Nfocus June 2024

FRESH FA CES

IWC PORTUGIESER AUTOMATIC.

Portugieser Automatic 42, Ref. IW501705

Conceived 85 years ago as an instrument watch with marine chronometer precision, the Portugieser has evolved into a timeless yet dynamic paragon of understated elegance. A slimmer case now makes the Portugieser Automatic 42 even more refined, while double-box glass sapphire crystals showcase the IWC-manufactured 52011 caliber with a power reserve of 7 days and the elaborately crafted dial in a new color called Dune.

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PRESENTE D BY KING JE WE LE RS

JUNE 6th - 15th

Discover the 15th Annual Nashville Watch Fair at King Jewelers to shop the newest releases and limited editions from over twenty prestigious watch brands.

Get exclusive access to the newest watch releases before they hit the market, giving you the chance to be ahead of the curve in the world of timepieces. Classic elegance, cutting-edge technology, or avant-garde design, there's something for every taste and style.

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At Amazon, we look to leverage our scale for good to help strengthen local communities. That means combining our strengths with those of community partners, working together to find creative solutions that have a lasting impact. Thank you to Nfocus’ Fresh Faces of Philanthropy Honorees for your impact in the community.

Fresh Faces of Philanthropy Celebrating the next generation of community-minded Nashvillians

Born to Run A stunning day at the 83rd annual Iroquois Steeplechase

On the Hunt

Hunting is a smashing success

THE COVER

June 2024 | Vol. XXXI, No. 6

Living the Mission

The annual Seton Celebration honors champions

Renewed in Spirit

The Reaching New Heights Luncheon raises funds and uplifts with gratitude

Pencils Down PENCIL celebrates 20 years of A Little Night of Music

66 Growth and Renewal

The Reclaiming Lives Luncheon brings a message of hope and optimism

69 Say It Southern-Style

The Frist Gala celebrates modern Southern art

72 Growing With Grace

The Cheekwood Society Dinner honors supporters and friends

74 Into the Woods

The Warner Parks Spring Luncheon shines a light on the parks system

Fresh Face of Philanthropy Adam Sansiveri at Sinema. Photographed by Tausha Dickinson. For more on Fresh Faces of Philanthropy, turn to page 21.

The Young and the Restless

Turning the spotlight on the next generation

WHEN HERBERT FOX started Nfocus over 30 years ago, his goal was to lift the veil on the Nashville social scene and give a peek into the world of those working to uplift the community. In the early days, Herbert covered birthday parties, anniversaries, weddings and top philanthropic events. He also highlighted the people who gave their time, talent and treasure to make Nashville a better city. Often, those he thrust into the spotlight were volunteers in the community, like Jane Dudley, Nan Parrish, Clare Armistead and so many more.

Today, the landscape of philanthropy has changed. There are more organizations helping the community than there were three decades ago. We’ve seen a generational shift in the makeup of boards and volunteers, and we welcome the masses of community-minded individuals and companies moving to Nashville every day.

In this issue, to highlight the work of the next generation of community supporters, we introduce a new feature — Fresh Faces of Philanthropy. This annual feature, like our Model Behavior series in September, celebrates those who dedicate their time to lifting up the causes they are most passionate about. Our first class of honorees is full of leaders in the professional world and in volunteerism.

Equally as exciting as the new feature, we take you through the annual Iroquois Steeplechase — a beloved stalwart event in the community benefiting the Monroe Carell Jr. Children’s Hospital at Vanderbilt. We also celebrate the spring event season. Gloria Houghland chronicles the very first Goodwill Hunting party, which raised crucial funds for Goodwill Industries of Middle Tennessee. We bring you inside the Seton Celebration, which honored Bill Carpenter, Sean Ryan and Amy Adams Strunk for their contributions to the community. And Whitney Clay takes you inside The Finch, an elevated pub experience located in the Union Station Baggage building.

There is a Girl Scout slogan that embodies the spirit of service: “Do a good turn daily.” This does not refer to grand and sweeping gestures, but rather to the small steps we can take every day to make the community stronger. By lifting up the community, we create the change every generation — past, present and future — hopes to see.

BY JANET KURTZ

Janet moved to Nashville 26 years ago. She is an avid reader, traveler and collector of fountain pens, and she lives in downtown Nashville with her husband, Ron, and their dog, Julep. Email her at jkurtz@nfocusmagazine.com or follow her on Instagram @musiccitytraveler

Editorial

founding editor

Herbert Fox, Jr.

editor-in-chief

Janet Kurtz

contributing editors

Lindsey Lanquist, Jack Silverman

social correspondent

Gloria Houghland

contributors

Beth Alexander, Emily Bache, Jeanette Barker, Abigail Breslin, Bentley Caldwell, Whitney Clay, Melissa Corbin, Carrington Fox, Margaret Littman, Carson Love, Hamilton Matthew Masters, Sandra Nelson, LaRawn Rhea, Nancy Vienneau

Art

art director

Christie Passarello

senior photographer

Eric England

staff photographer

Angelina Castillo

contributing photographers

Michael Scott Evans, Tausha Dickinson, Lorenzo Huerta, Hamilton Matthew

Masters

graphic designers

Sandi Harrison, Mary Louise Meadors, Tracey Starck

Marketing

events and marketing director

Olivia Moye Britton

marketing and promotions manager

Robin Fomusa

Advertising

publisher

Olivia Moye Britton

advertising solutions consultants

Teresa Birdsong, Maddy Fraiche, Michael Jezewski, Carla Mathis, Allie Muirhead, Heather Cantrell Mullins, Niki Tyree, Alissa Wetzel, Keith Wright

associate account executive

Kailey Idziak

sales operations manager

Chelon Hasty

advertising solutions associates

Audry Houle, Jack Stejskal

Circulation

circulation manager

Gary Minnis

Business

president

Mike Smith

chief financial officer

Todd Patton

IT director

John Schaeffer

Owner

FW Publishing, LLC

Bill Freeman

The Finch Has Landed

Milkshake Concepts opens a new restaurant in a Nashville landmark

THE FINCH AMERICAN GRILL, which recently opened in the Baggage Building at Union Station, combines two classics — a traditional, approachable menu and a historic Nashville location.

“We have some twists on things,” says Milkshake Concepts general manager Ben Rodriguez. “We have a few unique items, but nothing that’s really out of left field — nothing that people are going to have to say, ‘I don’t know what that word is.’”

This is the third location for the Dallasbased restaurant from hospitality group Milkshake Concepts, which also introduced Harper’s steakhouse to Music City. The 6,896-square-foot space, which most recently housed The Flying Saucer Draught Emporium, still has many original early-20th-century architectural elements — including arches, stonework and exposed brick. The former loading dock for the Baggage Building, constructed in 1900, now features garage doors that can be opened in nice weather.

Franklin-based Barnett Design Studio and the restaurant group’s in-house design team worked together to design the space. Touches like bird-feather wallpaper and goldtoned fixtures complement the building’s Art Deco history, while also giving it a light, airy feel. Originally imagined with a raw bar like the other two Finch locations, the restaurant is filled with navy blue and white accents.

The large, open restaurant, which seats 176, is loosely divided into four areas and designed to “be inviting,” says project manager Karrie Heideman with Barnett Design Studio. Throughout the room are round, wood tables for two paired with wood and oyster-white tweed chairs, and there are plush navy and white booths that accommodate eight. There’s even a standing bar for those who like to mingle.

The all-day dining menu offers starters like Szechuan popcorn chicken — one of Ben’s favorites — prepared with roasted peanuts, toasted Szechuan peppercorns, teardrop peppers and charred scallion aioli. Another starter is salmon crudo, made with cilantro lime vinaigrette, salsa macha, chili aioli, pickled onions and sliced scallions. Sandwiches include the Royale cheeseburger, featuring an Allen Brothers double smash patty, American cheese, house sauce and LTOP (lettuce, tomato, onion and pickle). Another “handheld” menu item is the blackened redfish tacos, served in flour tortillas with ancho chili slaw, mango pico de gallo and cilantro.

For those with heartier appetites, there’s the chicken-fried steak — The Finch is from Texas after all — served with a jalapeño sausage gravy and whipped mashed potatoes. One of The Finch’s signature dishes is a short rib with roasted poblano mac and cheese, ancho chili demi-glace and tobacco onions.

BY WHITNEY CLAY PHOTOGRAPHS COURTESY OF THE FINCH

COCKTAILS, ANYONE?

A striking wood and marble bar by Mesa, a Nashville-based custom furniture design company, sits at the center of the space. It’s paired with bar stools with cushioned backs and navy leather seats, which beckon patrons to stay a while. Specialty cocktails include the Finch 75, made with white peach and rosemary Grey Goose Essences, Bombay Sapphire gin, lemon, prosecco and rosemary. There are no fewer than four varieties of martinis. Happy hour is from 3 to 6 p.m. Monday through Friday, and drinks and a sampling of starters are o ered at discounted prices.

