During the annual CGR Charity Sneaker Ball, CGR highlights innovative women who are the epitome of our four key initiatives: Creative Arts, Mental Health & Wellness, Women Empowerment and Youth Development. In addition, CGR will present a special award to a recipient that has a major influence within the community and inspires others to achieve their personal and professional aspirations: the Influencer Innovator Award.
CREATIVE ARTS INNOVATOR: An individual who has demonstrated unparalleled creativity and innovation in the arts. This prestigious award celebrates those who push boundaries, challenge conventions, and introduce groundbreaking ideas and practices within the creative arts community. Honorees of this award are visionary artists, designers, performers, and creators who have made significant contributions to their respective fields. They inspire through their originality, ingenuity, and dedication, creating works that captivate audiences and drive the creative arts forward. Their innovative approaches not only elevate their craft but also influence and shape the broader cultural landscape.
MENTAL HEALTH & WELLNESS INNOVATOR: An individual that is dedicated to advancing mental health and wellness through creative and pioneering approaches. This distinguished award celebrates those who have made significant contributions to promoting mental well-being, reducing stigma, and providing support for mental health through innovative programs, practices, or initiatives. Honorees of this award are leaders and advocates who have demonstrated a deep commitment to improving mental health outcomes in their communities.
WOMEN EMPOWERMENT INNOVATOR: An individual who has made significant strides in empowering women through creative and innovative initiatives. This prestigious award celebrates those who champion gender equality, advocate for women's rights, and create opportunities that uplift and inspire women to achieve their full potential. Honorees of this award are visionary leaders and change-makers who have demonstrated unwavering commitment to advancing the status of women in various spheres, including the arts, business, education, and technology. Their work breaks barriers, challenges stereotypes, and fosters an inclusive environment where women can thrive and lead.
YOUTH DEVELOPMENT INNOVATOR: An individual who is dedicated to empowering and nurturing the next generation of creative leaders. This esteemed award celebrates those who have demonstrated exceptional commitment to youth development through innovative programs, mentorship, and educational initiatives. Honorees of this award are passionate advocates for young people, creating transformative opportunities that foster creativity, leadership, and personal growth. They work tirelessly to bridge gaps in access to creative resources, provide platforms for young voices, and inspire youth to reach their full potential.
INFLUENCER INNOVATOR: An individual who has made significant contributions to the creative community through innovative and influential work. This prestigious award recognizes those who harness their creativity to inspire, educate, and uplift others, setting new standards in their respective fields. Honorees of this award are trailblazers and visionaries, often at the intersection of art, technology, and social impact. They demonstrate exceptional creativity, originality, and a commitment to using their platform to drive positive change.
2024 Innovator Award Recipients
Creative Arts Innovator Award Honoree
Jennifer Turner, President & CEO Tennessee Performing Arts Center (TPAC)
Jennifer Turner is the President and CEO of the Tennessee Performing Arts Center (TPAC), a Nashville nonprofit dedicated to performing arts and education. Since 1980, TPAC has welcomed over 14 million audience members and served over 2 million students, teachers, and adults. Jennifer is a voting member of The Broadway League and serves on its Legislative and Intra-Industry Committees. She is also a board member of the Live Arts Centers of North America (LACNA) Foundation.
In Tennessee, Jennifer is involved with the Nashville Rotary, Leadership Music, and serves on the boards of the Tennessee Performing Arts Foundation, Nashville Downtown Partnership, and Friends Life Community. Previously, she was Executive Vice President and Managing Director at Segerstrom Center for the Arts in Southern California. With over 20 years in nonprofit arts, she has also worked with the Auditorium Theatre in Chicago, Michigan Opera Theatre, and Shakespeare Theatre Company.
Jennifer holds degrees from Michigan State University and Roosevelt University in Public Administration and Nonprofit Management.
Mental Health & Wellness Innovator Honoree
Sabrina Greenlee, Founder & CEO of S.M.O.O.O.T.H.
Sabrina Greenlee is a nationally celebrated community activist, author, inspirational speaker, and domestic violence survivor. Despite enduring a violent attack that left her blind, she credits her faith with empowering her to inspire others. Sabrina has appeared nationally on ESPN's Cover Story, USA Today, The Breakfast Club, NBC Daily, The CBS Morning Show, and The Pivot podcast and has spoken at various high-profile events, including the Root Institute and the Unsung Heroes Celebration during Super Bowl week.
Her memoir, "Grant Me Vision - A Journey of Family, Faith, and Forgiveness," published by HarperCollins, offers an intimate look into her life experiences, challenges, and the lessons she's learned, aiming to inspire others to find strength and clarity in their own journeys.
Sabrina is the President and Founder of S.M.O.O.O.T.H., Inc., which educates and empowers women and children through mentorship and counseling. As a certified life coach, she leads initiatives like 100 Shades of Purple and the SMOOOTH Transition Program. Sabrina's mission is to inspire healing, champion transcendence, and encourage women to reclaim their power.
