Jackson Chamber Announces 42nd Leadership Jackson Class Participants

September 10, 2020



The Jackson Chamber is pleased to announce the nominees selected for its 42nd Leadership Jackson class. Leadership Jackson is a leadership development program for community members who demonstrate leadership potential. Sponsored by the Jackson Chamber, the program is an opportunity for local professionals to learn more about the community and its challenges.


The class will participate in a one-hour video conference meeting from October – February and begin in-person full-day sessions in early March. Leadership Jackson Chair Russ McKelvey, branch manager, Mack Pest Control, Inc. and Vice-Chair Nick Hayes, general manager, Hiller Plumbing • Cooling • Heating • Electrical will direct the sessions.


“This is going to be a special year for Leadership Jackson,” says McKelvey. “The challenges that make us uncomfortable create an environment of growth and learning. It’s a time in our world where we need strong leaders as much as ever. The 42nd class faces a unique experience that no other class has had. We embrace this year’s challenges and look forward to what the new class will find. It’s a journey that will create great relationships and a new perspective for all involved. This group will be a lot of fun as we take them through another successful year of Leadership Jackson.”


Class members will meet weekly for sessions on various topics. A leadership skill-building component is incorporated into each session. Leaders in key areas, such as health care, criminal justice, economic development, quality of life, education and government will share an overview of the present state, challenges, and future vision. This information provides the class with a broad understanding of the interworking of Jackson-Madison County and a big picture view. It also engages them in a self-analysis of where they can best make a positive impact by getting involved or being a resource for their company or sphere of influence.


“I am excited to start serving with the 42nd class of Leadership Jackson,” says Hayes. “This class will be unique in their experience with the current environment, delayed start and additional speakers. I am looking forward to helping develop this next group of leaders and allowing them to see and experience Jackson and Madison County in a new light. We are all excited to see the positive impact that this class will have on our community.”


The 2020 Leadership Jackson class includes:


  • Craig Barton, The Hamilton-Ryker Group, Inc.
  • Clint Beilke, The University of Memphis – Lambuth Campus
  • Dian Blankenship, RE/MAX Realty Source
  • Mike Bryant, Leaders Credit Union
  • Allison Bryant, XMC, Excellence in Office Solutions
  • Kenneth Cummings, City of Jackson
  • Chelsie Denevan, AbilisHealth
  • Timothy Dyer, LIFELINE Blood Services
  • Ronda Fitzgerald, Christian Brothers Automotive-Jackson/Conner Real Estate
  • Christy Fullington, Nest Realty Jackson
  • Hunter Hawes, State Farm Insurance – Alan Brown
  • Deb Heard, Hands UP! Preschool
  • Jenny Higdon, Jackson Energy Authority
  • Lauren Hyde, Town & Country Realtors-Joey Hale
  • Brandon Jones, TLM Associates, Inc., Architects + Engineers
  • Ann Keyl, Sacred Heart of Jesus High School
  • Lindsay Kilburn, Madison County Sheriff’s Office
  • Jacob Klink, Regions Bank
  • David Knack, Knack Insurance Agency representing American National
  • Matt Marshall, United Way of West Tennessee, Inc.
  • Caleb Meriwether, Haven Insurance Partners
  • Cassandra Owens, Lane College
  • Dr. Janice Pittman, Union University
  • Parker Powell, Yukon Outfitters
  • Andrew Shaub, Butts Foods, Inc.
  • Andy Spence, Mitchell’s Body Shop, Inc.
  • Kayley Tyner, SERVPRO of Jackson/Crockett County
  • Ginger Williams, Town and Country Realtors
  • Rema Wilson, Association of Infant Mental Health in Tennessee (AIMHiTN)


  • Find out more about Leadership Jackson.