January 2025

Celebrating 40 Years of Training Tomorrow's Leaders

As the new year begins, we are filled with hope and excitement for what lies ahead for Nashville and its surrounding communities. This year marks a special milestone for Young Leaders Council (YLC) as we celebrate 40 years of service and training for tomorrow's leaders. We proudly reflect on YLC's legacy in helping shape a stronger future for our community. Since 1985, more than 3,600 individuals have participated in the YLC training program — 3,600+ individuals who are now equipped to support our nonprofit organizations and strengthen our communities.

We are also thrilled to welcome Stacey Smith as YLC's new Board Chair. Stacey, the founder and CEO of Number-Smith, joined the YLC Board in 2020 and has served in various roles, including Board Secretary and Vice Chair. Her leadership and dedication over the past few years have been invaluable, particularly in driving key initiatives like our curriculum updates and the launch of the new Board Connect platform.

“I'm deeply honored to step into the role of Board Chair for YLC,” said Stacey. “The mission of this organization continues to inspire me, and I'm excited to support its growth and impact in this new capacity. I also want to extend a warm welcome to our new board members — I'm looking forward to collaborating with such passionate, talented individuals as we work together to further YLC’s vision."

We are excited to welcome Stacey and are grateful for her continued leadership, support, and expertise as YLC continues to drive progress in the Nashville nonprofit community.

YLC Welcomes New Board Members

YLC is pleased to welcome new Board Members and Board Interns in 2025! YLC’s Board plays a vital role in the success of the organization, setting the vision and supporting the staff in achieving the mission. We are so proud to welcome the following individuals who will undoubtedly add tremendous value and help YLC continue to thrive in the coming years:

Kristin Byrne| Kirkland's Home

Junior League of Nashville 2023

Kristin Byrne is a Divisional Merchandise Manager for Kirkland’s Home and a 2023 YLC Junior League of Nashville graduate. Kristin is a marketing leader with experience in brand strategy, performance marketing, and merchandising and has held key roles at 1-800-Flowers, Krispy Kreme, and FTD Companies. Committed to community engagement, she has served on multiple boards and volunteer organizations, including the Nashville Symphony’s Crescendo Club and Junior League of Nashville. 

Sarah Hogenson | The Jack C. Massey College of Business at Belmont University

Nashville Fall 2023

Sarah Hogenson is the Administrative Coordinator for External Relations for the Jack C. Massey College of Business at Belmont University, where she coordinates logistics and serves as a liaison for externally facing programs. Sarah obtained a Master of Science degree in Strategic Communication and Leadership from Belmont University and received her Bachelor of Science in Youth Ministry from Olivet Nazarene University. Sarah is a Nashville Fall 2023 graduate of YLC program and recently concluded her 12-month internship with the YLC Board. 

Corben Champoux | Brown & Brown

Williamson County 2024

Corben Champoux is an Employee Benefits Consultant with Brown & Brown Insurance and is a 2024 graduate of the YLC Williamson County cohort. Corben was born and raised in Florida, where she earned her undergraduate and master’s degree in business administration from the University of Florida. In her free time, Corben actively pursues her passion for songwriting and volunteering in the Nashville community. 

Lauren Fenn | Big Brothers Big Sisters

Nashville Fall 2024

Lauren Fenn is the Director of Volunteer Recruitment & Community Engagement for Big Brothers Big Sisters of Middle TN (BBBSMT) and a proud graduate of the YLC Nashville Fall 2024 cohort. Originally from Kansas and a Kansas State University graduate, Lauren has dedicated 10 years to the non-profit sector, with 7 years at BBBSMT. Passionate about giving back to the Nashville community, she is excited to complete her board internship with YLC and equip non-profits with the next generation of leaders to help them thrive and support the community at large. 

Spring Applications Close TODAY!

TODAY is the last day to apply for the YLC spring training program! Spring applications will close on Monday, February 3^rd at midnight and can be completed online by visiting www.youngleaderscouncil.org. 

The YLC team is excitedly preparing for another semester of interactive learning and networking with some of Nashville’s most talented young professionals. Spring training will begin on March 5^th and will conclude in mid-May. As YLC celebrates its 40^th anniversary this year, it is a true honor to serve the community and to continue our mission as the premiere board leadership training program for young professionals in Middle Tennessee.

Visit the YLC website or click on the button below to complete your application today! 

Young Leaders Council

2934 Sidco Drive, Suite 110

Nashville, Tennessee 37204

(615) 386-0060