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.
Annual event celebrates 40 years of training Nashville’s next generation of nonprofit board leaders
Nashville, Tenn. – December 12, 2025 – Young Leaders Council (YLC), Middle Tennessee’s premier nonprofit dedicated to strengthening the region’s volunteer leadership base, proudly recognized two distinguished community leaders at its 2025 Leadership Luncheon on November 19.
Joanne Pulles, vice president of community engagement at HCA Healthcare, received the 2025 Diane L. Hayes Legacy of Leadership Award, honoring her extraordinary contributions to the Middle Tennessee community and her longstanding commitment to service and nonprofit leadership.
Brittany Irby, senior director of civic and community engagement for the Nashville Mayor’s Office, was named the 2025 Young Leader of the Year, recognizing her exceptional civic leadership, dedication to public service and impact on Nashville’s continued growth and inclusivity.
“Celebrating 40 years of Young Leaders Council means showcasing the exceptional people who have dedicated their lives to making our community better,” said Kim James, executive director of YLC. “Joanne and Brittany reflect the very best of Nashville’s spirit and we’re proud to watch them carry the mission forward.”
The awards were presented before an audience of more than 300 YLC alumni, nonprofit partners, corporate sponsors and community leaders gathered at The Westin Nashville. The luncheon also featured a keynote address from Matt Cahill, president of Parking Management Company and a U.S. military veteran with more than 30 years of executive leadership experience. Cahill delivered an inspiring message centered on resilience, compassion and purpose.
This year’s luncheon also marked a significant milestone: YLC’s 40th anniversary. Since its founding, YLC has equipped more than 3,600 young professionals with the leadership skills, mentorship and nonprofit board training needed to replenish Middle Tennessee’s volunteer leadership base. The annual luncheon serves as a key fundraising initiative for the YLC program, which offers multiple leadership cohorts each year across Middle Tennessee.
About Young Leaders Council
YLC was founded in 1985 by the Council of Community Services, in partnership with the Frist Foundation (formerly the HCA Foundation) and the United Way. More than 175 individuals complete the YLC training annually through the Nashville Spring; Junior League of Nashville; Massey College of Business at Belmont University; Nashville Fall; and Williamson County Cohorts. For more information, please visit www.youngleaderscouncil.org.
68 young professionals complete YLC’s fall training program as organization celebrates 40 years
Brentwood, Tenn. – November 24, 2025 – Young Leaders Council (YLC), the only nonprofit in Middle Tennessee committed to broadening and strengthening Nashville’s volunteer leadership base, today announced that 68 young professionals from the Nashville and Williamson County Fall 2025 Cohorts have completed the organization’s nonprofit board skills training program.
This diverse group of emerging leaders are now preparing to serve local nonprofits in meaningful leadership roles. Facilitated by industry experts, the program equips participants with a foundation in critical board skills and leadership.
Graduates completed the 11-week training in November and are now transitioning into year-long internships as non-voting board members across area nonprofit organizations. Through these placements, participants will apply their skills and energy immediately, supporting YLC’s mission to strengthen Nashville’s nonprofit sector by training diverse, committed individuals to effectively serve on boards.
“For forty years, YLC has prepared young professionals with the skills, insight and community focus required to make a meaningful difference in the nonprofit sector. Celebrating this year’s graduates during our 40th anniversary highlights the lasting impact of dedicated and values-driven leadership,” said Kim James, Executive Director of YLC. “These emerging leaders represent the future of Nashville’s nonprofit landscape. They are ready to step in, lead boldly and strengthen our community.”
A complete list of Fall 2025 graduates can be found here.
About Young Leaders Council
YLC was founded in 1985 by the Council of Community Services, in partnership with the Frist Foundation (formerly the HCA Foundation) and the United Way. More than 200 individuals complete the YLC training annually through the Nashville Spring; Junior League of Nashville; Massey College of Business at Belmont University; Nashville Fall; and Williamson County Cohorts. For more information, please visit www.youngleaderscouncil.org.
Leadership Nashville has announced its 49th class.
The class of 2025-2026 includes real estate executives, nonprofit CEOs and the leader of a professional sports team, to name a few.
