close

Lisa Swift-Young

waves

Honoring Gamechangers

Kicking off with a celebration of Black Philanthropy Month and running through GivingTuesday, CFMT is recognizing 21 Nashville Gamechangers—visionary leaders who have made significant contributions to the community. These individuals, ranging from nonprofit leaders to business executives, have demonstrated unparalleled creativity, courage, and commitment to enhancing the well-being of Nashville’s Black community.


play_arrow
Nashville Gamechanger: Lisa Swift-Young

Lisa Swift-Young is a visionary leader whose impact spans corporate success, education, and philanthropy. With 20 years as a corporate executive, she grew portfolios to over $100 million and developed processes that still generate more than $1 billion annually for industry giants like Procter & Gamble and Pfizer.

Her strategic insight has set new standards in the corporate world. As a college dean and campus director, Lisa transformed the lives of first-generation students, helping them rise from poverty to prosperity. Her education leadership created lasting pathways to success for countless young minds. In philanthropy, Lisa serves with her husband on the board of her family’s donor-advised fund, Change We Seek, and the CFMT-affiliated Give Black, Give Back fund. Her dedication to community upliftment is evident through her co-executive production of the Give Black, Give Back podcast and her recognition with the 2023 Catherine Strobel Hands On Nashville Group Volunteer Service Award. A TEDx Women speaker, author of two best-selling books, world traveler, and Chief Empowerment Officer at Change We Seek Training and Consulting, Lisa continues to inspire and empower globally. Balancing a thriving career with a fulfilling personal life, Lisa is a transformative force dedicated to making a difference in every sphere she touches.


What is your Vision for Black Giving?
My vision for black giving is to fully embrace the concept of Ubuntu. This African principle teaches us that our humanity is interconnected with the humanity of others. The word “Ubuntu” stems from the root words for philanthropy, with “Philo” meaning “love of” and “Anthropos” meaning “humanity.” Black giving is a communal activity that fosters unity and acknowledges everyone’s responsibility to contribute. I envision a world where our lives are enriched by sharing our unique resources- time, talent, treasure, truth, or testimony.

The greatness of a community is most accurately measured by the compassionate actions of its members.

Coretta Scott King
Community Foundation of Middle Tennessee Logo

This site uses cookies to offer you a better browsing experience. If you continue using our website, we'll assume that you are happy to receive all cookies on this website and you agree to our Privacy Policy.

close