Women Empowerment Innovator Honoree
Johari Matthews, Vice President and Executive Director of ONE Community and Tennessee Titans Foundation with the Tennessee Titans
Johari Matthews is the Vice President and Executive Director of ONE Community and the Tennessee Titans Foundation. In her third season, she enhances the Club’s community priorities, engagement, and philanthropic efforts. She launched the ONE Community initiative to support underserved communities in Middle TN. Johari previously spent 18 years with the YMCA of Middle Tennessee, leading projects like the $6.5M BlueCross BlueShield Healthy Place Park.
A Nashville native and Tennessee State University alumna, Johari serves on various boards, including Corner to Corner, Nashville Public Radio, PENCIL Foundation, Nashville Living Wage, and The Community Foundation of Middle TN. She is a member of Junior League of Nashville, Alpha Kappa Alpha Sorority, and Jack and Jill of America. Named one of Nashville’s Top 40 Under 40 in 2020, she was also recognized as a 2024 ‘Ten People to Watch’.
Out of all of the many hats that she wears, she is most proud of the hat that she gets to wear with her family as wife to Juvenile Court Clerk, Lonnell Matthews Jr., and mom to their two amazing kids.
Youth Development Innovator
Honoree
Dr. Tonja Williams, Head of School, New Hope Academy
Dr. Tonja Williams is a dedicated educational leader with nearly three decades of experience in both independent and public schools. She has led prestigious institutions like New Hope Academy in Franklin, TN, and served as Executive Principal at Head Magnet Middle School in Nashville. Her expertise includes innovative curricula, faculty development, school operations, staff retention, and policy development.
Dr. Williams has secured substantial grant funding and led schools to achieve top honors in Tennessee. She launched mentoring programs for middle school students and has worked with numerous community organizations.
Dr. Williams is an active member in her community. She is a member of the Nashville Public Library Foundation’s Diversity, Equity, and Inclusion committee, Nashville Cable, and Pearls of Promise Foundation. She also holds membership in the Tennessee Educators of Color Alliance and the American Educational Research Association. Dr. Williams is a graduate of Leadership Franklin, Class of 2023. A longtime member of Alpha Kappa Alpha Sorority, Inc., Kappa Lambda Omega Chapter, and the Metropolitan Chapter of the National Coalition of 100 Black Women, she is deeply committed to service and advocacy.
Her accolades include the 2022 Greater Nashville Alliance of Black School Educators Outstanding Principal of the Year Award and the Tennessee Music Education Association Outstanding Administrator Award. Dr. Williams is passionate about faith, education, and leadership, aiming to leave a lasting positive impact on her community.
Influencer Innovator Award Honoree
Dr. Contrecia Tharpe, Marketing, Brand, and Communications Strategist and Consultant
Dr. Contrecia Tharpe, known as Dr. T, is a MarCommBrand professional with over 14 years of experience and the founder of FayeVaughn Creative, a boutique marketing firm in Nashville. She has worked with brands and individuals in various sectors, advocating for small and medium business success. Dr. T has developed strategies, programs, and initiatives to boost stagnated brands. As the fractional Chief Business Officer of Imperial Cleaning Systems, she has driven a 400% revenue growth in five years.
In 2020, she co-founded The DREAM Initiative (DREAMi) to support reentry and equity for individuals released from correctional institutions. Dr. T is the President-Elect of Nashville CABLE and Impact Youth Outreach, Vice-Chair of Communications for the Nashville AMA, and Chair-Elect of PRSA's Entertainment and Sports sector. She is involved with WHET, the Nashville Chamber of Commerce, SCORE, and Nashville's Entrepreneur Center. A proud member of Leadership Tennessee’s NEXT Class 8, she was named to the 2023 class of Nashville Business Journal's 40 Under 40 and its 2024 Women of Influence. Her second book, "Getting to Done: From Overthinker to Doer," is set for release in Summer 2024.
2023 Innovator Award Recipients
Creative Arts Innovator
Caitlin Mello, Visual Artist and Creative Director
Caitlin Mello, not only creates her own work - she works to cultivate partnerships, and connect other creatives with dynamic, inclusive opportunities nationwide as the Creative Community Partner for global brands at We Are Rosie. She is proud of her work as the Creative & Marketing Director for our city's newest professional MLS soccer team, Nashville Soccer Club, for their first three seasons. At NSC, she focused on taking the creative strategy beyond the field, engaging the community through soccer, and including over 60+ local artists featured in the environmental design of the new 30K seat stadium, championing and curating one of the most inclusive local art and sport initiatives in the world.
Miss Mello always keeps time carved out for innovative public art activations, and creating ways to inspire change and discussion through art… especially with her favorite powerful team of women artists on Creative Girls Rock projects. She serves on the board of the North Nashville Arts Coalition and as a guest resident artist for MNPS, and is committed to collaborative, community-lead energy into all aspects of her professional and artistic life.