BRUNCH TIME

The Finch American Grill serves brunch from 10 a.m. to 3 p.m. Saturday and Sunday with favorites from the all-day menu o ered — plus some tasty additions. One highlight is the brûléed bananas French toast with whipped ricotta, Texas pecan caramel syrup, powdered sugar and seasonal berries. Another is a new take on chicken and wa es — perfect for Nashville. A sweet cream wa e is served with buttermilk fried chicken, hot honey and bourbon-infused maple syrup. From 3 p.m. until close, the all-day menu is available.

SWEET TOOTH

An open pastry kitchen lets patrons get a sneak peek of chefs whipping up scrumptious desserts, including banana bread pudding — fresh banana bread soaked in house custard and served with vanilla gelato and crumbled walnuts. There’s also a twist on classic Key lime pie, this version made with fresh raspberries, raspberry sauce and whipped cream. The goal from start to finish, Ben says, is to o er guests really good food, a high level of service and ultimately, to meet — or even exceed — their expectations.

HER STYLE

A simple closet-cleansing trick to try

WITH NEW GROWTH blooming all around us, the shifting season offers a perfect opportunity for personal revival and regrowth. We are all familiar with the tradition of spring cleaning. But I must say, the sudden fever to organize my pantry or clean out a junk drawer never really strikes me. Each week, I work with clients to edit and streamline their closets. But I sometimes struggle to practice what I preach in my own space. That’s right — this personal stylist’s closet can be currently categorized as cluttered

I’m quick to advocate for closet audits — and share my steps for accomplishing them. But you don’t have to do a big overhaul or clear out all your clutter at once. Although major closet purges sound nice in theory, I’ve found they often cause analysis paralysis and keep people from getting started. If you’re feeling intimidated, I’d encourage you to start smaller — with an approachable everyday hack that will make your closet feel fresh and organized.

Here’s my trick: Keep an extra hamper or basket tucked away in your closet. Every time you try on an item you don’t end up wearing, toss it in the basket rather than hanging it back up. At the end of each week or month, take a look at your discard pile. Did you miss any of those items or reach for them again? If the answer is “no,” it’s likely time to let them go. Make plans in advance for where you’ll donate or resell your clothes, so nothing holds you back once you decide to declutter. This will also give you some instant gratification, as you free up hangers and prime real estate in your closet.

It might sound counterintuitive, but keeping clutter to a minimum is one of the best ways to combat impulse purchases and overbuying. More isn’t always more — in fact, it rarely is.

BY CARSON LOVE

Carson Love is a wardrobe and personal stylist based in Nashville. Her main goal is to help clients present as and feel like their best selves, so they are ready for whatever life brings them. Find her online: CarsonLove.com or follow her on Instagram @carsonmlove.

HIS STYLE

Dressing for style, not stature

GENTLE SIRS! After what felt like an eternal winter, spring is finally upon us — and so is horse-racing season. May brought our beloved Iroquois Steeplechase and two of the Triple Crown horse races — the Kentucky Derby (shout-out to my home state) and the Preakness, with the Belmont Stakes being run this month. That got me thinking about the gentlemen who sit atop those magnificent beasts — the jockeys. Who’s dressing these guys when they’re not competing?

In their honor, this month’s column is dedicated to the short kings — the Tom Cruises, Bruno Marses and the Kevin Harts of the world. Ahead, a few style tips for gents 5-foot-9 and under.

Tailor, tailor, tailor

Good tailoring is essential for every man — especially shorter men. Shorter men often have trouble finding clothing that fits, because everything is too long. In these moments, a tailor is your best friend and your greatest ally. A good tailor can hem pants, shorten sleeves, and take in shirts and jackets, ensuring everything fits you just right.

Get it in slim

If you’re a shorter gent, odds are you also have a smaller frame — a smaller chest, narrower shoulders, etc. Consider getting your clothes in a “slim” fit. Clothes in a “classic” fit may be super baggy in the shoulders, chest and arms, creating a frumpy oversized silhouette that makes you look smaller than you actually are. Let’s leave the oversized clothes in the ’90s with MC Hammer, shall we?

Stick to vertical stripes

While horizontal stripes can be tough to pull off, vertical stripes often look great on shorter men. Vertical stripes visually elongate the torso and legs, giving the illusion of height. They also provide a slimming silhouette. And both are definitely a plus! Rule of thumb: Favor thinner stripes over chunky stripes. No one needs to look like they escaped from a Mississippi chain gang.

To our pint-sized princes and compact captains, I salute you! These tips should help you sift through silhouettes like a pro the next time you go shopping. And if you need more advice, you know where to find me. Peace and love, gents!

BY BENTLEY CALDWELL

Bentley Caldwell is a Nashville-based men’s personal stylist who helps guys up their style and confidence and take the guesswork out of dressing themselves. Have a fashion or styling question? Visit his website: BentleyCaldwellStyling.com or follow him on Instagram @bentleycaldwell.

Celebrating the next generation of community-minded Nashvillians

For over three decades, Nfocus has celebrated Nashville nonprofits and the community members who lift them up through leadership and volunteerism.

This year, we turn the spotlight on the next generation of philanthropists as they help organizations navigate the ever-changing landscape of a growing Nashville.

“Service to others is the rent you pay for your room here on Earth,” Muhammad Ali once said. And if that’s true, then the honorees in our first Fresh Faces of Philanthropy class have more than paid their share.

Editor: Janet Kurtz

Art Director: Christie Passarello

Photographer: Tausha Dickinson

Photo Assistants: Anthony Romano, Phil Silverberg

Stylists: Emily Bache, Abigail Breslin (The Wanderlust Girls)

Hair & Makeup Artists: Nichole Holloway-Smithson, Danielle Rose (MHD Beauty)

Set Stylist: Bruce Pittman

Location: Sinema

Boys & Girls Clubs of Middle Tennessee (BGCMT) lives and breathes its mission to enable all young people, especially those who need us most, to reach their full potential as productive, caring and responsible citizens.

Through a decade of working with BGCMT to provide academic support, character development and leadership skills to young people, Mary Avent has seen firsthand how a safe and positive environment can empower children to succeed. Even before embarking on her own philanthropic path, Mary watched her parents’ volunteer efforts, including her mother’s work with Boys & Girls Clubs in her hometown.

“Boys & Girls Clubs of Middle Tennessee plays a crucial role in helping shape the future of Davidson and Williamson counties by investing in youth and helping them reach their full potential,” Mary says.

She is proud to be the first minority to serve as president of the organization’s Club Blue young professionals group, which she helped found. Along the way, she has led club traditions like the holiday giftwrapping party, Trunk or Treat and the Love Me to Pieces Valentine’s Day event. Mary has supported Wine Down Main Street, the Ingram Cup Golf Challenge and the Great Futures Gala, organizing volunteers from HCA Healthcare, where she works as a Parallon senior project manager.

For the past five years, Mary has served as a judge for BGCMT’s Youth of the Year program, recognizing young leaders who have triumphed over personal challenges and made contributions to their club and community. Committed to nurturing the next generation of leaders, Mary supports local winners as they prepare for the state level of competition.

Through her work, Mary hopes to expand the reach of Boys & Girls Clubs, serve more young people and transform more lives in a world of constantly evolving challenges. “I aspire for the organization to persist in its pursuit of innovation and novel initiatives to meet the dynamic challenges facing today’s young generation,” she says.

BY CARRINGTON FOX

Dress: Jovani from Glitz Nashville

Earrings: Florit + Fauna

Necklace: Kendra Scott

Photographs Nathan Westerfield / Drawing Colin Del Santo

With a new state-of-the-art facility, the Tennessee State Museum lives its mission to procure, preserve, exhibit and interpret objects that relate to the history of Tennessee and Tennesseans.

When you meet Spencer Bowers, you are instantly hooked. This gregarious gentleman is as impressive in person as he is on paper. In fact, the Tennessee State Museum Foundation (TSMF) team will tell you they were lucky to have nabbed Spencer as their volunteer strategic communication adviser seven years ago. He has also served as an event volunteer, a donor and a co-chair of the Tennessee Waltz Patrons Party for the past three years.

Spencer is also an entrepreneur and owner of Spencer Bowers Strategies, a marketing and public relations firm. His background in political science, advertising and communications has proved invaluable for the many local political campaigns he’s worked on over the past several years.

Spencer will tell you his involvement with the TSMF has expanded his knowledge of our state, our culture and the benefit of understanding our history. “Growing up in rural West Tennessee, I know how hard it is to access affordable culture, art and entertainment,” he says. “The work we do at the TSMF provides traveling exhibits to students across all 95 counties. These vital services enrich lives and educate children from all walks of life.”

