Testimonials

“NEXUS was an incredible experience. Beyond the opportunity to mentor a very dynamic and up-and-coming individual, I met a diverse group of seasoned and young professionals from a variety of industries which led to several interesting and thought-provoking discussions. The speakers who spoke with us throughout the year were also very enlightening and offered open and honest dialogue about relevant topics ranging from ethics, planning, crisis management, communication, and several other subjects

Steve French, Retired, NEXUS Mentor, Class of 2021Content -

“I am so thankful to be doing NEXUS this year. Yes, adapted and different, but hugely valuable. My mentor has been simply a Godsend in a season where a lot was poised to change even before a global pandemic. NEXUS and that relationship is already such an asset; I'm sure it will only grow. Many thanks for working to allow me this opportunity in such a wild context.” -Ally Velderman, Director of Camps and Programs, Service Over Self, NEXUS Protégé, Class of 2021

Ally Velderman, Director of Camps and Programs, Service Over Self, NEXUS Protégé, Class of 2021Content -

“The NEXUS program provides Memphians the unique and rewarding experience to talk with a true cross-section of the community and believe that you as an individual can indeed have an impact upon your community. Being part of an organization that shares similar core values as you do is so refreshing and enlightening. I leave each meeting feeling uplifted and inspired. NEXUS has allowed me to take a look from the outside in and this has provided me great insight both into myself but into the profes

Hanna Oysel, NEXUS Protégé, Class of 2020, Adams Keegan, Inc., Client Service ManagerContent -

“Memphis = Access and Impact. I love this saying! I've been a NEXUS mentor for 4 years, and truly believe in the work NEXUS is doing to connect and inspire proteges and mentors to make a difference in this city. As Memphians, we all have the opportunity to engage our networks AND dive into rewarding work to make Memphis better. Please stay in touch and thanks for all you do. Congratulations to our 2020 Graduates!” Caroline Keubler, NEXUS Mentor, Class of 2020, Community Found

Caroline Keubler, NEXUS Mentor, Class of 2020, Community Foundation of Greater Memphis, Director of DevelopmentContent -

“From the retreat in August, to hearing stories from top Memphis business leaders, NEXUS superseded all my expectations. I am beyond grateful to become a part of the NEXUS family.” Quentin Hendree, NEXUS Protégé, Class of 2020, ALSAC/St. Jude Children's Research Hospital, Account Representative, Strategic Partnerships

Quentin Hendree, NEXUS Protégé, Class of 2020, ALSAC/St. Jude Children’s Research Hospital, Account Representative, Strategic PartnershipsContent -

“I’ve been blessed to be part of the NEXUS program. It has connected me with other young professionals that care about Memphis and matched me with a mentor that understands my personal and professional hurdles. Not only have I learned more about myself, but I truly feel like I have a greater connection with my city as well. Thank you to everyone who makes NEXUS possible and I couldn’t recommend it more!” Reid Cates, NEXUS Protégé, Class of 2020, AutoZone, Senior Category Manager

Reid Cates, NEXUS Protégé, Class of 2020, AutoZone, Senior Category Manager-Customer SatisfactionContent -

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

Lunch with Leaders

Members of the NEXUS Network had the opportunity to network and be inspired by NEXUS leaders. During Lunch with Leaders Chris Coleman, Caroline Kuebler, and Bathsheba Sams shared their personal leadership journeys and the insights they’ve gained through experience. Read More
NEXUS Alumni Returns as November Session Speaker

Alumni and members of the NEXUS Class of 2026 had the privilege to hear NEXUS Alumni Brooke Jones, Director for Strategy for Martin Brower return to NEXUS and speak at the November session. Brooke spoke on the topic of “Focusing as a Leader” and shared that it’s okay to give yourself permission and grace to be focused in the moment – that will set you up on the right path... Read More
Doug McGowan Shared with NEXUS Class of 2026

Doug McGowan, President and CEO for MLGW spoke to the NEXUS Class of 2026 at the October session. Doug is a dynamic leader that spoke on the topic of “Planning as a Leader”. Doug’s remarks and examples provided valuable take-aways applicable to everyone. He discussed four kinds of Work/Buckets -Day to Day Work -Process Improvement -Break Through Thinking -Critical/Crisis Action Planning Plan + Metrics / Activity + Outcome / Measure... Read More
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