Author Anne Chow to speak at 2025 ELN launch, March 6
Amidst the ever-evolving business landscape, Executive Learning Networks within Belmont's Jack C. Massey College of Business has supported Nashville’s thriving business ecosystem by offering a robust and responsive leadership development program. This year marks the 35th anniversary of ELN, established at Belmont in 1990 in partnership with Clayton McWhorter, health care pioneer and co-founder of HealthTrust, Inc.
With Nashville’s network of diverse enterprises ranging from local establishments to global powerhouses, ELN aims to bring Middle Tennessee’s business leaders together for meaningful learning and collaboration. The program’s continuation and growth stand as a testament to the power of shared knowledge and community-driven innovation.
A Collaborative Foundation
ELN was founded to equip leaders to address real-world challenges and foster innovation in their organizations. “It’s a true learning community,” explained Jill Robinson, ELN’s director of 18 years. “It’s not about sales or competition — it’s about growth, both personal and professional.”
The program started small with just eight members forming the Peer Learning Network. The original group grew as the value of its offerings became apparent and a second network, The Peer Exchange Network, was created in 2003.
The two groups merged under the banner of Executive Learning Networks in 2007. This move, born from members’ desires for broader connections, exemplifies the program’s responsiveness to its community.
“The separate groups wanted to get to know more and learn alongside people in big business and small business, so I combined them,” Robinson said. “The intent is not only leadership development but it’s also about building this network in the community.”
Connection and collaboration are fundamental strands that naturally make up the DNA of Nashville’s network of diverse enterprises. Because it is deeply tied to Nashville’s distinct business culture, ELN has grown and become a trusted ‘coming together’ place for the city’s business leaders to network, learn and take innovative ideas back to their teams.
David Stansell, CEO of Stansell Electric, recalled joining ELN in its early days as the Peer Learning Network after being referred by a trusted colleague. “When we started going, we were a 10 to $20 million company and now we’re a $100 million company,” he shared. “A lot of the things we've learned over those years helped us grow, develop and be a better company.”
Another distinctive aspect is the program’s adaptability. Each year, members actively contribute to the curriculum by suggesting topics and speakers, ensuring that the program remains relevant and impactful.
“I really appreciated the opportunity every year to talk about good books we’ve read or good speakers we’ve heard, and who should we bring to share with other members,” he said. “I feel like we have good input on things we'd like to see. People that we know who have come to speak have ended up being a part of the program, so that's been rewarding as well.”
Members not only benefit from learning opportunities but also build connections across industries. Whether over breakfast discussions or collaborative workshops, ELN facilitates the kind of networking that leads to innovative solutions and community impact.
From humble beginnings, ELN has expanded into a thriving community of over 300 business executives with over forty corporate memberships.
ELN Through the Years
World-Class Learning Experiences
One way ELN distinguishes itself is by connecting its members with globally renowned speakers. From bestselling authors like Malcolm Gladwell and Steven Covey to historians like David McCullough and futurists encouraging members to anticipate emerging trends and innovations, ELN consistently offers cutting-edge insights.
R.C. Mathews Contractors has been a longstanding member since 2002. In addition to hearing from such speakers and having access to a library of resources from past ELN events, R.C. Mathews president Walker Mathews, Jr. noted the significance of hearing from other leaders within ELN.
“Jill [Robinson] started having some of the members speak and we’ve had some unbelievable stories and panels where two or three members from companies come share on a personal level,” Walker said. “That's been really impactful to understand their positions of leadership and how they've grown as leaders.”
Leadership for the Future
ELN serves as a bridge between Belmont’s academic mission and the broader business community by curating opportunities for ELN speakers to engage with students and share real-world insights.
Under Robinson’s leadership, ELN has continuously adapted to meet the changing needs of its members. Initiatives like an online library of resources, partnerships with groups like EO Nashville and specialized events such as the Next Level Women’s Conference have kept the program at the forefront of leadership development. ELN also creates seats at the table by providing a limited number of scholarships to women-owned, minority-owned and nonprofit organizations that would not otherwise be able to afford the membership.
“It’s about listening to our members and responding to their needs," Robinson said. "This program isn’t just about growth — it’s about ensuring everyone in the room has what they need to succeed.”
As ELN celebrates its 35th anniversary, its legacy is clear: a vibrant network of leaders committed to lifelong learning, collaborative innovation and making Nashville a better place for everyone.
The 2025 ELN calendar launches March 6 with keynote speaker Anne Chow, author of “LEAD BIGGER: The Transformative Power of Inclusion.” Chow will speak on finding new ways to prioritize the leadership imperative of inclusion despite its increasing politicization.
It’s about listening to our members and responding to their needs. This program isn’t just about growth — it’s about ensuring everyone in the room has what they need to succeed.”
Learn how to get involved with Executive Learning Networks.