The nine-month independent executive program, which begins in September, aims to strengthen Nashville by connecting diverse leaders and equipping them to tackle critical issues through a three-dimensional view of the city.
This year’s class was chosen from more than 250 applicants, according to a news release, Turner Nashe chaired the selection committee.
“Leadership Nashville was founded in 1976 as an executive-level connecting top leaders rather than a leadership training program,” Executive Director Evette White said in the release. “It provides a ‘master’s level backstage pass’ to the city and becomes a bridge, connecting people and the issues facing Nashville.”
Leadership Nashville’s 49th class:
Will Acuff, co-Founder, Corner to Corner
Eddie Alford, director of associate engagement, Pinnacle Financial Partners
Andrew Batey, founder & co-CEO, Beatdapp Software Inc.
Rickey Bearden, commander, Metro Nashville Police Department
Jennifer Sarah (JS) Bolton, senior director of manufacturing, Nissan North America; pres-elect, Junior League of Nashville
Herbert Brown, community & citizenship director, Turner Construction Co.
Crystal Churchwell Evans, vice president of development & alumni affairs, Fisk University
Olivia Cloud, managing editor, R.H. Boyd
Eric Cook, director, So+Co Community Initiatives
Sara Correa, chief marketing officer, Bridgestone West
Justin Crosslin, co-CEO, Crosslin
William Daughtrey, head of school, Montgomery Bell Academy
Alfred Degrafinreid, president & CEO, Leadership Tennessee
Ben Farrer; managing director, Nashville market leader; The Fallon Co.
Evan Holladay, founder & CEO, Holladay Ventures
Julie Honey, dean of Nursing, Belmont University
Brittany Irby, senior director of civic & community engagement, Office of Mayor Freddie O’Connell
Sam Jackson, president & CEO, The Healing Trust
Kim James, executive director, Young Leaders Council
The start of a new year is the perfect time to reflect on your personal and professional growth, set ambitious goals, and take actionable steps toward advancing your career. For executives and leaders, building a strong personal brand and cultivating meaningful relationships are essential for driving impact. Whether you’re a recent graduate of YLC or a seasoned alum, 2025 presents an opportunity to elevate your leadership and expand your influence.
Strengthen Your Personal Brand
Your personal brand is your professional reputation and the foundation for inspiring trust, attracting opportunities, and standing out as a leader. Start by refining your online presence: update your LinkedIn profile and professional bio to include milestones like YLC involvement, board affiliations, and nonprofit work. These details highlight your leadership journey and signal your commitment to growth and community impact.
Beyond refining your profile, consider how you share your story. Reflect on key lessons from your leadership journey and use them to spark conversations. Posting insights on leadership, community engagement, or industry trends positions you as a thought leader and strengthens your connection with your audience. Celebrate milestones along the way—whether joining a board, starting a new initiative, or mentoring others—and share these accomplishments. By tagging organizations and colleagues, you amplify your reach while showcasing your active engagement in leadership and collaboration.
Strong personal brands help leaders attract top talent, build partnerships, and drive meaningful change.
Cultivate Meaningful Relationships
Success as a leader isn’t just about what you know; it’s also about who you know. Building a strong professional network expands your access to ideas, opportunities, and support while keeping you connected to key industry trends. Take intentional steps to grow your relationships. Use LinkedIn to engage with peers, board members, and colleagues by commenting on their updates and sharing your own insights. Strengthen connections by scheduling one-on-one conversations with key stakeholders or mentors to explore opportunities for collaboration or guidance.
Beyond individual connections, foster community by attending YLC alumni events, participating in professional forums, or organizing gatherings. These spaces encourage collaboration and shared growth.
Your leadership roles, especially in nonprofit or community-focused spaces, offer unique opportunities to engage with influential stakeholders. Identify mentors or advocates within these roles who can guide your leadership journey and help you align your goals with broader organizational missions.
Take the Next Step
As YLC’s trusted PR and marketing partner, we are proud to support Nashville’s top leaders and companies. Whether you’re looking to refine your personal brand or create greater awareness for your organization, our team is here to help. Get in touch today to take the first step toward your most impactful year yet.
Julia Bonner is the president of Pierce Public Relations and serves as board chair of Young Leaders Council.