Caitlin credits her creativity to the experiences and prolific people she met living in Los Angeles, Brooklyn, Barcelona, Cuzco and eventually back to her roots with the most inspiring artists right here in Nashville. Outside of work, you can find Miss Mello on her way to the ocean with Marley, her 15-year-old-daughter and greatest love. She is fluent in Spanish; loves Pablo Neruda, red lipstick and a perfect juicy mango.
Mental Health & Wellness Innovator
Elizabeth Hart, Director of Communications and Marketing for the Institute on Health Disparities, Equity and the Exposome at Meharry Medical College
Elizabeth Hart received her BA in Communications from Alabama A&M University and her MS in Communications from Middle Tennessee State University. She is currently the Director of Communications and Marketing for the Institute on Health Disparities, Equity and the Exposome at Meharry Medical College. In her role, she is responsible for developing and executing innovative strategies to support the institute’s goals and initiatives. She previously served as the Director of the Office of Faith-Based and Community Engagement for the Tennessee Department of Health leading all outreach activities, including the Tennessee Health Disparities Task Force.
With nearly 20 years of experience working in medicine and public health communications, Hart’s dedication and love for the well-being of others has assisted organizations have great success with outreach and public engagement. Hart has led public education campaigns about breastfeeding, immunizations, proper sleeping positions for infants, substance misuse and, most recently, COVID-19. She received national recognition for her use of social media in public health by the National Association of City and County Health Officials (NACCHO), the National Public Health Information Coalition (NPHIC) and the annual Government Social Media Conference. In 2021, three of the campaigns she led were nominated for Emmy Awards.
Women Empowerment Innovator
Victoria Eady Butler, Master Blender, Uncle Nearest
Victoria Eady Butler is a relatively new face in the spirits world, but whiskey is definitely in her blood. The great-great-granddaughter of Nearest Green, the first known African American master distiller, Butler is the Master Blender of the award-winning Uncle Nearest Premium Whiskey. There she oversees the blending process of its core and Master Blend portfolios, along with the selection of all Single Barrels.
In 2021, Victoria was named Master Blender of the Year three times, by Whisky Magazine, VinePair and The Spirits Business, followed by a second award by Whisky Magazine in 2022. She is the first person in history to receive this honor two years in a row. Butler also serves as a member of Uncle Nearest’s executive team and oversees the Nearest Green Foundation, a 501(s)(3) non-profit organization that provides scholarships to Nearest Green’s descendants, which is funded by the sales of Uncle Nearest whiskeys.
Butler blended the very first batch of 1884 Small Batch Whiskey, which launched in July 2019, and was appointed Master Blender in November 2019 after the immense success of the first two batches, which earned numerous awards including Double Gold medals at the China Wine & Spirits Awards and the Sommelier Challenge. Since then, Butler has taken many courses to hone her skills, including becoming an Executive Bourbon Steward through Stave & Thief Society in Louisville, KY, the first bourbon certification program recognized by the bourbon industry.
Prior to joining the Uncle Nearest team in March 2019, Butler worked as an Analytical Manager with the Regional Organized Crime Information Center in Nashville, which she joined upon graduating Middle Tennessee State University with a Bachelor’s degree in Criminal Justice.
Butler had just retired from a more than 31-year tenure when Fawn Weaver, Founder and CEO of Uncle Nearest, approached her about becoming involved in the Uncle Nearest brand. The opportunity to carry on her family legacy first-hand and to help to cement Nearest’s name in history was one that she couldn’t pass up.
Butler is a mother, grandmother and a Tennessee native. In her spare time, she enjoys spending time with friends and family and volunteering with several non-profit organizations. She’s also a proud member of Delta Sigma Theta Sorority, Incorporated.
Youth Development Innovator
Dr. Adrienne Battle, Director of Metro Nashville Public Schools (MNPS).
Dr. Adrienne Battle has spent almost her entire career at MNPS, previously serving as a math, reading and language arts teacher; an assistant principal, academic principal and executive principal; a turnaround coach for principals of the district’s priority schools; and as a community superintendent overseeing all schools in the Southeast quadrant of the city as well as high schools across the district.
A Nashville native, Dr. Battle is a graduate of the district’s John Overton High School, Missouri State University and Tennessee State University, where she earned her master’s, education specialist and doctorate degrees in Educational Administration and Supervision. She was recently named the Professional Educators of Tennessee’s 2022 Superintendent of the Year and one of the Nashville Post's Most Powerful Women 2023, and in 2021 she was named the Tennessee Principals Association’s Supervisor of the Year and received the Nashville NAACP’s Legacy Award. Under Dr. Battle's leadership, in 2023 Metro Nashville Public Schools was named a Level 5 district by the state - the highest designation a Tennessee district can earn - for the second year in a row based on students' academic growth.
In 2015 Dr. Battle received the William J. and Lucille H. Field Award in Support of Excellence in Tennessee Secondary Leadership from the University of Tennessee-Knoxville as a result of leading Antioch High School to become the first zoned high school ever to be named a Tennessee Reward School, the top distinction a school can earn in Tennessee.
