Community Foundation of Middle Tennessee is thrilled to announce six visionary leaders from the Nashville community as the most recent additions to its Board of Directors.
Exciting times are ahead for the Community Foundation of Middle Tennessee (CFMT) as it welcomes a new Board class into the next era of the community’s foundation.
Comprising of six distinguished leaders from the Nashville area community, each new member brings a wealth of experience, success, and business acumen that aligns with CFMT’s mission and vision. This move is a pivotal part of CFMT’s intentional focus on building its new strategic framework.
The now 22-member Board of Directors is strengthening CFMT’s impact by dedicating their time, talent, and commitment to driving positive change in the community.
“Our newest group of Board members represents everything great about our community,” said Hal Cato, CEO at Community Foundation of Middle Tennessee. “The wisdom, perspective, experience and energy they bring into the organization is very exciting, and I look forward to working closely with them in the years ahead.”
Harry L. Allen, the driving force behind Studio Bank, wears multiple hats as Co-Founder and Chief Relationship Officer. Since its launch in June 2018, Studio Bank has become Nashville’s first locally-headquartered bank in a decade, focusing on “Empowering Creators.” With over 80 employees and assets exceeding $900 million, Studio Bank is not just a financial institution but a thriving force in Nashville’s business landscape, earning recognition as a Best Place to Work by the Nashville Business Journal from 2019 to 2023.
As a key player in the bank’s formation, Mr. Allen played a crucial role in assembling the team, recruiting board members, navigating regulatory applications, and securing over $98 million in start-up and growth capital. Beyond the boardroom, Mr. Allen, a Nashville native, is deeply involved in the community, contributing his leadership to organizations like the Nashville Public Education Foundation, the Community Foundation of Middle Tennessee, and as Vice Chairman of the Belmont University Board of Trustees.
“As my service to the community evolves, I’ve looked for ways to make broad impact within the only region I’ve ever called home…Middle Tennessee,” said Harry Allen. “Joining the board of CFMT during a time of transition is a unique opportunity to use my gifts and skills for broad community impact and help the Foundation be the very best steward of the community’s generosity. With this board and Hal Cato’s leadership, the future of the Foundation is bright. I’m grateful to be a part of its evolution.”
Perri duGard Owens, the guiding force at duGard Communications (dGC), brings over two decades of expertise, seamlessly blending creativity, PR finesse, and marketing acumen. Her journey includes key roles at HCA’s TriStar Health System, DCI Donor Services, and the Nashville Area Chamber of Commerce, showcasing adaptability and excellence.
Beyond professional success, Perri is a community champion, steering impactful projects and earning accolades for dGC’s client strategies. A Nashville native, she actively contributes to the community, serving in Leadership Nashville (’24) and holding key positions in organizations like the Nashville Children’s Theatre and Nashville Chamber.
Johari Matthews, Vice President and Executive Director of the Tennessee Titans Foundation and ONE Community, is in her third season driving impactful community initiatives. Her role involves shaping corporate social responsibility, overseeing philanthropic efforts, and spearheading ONE Community, a dynamic platform addressing Middle Tennessee’s needs through awareness and solution-focused programs.
A Nashville native and alumna of Metro Nashville Public Schools and Tennessee State University, Johari’s roots in community engagement run deep. With a wealth of leadership experience, she reshaped the Titans’ community involvement and played a key role in establishing the groundbreaking ONE Community. Recognized for her transformative work, Johari extends her impact through board service and has been honored as one of Nashville’s Top 40 Under 40 and a ‘Ten People to Watch’ in 2024.
“I was introduced to the organization through The Women’s Fund in 2019 and it was evident then that CFMT strives to use its platform for awareness, genuine impact and a connector to provide philanthropic support to the nonprofit community,” said Johari Mathews. “I am looking forward to serving with an organization that is committed to moving the needle and as a native Nashvillian and community leader, excited to see how the work of this board and the CFMT staff collaborate to better serve Middle TN for years to come.”
James R. (Jim) Meade, Jr., CEO and Managing Shareholder of LBMC, a major Southeast accounting and business consulting firm, brings over 25 years of financial prowess to the CFMT Board. A seasoned professional and a 24-year veteran at LBMC, Jim has held various leadership roles, including serving on the firm’s board of directors and leading the technology industry segment.
Jim’s expertise extends to overseeing audit and accounting services for venture capital and private equity firms, with a special focus on technology early-stage, growth-stage, and acquisition-oriented portfolio companies. Beyond his corporate responsibilities, Jim is a dedicated supporter of the LBMC Cares Foundation, actively contributing to positive community change.
In addition to his commitment at LBMC, Jim serves on the advisory board for Nashville Capital Network, contributing to the region’s entrepreneurial growth and supporting a healthy continuum of capital.
“LBMC understands the importance of community outreach, and we have long admired the incredible work of CFMT and its impact on our community. I am honored to support CFMT’s mission to enrich the quality of life in Middle Tennessee by bringing new ideas for connecting generosity with need,” said Jim Meade. “I am also excited to bring my experiences with CFMT to LBMC, where we can enhance how we help foster positive change in the community. I believe I will also grow as a person through my experience with CFMT and view it as a true privilege to serve.”
Trey Harwell, a Member of Neal & Harwell, PLC, specializes in complex civil litigation, white-collar criminal defense, and crisis management. With a strategic approach, he conducts independent investigations nationwide, providing comprehensive solutions for clients ranging from individuals to major corporations.
A Vanderbilt University graduate and accomplished lawyer, Trey’s legal prowess has earned him recognition, including “Best of the Bar” by the Nashville Business Journal. Beyond his legal achievements, Trey is a civic leader, serving as Past Chair of the Board of Commissioners for the Metropolitan Nashville Airport Authority and holding key roles in organizations like the Nashville Downtown Partnership. His dedication extends to the Boy Scouts of America, where he is actively involved at local and national levels.
A proud Nashville native and Auburn University marketing graduate, Linda Rebrovick is a seasoned leader with a stellar career. After notable roles at IBM and KPMG Consulting, she became the CEO of Consensus Point and is now President of Impact Corporate Consulting.
Linda’s influence extends to several corporate boards, promoting women’s roles and advocating for positive change. Her community dedication includes leadership roles at the Leadership Nashville board of trustees and the Nashville Entrepreneur Center. Recognized for her impact, Linda has received accolades such as the YWCA’s Academy of Women of Achievement, Nashville Technology Council Hall of Fame, and the 2023 Distinguished Alumni Award from the Nashville Public Education Foundation.
About Community Foundation of Middle Tennessee
Community Foundation of Middle Tennessee unites compassionate individuals and worthy causes to build a more thriving and inclusive community by transforming thoughtful generosity into positive change. Its generous donors span the community and are driven by a shared commitment to addressing diverse needs.