Through his tireless efforts, Spencer has inspired other young people to join him in making a difference for the TSMF and the community. For a nonprofit, there is no better gift than a future for the organization — and there is no better gift for Nashville as well. By helping the TSMF raise muchneeded funds for the museum and its children’s programs, Spencer has aided in providing a fun, safe and free family-friendly activity for Nashvillians. He hopes those programs continue to expand, educating and entertaining more children across the state.

BY GLORIA HOUGHLAND

Jacket, shirt, pants, bow tie: Hive & Colony

Lee Alexander McQueen redefined contemporary fashion with his extraordinary ability to blend exquisite craftmanship with imaginative storytelling. This exhibition, featuring more than 60 dress objects and 65 photographs, offers a rare glimpse into the life and mind of McQueen and introduces French photographer Ann Ray, the only photographer granted unfettered access to McQueen’s world.

FristArtMuseum.org @FristArtMuseum #TheFrist

Alexander McQueen. Silk brocade jacquard feather evening gown, Horn of Plenty, Autumn/Winter 2009. Courtesy of Barrett Barrera Projects. Photo: Barrett Barrera Projects Alexander McQueen. Rainbow moth print dress, La Dame Bleue, spring/summer 2008. Courtesy of Barrett Barrera Projects. Photo: Barrett Barrera Projects Alexander McQueen. Green velvet gown with copper flame embroidery, In Memory of Elizabeth Howe, Salem, 1692, Autumn/Winter 2007.

The Nashville Symphony brings to life its mission to entertain and educate audiences with varied opportunities to engage with orchestral music.

Music has always been part of Samantha Breske Magee’s life, and it laid the foundation for her career. Samantha, now the vice president of marketing strategy and business operations at X Agency, grew up going to the theater in her native Chicago. Having loved the Chicago Symphony Orchestra and studied violin in college, Samantha knew she wanted to get involved with the Nashville Symphony when she moved to town.

Samantha is enthusiastic about her involvement with the symphony. She has met some of her closest friends there and expanded connections with professionals outside her normal purview. She and her husband regularly attend concerts and connect socially with other associate board of directors and Crescendo Club members. She feels she has also deepened her professional skills by leading board meetings, revising bylaws and speaking on behalf of the symphony in the community. She now co-chairs Spirits of Summer, the Symphony’s third-largest fundraising event of the year.

Samantha recently completed the Young Leaders Council program, an 11-week intensive curriculum that prepares participants for effective board service and showcases the work of some of Nashville’s great nonprofits. She believes these skills have helped her better serve her clients and become a stronger leader in her company. Her work at the symphony has also prepared her for other roles in the Nashville arts community, as she now serves on the board of directors at the Nashville Repertory Theatre.

Samantha notes that the Nashville Symphony serves Middle Tennessee in so many meaningful ways — not only through industry-leading performances and events, but also through educational programs, advocacy and community outreach initiatives. “The associate board of directors is also leading the industry in next-generational leadership,” says Samantha. “I’m inspired to serve with such a passionate and engaged group of young professionals.”

BY GLORIA HOUGHLAND

Dress: Emanuel Ungaro from Gus Mayer Earrings, ring: Margaret Ellis Jewelry

BR  NDON

BCORBIN

BIG BROTHERS BIG SISTERS OF MIDDLE TENNESSEE

ig Brothers Big Sisters (BBBSMT) creates one-toone mentoring relationships throughout the community that ignite the power and promise of youth.

Brandon Corbin understands the value of a strong mentor. In fact, it was his college basketball coach’s encouragement that first led him to get involved with BBBSMT. Now, 25 years later, Brandon brings his experience as an Ascension Saint Thomas regional technology officer to his role as a volunteer board member for the organization, which provides youth facing adversity with guidance to succeed by matching them with adult mentors.

“As someone who has benefited from great mentors and role models, I know the impact it can have on your educational pursuits, your career aspirations and ultimately, the decisions you make in life,” Brandon says. “Being able to influence the life of ‘Littles’ — how they connect with their family and see themselves — is incredibly special and rewarding.”

As a longtime supporter of BBBSMT, Brandon has served on the Council of Ambassadors to create awareness for the annual breakfast fundraiser, which he co-hosted (virtually) at the height of the pandemic. He also participates in the crucial personto-person work of mentoring young people. “The overwhelming majority of ‘Littles’ we are able to match with ‘Bigs’ have shown improvement in academic performance, positive feelings and connections with school, ability to regulate their emotions, development of their passions, and belief in themselves,” Brandon says.

Meanwhile, the experience of working with ‘Littles’ has shaped the way Brandon approaches his life, broadening his understanding of what it means to show up for his community and pay blessings forward. “Most importantly, it has made me a better father,” he says.

As Nashville grows, there is a greater need than ever for adults willing to mentor young people, and Brandon wants to encourage more people to get involved. “In the end, it’s not only the ‘Littles’ who benefit, but also the Bigs and the community,” he says.

BY CARRINGTON FOX

Dedicated to serving as a safe space for young people, the Oasis Center works to advance youth well-being, amplify young voices and create a more just community.

Jill Heyman, director of global digital capabilities for Mars Petcare, learned about the Oasis Center through her involvement with the Junior League of Nashville. She has spent the last 12 years volunteering and advocating for the organization and the important work it does.

According to Jill, several lawyers started the Oasis Center, because they realized young people needed a safe place to go where they could channel their passions and unleash their potential. The organization has continued to fulfill that mission over the last 50-plus years, empowering young people across many facets of life and elevating their voices.

Jill has been involved in every aspect of the Oasis Center. She has served as a crisis shelter and outreach volunteer, helped create the Youth Professionals group, led two fundraising events and served as a board member. She is now the board president. Jill is humbled by the youth at Oasis and is constantly in awe of their resilience. “There aren’t bad kids,” she says. “There are kids who do bad things because they are misguided, mistreated and misunderstood.”

According to her friends, Jill — who also fosters rescue dogs — has an impressive skill set and a heart of gold. She hopes the Oasis Center will continue to thrive in Nashville, serving as the top organization giving young people opportunities they might not otherwise have.

Jill is determined to spread the word about Oasis, so more Middle Tennessee residents will learn about programming that could benefit young people they know. She wants the Oasis Center to be the go-to safe place if a young person encounters a challenge, wants to be heard or needs a place to feel accepted. “I’ve learned that kids have walls up,” Jill says. “But with some kindness and understanding, their walls can come down.”

BY GLORIA HOUGHLAND

Dress: Jovani from Glitz Nashville Earrings: Florit + Fauna

The Ruby Gala is an annual event that supports people with HIV, helping them overcome barriers to receiving treatment and imprinting sustainable HIV care onto our future by recruiting and training HIV practitioners.

“I truly believe the end of HIV is achievable in our generation,” says Sean Kelly, medical director of the Vanderbilt Comprehensive Care Clinic (VCCC), Vanderbilt’s HIV treatment center serving more than 3,800 clients. “I hope the Ruby Gala and the Ruby Legacy Fund will help to get Tennessee there faster.”

Sean has served as board chair of the Ruby Gala since 2019, when he launched the event to help clients overcome barriers to medical care. Since its debut, the annual black-tie-optional event has funded a transportation program, an on-site food pantry, a harmreduction program for clients with substance use disorders, and a dental program, among other initiatives.

“When someone living with HIV can access medical care and control the infection, the virus becomes undetectable in their blood and they can’t transmit the virus to others,” Sean explains. “By breaking down barriers to receiving HIV care, we can get more people to the undetectable level and further reduce new HIV infections in our community.” Sean notes that the percentage of VCCC patients with undetectable levels of HIV is now among the highest in the country — a feat he attributes to programs funded by the Ruby Gala. “While directly benefiting people living with HIV, the Ruby Gala also directly benefits the public health of Nashville,” he adds.

At the 2024 Ruby Gala at Marathon Music Works, Sean and his team launched the Ruby Legacy Fund, a permanent endowment to ensure sustainable and equitable access to HIV care across Tennessee until the HIV epidemic is over.

“The support from the community toward our mission really has been overwhelming, far greater than I expected,” Sean says. “Seeing this support and advocacy — often from those who knew very little about HIV before they met me — has taught me, truly, that we absolutely can end HIV.”

BY CARRINGTON FOX

Jacket, shirt, cufflinks, pants: Hive & Colony Tie: Egara

With a mission to create, perform, teach and promote dance, the Nashville Ballet highlights the work of artists in the community and brings ballet to the forefront in Nashville.