Influencer Innovator
Martesha Moore, Chief Public Defender
Martesha Johnson Moore is the Nashville Metropolitan Chief Public Defender, the first African-American to be elected to this position. She has a heart for serving people and was determined to be a public defender since interning with the Nashville Public Defender’s office in 2007. She has devoted her entire career to public defense work, her dedication fueled by watching firsthand the many injustices experienced by poor and marginalized individuals in the criminal legal system. Martesha is a skilled trial lawyer and proven leader. She has served in many leadership roles during her tenure in the office. Prior to her election, she was the training director and member of the special litigation unit, primarily focusing on representing clients charged with serious felonies. She has been the team leader in two criminal courts, summer intern coordinator, and member of several committees related to recruitment, retention and policy development in the Nashville Defender’s Office.
Martesha is a proud Nashville native! Because of her upbringing, Martesha’s character is deeply rooted in community and advocacy. Martesha was educated in Metro Nashville Public Schools and graduated with highest honors from Tennessee State University where she was a Sophisticated Lady in the Grammy award winning “Aristocrat of Bands.” She also graduated from The University of Tennessee Knoxville College of Law, where she was recognized as the Julian Blackshear, Jr. outstanding student and honored for her public service work.
In her first term as Chief Public Defender, Martesha has increased the staff and budget of the Nashville Defender’s office, passionately advocated for bail reform in the local court system and led the Nashville Bar Association through a time of post pandemic transition. She is poised yet firm in her demands for justice. Her voice is sought after across the country for trainings and education opportunities related to the criminal legal system. She is an adjunct professor at Vanderbilt Law School. She is Immediate Past President of the Nashville Bar Association and is a member of the National Association of Public Defenders where she serves as a board member. She is a defender council member for the National Legal Aid and Defender Association and a member of the Tennessee Association of Criminal Defense Lawyers and the Lawyer’s Association for Women. She is a member of the Napier Looby Bar Association. Martesha was nominated and served as a member of the 2016-2017 Nashville Bar Foundation Leadership Forum Class, the 2019 Tennessee Bar Association Leadership Law Class and was a 2021 graduate of Leadership Nashville. She is a graduate of Gideon’s Promise, a program specifically designed to train and develop public defenders. Additionally, Martesha was a member of the inaugural class of Emerge Tennessee, the premier campaign training program for Democratic women. She was recognized as a 40 under 40 professional by the Nashville Business Journal, The University of Tennessee, Alpha Kappa Alpha Southeastern Region, and Tennessee State University. She was recognized as a 2021 Woman of Influence and selected “Best of the Bar” 2021 and 2022 by the Nashville Business Journal. Martesha graced the January 31, 2019 cover of the Nashville Scene. She has also taught at Volunteer State community college, coached high school mock trial and participated in numerous community “Know Your Rights” and expungement clinics. In her spare time, Martesha loves spending time with her husband, Derrick and their children, reading and traveling.
2022 Innovator Award Recipients
Creative Arts Innovator
Elisheba “Queen” Israel Mrozik, Founder of One Drop Ink Tattoo
Elisheba Israel Mrozik is a fine artist and International award-winning Tattooist. In 2011, Elisheba became the first licensed black tattoo artist in Middle Tennessee and opened One Drop Ink Tattoo Parlour and Gallery in Nashville, TN with the aim of providing Ink for All. She has shown fine art at the Frist Art Museum and Fisk University’s Carl van Vechten Gallery among others.
Now the 2020 Nashville Emerging Leader Award winner is shifting her focus to providing fine art with community purpose in the form of large scale public art and community engagement. Elisheba is an active member of the community and Director of the North Nashville Arts Coalition sponsoring charitable events, teaching art classes, supporting schools and other community building endeavors to support and grow the careers of artists of color and artists in underserved communities.
Elisheba’s purpose is to leave a sustainable and substantial impact organization to those creatives in need in a place she loves.
Mental Health & Wellness Innovator
Collette V. Smith, Founder and President of Believe N You, Inc. and the NFL’s 1st African American Female Coach in the History of the National Football League
Collette V. Smith is the Founder and President of Believe N You, Inc. and the NFL’s 1st African American Female Coach in the History of the National Football League by way of being the 1st Female Coach in NY Jets Franchise History, Coaching the Defensive Backs in 2017 during Training Camp.
Smith is a former Women’s Professional Football Player playing two positions as a Defensive Back and Special Teams on Kick Off, Defensive Backs Coach and was the Director of Marketing, PR, Promotions and Events for the New York Sharks women’s pro football team in two Women’s Professional Football Leagues, the WFA- Women's Football Alliance and the IWFL- Independent Women’s Football League. She didn’t start playing professional football until the age of 42. The Sharks recently won the National Championship in July of 2018 in Atlanta, GA.
