Twenty Three Individuals Graduate from the United Way Catalyst Program

On May 15th, twenty-three local business leaders graduated from United Way’s Catalyst program. During the nine-month program, participants connected directly with local nonprofits through agency tours and projects.

The Catalyst program aims to train volunteers to serve in nonprofit leadership roles. Program participants learn about governance, financial accountability, diversity, equity and inclusion, and more topics related to nonprofit leadership. Participants also engage in social responsibility through advocacy, giving and volunteerism.

This year’s cohort took a closer look at the roles and responsibilities of nonprofits. By connecting with local nonprofits, participants developed a deeper understanding of the challenges and opportunities within our community. These experiences often spark a continued commitment to service, empowering graduates to step into leadership roles and give back in meaningful ways.

2024-2025 Catalyst Participants include:

• Mallory Uhles, Miller Loughry Beach Insurance Services Inc.
• Nancy Gastelum, Redstone Federal Credit Union
• Jeremy Fuller, Farm Bureau
• Ashley Crouch, FSNB, N.A.
• Beth Binkley, YMCA
• Bethany Pennington, Fully Promoted
• Lane Hargrove, Pinnacle Financial Partners
• Elizabeth Smith, TN Voices
• Deborah Stevens-Barnett, Middle TN Electric
• Beth Dempsey, Belt Family Realty
• Joseph Howard, Premier Healthcare Consulting, LLC
• Kristen Janson, Middle Tennessee State University
• Shalonda Brown, Boys & Girls Clubs of Rutherford County
• Halanda Burden, Asurion
• Maggie Richard Lee, Wilson Bank and Trust
• Casey Brown, MTSU
• Samantha Meyer, First Community Mortgage
• Laura Wade, First Community Mortgage
• Carrie Smotherman, A Mortgage Boutique a division of First Community Mortgage
• Megan Chastain, First Community Mortgage
• Tricia Pohlman, First Community Mortgage
• Chris Farmer, Redstone Federal Credit Union
• Allie Tompkins, Pinnacle Financial Partners