“If there is a cause that benefits children and youth, you can just about always count me in,” says Apphia Maxima. Apphia joined the board of the Nashville Ballet in 2021, where she has served on committees for community engagement, development and the Ballet Ball and co-chaired Last Call. Apphia is a member of the executive committee and the upcoming chair of the DEI committee. She also chairs the board of The Starr Institute, which seeks to educate the community about child sexual abuse and exploitation.

When Apphia met Paul Vasterling, the artistic director emeritus of the Nashville Ballet, he spoke about the organization’s diversity and inclusion efforts. “Joining the board in a time when, for so many reasons, sociological tensions were especially fraught, and knowing it to be a safe, intentional space has meant the world to me,” she says.

New York native Apphia has embraced her new hometown and its powerful sense of community.

“Nashville is a city of humans who seek a sense of belonging and are always eager to help,” she says. “The arts community is fantastic that way — helping you find the strings that can bind and hold on tightly.”

She applauds Vasterling and current artistic director Nick Mullikin for their vision to unite the Nashville community through local creativity and talent. “We tie together who we are as a city with the beautiful art form of dance and our ability to tap into the rich tapestry of local talent,” Apphia says, citing the success of Nashville Ballet’s Lucy Negro Redux — a contemporary ballet that earned recognition on Great Performances on PBS.

“We live our diversity, we live our culture and we stay embracing the talent of artists of many backgrounds in this beautiful city,” Apphia says.

BY CARRINGTON FOX

Dress: LAPOINTE from Kirna Zabête Jewelry: Amatostyle x Wanderlust Girls

The Tennessee Performing Arts Center lifts up the community through performance art and arts education, offering an inclusive place to enjoy music, theater, dance and more.

After 15 years in New York as a former Broadway producer, entrepreneur and professional classical musician, Adam Sansiveri is still surprised and delighted by how closely his passions and present career in finance align. He is a senior managing director and head of wealth management for AllianceBernstein here in Nashville. And it is exactly this combination of interests and talent that led him to get involved with not just one nonprofit, but several.

“There is nothing better than giving back to your community, and as someone who has benefited so much from the arts, it’s incredibly rewarding to play a role in the growth and impact [of] these amazing organizations,” Adam says. “The arts teach you empathy, and working with these organizations continues to do that for me.”

When Adam gets involved, he goes all out and never looks back. So far, he has worked with TPAC for over four years. He chaired the TPAC Gala in 2022, helping bring back the organization’s big event after the pandemic. He served as lead producer for the 2024 TPAC Gala, leveraging his background as a producer to bring Broadway stars and a director here — and nearly doubling the funds ever raised. He is currently helping lead the capital campaign to secure TPAC’s future and build a state-of-the-art cultural epicenter for Nashville on the East Bank.

Adam was nominated as a Fresh Face of Philanthropy by several organizations. He is the longest-serving board member of Broadway Dreams, where he started an annual gala raising millions of dollars for arts education. He’s also on the board of the Heritage Foundation of Williamson County; he worked on the capital campaign to build a new theater for Studio Tenn; and he’s a regular sponsor for OZ Arts.

BY GLORIA HOUGHLAND

3BR, 2.5BA, 2,234 Square Feet Owner

The Community Resource Center supplies its partners with essentials (like hygiene and cleaning products) so they can focus on providing critical services to Middle Tennessee’s most vulnerable populations.

Tara Tenorio first intersected with Community Resource Center (CRC) and its mission to provide essential hygiene items in times of crisis and ongoing need after the 2010 flood, when local nonprofits came together to heal and rebuild the city. After working with CRC for a decade in a professional role, Tara joined the board in 2022.

A community relations and communications executive at Meta, Tara finds herself drawn to the big-picture problem-solving at CRC. “We’re looking at poverty, partnership and community needs holistically, then determining how hygiene fits into the equation,” she says.

While CRC’s three-person team distributed 1 million products across seven counties last year, hygiene banks are still relatively new, with fewer than a dozen in the country.

Communicating the severity of need is essential to building support, so CRC works to broadcast the realities of hygiene insecurity and period poverty. For example, food stamps cannot be used to purchase many basics, such as cleansers and menstrual hygiene supplies. Changing systemic barriers to access requires advocacy to engage elected officials.

It’s not a challenge that Tara takes lightly. “I’ve shed more than a few tears thinking about how privileged I am to get to be on this team,” she says. “It has also taught me to set an even higher bar for the level of time and care I need to be willing to dedicate to an organization if I’m going to take up a seat at the board table.”

Part of that service includes keeping an eye out for the next generation of leaders ready and willing to commit their energy and expertise to the work of CRC. “For us, this is about more than hygiene,” Tara says. “We are shaping how a community works together.”

BY CARRINGTON FOX

Dress: Amsale from Gus Mayer Cuff, ring: Margaret Ellis Jewelry

CAMILLE CRAWFORD

Studio Tenn is a creative and inspirational theatrical space that exists to bring people together, not divide them.

Ethan Ward, an associate at Bass, Berry & Sims, joined Studio Tenn as a board intern in the fall of 2020 after completing the Young Leaders Council program. He loved theater and knew Studio Tenn’s reputation for putting on amazing productions. He also saw the importance of an organization like Studio Tenn in the community. Getting involved presented a great opportunity for someone who loved theater, but whose talents seemed more suited to the boardroom than the stage. Ethan now chairs the board resource committee and serves on the executive and finance committees.

Ethan joined the board at an interesting and difficult time. COVID proved challenging for Studio Tenn, but also provided an opportunity to reset and embark on strategic planning. While many regional theater companies have closed over the last few years, Studio Tenn has taken steps to emerge stronger than ever. The organization just opened Turner Theater in the Factory — a permanent, purpose-built theater that will serve as its home for many years to come.

Studio Tenn brings Broadwaycaliber theater productions right to our backyard, and Ethan has gotten an inside look at what it takes to operate and sustain a nonprofit theater company. In his law practice, he regularly works with nonprofit and tax-exempt organizations. He feels it is a win-win for him to serve Studio Tenn with his legal experience — and to better serve his clients because of what he has learned as a board member.

Last season, Studio Tenn saw record-setting ticket sales. And Ethan thinks next season will be even better. “This is such an exciting time for Studio Tenn, as we grow our awareness throughout not just Middle Tennessee, but the whole country,” says Ethan. “I hope to see continued and sustainable growth in a way that ensures Studio Tenn is a lasting presence.”

BY GLORIA HOUGHLAND

Jacket, shirt, pants: State & Liberty Tie: Joseph & Feiss

JOIN US TO CELEBRATE THE HONOREES OF FRESH FACES OF PHILANTHROPY

JUNE 5 / 5:30 PM

THE OAK ROOM AT NELSON’S GREEN BRIER DISTILLERY

Join us as we celebrate up-and-coming Nashville philanthropists with our Fresh Faces of Philanthropy reception. The distinguished honorees are 45 years or younger, active in the community and nominated by the nonprofit organizations for which they volunteer or serve on a board or committee. Honorees will be featured in the wildly popular June issue of Nfocus, and celebrated at an evening soiree featuring light bites, cocktails and conversation.

IN PARTNERSHIP WITH SCAN TO PURCHASE TICKETS AND LEARN MORE

BORN TO RUN

A stunning day at the 83rd annual Iroquois Steeplechase

Anyone who has spent a few years in Nashville knows the weekend of Steeplechase — which is the same weekend as Mother’s Day and Vanderbilt graduation — can be rainy and cold or hot as blazes. But as guests arrived at Percy Warner Park for the 83rd annual Iroquois Steeplechase, it was already clear this weekend would be different.

Kendall Merrick, John Rothermel

The sunny day peaked at 76 degrees, which meant everyone was in high spirits. The boxes, Iroquois Club and the Paddock Clubs all filled early, leaving lots of time for socializing, shopping and visiting the Nfocus Portrait Studio. Official Iroquois Steeplechase milliner Christine A. Moore was on hand in the Gus Mayer tent, with plenty of hats on display and available for future Steeplechases. As guests unpacked their coolers, heaps of chicken salad and pimento cheese sandwiches began to appear — only to disappear again.

Tanger presented the annual Nfocus Steeplechase Style Contest. Judges Emily Bache and Abigail Breslin (of the Wanderlust Girls) and Sissy Brown (of 92Q) had the difficult task of perusing the crowded tents and boxes, searching for winners in each of the six categories. In the end, Leila Tsaroumis took home Most Stylish Female, Wirth Campbell won Most Stylish Male, and LaDonna Boyd and Waddell Wright earned Most Stylish Couple. Bunny Hempel won Most Outrageous Style, while Shannen Stewart triumphed in the Social Media Style contest. Kelly Rowland Vinckier designed her own hat and earned the highly coveted Most Stylish Hat award, presented by Christine A. Moore.

