With well over 3,500 YLC alumni making a difference through board service, it’s always a joy to catch up with one of our graduates and hear about the amazing work they’re doing to support the local nonprofit community. We recently had a chance to connect with YLC Nashville Spring 2024 graduate, Dr. Mackenzie J. Millet, who serves as the Director of Educational Leadership for Millet & Associates, a consulting firm focused on uplifting the full education ecosystem through strategic leadership planning, community engagement, teacher training, and mentorship. Mackenzie was happy to share more about the work she’s doing to support both the Rejoice School of Ballet and the American Heart Association’s Young Professionals Board. Check out our interview with Mackenzie below:
Since graduating from the YLC program, you’ve been super active and engaged in supporting organizations like the Rejoice School of Ballet and the American Heart Association. What inspired you to connect with those organizations and dedicate your time and talents to supporting their mission?
I am a strong believer that the challenges of the world are my opportunities for service. I was blessed with the opportunity to serve on the Board of Directors for Rejoice School of Ballet and the Young Professionals Board for the American Heart Association.
Rejoice School of Ballet is a nonprofit serving young people across East Nashville, North Nashville, and Antioch with a simple but powerful belief that every child deserves access to the arts. No student is turned away, and through income-based tuition, need-based scholarships, and free dancewear, Rejoice intentionally removes barriers so all young people can experience a quality dance education. More than a dance school, it is a place where students grow in confidence, discipline, creativity, and pride in who they are becoming; many for the first time through formal arts training. Rejoice is centered on community, opportunity, and hope to help open doors, nurture potential, and ensure that every child who dreams of dancing is met with support and possibility rather than limitation.
I am inspired to serve on the board on the Young Professionals Board for the American Heart Association because of its unwavering commitment to saving lives and advancing heart health for all communities. Heart disease remains the leading cause of death for women, particularly Black women and this reality is deeply personal to me, as heart conditions run in my own family. Serving in this capacity would allow me to turn my personal experiences into purposeful action by learning, educating, and advocating for prevention and equitable care. I am especially passionate about reaching underserved communities, ensuring access to life-saving resources, and being a servant leader who helps drive meaningful change so that more families can live longer, healthier lives.
How has your YLC training helped you as a new leader in the community and particularly in the nonprofit board room?
The training I received through YLC equipped me with both the practical tools and the confidence to serve effectively as a new leader, especially within the nonprofit boardroom. It deepened my understanding of my strengths while helping me identify areas for growth, allowing me to lead with greater self-awareness and purpose. Just as importantly, it connected me to a powerful network of passionate, community-minded leaders who continue to inspire and challenge me. Through this experience, I have learned how to use my voice with intention; advocating for those who may not always be heard and contributing meaningfully to conversations that shape our community. YLC has prepared me not just to sit at the table, but to lead with integrity, collaborate thoughtfully, and make a lasting difference in the lives of others.
What advice would you share with other young professionals who want to be active in the community and serve on a nonprofit board?
My advice to other young professionals is simple: don’t wait, step up and serve! If you see a need, ask how you can help, volunteer your time, and use your voice to advocate for change, especially for those whose voices are often overlooked. I am deeply committed to fostering belonging, strengthening community, and creating meaningful opportunities that support all students; particularly those from underrepresented backgrounds. I believe each of us can make that same kind of impact. This work is rooted in my calling to serve, guided by Luke 12:48, “To whom much is given, much is required.” Lead with compassion, show up with intention, and trust that your willingness to serve can truly change lives.
How can other YLC alumni support the work that you’re doing?
Such a timely question! As Chair of Rejoice School of Ballet’s annual fundraiser, Bowling for Ballet, I would love the support of fellow YLC alumni as we celebrate the 5th year of this fundraiser and work toward our $50,000 goal. There are so many meaningful ways to get involved; through donations, sponsorships, attending performances, or simply helping us spread the word about the incredible work our dancers are doing. The fundraiser kicks off in April, with our celebration in July, and every bit of support helps us continue providing access to dance and opportunity for young people across Nashville. To learn more about the organization, please visit www.RejoiceBallet.com.