Eric Stillman, CEO of The Jewish Federation and Jewish Foundation of Nashville and Middle Tennessee, is joining the 2021/22 Leadership Nashville class. Stillman joins 43 other executives who represent a diverse cross section of Nashville’s civic life. Now in its 44th year, Leadership Nashville seeks to provide local leaders with a three dimensional view of the city and its growth potential. Through a series classes and hands-on visits participants gain unique insights into areas impacting Nashville, such as government, criminal justice, education, social services, the arts and more. Stillman says, “I feel honored to have been selected for the Leadership Nashville class of 2021-2022. I know my participation will deepen my knowledge of the broader general community in Nashville.” 

Annually, the 44 participants are selected from hundreds of nominees and over 250 applicants. Those selected represent a diversity of races, religions, ages, and political persuasions, as well as a cross section of neighborhoods throughout the city. The classes also are comprised of people in a variety of professions and volunteers, all of whom hold leadership positions. Stillman was nominated by Irwin Venick, a 1980 graduate of Leadership Nashville. He says, “This year, I had the honor and privilege to nominate Eric Stillman to be part of Leadership Nashville.” Previous Jewish Federation CEOs have participated in the program, something Venick says is key to building the important relationships that will open pathways to understanding. “Eric will have the opportunity to share his, and the Jewish community’s perspective on life in Nashville and to hear the same from others.” Stillman says he is looking forward to building strong connection with other local leaders. “I believe my participation will add an important understanding of Judaism and the Jewish community to the class, and I anticipate bringing back into the Jewish community the connections and relationships which I will develop with the other leaders.”