Collette today is a social philanthropist and an entrepreneur specializing in motivational speaking engagements and has been invited to speak at Fortune 100 Companies, Corporations and Ivy League Institutions including Columbia University to speak on disparities women in sports face and the empowerment of black youth, girls and women to see their greatness and excellence through adversity.
Smith was recently Honored with the HUMANITARIAN AWARD by Leigh Steinberg during Superbowl LVI February 2022 in Los Angeles, CA. and is the only woman to have ever received an award in this capacity from him. She was also Honored with the Legacy Award and Keynoted the NAACP’s Legacy Gala, guest speaker at Rev. Al Sharpton’s National Action Network’s “House Of Justice” for their YOUTH HUDDLE program’s live video broadcast, Rev Jesse Jackson’s Rainbow Push Coalition Summits and visits Juvenile Detention Centers to bring hope and inspiration through her own struggles of Hard Knocks to Triumphs to those that need a second chance at Life amongst many other initiatives that will benefit others.
She is a true Change Agent and has dedicated her life to empowering our youth, in particular girls and women to know that Any and Everything we desire IS Possible if we Believe In Ourselves. Her cultural and gender specific loyalty is very important to her. She emphasizes the importance of building positive self-esteem through team sports to at-risk teens and women in low-income, underserved and marginalized communities.
She believes in Black Excellence working towards giving our youth a fighting chance at winning and empowering them with the right tools to succeed in life both on and off the field. Her mission is to have a positive impact on the development of our young sisters and brothers, who Will and Can become the strong, effective leaders of tomorrow.
Smith was recently featured in a Docu-Series on the Nationally Acclaimed Network BETHer for their show “Exceptional Black Women” alongside MC Lyte, Congresswoman Maxine Waters, Meagan Good and Terri J. Vaughn and is currently in production for her own Full-Length Documentary and working on two books, “Unapologetically Collette… stories from the NFL’s 1st African American Female Coach in History” and “Get Off The Bench”.
Collette has been invited to Cameroon, Africa, Germany and Turkey to coach girls and women there to play American Football, Conduct Lectures and hold Round-Table Forums on essential life skills including learning to value ourselves and have a “never give up attitude” taking her mission and company, Believe N You, Inc. global.
Women Empowerment Innovator
Mignon Francois, The Cupcake Collection, Founder & CEO
Mignon Francois is the Founder and CEO of The Cupcake Collection (TCC). While crunching numbers and creating the craze are amongst her job requirements, her favorite responsibilities within this role are giving hugs, listening, and mentoring her team and other up and coming entrepreneurs who seek after her grass roots experience.
Using her “Follow Your Spirit” approach, Mignon developed an iconic flavor that drew lines and attention to the hip nature of her Historic Germantown neighborhood that hadn’t seen this concept developed prior. The success of TCC thereby became icing on the cake amongst the existing North Nashville restaurateurs that would ignite a new movement to the area for other business concepts that might not otherwise have considered doing business in North Nashville.
Since planting its roots in 2008, Mignon’s business savvy has earned her the titles of “Woman of Legend and Merit” by Tennessee State University, “Emerging Business Leader of the Year” and Black Enterprise Magazine “Family Business of the Year Award”.
Prior to her career at TCC, Mignon was a Household Manager and mother of 6 plus 1. A NOLA girl from the core and die-hard Charter School enthusiast, she lends her talent as a Nashville community cheerleader and entrepreneur to the Nashville Convention and Visitors Corporation Foundation, Nashville Entrepreneur Center and to Pathway Women’s Business Center as a board member.
Mignon is an alumnus of Xavier University in New Orleans and received her Bachelor of Science Degree from Houston Baptist University in 1999. While she obtained her M.B.A. from the School of Hard Knocks, she is currently working on an accredited one from Lipscomb University.
In her spare time, Mignon enjoys reading, walking the Nashville Greenway, and donut sampling around the country as a self-proclaimed donut aficionado. I mean someone's got to do it, she's already got the best cake in the country figured out.
Youth Development Innovator
Lt. Bonita Blue De Vault, Metro Nashville Police Department
Lt. Bonita Blue De Vault, originally from Brownsville, TN, received her Bachelor of Business Administration degree from Tennessee State University in 1996 and her master’s from Tennessee State University in 1998. She developed her love of working in the community from her parents, being a member of NAACP youth chapter, and active in the 4-H Club.
Her drive and motivation to work with in the community and with the youth spilled over into her career in law enforcement with the Metropolitan Nashville Police Department in the school resource unit in various positions since 2008, a member of the National Black Police Association – Nashville Chapter, and now a lieutenant in School Safety Division. For many years, she has listened to needs of our children and families. She has advocated, worked with, and developed programs to help families during school supply drives, transitional family giveaways, Thanksgiving Baskets programs, Christmas Baskets programs and book drives.
Her ability to give back would not be possible without the dedication of her family, co-workers, church, community partners and strangers that see her heart to give back to others.
In March of 2020, she married Kevin De Vault. They are the proud parents of two beautiful children, Malena and Kyan.
