Building Leaders for 35 Years with the Executive Learning Network

Former AT&T CEO Anne Chow speaks at ELN 35th launch event

In an era where effective leadership can make or break organizations, Nashville's business community has a powerful resource celebrating a significant milestone. This year, the Executive Learning Network (ELN) within the Jack C. Massey College of Business marks its 35th anniversary of empowering professionals with the tools to innovate, lead with purpose and thrive in today’s ever-changing business landscape.  

Over its three-and-a-half decades, the network has touched more than 7,000 members across 200 companies, bringing them access to thought leaders like Steven Covey, Andrea Huffington and Malcolm Gladwell. 

Leadership Beyond the Boardroom 

To launch its 2025 leadership series, ELN welcomed former AT&T CEO Anne Chow, who challenged members to elevate their understanding of purpose and leadership. 

"If I were to ask you about the purpose of your team or company, my guess is that your answer would probably address the 'what,'" Chow said. "But purpose is more than what you do. One of the most important roles you have as the leader of a team is to make your purpose clear." 

Chow, discussing key points from her book "LEAD BIGGER: The Transformative Power of Inclusion," emphasized that exceptional leadership isn't just about performance metrics—it's about nurturing potential in others. 

This philosophy aligns perfectly with ELN's core mission: leadership that embraces flexibility, innovation and lifelong learning. 

Consistent Leadership Driving Long-term Success 

Behind ELN's enduring influence is Director Jill Robinson, whose steady guidance has shaped the program for more than 18 years. Under Robinson's leadership, ELN has maintained its relevance through changing business landscapes while expanding its reach and impact throughout Nashville's professional community. 

Her long-term vision has been instrumental in cultivating the relationships that make ELN such a valuable connector between academia and industry. Robinson's commitment to excellence has ensured that the program continues to deliver high-caliber leadership development while evolving to meet emerging challenges.  

Making Leadership Development Accessible 

Through a dedicated scholarship program, nonprofit organizations and underfunded sectors gain access to the same high-quality resources as major corporations. 

Habitat for Humanity for Greater Nashville is one such beneficiary using these scholarships to extend leadership development throughout their organization. 

"The scholarship program allowed us to include other members of our team — not just senior leadership — so that they could grow and learn about topics that were of interest to them," said Lauren Payne, senior vice president for philanthropy at Habitat for Humanity of Greater Nashville. "The variety of ELN offerings fits within multiple areas of interest and team members feel invested in." 

Payne, who also serves on the ELN Board of Advisors, contributes to creating relevant programming each year. 

"It is always rewarding to be a part of an organization that has made an impact on your learning and understanding," she said. "Being engaged at that board level provides me an extra level of connectivity to what's happening. I value the opportunity to provide counsel and influence what members learn." 

A Legacy of Learning 

The numbers tell a compelling story: 

• 200 companies influenced through ELN membership 

• 37 companies involved for over a decade, with 18 remaining active members 

• More than 300 leadership sessions delivered 
• 636 hours of leadership programming provided 

To commemorate this milestone, the anniversary launch featured an installment highlighting ELN's contribution to Nashville's business community—part of a larger initiative to archive ELN's history in Belmont's library collections. This exhibit will remain on display throughout the anniversary year. 

Bridging Business and Academia 

ELN also creates mutual benefits that strengthen both Nashville's business community and the academic environment at the Jack C. Massey College of Business. 

With a majority of ELN events hosted on campus, the program serves as a vital conduit bringing business leaders directly to Belmont. These regular gatherings enable the College of Business to maintain an authentic connection to current business challenges and innovations. As members come to campus to learn from expert leaders, they give the College invaluable insight into real-world business dynamics. 

The network's enduring success demonstrates that proper leadership development transforms entire communities. 

As the Executive Learning Network celebrates 35 years of impact, members can look forward to another year of growth and connection.