Testimonials

"I've absolutely loved building a dynamic and mutually beneficial relationship with my mentee. NEXUS has been a phenomenal platform for gaining actionable insights from community leaders and program participants, greatly enriching both of our professional development journeys." Ramonda Clayborn, Sylvamo, NEXUS Class of 2025 Mentor

Ramonda Clayborn, Sylvamo, NEXUS Class of 2025 MentorContent -

“The NEXUS program has meant so much to me both personally and professionally. My mentor offered incredible wisdom and support, and I truly felt seen and encouraged throughout the process. I also had the chance to meet other protégés I wouldn’t have crossed paths with otherwise—some of whom have turned into genuine friendships. I’m incredibly thankful for NEXUS and all the growth it brought into my life this year. - Lauren Morgan, The Bank of Fayette County, NEXUS Protégé, Class of 2025

Lauren Morgan, The Bank of Fayette County, NEXUS Protégé, Class of 2025Content -

"An essential aspect of growth as an entrepreneur and business professional lies in learning from the paths of those who came before you—seasoned lifelong learners whose wealth of experience drives economic progress and strengthens our community's foundation. NEXUS gave me that opportunity, as I hope to contribute to our community's economic growth. " Emmanuel Amido, AgroTech Noire, NEXUS Protégé, Class of 2025

Emmanuel Amido, AgroTech Noire, NEXUS Protégé, Class of 2025Content -

“The NEXUS program is one of a kind. From my time as a protégé many years ago to the last year as a mentor, I have learned so much through this program. The inspiring, experienced speakers NEXUS attracts never fail to provide life lessons. The future of Memphis is in the hands of some extraordinary, passionate young leaders who are working hard to improve lives in our community. “ -Beverly Gates, Monogram Food, NEXUS Mentor, Class of 2025

Beverly Gates, Monogram Food, NEXUS Mentor, Class of 2025Content -

"This year was my first experience with NEXUS, & I can see what all the buzz was about. The staff & volunteers are passionate about leadership development & the monthly meetings were fantastic. Honestly, the quality of the speakers blew my mind! The common denominator was their passion for being a great leader & their willingness to share what made them successful. NEXUS is a wonderful organization & an asset to Memphis." - Gordon McIntyre, NEXUS Mentor, Class of 2025

Gordon McIntyre, NEXUS Mentor, Class of 2025Content -

“I was honored to participate in the inaugural year of NEXUS, 20 years later I’m honored to still be involved in NEXUS as a mentor, past speaker, and Board member. Just five years after being a protégé I became President & CEO of NCC, because of NEXUS I appreciate and see the importance of servant leadership.” Ephie Ballard Johnson, President & CEO of Neighborhood Christian Centers

Celebrating 20 Years of NEXUS – Alumni Highlight – Ephie Ballard JohnsonContent -

Video Testimonials

Sandy Willson

Bethany McRae, NEXUS protege talks about her experience.

Bethany McRae

NEXUS protege Amy Strickland talks about her experience in the class of 2019.

Amy Strickland

NEXUS Protege/Mentor-Jill & Hayley

Mentor-Jill & Hayley

Announcements

First NEXUS Class of 2026 Session a Success with Dr. Coopwood

Dr. Reginald Coopwood, President & CEO for Regional One Health spoke at the first session to the NEXUS Class of 2026. Dr. Coopwood did excellent job speaking on his experiences as proven community-focused leader and a visionary. He shared a few things he believes makes an effective leader including culture is the most important thing and it starts with the top. The leader sets the expectations. NEXUS Alumni are invited... Read More
NEXUS Welcomes the Class of 2026

NEXUS is excited to officially kick off another year of growth, connection, and impact with the newest class. The Class of 2026 represents the next generation of leaders who are ready to learn, serve, and make a difference in our community. We’re grateful to our mentors for sharing their wisdom and to our protégés for bringing their energy and curiosity to the table. The class recently had Orientation with the... Read More
Special Thanks to NEXUS Partner First Horizon Bank

NEXUS partner First Horizon Bank recently hosted the NEXUS Class of 2026 Meet + Greet at the Ron Terry location. The event provided an opportunity for new NEXUS class members to get to know one another and set the tone for an impactful beginning to this year’s NEXUS experience. We are grateful for the partnership with First Horizon Bank and the role they play in supporting the development of emerging... Read More
2025 Kem Wilson, Jr. NEXUS Leadership Award Announced

On behalf of the NEXUS Board of Directors, it was a privilege to honor NEXUS Protege Emmanuel Amido with the 2025 Kem Wilson, Jr. NEXUS Leadership Award that is awarded each year to someone that leads like Kem. This award is given at Graduation an individual who has unwavering commitment to the NEXUS program and mission and is fully engaged with fellow members of the Class of 2025. “It’s been... Read More
Congrats to the NEXUS Class of 2025!

Congratulations to the NEXUS Class of 2025! It was an honor to celebrate the Mentors and Proteges at Graduation on May 6 at Theatre Memphis. The Mentor and Protégé graduates were celebrated for their accomplishments and dedication over the past ten months. Thank You Shelby County Sherriff Floyd Bonner for delivering a meaningful keynote message. Special thanks to the Board members, Program Committee members, and volunteers for their leadership and... Read More
Connecting at NEXUS Night Out

On April 29, NEXUS alumni and current class members gathered at the home of NEXUS Alumni Norma and Kem Wilson for this year’s NEXUS Night Out, enjoying an evening of connection, conversation, and community. Read More
NEXUS IN MOTION was a Success!

NEXUS IN MOTION is a favorite among the NEXUS Network and was another success this year. Special thanks to the NEXUS Alumni who led table discussions and keynote speaker Matt Gandy. This special event offers NEXUS Alumni and current participants the opportunity to network, have table discussions on timely topics, and to be inspired by a keynote message. Thanks to the table leaders: Bryan Boggs / Jeremy Calhoun / Hayley... Read More
First Horizon’s David Popwell Spoke at the March Session

David Popwell, Senior Strategic Executive for First Horizon Corporation, spoke to alumni and class members at the March session on “Building Leaders”. David is prominent leader in the financial sector of Memphis and has demonstrated long-standing leadership through his value-based approach and commitment to ethical business practices. He started the evening by asking participants to reflect on these questions: “What kind of person do you want to be?” and “What... Read More
NEXUS Winter Workshop Series was a Success

NEXUS recently hosted a Winder Workshop Series focused on using the Enneagram and AI to be an effective communicator. Special thanks to Katie West and Sridhar Sunkara for facilitating this series. NEXUS is where mentoring and leadership meet. We continue to provide opportunities for current participants and alumni to develop as leaders. To learn more about upcoming events visit www.nexusleaders.org. Read More
Brett Batterson Shared at Feb NEXUS Session

On February 4, President & CEO of the Orpheum Theatre Group Brett Batterson spoke to the members of the NEXUS Class of 2025. Brett is an empathetic leader who is all about the people. To lead through change, he shared you must pivot, be nimble, and take everyone with you. Special thanks to Begin Now, LLC. for sponsoring this session. To join us for an upcoming session, contact NEXUS to... Read More