Dr. Heather Levesque, associate vice president and executive director of Admissions at East Tennessee State University, has been named to Leadership Tennessee’s prestigious NEXT program, joining a statewide cohort of leaders committed to shaping Tennessee’s future.

Leadership Tennessee, a group committed to fostering non-partisan conversations on key state matters, has named Dr. Heather Levesque to the Leadership Tennessee NEXT program as part of its 12th class.

Levesque serves as associate vice president and executive director of Admissions at East Tennessee State University, where she leads the university’s efforts in advancing undergraduate enrollment through strategic vision and collaborative leadership. She is responsible for developing and implementing comprehensive enrollment strategies that support institutional growth and long-term student success.

A total of 32 individuals were chosen for Leadership Tennessee NEXT, representing 14 Tennessee counties. The class brings diverse professional experience in a wide range of sectors and industries.

The cohort is Tennessee’s only statewide leadership program focusing on existing and emerging leaders and spanning geographic and industry boundaries.

'Meaningful Pathways'

“It’s a milestone for us to announce the 12th Leadership Tennessee NEXT Class,” said Alfred Degrafinreid, II, president and CEO of Leadership Tennessee. “Each class has played a vital role in shaping the future of our state, bringing fresh perspectives and innovative solutions to the table. I have no doubt that Class XII will continue that legacy, contributing to Tennessee’s progress and addressing the challenges we face with creativity and collaboration.”

During each class session, members engage with those from the Signature Program, learn about issues and opportunities specific to Tennessee, and engage in personal skill development.

“Being a part of Leadership Tennessee NEXT is a true honor,” said Levesque. “I am proud to represent ETSU and the dedicated teams who work every day to create meaningful pathways for students and families, and I look forward to applying what I learn in ways that enhance ETSU, our region and our state.”

Candidates are selected by an anonymous selection committee and evaluated based on the following criteria: professionals who excel in their fields, are engaged in service to their various communities and are dedicated to improving the lives of Tennesseans.

Since Leadership Tennessee’s founding, more than 850 members have graduated from both Leadership Tennessee NEXT and the organization’s Signature Program.

Learn more about ETSU’s commitment to developing leaders as the Flagship of Appalachia.

ABOUT LEADERSHIP TENNESSEE

Leadership Tennessee was founded in 2013 as an initiative of the College of Leadership and Public Service at Lipscomb University, and in 2021, it launched as an independent 501(c)(3). The program fosters collaborative, non-partisan dialogue on issues of state importance, connecting a network of diverse leaders and engaged citizens. Citizens with demonstrated community and professional leadership from every region of the state bring their diverse backgrounds and experiences to an in-depth exploration of the complex issues facing Tennessee, with a focus on how leaders can collaborate to effectively address those issues.

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