Our History

The National Coalition of 100 Black Women, Inc. Metropolitan Nashville Chapter was formed from a desire to establish an influential advocacy organization poised to enact positive change within our community’s socio-economic and political arenas. This dream came to fruition through the tireless efforts of women such as LaVonna Jackson, Janette McGowan, Mary Beth Crutchfield and Susan Short Jones, founding president. From this initiative, an interest group was formed. The interest group focused on leadership development, economic and political empowerment and enhancing the role of African American women in the Metropolitan Nashville area as part of a strategic plan developed to support its application for chapter affiliation.

There were 35 founding members of the Metropolitan Nashville Chapter, which was installed on March 15, 1994, at Loew’s Vanderbilt Hotel. Leaders from across Davidson and surrounding counties were present as the organization was formally introduced to the community.

Ten presidents have led the organization—Susan Short Jones, founding president, Annie Wynn Neal, Samella Junior-Spence, Linda P. Hare, Marilyn Robinson, K. Dawn Rutledge, Veronica Marable Johnson, Kimberlee Wyche-Etheridge, Veronica Marable Johnson (second term), and current president Janet Rachel.

Through a multifaceted approach encompassing education, economic empowerment, and health-related initiatives, the Metropolitan Nashville Chapter champions self-sufficiency, fosters networking opportunities and cultivates leadership potential through advocacy and action. Its strategic initiative focuses on leadership development, mentoring, and empowerment for women facing social or economic disadvantages.