.org). This education non-profit 501c3 aims to continually bring high-quality education and training to all disciplines of providers. Walker incorporated the American Association of Psychedelics in 2021.
42. Vicki Cox
Executive Director, Children and Family Enrichment Services at Idlewild
Vicki Cox is the Executive Director of Children and Family Enrichment Services at Idlewild. She first joined the organization in 2021. Children and Family Enrichment, or CAFE, is a non-profit organization that aims to provide the mental tools for life-long resilience among children and families in the Memphis Metropolitan Area. The CAFE team is dedicated to mitigating the long and short-term effects of Adverse Childhood Experiences through two programs: the Early Enrichment Center (EEC) which, through everyday learning and play, focuses on the brain development of children ages 7 weeks to 3 years old, and the Parent Enrichment Place (PEP) which helps to equip parents with resources to recognize and heal past trauma and ultimately build a mentally healthy family system.
Cox is an experienced executive-level professional with more than 20 years of expertise in long-term care leadership. She has a high level of expertise in the fields of Intellectual and Developmental Disabilities (IDD), Mental Health, Dual Diagnosis, in-patient/residential/assistant living services, Memory Care, and Gerontology and is known for building strong teams and developing senior leaders. Previously, Cox was a regional vice president at Integra Resources and before that an executive director at Open Arms Care. Earlier in her career she worked with New Friendship Missionary Baptist Church as a director of Christian growth and education. Cox earned an MPH from the University of Tennessee, Knoxville, and an undergraduate degree in public administration from the University of Mississippi.
43. Sherri Brooks
System Director of Career Development, Baptist Memorial Health Care
Dr. Sherri Brooks is the System Director of Career Development at Baptist Memorial Health Care. Professionally, she has been in corporate and executive leadership roles for over 15 years and is a former associate professor at Arkansas State University where she received her baccalaureate and master’s degrees in communication disorders. Sherri is also an alumnus of the University of Kentucky where she earned her PhD in rehabilitation science.
Dr. Brooks is a serial entrepreneur owning and operating several businesses over the last 20 years. She is most passionate about her professional development and coaching business, Blueprint4change, which is committed to helping individuals and organizations reach their potential by empowering them to see what’s possible and inspiring them to believe in better through an intentional process of change. Sherri strives to live and lead by the leadership code: Think like a hero asking who can I help today? Work like an artist asking what else can we try? Refuse to be ordinary by pursuing excellence and killing it. Celebrate, but take no credit. She is the proud wife of Kennen Brooks, mother to six young men, mother-in-law of two, and “Nonna” to one spoiled grandson.
44. Michelle Rigsby
Director of Client Management Services, Advocate Capital, Inc.
Michelle Rigsby is a seasoned professional with a diverse banking, law, and client management background. Her journey with the company began in 2012 when she joined as a quality assurance analyst. She has since become integral to the organization's client management efforts by promotion from executive client manager to director of client management services. The Client Management Services team manages 90% of the firm's receivables for 560+ Law Firm clients.
Before joining Advocate Capital, Inc., Michelle worked for Regions Bank, heading up the Middle Tennessee Business Banking Administration team. With over twenty years of experience in the banking sector, Michelle has gained a deep understanding of various banking departments, including small business, trust, consumer, and operations. In addition to her banking background, Michelle previously worked as a paralegal for a large law firm. This legal experience is valuable to her current role.
In her role at Advocate Capital, Inc., Michelle is dedicated to fostering strong and trusting relationships within the Client Management team, law firm clients, and lawyers nationwide. Her unique blend of skills, encompassing banking, legal, and financial knowledge, positions her as a valuable resource for personal injury law firms seeking the best results for their clients.
Rigsby's educational journey includes her time at the University of Northern Colorado and the Metropolitan University of Denver, where she graduated with an undergraduate degree in political science. She is a certified paralegal, demonstrating her commitment to the legal profession and ability to navigate legal matters' intricacies.
45. Alexa Voytek
Deputy Director, Tennessee Department of Environment and Conservation
Alexa Voytek is the Deputy Director of Programs, Innovation and Transportation, and Communications at the Tennessee Department of Environment and Conservation's Office of Energy Programs (TDEC OEP). She serves as the principal investigator for the US DOE’s State Energy Program, oversees OEP’s sustainable transportation and alternative fuels programming, and assists with the administration of a variety of funding sources, including the State of Tennessee’s initial allocation under the Volkswagen Settlement Environmental Mitigation Trust, the State’s annual allocation under the Environmental Protection Agency’s Diesel Emissions Reduction Act Program, the implementation of formula funding under the National Electric Vehicle Infrastructure Program, and the implementation of the Infrastructure Investment and Jobs Act funded Grid Resilience Formula Grant Program.
Alexa also serves as the Coalition Director for US DOE’s Clean Cities Middle-West Tennessee Clean Fuels Coalition, through which she acts as a technical resource for fleets and individuals evaluating alternative fuels and advanced vehicle technologies. She is co-chair of the National Association of State Energy Officials' Transportation Committee and also serves as the Governor’s designee to the Tennessee Valley Authority (TVA) Regional Energy Resource Council, which provides guidance on how TVA manages its energy resources against competing objectives and values.
