CLARKSVILLE, TN — Leadership Clarksville is proud to announce the formal graduation of its Class of 2026. The graduation ceremony, presented by Gershman Mortgage, took place on May 19 at the Wilma Rudolph Events Center, where 33 local leaders were honored for completing the program.
The evening marked the culmination of a year-long journey designed to give established and emerging leaders a deeper understanding of the Clarksville-Montgomery County community. Throughout the program, the 33 graduates engaged in monthly educational sessions covering vital local sectors, including government, education, economic development, public safety, and healthcare.
“We are incredibly proud of the Class of 2026,” said Michael Kasitz, executive director of Leadership Clarksville. “These 33 individuals have demonstrated an immense commitment to the future of Clarksville. Armed with fresh insights and a strengthened network, they are uniquely equipped to drive positive change and serve our growing community.”
Leadership Clarksville extends its sincere gratitude to Gershman Mortgage for serving as the presenting sponsor of the graduation ceremony, as well as the local businesses and leaders who support the program’s mission year after year.
Introducing the Leadership Clarksville Class of 2026
The 33 graduating members represent a diverse cross-section of local industry, non-profit, and civic leadership:
- Lisa Baggett, United Community Bank
- Andrea Berry, Department of Defense
- Sharita Brown, Montgomery Co. Mental Health Court
- Fairlen Browning, Gershman Mortgage
- Renee Bruens, Montgomery Co. Health Department
- Steve Calles, Byers & Harvey
- Christopher Causey, Clarksville Montgomery Co. School System
- Juanita Charles, The Charles Group / Zach Taylor Real Estate
- Corey Choate, TCAT Dickson & Clarksville
- Jemina Clinard, Montgomery Co. District Attorney’s Office
- Ryan Gallant, Montgomery Co. Commissioner District 18
- Wes Golden, Montgomery Co. Mayor
- Corey Gray, Farmer’s Insurance
- Shannon Heim, Unique Real Estate
- Hilda Hernandez, Iglesia Refugio de Amor
- Matt Holman, Batson Nolan
- Michelle Hueffmeier, Montgomery Co. Government
- Valecia Largin, Fortitude Bookkeeping & Tax Services
- Sherry Lawdermilt, Austin Peay State University
- Michelle Martin, Austin Peay State University
- Sheri Martinez, Progressive Directions, Inc.
- Silas Matchem, Clarksville Montgomery Co. Regional Planning Commission
- Grayson Nicholson, Austin Peay State University
- Delana Norfleet, Syneos Health
- Shelby Perry-Keith, Legends Bank
- Gwen Richardson, Christ the Healer Church
- Cindy Rollison, Wheeler Digital
- Devon Scurlock, Sanderson Pipe Corporation
- Brandon Sheffield, Clarksville Christian School
- Greg Speed, Legion Realty
- Ryan Streeter, Farm Bureau Insurance
- Charles Uffelman, Tennessee for All
- Kirsha Wilson-Smith, Nurture House Group
For more information about the program, upcoming events, or how to apply for future cohorts, please visit leadershipclarksville.com.
About Leadership Clarksville
Founded in 1987, Leadership Clarksville is an independent, non-profit organization dedicated to identifying and empowering diverse leaders in the Clarksville-Montgomery County area. By giving participants a comprehensive look at the community’s inner workings, the program fosters a network of informed, collaborative citizens ready to guide Clarksville into a prosperous future.