Influencer Innovator
Sharon W. Hurt, Council Member At Large, Nashville, TN
Sharon W. Hurt has practiced the servant-leadership model for over 30 years - by serving others, building communities and bringing people together. As Council Member At-Large for Metropolitan Nashville Davidson County, Sharon represents all of Music City through public service.
As an at-large member of the Nashville Metro Council in Tennessee, Hurt assumed office in 2015. She ran for re-election in 2019 and won in the general runoff election on September 12, 2019. Her second term ends in 2023. Her platforms legislatively have included support for diverse business enterprises, economic development and public healthcare.
Professionally, Ms. Hurt currently serves as the executive director for Street Works (SW), a non-profit that serves those affected and impacted by HIV and AIDS. Prior to this role, she concurrently led SW and upheld the mission of Jefferson Street United Merchants Partnership (J.U.M.P.) – which serves the North Nashville, Jefferson Street community while growing and improving its imprint on the community.
With undergraduate and (two) graduate degrees from Tennessee State University, along with a graduate degree from Belmont University, Sharon has built a reputation as a leader of, and advocate for, people of all communities.
2021 Innovator Award Recipients
Creative Arts Innovator
Gina Waters Miller, Vice President & General Manager of Entertainment One Nashville, Music
Gina Waters Miller has been passionate about music and writing for as long as she can remember. "Poetry and music were an escape turned form of communication for me. Instead of running away and getting lost in words and music, I began running with them and I found my strength and voice. My words said what my mind was thinking, and music expressed what my heart felt!"
Born into a family of classically trained musicians who also played music for their church, Gina grew up around music all of her life. Her maternal grandmother played piano with a style reminiscent of Scott Joplin's ragtime and taught all 10 of her children to play piano. Gina's Mississippi-born paternal grandmother played the piano with a bluesy style straight from a Delta juke joint. Her mother was the church pianist for many years at Metropolitan Baptist Church in Memphis, TN, as well as a career school teacher and head of a home with a living room that held two pianos. Then there was Gina’s father who enjoyed his 8-tracks and vinyl records and had a love of everything from the London Philharmonic, Count Basie, Benny Goodman, Al Green, Johnny Cash, Hank Williams, Miles Davis, Mahalia to Lou Rawls, Kenny Rogers and so much more.
Music was a present force around Gina. With parents who shared a love of music, including being college choirmates and other immediate family who are also musicians, the stage was set. She inevitably became someone who loved music, becoming a classically trained musician, singing and playing for churches and events since her childhood, earning a Bachelor's degree in music, being licensed to teach music and ultimately having a celebrated career in the music industry. A lifelong musician, educator, entrepreneur and music industry veteran, her love for music and the arts forged the way and proved to be a significant part of her life’s purpose and work.
Gina’s career in music began in 2004, after working for free an entire year at Light Records in Nashville, when she accepted a position as a part time radio and retail promotions coordinator in 2004. Miller’s roles throughout her career have included marketing manager, director of national sales and label relations, vice president of promotions and marketing, vice president of promotions and label relations, and her current role as senior vice president and general manager of Entertainment One (eOne) in Nashville, TN. In her current position, Gina oversees the day to day operations for eOne, , Light Records & IndieBlu Music. Her role includes the management of every aspect of the business, including budgets, signing talent, scouting writers, new business, artist relationships, strategy, partnerships and more.
Now a part of global play and entertainment company Hasbro, eOne continues to dominate the music space across a variety of genres, track sales, albums and airplay charts while consistently remaining one of the world’s top independent record labels. Gina is currently a member of Women in Film, the Americana Music Association, Women in Music, the National Association of Black Journalists (NABJ), Delta Sigma Theta Sorority, Incorporated; the National Association for the Advancement of Colored People (NAACP) and the Recording Academy, where she was recently appointed a chapter advisor and diversity and inclusion ambassador. She also leads the Nashville network of the National Association of Black Female Executives in Media & Entertainment™ (NABFEME) and is the Founder of the “Beautiful Girl, You Are Already Enough” campaign, amongst other initiatives.
Gina believes in service and is committed to reaching back, pulling up and pushing forward. Also an advocate for equality and equity, she is a mentor, sought-after speaker, clinician, writer, contributor, and philanthropist. An active champion of numerous eOne/Hasbro diversity and inclusion initiatives and committees, she is also a member of several boards and advisory councils. She is the co-founder of the newly formed NASHVILLE MUSIC EQUALITY, an organization which educates and challenges non-minority colleagues to consider action around equality, tolerance and opportunities for all minorities in the music industry. Gina uses her voice, influence and time to work, empower, illuminate, amplify, drive change and bring action to the organizations she faithfully serves and community in which she lives. Among many honors and awards, Gina and her work have been recognized by Billboard, being named to their Women in Music Executive Class in 2018 and 2020. More recently, she was chosen by the Nashville Business Journal for its Women of Influence 2021 class as an inspiration and mentor.
