Nashville’s Convention Center Authority Announces Continuity in Leadership with Reappointments

Nashville Welcomes New Board Leadership at Convention Center Authority

This week in Nashville has been buzzing with great news for the local community and business landscape. The Convention Center Authority (CCA) has officially announced the reappointment of Norah Buikstra as the chairperson of its board. Meanwhile, Seema Prasad will continue her important contributions to the board as well. This exciting development was confirmed during the recent Metro Council meeting, where the city embraced continuity and fresh perspectives in its leadership.

Who Are Norah and Seema?

If you’re not familiar with the names, let’s break it down a bit. Norah Buikstra is currently the general manager for The Mall at Green Hills. Her tenure on the CCA board began back in October 2020, and since then, she has actively participated in various projects aimed at enhancing Nashville’s tourism and event-hosting capabilities.

On the other hand, Seema Prasad is a well-known figure in the local dining scene as the owner of Miel, a popular Sylvan Park restaurant, and Harvest Wine Market in Belle Meade. Since joining the board in May 2020, she has brought her culinary expertise and successful business acumen to the table, helping to merge the hospitality sector’s interests with those of the convention center.

Voices from the Community

The news of their reappointment was met with applause from the community. Charles Starks, the President and CEO of the Music City Center, offered his enthusiasm, stating, “Norah and Seema have been fully engaged since they began on the board four years ago. They’ve offered great insight, and we’re pleased to have them continue their service to the facility and the community.” This statement underscores how vital these leaders have become in driving Nashville’s growth and addressing the unique needs of the community.

Adding to Nashville’s Entrepreneurial Spirit

EO Nashville, an organization that fosters networking among entrepreneurs, has recently welcomed 18 new members, while two previous members have returned. This influx signifies the vibrancy and growth of Nashville’s business community.

The list of new members showcases a diverse range of industries, featuring entrepreneurs like Penny Austermiller from Austermiller, Inc. and David Hern from Sofer Advisors, among others. Highlighting the growth of the local business ecosystem, Sameera Lowe, the EO Nashville executive director, said, “Nashville’s constantly growing entrepreneurial community is what makes this city so amazing.” It’s evident that the collective efforts of local entrepreneurs are driving Nashville’s economy to new heights, employing thousands of residents.

Recognizing Excellence in Hospitality

Hermitage Hotel, have been honored with the prestigious 2024 Historic Hotels of America Lifetime Achievement Award. This annual award recognizes outstanding hotels and leaders who enhance the historic hospitality landscape in America. It’s another testament to Nashville’s dedication to preserving its rich history while providing modern comforts.

The Hardie family has been pivotal in maintaining the allure of the Hermitage Hotel, located conveniently at 236 Sixth Ave. N. Their commitment to excellence and unique guest experiences make this hotel a jewel in Nashville’s vibrant hospitality scene.

What’s Next for Nashville?

Here’s to a thriving Nashville, where innovation, history, and community spirit go hand in hand!