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Celebrating Nashville’s Gamechangers

Honoring Black Philanthropy Month 2025: A Celebration of Gamechangers Rooted in Sankofa

This August, in recognition of Black Philanthropy Month and the global call to honor the theme of Sankofa — a West African principle that urges us to “go back and get it” — we proudly welcome the next class of Gamechangers: Black philanthropic leaders and bold collaborators shaping the future through innovation, generosity, and trust.

Last year’s Gamechangers sparked a collective energy, pulling each other into closer orbit, inspiring new partnerships, deepening relationships, and connecting brilliant minds to the mission of Community Foundation of Middle Tennessee. Their influence continues to grow, grounded in shared purpose and possibility.

This year, we build on that momentum.

Guided by the principle of Sankofa, we honor the wisdom and legacy of those who came before us, while investing in the visionaries who are creating a more just and vibrant tomorrow. These Gamechangers represent the best of what’s possible when community, creativity, and intention align.

Join us as we celebrate their leadership, elevate their stories, and deepen our shared commitment to building a Middle Tennessee where everyone can thrive.

2025 Gamechangers

Ashford Hughes
Phylanice Nashe

Support Black Philanthropy

This Black Philanthropy Month, we invite you to support Black-led nonprofits and CFMT funds led by Black philanthropists. Your donation can make a meaningful impact.

Black Philanthropy Month: Sankofa Now!

The past holds the key to our future. As we navigate growing challenges, we must draw strength from those who came before us. For this year’s Black Philanthropy Month recognition, we must:

  • Remember our philanthropic roots, built on collective care and community-driven investment. 
  • Reclaim our power to shape the future, ensuring Black-led change is not just recognized but sustained.
  • Rise by reinvesting in our people, our movements, and our solutions, because the future of Black philanthropy (and all humanity) depends on what we do today.

A thriving Black community benefits everyone. The fight for equity, opportunity, and justice strengthens our collective future, creating a world where all can prosper. Black philanthropy has always been a catalyst for change. In a time when progress is at risk, we need all hands on deck.

The greatness of a community is most accurately measured by the compassionate actions of its members.

Coretta Scott King
Community Foundation of Middle Tennessee Logo

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