2025 Salute to Excellence Awards
November 6th, 2025
After an unforgettable celebration at the 2025 Salute to Excellence Awards, we’re filled with gratitude for everyone who joined us in honoring the extraordinary impact of nonprofits in our community. On November 6th, leaders and changemakers gathered at the Music City Center for a meaningful afternoon of recognition, inspiration, and connection, celebrating the passion and dedication that continue to drive positive change across Middle Tennessee.
Congratulations Salute to Excellence 2025 Award Winners
Board Member of the Year Award
Rita McDonald, STARS
Pinnacle Financial Partners CEO of the Year Award
Amy Alexander, The Refuge Center for Counseling
CFO of the Year Award
Cindy Cunningham, Nashville International Center for Empowerment
Frontline Caregiver Award
Dawn Howard, Progress Inc.
UTK College of Social Work Social Justice Changemaker Award
Pathways Kitchen
Community Impact Award
Sexual Assault Center
New Generations Award
The Nashville Food Project
Sustainable Practices Award
Turnip Green Creative Reuse
Revenue Development Award
Samaritan Recovery Community
Leadership Award
Justice Industries, Inc.
Salute to Excellence – Call for Nominations
Watch the virtual kick-off of the 2025 Salute to Excellence Awards, held on May 28! This event launched our annual celebration of nonprofit excellence across Middle Tennessee. Discover how to submit a nomination, explore award categories, and join a powerful tradition that honors the organizations and leaders driving meaningful change in our community.
See the Stories Behind the Honors: Finalist Videos by Category
Thank you Salute to Excellence 2025 Sponsors
