The L’Evate Heart of the Community award recognizes excellence in community leadership as demonstrated by a long-standing commitment to the advancement of the Donelson, Hermitage, Old Hickory and adjacent communities. The first award was given to Gloria Coles in recognition of her many accomplishments and dedication to our community. Every year, we continue to honor Gloria’s leadership and heart for the community by presenting the award at the annual luncheon to a leader making a difference in our area.
Criteria for Nominees
- Demonstrates commitment and ongoing support of broad-based community service
- Promotes volunteerism
- Actively participates in community activities and events
- Displays characteristics of L’Evate program tenets
- Exhibits effective mentorship/development of others
Qualifications
- Graduate of L’Evate
- Alumni in good standing
- Shows continued support of the community for a minimum of 10 years
If you would like to nominate someone for the Heart of the Community Award, please email Deann (deann@levate.org).
Past Recipients
- 2024 – 2025 – BJ Keener (Class of 2015)
- 2023 – Mark Dickerson (Class of 2018)
- 2022 – Linda McCullough (Class of 2000)
- 2021 – Nicole Valentine (Class of 2019)
- 2020 – Jeff Syracuse (Class of 2013)
- 2019 – Letha Edwards (Class of 2004)
- 2018 – Paula Milton (Class of 2000)
- 2017 – Jan Maddox (Class of 2008)
- 2016 – John Doerge (Class of 2005)
- 2015 – Phyllis Williams (Class of 2000)
- 2014 – Floyd Shechter (Class of 2000)
- 2013 – Willie McDonald (Class of 2011)
- 2012 – Phil Ponder (Class of 1999)
- 2011 – Larry Keeton (Class of 2003)
- 2010 – Gloria Coles (Class of 1999)