While known locally by many as a hat event, the Iroquois Steeplechase is a revered stop on the National Steeplechase Association circuit. This year, the stakes were high for one particular horse — Snap Decision. Born in Kentucky, the equestrian athlete descends from Hard Spun, a Kentucky Derby second-place finisher, and Salute, a mare with an impressive pedigree. From a very early age, Snap Decision stood out as a superior competitor. Today, the 10-year-old gelding enjoys a career earning over $1 million.

On this sunny Steeplechase afternoon, Snap Decision was in line to make history as only the second horse in the 83-year history of Steeplechase to win the Calvin Houghland Iroquois Hurdle Stakes three times. Ridden by veteran jockey Graham Watters, Snap Decision was ready to run. As the seven competitors took their places at the starting line, a hush fell over the crowd of 30,000 spectators. As the horses set off down the three-mile course, Vae Patron took the lead for what would turn out to be 15 of the 16 jumps. After the 15th jump, Snap Decision exploded down the track and over the last hurdle, overtaking Vae Patron and creating a heartstopping finish.

BY JANET KURTZ PHOTOGRAPHS BY ERIC ENGLAND, ANGELINA CASTILLO AND HAMILTON MATTHEW MASTERS

Nfocus Style Contest judges Abigail Breslin, Sissy Brown, Emily Bache

Bunny Hempel, Waddell Wright, LaDonna Boyd, Wirth Campbell, Leila Tsaroumis, Kelly Rowland Vinckier

Belinda Berry, Thomas Barrett

Lori and Caleb Hemmer

Iain Briggs, Donald McKenzie

Matthew and Margaret Drewes, Patty Wright, Michele Hasselblad, child ambassador Everett Drewes

Ryan and Sara Jo Walker

Ashley and Hunter Herring

Katherine Kelly with Mary Frances, Christian Knestrick with Mary Rich

Rhett Raum, Annie Feinberg, Eric and Caitlin Olson

Caroline Randall Williams and Timothy Darrah Adelaide, Lydia

Leila Tsaroumis, Bob Vriend

Rick and Vicki Horne, Sherrill and Lee Bandlow

Sara Beth Scott, Lauren Richards, Susan Schroeder

Christina Arquette, Melissa Alexander, Mary Joyce

Michael and Marian Cole, Caroline Cole, Eleanor Cole

Suzanne Smothers, Alissa Bodart

Margo and David Lombardi

Jason Bradshaw and Bob Deal

Trey with Linda Nagle

Dawn White, Alice Rolli

Jennifer and Jamey Parker

Apphia Maxima, Emily Humphreys, Julie Schneider, Robinette Gaston

Danielle Breezy, Stacey Rhodes

Elevating Home Care in Middle Tennessee with The Perfect Companion

At The Perfect Companion, we are dedicated to surpassing the standard in senior care:

Comprehensive Caregiver Training: In-depth, in-person instruction with hands-on skills and client-specific training.

Enhanced Safety Measures: Rigorous background checks and routine drug screenings for peace of mind.

Fair Compensation:

Competitive living wages to foster a dedicated and skilled workforce.

Experience The Perfect Companion difference— where we exceed expectations in delivering superior care

John and Julie Schneider

Vicki Horne

Jaylon Patton, Jordan Schumate

Brian Scurlock, LaToya Pittman, Eugene Hampton II

Natalie White, Lilly Frazer, Bella Rinker, Mary Frances Musso

Brad Turney, Jerry Mace, Bill Meador

Taylor and Stacey Rhodes

Donnie and Kayla Counts

Reagan and Eli Harris

Megan Pinson, Ali Martin

Geary Leathers, Morel Enoch

Lexie Tietgens, Ashby Viertel

Brian Scurlock, LaToya Pittman, Eugene Hampton II and Sabrina Hampton, Kandra Merriweather, Tanya Lyde

Taylor and Stuart Bayes

Wirth Campbell, Stefan Baskin, Joe Kennedy

MOST STYLISH FEMALE

Thank you to all the stylish Nashvillians for showing off your fabulous race day style at this year’s Iroquois Steeplechase! Congrats to our 2024 Nfocus Steeplechase Style contest winners.

MOST STYLISH MALE

THANK YOU TO OUR JUDGES AND SPONSORS Abigail Breslin, Kendall Merrick (Tanger), Sissy Brown, Emily Bache

MOST STYLISH HAT MOST STYLISH COUPLE SOCIAL MEDIA STYLE

MOST OUTRAGEOUS STYLE

LEILA TSAROUMIS

WIRTH CAMPBELL

LADONNA BOYD, WADDELL WRIGHT

KELLY ROWLAND VINCKIER

BUNNY HEMPEL

SHANNEN STEWART

$4,850,000

IMidniht Specil

Nashville Children’s Theatre enchants with Grand Night

n the 1920s, the Nashville chapter of the Junior League envisioned a local children’s theater that would foster a love of performing arts in future generations. The theater’s first performance — Aladdin and His Wonderful Lamp — captivated audiences as the production enjoyed multiple sold-out performances in 1931. For generations since, the Nashville Children’s Theatre (NCT) has delighted audiences and planted seeds of appreciation for the performing arts. Each year, the children’s theater is transformed into an entirely new world for its signature Grand Night event. This year, the theme — Once Upon a Midnight — welcomed guests into the heart of an enchanted forest, complete with roaming characters and a charming bar called Grandma’s Cocktail Cottage.

After the reception, guests took their seats for a delicious dinner from the Clean Plate Club. Ernie Nolan, NCT’s executive artistic director, addressed the room of supporters. “Here at NCT, we believe in nurturing the next generation of theater lovers and creative minds,” he said. “It’s events like Grand Night that make all this possible.” Ernie discussed NCT’s efforts to award drama school scholarships to aspiring performers and subsidize tickets for Metro Nashville Public School students. Throughout the evening, parents and past performers shared testimonials about NCT’s work and the impact it has on the community.

Following dinner, guests enjoyed a rousing auction full of enticing lots, like tickets to Tennessee Titans games and a stay at a luxury Mexican resort. Then performers treated guests to a showcase of songs from some of NCT’s upcoming musical premieres. An additional surprise was in store for revelers when American Idol finalist Melinda Doolittle took the stage to perform. The magical evening helped support and spotlight the NCT, which seeks to “nurture the next generation of global citizens by providing transformational theatrical experiences.”

BY JANET KURTZ

PHOTOGRAPHS BY MICHAEL SCOTT EVANS

Charles Avent Sr., Mary Avent, Valerie Avent, Charles Avent Jr.

Amy Bryant

Amy and Julian Bryant

Megan Murphy Chambers, Piper Jones, Sarah Zanotti

Hermica and Seyi Alalade

Allie Jones, William Wilson

Melinda Doolittle

On the Hunt

Goodwill Hunting is a smashing success

The inaugural thrift-shop-chic Goodwill Hunting, benefiting Goodwill Industries of Middle Tennessee, was a smashing success. In fact, this event is a hot contender for Best New Party of the year. Co-chairs John and Julia Cammack Truemper, Cameron Sweeting and Jeff Young, along with honorary chairs Laura and Freddy McLaughlin, pulled out all the stops, making sure attendees of all ages would be clamoring for a Goodwill Hunting 2 next year.

There were photo opportunities galore as the dynamic decorations team of enthusiastic volunteers, led by H Three Events guru Hugh Howser, scoured every inch of the 13,900-square-foot Goodwill Outlet Store on Cockrill Bend Boulevard looking for tabletop centerpiece components. They did a knockout job, with every table displaying a different theme. Leading up to the event, guests were urged to do the same thrifting to find the perfect outfit to wear to this fun soirée. They did not disappoint, with one guest displaying his inner Minnie Pearl by wearing his costume with Goodwill price tags proudly showing.

In addition to the playful tabletops and spirited guest attire, there was a scrappy scavenger hunt, a small but mighty silent auction, a fun dancing band (BanDlux) and a scrumptious Southern supper featuring mild, hot or “Southern” fried chicken and a plethora of sides from Hattie B’s. One guest stated succinctly what everyone was thinking: “This was the perfect party. It was easy and fun with don’t-have-to-think-about-it clothes in a can’t-messit-up warehouse with finger-licking-good food at a reasonable price point.” All that while supporting a great cause.

Hats off (and there were a lot of chapeaux) to party founder Lucie Cammack, who created and produced the idea for this new, multigenerational event. “My father-in-law Bill Cammack was a longtime supporter of Goodwill for 20-plus years, and I worked in their e-commerce department for almost 10 years,” said Lucie. “I experienced firsthand the transformation of lives that Goodwill offered my coworkers, empowering all through job training, fostering personal growth and giving them a sense of purpose in life. I’m already planning the 2025 Goodwill Hunting! Hottest new party in town!”