Prior to joining TDEC, Alexa interned with the UN Division for Sustainable Development and the US Consulate in St. Petersburg, Russia. Most recently, Alexa served as an assistant account executive for the public relations firm Ketchum, Inc., where she was assigned to energy- and technology-related projects. Alexa holds a master’s degree from Columbia University in Russian, Eastern European, Balkan, and Eurasian Studies and graduated summa cum laude from Duke University, with an undergraduate degree in history and Russian language/area studies.
46. Rebecca Carter
Director of Community Impact, United Way of Metropolitan Nashville
Rebecca Carter has worked in the not-for-profit community for over 22 years and is the Director of Community Impact for United Way of Greater Nashville with responsibility for research, investments, data management, collaboration, and partner relations in the area of Health. She manages the Outcome Based Investment process for United Way, including all processes related to the online application and reporting system.
Carter is honored to serve on the Healthy Nashville Leadership Council, as well as various committees shaping the impact that health and human services agencies have in the Greater Nashville community. She launched a partnership with the Siemer Foundation, Catholic Charities of Tennessee, and Safe Haven Family Shelter in 2014, focused on a two-generational approach to housing stabilization, academic improvements, and employment. The partnership, The Family Collective, is part of a national network of service providers committed to ending family homelessness. In 2017, the partnership grew to include several other agencies, and in 2020 expanded to five counties with over 30 nonprofit partners. This growth was made possible by the Tennessee Department of Human Services.
47. Katherine Briefs
Deputy Director, RenUSA.org
Kate Briefs (she/they) is a seasoned community engagement expert with a foundation in education and community organization. As the Campaign Manager for TN Representative Aftyn Behn, she leverages her skills to drive positive change. Kate builds community and voter support for new and ambitious public-private partnerships, multimillion-dollar infrastructure projects, and economic development initiatives as well as for utility-scale renewable energy projects nationwide. She is tasked with designing funding plans for local projects based on community needs and creating partnership connections to build successful foundations
A proud queer, disabled, German-American, Kate holds an undergraduate degree in women’s and gender studies from Keene State College, complemented by a MED in community development and action from Vanderbilt University. Passionate about quality seafood, she cherishes moments with her two dogs and has an affinity for well-fitted jeans.
48. Angela Hacker
Quality Director, Mckenzie Medical Center
Angela Hacker is the Quality Director at McKenzie Medical Center in West TN. Before giving in to her passion for helping people and starting a career as a nurse in 2006, Hacker helped manage DLH Engineering Inc., a successful broadcast engineering business. Her nursing experience started in an OB practice where she loved to assist in deliveries and surgery. In 2007 Hacker joined the staff at McKenzie Medical Center, a healthcare center that services close to 500 patients a day in four locations with over 250 employees. Once there she transitioned quickly from float nurse into management.
Her love for the analytical and a need for a challenge helped her fine-tune medical workflows and increase practice revenue. As Quality Director she attained a Level 3 NCQA PCMH rating for all four clinics. She helped earn top-quality scores for MMC with BCBS and UHC in 2016. She works with a team of healthcare providers and staff to develop practice protocols and sees that they are implemented in an efficient and practical way. She participates on leadership teams including NACO’s Physician Engagement Team. If it starts with an acronym and is related to healthcare she’s probably involved in it.
49. Angelee Murray
Director of Corporate & Community Development, ReVIDA Recovery Centers, LLC
Angelee Murray is a native of East Tennessee and currently serves as the Director of Corporate & Community Development for ReVIDA Recovery Centers. Murray has more than a decade of successful experience in organizational development and non-profit management with 25 years of nationally ranked achievements in the fields of sales and marketing. She has been recognized consistently for performance excellence and community development throughout the Appalachian Highlands and the State of Tennessee.
Murray has been named an advocate and educator for the National Safety Council, served as a panelist with former director of the White House Office of National Drug Control Policy, Michael Botticelli, and was recently named a 2020-21 Appalachian Regional Commission (ARC) Leadership Fellow. Her personal leadership style is one of "kind confidence" and her favorite quote by Bob Kerry is "Unexpected kindness: the most powerful, least costly & most underrated agent of human change."
50. Marian Matthis
Marketing Director, Blackbird Studio
Marian Matthis began her professional career 30 years ago. Today, she is the Marketing Director of Blackbird Studio. The Blackbird Academy was started in 2013 by recording and live sound engineer John McBride and his wife, country artist Martina McBride. They created Blackbird Studio in 2002, which has grown to be a top production stop for recording artists like Taylor Swift, Jack White, The Black Keys, Rush, Keith Urban, Queen, and many more. Matthis manages the social media channels, websites, SEO, email marketing, and other digital stuff for The Blackbird Academy and Blackbird Studio. She also designs print advertising and the catalog for The Blackbird Academy.
Matthis has been a freelance marketing/design pro at Big Moon Marketing since 2000. There she found her love of designing everything related to music and created pieces for artists such as George Strait, Trisha Yearwood, Dolly Parton, Lee Ann Womack, Terri Clark, and many others. In 2018, she joined authors Dwight Lewis and Susan Thomas in creating the book, Temple’s Tigerbelles: An Illustrated History of the Women Who Outran the World, which she designed and produced. Matthis is a former manager, admin & design in the newsroom and marketing director at The Tennessean newspaper in Nashville. Matthis holds an MBA from Vanderbilt University and an undergraduate degree in marketing from Murray State University.