Spotlight on Nashville: A Heartfelt Look at Family, Leadership, and Resilience in Education

Spotlight on Nashville: A Heartfelt Look at Family and Leadership

Nashville, Tennessee, known for its vibrant music scene and rich culture, is home to dynamic individuals who balance their careers with personal lives in profound ways. One such individual is the Dean of the Mike Curb College of Entertainment and Music Business at Belmont University, who embodies this blend of dedication and heart. With a background in both the entertainment industry and higher education, she balances the demands of her professional life alongside the joyful chaos of motherhood, providing an inspiring example to many.

A Juggling Act

In her role as Dean, she emphasizes the importance of maintaining a healthy work-life balance. Despite the demands of her senior leadership position, she is proud of how she balances her career with being a wife and mom of two young children, aged 4 and 2. “I describe my world as ‘joyful chaos!’,” she says, showcasing her happiness in the midst of busyness. By prioritizing both her career and family life, she hopes to demonstrate to her staff and students that you can thrive professionally while being present in your family’s life.

Finding Strength in Adversity

When asked about her heroes, she speaks of a remarkable physician, Dr. Soha Patel, who played a crucial role during a difficult period in her life. After experiencing the heart-wrenching loss of a child due to pre-term labor, she met Dr. Patel who guided her through her grief with grace and compassion. It was this extraordinary care that reassured her and her husband during a challenging time, eventually leading to the healthy births of their two children, Scarlett and Tate. “I am proud now to call her a friend and my real-life hero,” she reflects, showing how powerful a supportive figure can be in times of need.

Commitment to Music Education

Deeply passionate about music and its transformative power, she serves on the Board of Directors for the Country Music Association (CMA) and its philanthropic branch, the CMA Foundation. This organization focuses on elevating the country music industry and ensuring that those involved have the necessary support and resources to succeed. “It is one of my greatest honors,” she remarks about her role. By working towards providing equitable access to music education, the CMA Foundation seeks to enrich the lives of students and teachers across the United States, forging a path for future generations of musicians and industry professionals.

Nothing Sparkly Goes Unnoticed

Beyond her professional accomplishments, even the little moments of joy matter. A special mention of her recent collaboration with Grogan Jewelers showcases how life’s elegant details can be celebrated. She wore stunning pieces such as an 18 karat white gold 21.37 carat oval cut diamond tennis necklace and a matching diamond bracelet, highlighting how special occasions can add a little extra sparkle to our busy lives.

The Nashville Spirit

This vibrant city pulses with creativity and a sense of community. Here, people like the Dean of the Mike Curb College not only work hard but also inspire others through their stories of resilience, support, and the importance of family. Whether in the classroom or at an industry meeting, her approach is a testament to the idea that thriving at work and home can go hand in hand.

As she continues her journey at Belmont University, she moves forward reflecting on the hurdles she’s overcome, the joys of motherhood, and her dedication to music education. Nashville is fortunate to have such a committed leader who exemplifies the essence of balancing a successful career with the joys of family life.