BY GLORIA HOUGHLAND

PHOTOGRAPHS BY ANGELINA CASTILLO

Co-chair Cameron Sweeting, co-chair Jeff Young, Lucie Cammack, co-chairs Julia Cammack Truemper and John Truemper

Matthew and Rebecca Bourlakas, honorary co-chairs Laura and Freddy McLaughlin

Chuck Welch, Beth Alexander, Bill Forrester

Alexa Lipman, Sandra Lipman, Bell Newton, Sara Jo Walker

Caroline and Doug Kiesler

Will and Maggie Tucker

Rick and Anne Gernert

Livin the Mission

The annual Seton Celebration honors champions

Guests of the annual Seton Celebration arrived at the Conrad Nashville on a perfect evening in April. The event — supporting the important work of the Ascension Saint Thomas Foundation — was an evening filled with gratitude. Co-chairs Behin Barahimi and Brett Inglis and Julianne and Jeff Williams worked with the incredible Jenny Richter Events team to create a special evening honoring exemplary guests. As attendees arrived, they enjoyed specialty cocktails in the reception space and on the adjoining terrace. Hors d’oeuvres passed through the room, giving a hint at the dinner to follow.

Once the ballroom doors opened, the party really got started. Music from the Downtown Band energized the crowd, with classic jazz and big band songs playing as guests took their seats. Kelly Lang took the stage to talk about what the organization means to her and to perform her hit song “I’m Not Going Anywhere.” The Conrad Nashville team prepared a delicious dinner, beginning with a spring-themed asparagus and field pea dish that fit the evening beautifully. The entrée was salmon resting atop a bed of couscous and radishes, and dessert was a refreshing lemon custard with a shortbread crust.

After dinner, Fahad Tahir, president and CEO of Ascension Saint Thomas, took the stage to bring the evening’s mission into focus. The Seton Celebration is an annual tradition, begun by the foundation in 1991 to honor health care professionals and community leaders who exemplify service and excellence in their professions. Through the commitment of their time, talent and treasure, these Seton Society honorees lift up the community and embody the legacy of St. Elizabeth Ann Seton, who founded the order that created Saint Thomas Hospital (now Ascension Saint Thomas).

This year’s Seton Society honorees were Bill Carpenter, Sean Ryan and Amy Adams Strunk. Though these leaders have made wide-ranging contributions to the community, many of the remarks about them highlighted similar traits — kindness, compassion and having a servant’s heart.

BY JANET KURTZ PHOTOGRAPHS BY ERIC ENGLAND

Patrice Sanders, Joanna and Price Wiley

Kelly Lang

Roseann Rogers and Aashish Shah, Nan Parrish

Fahad Tahir and Fatima Nawaz

Co-chairs Brett Inglis and Behin Barahimi

Co-chairs Julianne and Jeff Williams

Jacfranz Guiteau, Jenna-Lyn Johnson, Coffi Bell and Brandon Corbin

Renewed in Spirit

The Reaching New Heights Luncheon raises funds and uplifts with gratitude

On a beautiful, sunny (albeit breezy) day, 350-plus attendees arrived on the picturesque grounds of Hillwood Country Club in their springtime best for the 2024 Reaching New Heights Luncheon benefiting the Women’s Program at Cumberland Heights. The luncheon and fundraiser’s popularity was evident, as guests showed up excited to celebrate women in recovery and support those with substance use disorders.

This year’s featured speaker, Lisa Smith, was named one of New York Law Journal’s 2020 “Trailblazers.” Lisa’s memoir, Girl Walks Out of a Bar, recounts her personal experience with and recovery from high-functioning alcohol and cocaine addiction. She is passionate about breaking the stigma of addiction and mental health disorders and is a frequent speaker on the subject. Lisa is a founding member of the SHE RECOVERS Foundation’s Legal Professionals group and serves on the board of directors for the Lawyers Depression Project, which works to destigmatize mental health disorders and provide peer support. She cohosts the podcast “Recovery Rocks” and has appeared on Today, BBC News and Fox News discussing substance use disorders. The crowd was enthralled by every word this dynamic doyenne had to say.

Nashville entrepreneurs and philanthropists Stephanie and John Ingram were the presenting sponsors of Reaching New Heights this year, and Kerry Kirkland and Jennifer Erickson were the co-chairs. One of the highlights of the event was the presentation of the 2024 Sheila Keeble Award. This year’s award went to Monica McDougall, a devoted advocate for recovery for 20 years and a former chair of Reaching New Heights, which has raised over $1 million to help women with substance use disorders rebuild their lives.

As the event ended, a sense of gratitude filled the room. The Reaching New Heights luncheon had not only raised vital funds for the Women’s Center at Cumberland Heights, but it had also sparked a flame of inspiration in the hearts of all who attended. With Lisa Smith’s words echoing in their minds and Monica McDougall’s example lighting the way, guests departed, Lisa’s book in hand, renewed in spirit and emboldened in their commitment to reaching new heights, one step at a time.

BY GLORIA HOUGHLAND PHOTOGRAPHS BY ERIC ENGLAND

Alec and Monica McDougall, Wylie McDougall

A.J. Ragle, Berkley Schwarz

Beth Molteni, Kelly Crockett, Jay Crosson, Dana Oman

Peggy Craig, Diane Edwards, Nancy Peterson Hearn, Charmion Hearn, Suzanne Moore

Jane Smith, Karen Burris

Co-chairs Kerry Kirkland, Jennifer Erickson

Emily Noel, Sandra Lipman

Pencils Down

PENCIL celebrates 20 years of A Little Night of Music

As the sun set on a gorgeous spring day and the full moon rose on a star-studded evening, business and community leaders from across Nashville came together at the Grand Ole Opry to celebrate 20 years of A Little Night of Music — PENCIL’s signature fundraiser. Anticipation has always run high for the popular tradition, and this year brought even more excitement than usual. In recognition of the landmark anniversary, presenting sponsor and event founder Creative Artists Agency (CAA) kept the performers’ identities a secret until the moment they appeared onstage.

Guests enjoyed signature cocktails in the iconic site’s courtyard, as Pie Town Tacos, New Berlin Eats and The Loveless Cafe served up their best food truck fare. Event co-chairs Kfir Alexandroni, Kia Goodwin and Ana Schwager mingled with the crowd before everyone took their seats onstage. After raising a Champagne toast, the audience was in for a treat.

Chart-topping American country artist Niko Moon was the first surprise performer to take the stage, opening with “PARADISE TO ME.” Michael Pratt, Stratford STEM Magnet High School principal, introduced two of his students — Henry and Julia — who recited original works. An energetic live auction chaired by Kelly Mitchell and Karen Schillinger ensued, breaking previous years’ fundraising totals. The Grand Ole Opry’s youngest member and the night’s second surprise performer, Lauren Alaina, closed out the evening with a set that started with “One Beer.”

PENCIL connects Metro Nashville Public Schools with community resources to help young people succeed, seize opportunities and fulfill their potential. Over the last 20 years, A Little Night of Music has raised over $3 million for this important cause.

BY MELISSA CORBIN PHOTOGRAPHS BY ERIC ENGLAND

Casey Menchaca, Jill Schwager, Ana Schwager, Tia Fuentes, Melanie O’Brien, Darr Jenkins

Scott and Angela McCain

Clyde Thompson, Elizabeth Bumpas

Robert and Olivia Leow

Juan and Latonya Williams

Ashley Vega, Kenny Crapse

Growth nd Renewl

The Reclaiming Lives Luncheon brings a message of hope and optimism

The line for a photo opportunity with two NFL legends, former Tennessee Titan Eddie George and former star quarterback Joe Theismann (who played for the Washington football team now known as The Commanders), could not have been longer. All the record-setting 460 guests for the ninth annual Reclaiming Lives Luncheon benefiting the nonprofit organization Centerstone were apparently in it. Happy to wait their turn, guests enjoyed mingling in the elegant surroundings of the Four Seasons Hotel Nashville as anticipation filled the air.

The luncheon began promptly with board member Shay Binkley announcing that presenting sponsor FirstBank had pledged to continue its support of the Reclaiming Lives Luncheon through 2026. This brought a huge round of applause from the attendees. Co-chairs Kate Cain and Kerry Wilson then welcomed everyone, and honorary co-chair Eddie George gave the invocation. Next, Centerstone’s regional CEO Ben Middleton introduced the renowned keynote speaker, Joe Theismann. With eloquence and candor, he shared anecdotes from his storied career. Yet, amid the tales of triumph, Theismann’s address bore a poignant reminder of the fragility of life. He recounted the fateful injury that ended his football career abruptly and shared his strategies for handling unforeseen change. It was a sobering reminder that setbacks are not the end, but rather opportunities for growth and renewal.

