Leadership Middle Tennessee Announces Class of 2026

Leadership Middle Tennessee (LMT) is proud to announce the selection of 41 business and community leaders for its Class of 2026. These individuals, representing the ten-county Middle Tennessee region, will participate in a year-long leadership program focused on fostering collaboration, advancing regionalism, and addressing critical issues across the region. 
 
Founded in 2000, Leadership Middle Tennessee brings together established leaders from Cheatham, Davidson, Dickson, Maury, Montgomery, Robertson, Rutherford, Sumner, Williamson, and Wilson counties. The program connects a diverse cohort of professionals through monthly sessions that highlight each county’s unique assets, challenges, and opportunities. 
 
The Class of 2026 will officially begin their journey with a two-day Opening Retreat, scheduled for August 21–22, 2025 at the Nelson Andrews Leadership Center at YMCA’s Camp Widjiwagan. Over the following months, participants will take part in immersive, issue-focused programming hosted in each of the ten counties. Sessions will include behind-the-scenes tours, facilitated dialogue, and collaborative discussions with local, regional and national leaders. 
 
“Leadership Middle Tennessee exists to equip leaders with the relationships and regional understanding necessary to make a lasting impact,” said Pat Lawson, Executive Director of Leadership Middle Tennessee. “We are honored to welcome this new class of changemakers and excited about the journey ahead.” 
 
“Our program strengthens each community in our entire region by cultivating leaders who understand how to collaborate across county lines,” added Leisa Byars, Chair of the Leadership Middle Tennessee Board. “The Class of 2026 represents the best of Middle Tennessee’s talent and commitment.” 

Robertson County 
Crystal Powers 
 
Rutherford County 
Kara Carpenter 
Lori Cutler 
Ashley Lamm 
Greg Van Patten 
 
Sumner County 
Keith Hatley 
Tim Hertel 
Julie Meriwether 
Jason Stewart 
Jaerica Troutt 
 
Williamson County 
Sarah Alexander 
Cheryl Brown 
Becky Caldwell 
Matthew Reviere 
Alan Thompson 
 
Wilson County 
Adam Floyd 
William Glover 
Gayle Hellemn 
Susie James 
Omaràn Lee