Gina was proudly born and raised in Memphis, TN. She has two sons and, after 25 years, loves her life in Nashville and also calls it home.
Mental Health & Wellness Innovator
Dr. Stephaine Hale Walker, Neonatologist, Managing Director at Beautycounter
Dr. Stephaine Hale Walker, a native of Los Angeles, California, received her Bachelor of
Science degree from Vanderbilt University in 1997 and her medical degree from Cornell
University Medical College in 2001. She completed her residency in Pediatrics at the Children’s Hospital of Philadelphia in 2004, and a fellowship in Neonatal-Perinatal Medicine at the Children’s Hospital of Los Angeles in 2006.
Afterwards, while a Harvard University Commonwealth Fund Fellow in Minority Health Policy, she completed a Master of Public Health degree with a concentration in Health Policy and Management at the Harvard School of Public
Health in 2007. That same year, she was also the recipient of the Presidential Scholar Award at Harvard University. Upon completing both fellowships, Dr. Walker joined the Harvard Medical Faculty Physician group as a Neonatologist at Beth Israel Deaconess Medical Center [BIDMC] and an Instructor of Pediatrics at Harvard Medical School in the Department of Pediatrics.
In May of 2009, she married Bishop Joseph Warren Walker, III. Upon moving to Nashville, Dr. Walker joined the Neonatology faculty at Monroe Carell Jr. Children’s Hospital at Vanderbilt University, as an Assistant Professor of Clinical Pediatrics in the Department of Pediatrics. They are the proud parents of two beautiful children, Jovanni and Joseph IV.
Women Empowerment Innovator
Brittany Cole, CEO, Career Thrivers, Keynote Speaker, Coach & Author of Thrive Through It
Brittany Cole lives by this motto as a TEDx speaker, personal branding coach, leadership consultant, and author of the new best-selling book on resilient leadership, allyship, and empathy in communication, Thrive Through It!
Through her own losses and experience as a former commercial leader in the healthcare industry, Brittany has learned what it means to navigate change, challenge and loss by “thriving through it” – and she encourages and equips professional and entrepreneurial leaders to do the same!
When Brittany isn’t working with individual clients, she serves as the CEO of Career Thrivers, a leadership development firm that partners with organizations to cultivate an equitable workplace.
Brittany is a graduate of The University of TN, Knoxville and studied Strategies for Building and Leading Diverse Organizations at The Harvard Kennedy School. She is also a member of Delta Sigma Theta Sorority, Inc., The National Association of Women Business Owners (NAWBO) and serves on the board of the Arts and Business Council of Greater Nashville, as a mentor with Pathway Women's Business Center, and as a speaker coach for TEDxNashville.
Beyond her business and service work, Brittany and her husband Joseph enjoy hiking and exploring their hometown of Nashville, TN. To connect with Brittany please visit brittanyncole.com or tune in weekly with Brittany and friends on the Career Thrivers Podcast! Let's thrive, together!
Youth Development Innovator
Christiane Buggs, Chair of the Metro Nashville Public Schools Board of Education
Christiane Buggs is a Nashville native and former MNPS student who went on to earn a bachelor’s degree in physics and two master’s degrees in Education before returning to MNPS as a middle school math teacher. As a teacher, mother and policy maker she has experienced our schools in several different ways throughout the course of her life.
Christiane is also a founding board member of The Equity Alliance, a Nashville based 501c3 that seeks to educate, engage, and empower minorities around the civic process. Christiane’s full-time role at United Way of Greater Nashville keeps her heavily involved in supporting Nashville’s young people and engaging stakeholders. Currently, she serves as the Manager of Literacy Partnerships for the Blueprint for Early Childhood Success, a city-wide initiative focused on increasing literacy in our youngest learners.
Social Media (Influencer) Innovator
Tequila Johnson and Charlane Oliver, Co-Founders and Co-Executive Directors of the Equity Alliance
Charlane Oliver hailed as a “Now Generation Activist” by The Tennessean and a 2019 Woman of Influence by the Nashville Business Journal, Charlane Oliver is an award-winning community organizer, respected movement builder, and public relations strategist. Recently she was named to Nashville’s 2020 Power 100 list and is considered a rising star among Music City’s political scene. She is the co-founder and co-executive director of The Equity Alliance, a nonprofit that works to build independent political power among the Black electorate and end voter suppression in a state with one of the lowest voter participation rates in the nation.
With the recent election of President Joe Biden and Vice President Kamala Harris, Charlane has been named among 8 women fighting for voting rights in the South.
As a trusted voice on voting rights issues, her work has been featured in The New York Times, The Washington Post, Rolling Stone, National Journal, Pew Charitable Trusts, Huffington Post, the Associated Press, Think Progress, on NPR Weekend Edition, MSNBC, CNN, internationally and throughout Tennessee. She has graced the coveted stage at the inaugural TEDxNashvilleWomen and has been a featured guest on various local television broadcasts, radio stations and national podcasts.
