Testimonials

“The program has been absolutely wonderful, and I cannot say enough about how great my mentor has been. My mentor pair was unexpected but an answered prayer and the most beneficial pairing for me.” Joel Jarnagin, First Horizon Bank, Protégé, Class of 2026

Joel Jarnagin, First Horizon Bank, Protégé – Class of 2026Content -

"I have learned quite a bit from the program. It has broadened my skills and my network.” Oliver Cobb, Linden Street Capital, Protégé, Class of 2026

Oliver Cobb, Linden Street Capital, Protégé – Class of 2026Content -

“I am very thankful for the opportunity to mentor with NEXUS. I am especially grateful to make a new friend in my proteges without NEXUS, this strong relationship would not be available.” Coors Arthur, Hilltop Securities, Mentor, Class of 2026

Coors Arthur, Hilltop Securities, Mentor – Class of 2026Content -

“Participating in the NEXUS Leaders program has been one of the most impactful leadership experiences of my professional journey. For the past year, I’ve had the opportunity to grow alongside a dedicated mentor who has challenged me to think more strategically, lead with intention, and strengthen both my personal and professional influence." Donae Gooden, The J.M. Smucker Company, Protégé, Class of 2026

Donae Gooden, The J.M. Smucker Company, Protégé – Class of 2026Content -

“When I started the program, I found myself thinking I hope I can make all the session, it’s going to be such a long journey. However, looking back it went by so fast, and each session left me with amazing insights!” Veronica McChristian, AutoZone, Inc., NEXUS Protégé, Class of 2026

Veronica McChristian, AutoZone, Inc., Protégé – Class of 2026Content -

“I have had an amazing year being mentored and interacting with and listening to amazing leaders!” Jordan Wright, Baptist Memorial Health Care Corporation, Protégé, Class of 2026

Jordan Wright, Baptist, Protégé – Class of 2026Content -

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

Congrats to the NEXUS Class of 2026

Congratulations to the NEXUS Class of 2026! It was an honor to celebrate the Mentors and Proteges at Graduation on May 7 at International Paper. The Mentor and Protégé graduates were celebrated for their accomplishments and dedication over the past ten months. Thank you to Memphis Mayor Paul Young for sharing celebratory remarks. On behalf of the NEXUS Board of Directors, it was a privilege to honor NEXUS Mentor Levernese... Read More
Memorable Evening at NEXUS NIGHT OUT

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

The NEXUS IN MOTION session took place in April. This special event offered members of the NEXUS Network the opportunity to network, have table discussions on timely topics led by NEXUS Alumni, and to be inspired by a keynote message from David Jordan, President & CEO Agape Child & Family Services Inc. on “Dreaming as a Leader”. Special thanks to those NEXUS Alumni that returned to lead table discussions: Christy... Read More
AutoZone’s Rebecca Givens Rice Shares on the Power of the Question

It was an honor to have AutoZone’s Rebecca Givens Rice as our speaker. Rebecca is the Vice President of Human Resources for AutoZone and shared on how to be an effective and compassionate leader by asking the right questions. She said, “The best leaders don’t have the best answers, they ask better questions.” And by doing this you show respect, build trust and loyalty and retain members of your team.... Read More
Sylvamo’s Page Boden Spoke at the February Session

“Don’t be fancy, be effective and concise.” – Page Boden It was a privilege to have Page Boden, Director of Communications for Sylvamo speak at the Class of 2026 February session. Page shared how to communicate as an effective leader and referenced the book Smart Brevity. A FEW POINTS Put Your Audience First Punch Through the Clutter Communicate Clearly + Concisely Make Every Word Count Say More with Less Read More
Actual Intelligence: Using AI to Lead with Clarity and Courage

NEXUS Alumni and Code Crew School’s ToNaya Gulley Pye recently led a NEXUS Workshop titled Actual Intelligence: Using AI to Lead with Clarity and Courage. The information she shared will help equip our leaders through AI. Alumni are invited to join us for monthly speaker sessions and special events. Make a reservation with NEXUS. #nexusleaders #leadershipdevelopment #mentoringmatters Read More
Leading in Our Community

Heather Hunt, NEXUS Executive Director recently represented NEXUS as a panelist at the NBMBAA meeting along with several NEXUS Alumni. The focus was “Leading in our Community”. Special thanks to NBMBAA for the invitation. #nexusleaders #leadershipdevelopment #mentoringmatters Read More
Rob Carter Returned to NEXUS to discuss “Leading with AI”

NEXUS started the new year at the January session with Rob Carter, recently retired CTO & CIO for FedEx Global. Rob and NEXUS Board member Sridhar Sunkara, founder of enaiblr had a conversation on the topic of “Leading With AI”. The conversation started with how technology has transformed. We were encouraged to embrace AI as leaders and use the tool as critical thinkers. Rob mentioned when thinking of AI, be... Read More
Merry Christmas and Happy New Year from NEXUS

On behalf of the NEXUS Board of Directors, we wish you a very Merry Christmas. May the new year be filled with purpose, growth, and meaningful impact. Thank you for your ongoing support for NEXUS. Read More
NEXUS Alumni and Judge Valerie Smith Shared at NEXUS

At the December session, alumni and members of the Class of 2026 had the opportunity to hear Judge Valerie Smith speak. NEXUS Alumni Valerie Smith and Court of Appeals Judge for the Western Section spoke on the topic of “Ethical Leadership”. She shared her experiences and asked the class to ponder the question, “How do you want others to see you?”. Contact NEXUS to request the speaker’s audio. Read More