It was noticeable that there were many men in the audience, no doubt there to hear from the 1982 Walter Payton NFL Man of the Year and 2003 College Football Hall of Famer. But from the perspective of Centerstone, which has provided access to quality mental health care and addiction services for our community for more than 65 years, this was an opportunity. “Centerstone has provided services to people of all ages and all genders based on the belief every person matters,” Centerstone board member Jacob Tate shared in his closing remarks. “Today, we are providing services to more men than ever, as the stigma of mental health care continues to disappear.” And with that, the Reclaiming Lives Luncheon had not only raised awareness and funds for a worthy cause, but had also enlightened all who attended.

BY GLORIA HOUGHLAND

PHOTOGRAPHS BY ERIC ENGLAND

Honorary co-chair Eddie George, co-chair Kate Cain, Joe Theismann, co-chair Kerry Wilson

Kelley Beaman, Ben Brown

Richard Fitzgerald, Phil Krebs, Ben Middleton

Jackie Marin, Pamela Bollinger, Mary Belle Grande

Christy Holleman, Nikki Edney, Jenna Conner

Melissa Blackburn, Trish Breeding

Tom Wylly, John Drake, Rick Martin

Sy

It

Southern-Style

The Frist Gala celebrates modern Southern art

The energy in the room was dynamic as guests arrived in the lobby of the Frist Art Museum for the annual Frist Gala. One of the most anticipated events of the year, the evening is part black-tie gala and part art show. This year, the exhibit Southern/Modern was on display for guests to enjoy. Featuring over 100 works from public and private collections across the country, the exhibit is the first of its kind — a comprehensive survey of paintings and works on paper created in the American South from 1913 to 1955. Pieces like “Swing Low, Sweet Chariot” by John McCrady and “There’s A Man Going ’Round Taking Names” by Lamar Baker were vibrant and powerful examples of the varied works.

Co-chairs Lake Eakin and Christine Weller worked with the wildly talented Dori Thornton of The Social Office to create the decor for the evening, inspired by the landscapes featured in Southern/Modern. Green linens and verdant topiaries transformed the reception space into a light and airy garden party. The dinner tent was a continuation of the theme with glossy, green garden benches and stone animal statues. Knestrick By Design crafted beautiful Southern-inspired floral arrangements that graced the tablescapes. Kristen Winston Catering created a bountiful spring menu with a dessert that was the perfect nod to Southern/Modern — banana pudding.

As guests dined and enjoyed the evening, Seth Feman, executive director and CEO of the Frist Art Museum, took the stage. He announced that the museum had record attendance this year and that as patrons of the arts, guests of the gala were supporting “the important, ongoing work of the museum to inspire our community through art and to look at their world in new ways.” To punctuate the evening and reinforce the Frist Art Museum’s mission, Nashville-based artist Sai Clayton spoke about the profound impact of the museum’s work. Sai was one of the first participants in the Frist Art Museum (FAM) Fellowship, which helps students and emerging professionals understand how to research, plan and showcase exhibitions. “The fellowship opened so many doors for me and allowed me to follow my dreams,” Sai said.

BY JANET KURTZ PHOTOGRAPHS BY ERIC ENGLAND

Sara and Richard Bovender

McKenzie Mullins, Jon Miller

Ivy Elrod, Chase Cole, Genie Lee

Billy and Jennifer Frist, Julie and Adam Dretler

Jillian and John Frist

Co-chairs Lake Eakin, Christine Weller

John and Josephine Smithwick, Caitlin Blomstrom, Seth Feman

Hal Cato, Caleigh Dennis, Peggy Shaughnessy, Michael Burcham, Elizabeth Dennis

Arnita and Tim Ozgener

Karyn Frist, Brenda Steakley

Dione DeWitte, Ashley Rosen, Natalie Clements

Mike and Mary Thomas Kuffner

Ibe Mbanu, Terika Richardson, Dina and Edward Odom

Kevin and Amanda Graff

Charles and Jennifer Gay

Sai Clayton

INTERVENTIONS: Ann

Carrington June 29 – October 27, 2024

Experience Ann Carrington’s intricate and elegant sculptures as they breathe new meaning into otherwise ordinary objects such as spoons, nails, buttons and coins. More than 30 of her mixed media works will be on display throughout the period rooms of the Mansion, many inspired by the gardens at Cheekwood and the Cheek family.

Reserve tickets at cheekwood.org

INTERVENTIONS is made possible by

The Sandra Schatten Foundation

Image credit: Ann Carrington (b. 1962), Cora, 2023, Silver, nickel, and steel plated spoons. Photography provided by Ann Carrington Studio.

Growin With Grce

The Cheekwood Society Dinner honors supporters and friends

The golden-hour light made for the perfect atmosphere at Cheekwood Estate and Gardens, as 450 top supporters of the esteemed property arrived for the Cheekwood Society Dinner. Guests flowed through the Loggia to the Swan Lawn with the tent already in place for the upcoming Swan Ball. There, servers offered delicious, garden-themed hors d’oeuvres from Flavor Catering. During the opening reception, many visited the newly restored Petite Swan Lawn. Said to have been Mabel Wood Cheek’s favorite garden, the Petite Swan Lawn was recently refurbished as part of a multifaceted effort to return the grounds to how they were originally envisioned and designed by Bryant Fleming.

As guests found their seats, Jane MacLeod, president and CEO of Cheekwood, took the stage. Jane opened with a thank you to the audience and reminded everyone of Cheekwood’s importance to the community. “Cheekwood offers an escape, a respite for beauty and calm that nurtures the mind, the body and the soul,” she said. “As the world becomes more virtual and our experiences more technologically created, Cheekwood still offers the real thing.”

Then, it was time for the annual awards presentation, which honors individuals and corporate partners who have had a tremendous impact on Cheekwood. Beth Kloiber received the Jane and Guilford Dudley Award for Excellence in Philanthropy, which has been presented since 1994. Beth was instrumental in the creation of the Cheekwood GROWS educational program and has been a passionate supporter for many years. Next, Tractor Supply received the Corporate Award for Excellence in Philanthropy. Its philanthropic giving has supported both Cheekwood GROWS and the wildly popular Cheekwood Harvest. And just this year, Tractor Supply joined Cheekwood to serve as the presenting sponsor for the debut of The Cheekwood Gardening School.

The night’s final award, the James A. Webb III Award for Extraordinary Service to Cheekwood, went to Barry Stowe. Barry served three terms on the Cheekwood board — the last two years as chair of the board. “His legacy at Cheekwood, however, will most likely be for his role in the founding and creation of the Exposition of Elegance: Classic Cars show held annually on Father’s Day weekend since 2019,” Jane shared.

BY JANET KURTZ

Geary Leathers, Morel Enoch

PHOTOGRAPHS BY ERIC ENGLAND

Anne Russell, Don and Jane MacLeod, Barry Stowe, Rob McCabe

Jenny Hannon, Brooke Trusley, Melissa Mosteller, Sam DeVane

Justin and Kelley Maierhofer, Kayla and Donnie Counts

Ruthie Keene, Nancy Peterson Hearn, Dianne Neal

Larry and Leiyan Keele

Ted Limmer, Brittany Burwell, Kim and Jeff Leeper

TInto the Woods

The Warner Parks Spring Luncheon shines a light on the parks system

he beloved Warner Parks system offers Nashvillians the same refuge Henry David Thoreau once chased — a way to “live deliberately,” to “front only the essential facts of life,” to escape from an ever-more-connected world. The annual Warner Parks Spring Luncheon has become a treasured tradition, serving as both a luncheon with friends in the heart of the park and an opportunity to support the Friends of Warner Parks mission to preserve, protect and steward Percy and Edwin Warner Parks.

Chairs Cathy Grier, Jodie Lawton and Whitney Topping planned a beautiful luncheon, complete with great weather that guests thoroughly enjoyed. As supporters mingled, they indulged in refreshing drinks on the patio of the Nature Center. Warner Parks employees hosted a display highlighting their efforts to combat invasive plants throughout the parks system and restore native plant species to grasslands and meadows. This project supports pollinators, insects and animals that rely on native plants for survival. Friends of Warner Parks hopes to completely eradicate invasive species in the Warner Parks by 2027.

After the reception, guests headed inside a tent for a delicious lunch from Flavor Catering. Each table featured a crudités platter with fresh vegetables and tahini dip. The entrée was a Greek orzo salad with marinated chicken breast. After lunch, guests enjoyed sweet goodies, like chocolate chip cookies, lemon squares and double chocolate brownies.

The luncheon also featured a raffle, and the prize was a private catered dinner at the historic Hodge House in Percy Warner Park. “This event is not only an opportunity to enjoy the beauty of Edwin Warner Park,” said Jenny Hannon, president of Friends of Warner Parks, reflecting on the day. “[It’s] also a chance to come together as a community in support of our mission to preserve and protect this natural treasure.”

