The Nashville Area Chamber of Commerce in partnership with the Nashville Public Education Foundation (NPEF) has announced the selection of its 2024 Leadership Public Education cohort. This diverse group of dynamic individuals represents the fifth class of the annual six-month leadership development program, dedicated to enhancing public education within the Metro Nashville Public Schools (MNPS) system.

The 2024 cohort, comprising leaders from various sectors across Nashville, was chosen for their commitment and passion towards educational excellence. Over the next six months, these fellows will engage in comprehensive learning and discussions on the structures and challenges impacting MNPS. They will hear from experts in public education and organizational development and delve into research and data to understand the critical issues facing Nashville’s public schools. The curriculum includes a deep dive into topics such as the History of MNPS, Law and Policy, the Budget Process, Teacher and Principal Talent, and School Options.

Upon completion, each fellow will commit to a role impacting MNPS, ranging from participation in parent-teacher organizations, advisory councils, and nonprofit and other boards and commissions. The program, jointly managed by the Nashville Chamber and NPEF, is an independent initiative, not affiliated with or governed by MNPS.

Stephanie Coleman, ‘chief talent development officer’ at the Nashville Chamber, said: “These fellows are pivotal contributors to the educational fabric of our city. We look forward to seeing their growth and impact.”

“We are thrilled to welcome this new cohort of leaders,” said Katie Cour, CEO of NPEF. “Their diverse perspectives and dedication are crucial for the advancement of public education in Nashville.”

The 2024 Leadership Public Education Cohort includes:

• Christiane Buggs, president/CEO, PENCIL
• Bethany Burney, program director, Corner to Corner
• Margaret Anne Byerly, director of communications and engagement, Enterprise Solutions
• Alan Calhoun, magistrate for Metro Student Attendance Center, Davidson County Juvenile Court
• Brandon Hill, head of community engagement, Nashville Soccer Club
• Nicole Keefe, Attorney, Burr & Forman LLP
• Tamara Kelly, general manager, Prince’s Hot Chicken
• Mary Matthews Coffey, program director, Diverse Learners Cooperative
• Jennie McCabe, ‘workforce development consultant,’ Department of Economic and Community Development, State of Tennessee
• Miranda McDonald, director of community programs, Tennessee Titans
• Ryan Parker, director of donor relations and programs, Nashville State Community College Foundation
• Marc Pearson, senior principal, Stantec
• Jazmin Ramirez, ‘advocacy and partnership manager,’ The Education Trust – Tennessee
• Eno Richardson, founder/CEO, Eno Richardson Consulting, LLC
• Whitney Slovick, coordinator of Community Achieves, Metro Nashville Public Schools
• Sonya Smith, director, Meharry Medical College
• Meredith Benton, CEO, Communities in Schools Tennessee
• Celia Bowman-Jeffries, 4th grade ESL teacher, Thomas A. Edison Elementary School, Metro Nashville Public Schools
• Corey Burton, director of enrollment and family engagement, LEAD Public Schools
• Laura Varela, director of United4Hope, Operation Andrew Group

For more information on Leadership Public Education, visit <www.nashvillechamber.com/economic-development/talent-development/leadership-public-education/overview>.