A native of Little Rock, Arkansas, Charlane has a bachelor’s degree from Vanderbilt University and holds a Master of Public Administration from the University of Tennessee-Knoxville.
Tequila Johnson is an award-winning cause driven community organizer and strategist whose work focuses on creating equity and increasing civic engagement among Black Americans and other communities of color.
She has been recognized for educating communities of color about the political process, relevant economic, social, and political issues, the impacts of impending legislation, and providing people with the tools to exercise self-agency. She has been featured in The New York Times, The Washington Post, on CNN, MSNBC and around the country.
Johnson is a graduate of Tennessee State University, where she received her master’s degree in counseling psychology and is currently pursuing a Ph.D. in industrial and organizational psychology. Additionally she is a certified project manager and holds a graduate certificate in grant writing and nonprofit, public and organizational management. She currently serves on the Metro Nashville Industrial Development Board (2020), the sustainable business coalition, and is a Board Member for Creative Girls Rock. When she’s not working, she enjoys singing in her church choir, doing crossfit, and spending time with her daughter.
2019 Innovator Award Recipients
Creative Arts Innovator
Donna Woodley, Visual Artist at Donna Woodley Studio and Gallery
Donna Woodley is a visual artist whose most recent works examine the relationship between Black culture and American culture. She works as a professor at Austin Peay State University Clarksville, TN and Tennessee State University in Nashville, TN. Donna’s work has allowed her to emerge within the art community locally and nationally through her solo shows, participation in group exhibitions, and other professional happenings. Donna resides in Nashville, TN and is ecstatic about her future as a maker.
Mental Health & Wellness Innovator
Jessica “Coach” Kern, CEO & CFO at Jessica Kern Foundation
Jessica Kern became the head women’s basketball coach at Tennessee State University in April 2016. She became the 11th head coach in program history.
“Jessica Kern is a high-energy and enthusiastic young coach who has successful experience in coaching, recruiting and playing basketball at an elite level,” commented Teresa Phillips. “The more I learned about her, the more convinced I became that she was the right fit for our university. She is committed to excellence in the classroom and on the court. A coach's daughter, with the headiness and toughness to flourish in the Big Ten and as a professional athlete, Jessica is a proven leader, proven winner and proven recruiter that will help us be successful in the OVC. Perhaps most importantly, she understands the special nature of working at Tennessee State. I look forward to welcoming her to the TSU family.”
Jessica is a native of Milwaukee, Wisconsin and graduated with a bachelor’s degree in Journalism from Penn State in 2002. She has one son, Bobby Lee Collins, Jr.
Women Empowerment Innovator
Danielle McGee, Founder & CEO of Black Business Boom
Danielle McGee, is a Chicago native, residing in Nashville since 2016. Danielle is an MBA graduate from Saint Xavier University, spending the greater part of her professional career working in a leadership role in managed healthcare. Danielle has always had entrepreneurship in her heart.
As a small business owner since 2012, Danielle understands the many challenges entrepreneurs experience. Her empathy for these challenges and fervor for helping others developed into a passion for helping fellow small business owners. This passion drove Danielle to develop Black Business Boom, a mobile marketing platform to help drive revenue to small Black owned businesses.
Danielle is involved with several projects helping to craft the entrepreneurial landscape for Black and Brown business owners in Nashville.
Youth Development Innovator
Lagra Newman, Founder and Head of School of Purpose Preparatory Academy
Lagra Newman is the Founder and Head of School of Purpose Preparatory Academy, one of the highest performing elementary schools in Tennessee. Purpose Prep, a public, non-selective charter school, educates children predominately within the North Nashville community and focuses on strong literacy acquisition. In 2017, Purpose Prep earned Reward status for being among the top 5% of schools in the state of Tennessee for academic performance. In 2018, Purpose Prep earned Reward School status for the second consecutive year.
A staunch advocate for underserved communities, Ms. Newman is deeply committed to ensuring that all children have access to quality education. Lagra began her career as an inner-city teacher for Teach for America where she taught fifth grade at 109th Street Elementary School in the Watts community of Los Angeles, California. She then recruited teachers for Teach For America in Atlanta, GA and then served as an instructional coach at an elementary school in Washington, D.C.
Lagra earned a Bachelor of Arts in Communication Studies and Spanish at Vanderbilt University, a Masters in Teaching at Loyola Marymount University, and a Masters in Education Leadership from Teachers College of Columbia University.
Influencer Innovator
Kenya Raymer, Writer & Blogger
Kenya Raymer is a writer, blogger, and self-love enthusiast who uses her online platform @Halfietruths, as a personal campaign to inspire women to be their most authentic self. Preaching boundaries, self-care, truth telling, and finding comfort in your own skin, Kenya strives to connect women to self and each other through hair, fashion, travel, raw stories of motherhood, great food, and the occasional rant!
Kenya is wife to James, and mama to their daughter Selah + oversized dog, Walli. She is loving life in Nashville, TN, where she is passionate about the local eats, animal rescue, and reproductive mental health.