BY JANET KURTZ

PHOTOGRAPHS BY ERIC ENGLAND

Jenny Hannon, Bo Tyler

Kim Leeper, Alice Goldberg

Vera Roberts, Laura Cook

Sarah Aldridge, Jodie Lawton, Stewart Taylor

Mary Herff, Meera Ballal, Cathy Grier, Jen Borden

Pamela Bollinger, Lorie Duke, Dana Oman, Jane Avinger

Stephanie Wright Jason Kloess

IHome Sweet Home

Nfocus celebrates Homes of Distinction

t was a stunning evening as guests arrived at 3908 Harding Place, represented by Tarkington & Harwell, for the Nfocus Homes of Distinction party presented by Nashville Design Collective. The annual event shines a spotlight on the beloved Homes of Distinction feature and brings together friends for an evening of celebration. From the very first glimpse, the breathtaking home entranced the evening’s guests as they passed cars from Global Motorsports and Tesla. The stunning open chef’s kitchen led directly into an open-concept living room boasting a linear vented gas fireplace. Floor-to-ceiling windows enticed guests to visit the stunning pool deck outside. Built by Richland Building Partners, the home is ideal for entertaining. It even sports a hidden butler’s pantry, making it easy to keep prep work for events away from guests’ view.

As guests explored the home, servers passed through the main level with delectable hors d’oeuvres from G Catering. The smoked picanha beef canapés were a fan favorite — as were the fregola bites. In the center of the room, guests enjoyed a bountiful nosh table with charcuterie and a variety of cheeses, crudités and dips. Throughout the home, partners like Honeytree Meadery and South Africa’s House of Henkel wines hosted beverage stations. E.E. Brown Leatherworks displayed artwork throughout the home. Singersongwriter Gina Venier performed on the pool deck, which offered the perfect place to relax and take in the sights between bites. It was the kind of night in which guests lingered over cocktails and conversations while the sun slowly dipped behind the trees.

BY JANET KURTZ

PHOTOGRAPHS BY ERIC

ENGLAND

Cynthia Stielow, Bari Beasley, Sondra Morris, Susan Andrews

Gina Venier

Hayley Futernick, Gena Dorminey, Mallika Wallace, Jason Owen

LaKeita Arnett, Dionne Lucas, Laquita Stribling

Mike Smith, Ellen Pryor, Robinson Regen

Juan Matias, Connie Richardson

Spencer Bowers, Emily Humphreys, Jake Tudor

Dnce With Me

Dancing for Safe Haven celebrates 15 years of supporting families

The 40th anniversary of an organization is a momentous occasion. For Safe Haven Family Shelter, it is a testament to the decades of care and compassion the organization has given families experiencing homelessness in our community.

Dancing for Safe Haven, the organization’s signature event, is celebrating its 15th year raising funds to support Safe Haven’s mission to “lead [the] community’s efforts to house, support, empower and advocate for families experiencing homelessness.”

As hundreds of dancing enthusiasts and Safe Haven supporters flowed into the reception at the Omni Nashville Hotel, many noted it was the first time they had attended the event. The silent auction offered a vast array of prizes, from trips to jewelry and more. Event co-chairs Beth Witte, Tonya Mitchem Grindon and Harry Allen were on hand to answer questions about the evening and thank guests for attending.

After the reception, it was time for dinner and the evening’s main event. Excitement filled the air as the evening’s hosts — Danielle Breezy and Tom Riles — readied the crowd, and a troupe of professional dancers took the stage for a brief performance. After the teaser, guests enjoyed a dinner of a little gem Caesar salad, a petite filet and a dessert of angel food cake. This year’s Hero Award went to former Safe Haven CEO Joyce Lavery Roman for her transformative leadership. Next, a Safe Haven client shared a powerful story about living in her car after losing her job during the coronavirus pandemic. Safe Haven helped her find housing and work so she could get back on her feet.

Then, it was time for the program to begin. Inspired by the wildly popular Dancing with the Stars, the event pairs local professional dancers with notable community members for a dance competition. The dedication and commitment is impressive, as each contestant may spend a year in the dance studio working with their partner and preparing for the big night. This year’s community dancers included Dave Brown, Jabari Greer, Carolyn Smith Bryant, Michael Smitherman, Ramirra Stackhouse and Nicole West. Crowning the winner proved to be a tough decision for everyone, but Dave Brown emerged as the judges’ favorite and Nicole West was selected as the audience favorite.

BY JANET KURTZ PHOTOGRAPHS BY LORENZO HUERTA

Deann Hebert, Lacey Fuson, Kara Peck

Camille Gregory, Patrick Rollo, Felice Johnson

Danielle and Joe Breezy, Shane Tarleton

Adam Sansiveri, Kendall Brown

Taylor and Stacey Rhodes, Revi Ferrer, Tom Black

Joyce Lavery Roman

Antonio Stackhouse, Devontè Bandoo

April Bosse, Stephanie Knight

Madeline Pace, Wendy Cordill

Salil and Sahana Shibad Alex Ingram, Mallory Allgood

John Nefflen, John Lansche, Mary Avent, Charles Avent Jr.

Alexandra Morgan Stewart Marries

Robert Stephen Richards Jr.

STEPHEN RICHARDS MET Lexi Stewart at his niece’s first birthday party in December 2019. Since Stephen was wearing a signet ring on his right hand — which Lexi mistakenly thought was a wedding ring on his left hand — she never spoke to him at the party. Soon after, Stephen asked the party’s hostess, his sister-in-law, who Lexi was, and they met for a date on New Year’s Eve.

Stephen proposed in July 2022 at his family’s lake house at Center Hill with all their friends and family to celebrate the occasion afterward. They married in January 2024 at the Schermerhorn Symphony Center with the Rev. Jay Hardwick officiating.

The ceremony took place in the main lobby, which was decorated with white candles and white bouquets. A string quartet played “Can’t Help Falling in Love” for the bride’s entrance and “Everlasting Love” as the couple recessed.

Lexi wore a Zavana Couture satin gown with pearl buttons from top to bottom along the train, paired

with a Toni Federici veil trimmed with pearls. For the reception, she changed into a Made With Love Bridal crepe gown with a ruched bodice and fitted skirt. She carried a white bouquet by T Villager Designs.

Stephen, whose custom clothing company Richards Bespoke has outfitted thousands of grooms over the years, was finally able to design wedding attire for himself. For the ceremony, he wore a double-breasted black velvet tuxedo jacket. For the reception, he changed into a white silk jacket with a houndstooth shadow pattern. Stephen also outfitted his 11 groomsmen in emeraldgreen velvet tuxedo jackets.

The reception was in the Laura Turner Concert Hall, where guests dined on dual entrées of braised short rib and sage-crusted chicken by Chef’s Market Cafe & Takeaway. Baked in Nashville designed the five-tier cake adorned with the couple’s beloved Frenchie, Frankie, in fondant. The Celebrity All-Star Band performed, and guests enjoyed espresso martinis chilled through an ice sculpture luge carved with the couple’s initials.

Following the reception, there was an afterparty in the main lobby, where local DJ Cisco Carter performed. Laurie Hardman of Laurie D’Anne Events organized the evening.

Following a wedding trip to The Starlight Villa in the British Virgin Islands, the couple returned to their home in Nashville. Lexi, a graduate of the University of Tennessee, Knoxville’s College of Nursing, is a pediatric emergency room registered nurse and clinical nurse coordinator at TriStar Centennial Children’s Hospital. Stephen, a graduate of the University of Mississippi, is the owner and founder of Richards Bespoke. Parents are Jeffrey Charles Stewart and Catherine Creagh Stewart of Hartsville, Tennessee, and R. Stephen Richards Sr. and Jane Bowman Richards of Brentwood.

BY SANDRA NELSON

PHOTOGRAPHS BY KATHY THOMAS PHOTOGRAPHY

HOMES OF DISTINCTION

THANK

to all of the wonderful attendees of our annual cocktail soiree for joining us to celebrate one of this year’s featured luxury residences!

THANK YOU TO OUR PARTNERS

DANA BURKE, a true equestrian enthusiast, made history in 1986 by winning the 1.5-mile flat race at the Iroquois Steeplechase, a record she still holds. Her husband, Charlie Burke, also a prominent figure in the equestrian world, served as the former clerk of the course and as chairman and president of the Iroquois Steeplechase. Dana has spent many years as the clerk of scales and co-chaired this year’s Hunt Ball. The Burkes continue to be active in the Hillsboro Hounds, where Dana serves as honorary secretary.

LEFT PHOTOGRAPH COURTESY OF NASHVILLE BANNER ARCHIVES, SPECIAL COLLECTIONS DIVISION,

NASHVILLE PUBLIC LIBRARY. RIGHT PHOTOGRAPH FROM THE PRIVATE COLLECTION OF DANA BURKE.