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The Swan Ball, one of the premier charity events in the United States, is a white tie gala benefiting Cheekwood.
The Ball takes place on the Swan Lawn at Cheekwood each June, and includes an evening of cocktails, seated dinner, live auction, a featured fine jewelry exhibit, and of course, a level of entertainment found only in Music City as guests dance the night away to huge music artists among the likes of Darius Rucker and Tony Bennett.
The event—one of the only remaining white tie galas in the country—is led by volunteer chairs who start working almost full-time a year ahead of the Ball. The 2022 chairs, Mary Catherine McClellan and Elizabeth McDonald, were kind enough to sit down with us and give us their perspective on the event and why it’s important for them to support charitable causes in Nashville. (swanball.com)
What made you want to get involved with Swan Ball as co-chair?
Mary Catherine McClellan: My good friend, Elizabeth Nichols, said many times that chairing Swan Ball was one of her favorite endeavors. I trust her and I love Cheekwood. Elizabeth McDonald: Mary Catherine asked me to chair the 2022 Ball with her. I’ve had lots of family members and friends chair and they all loved the experience.
Why is preserving Cheekwood so important?
MCM: The extraordinary gardens are my inspiration. When our children were young, we lived in close proximity to Cheekwood and enjoyed dozens of picnics there. There is so much to offer families and Cheekwood provides many wonderful programs for children.
EM: By mixing the beauty of gardens with the wonder of art, Cheekwood has something to inspire everyone.
Who has most inspired you to get involved with philanthropy?
MCM: My mother, June Baker. Every day of her life is about how she might serve others. That is what I observed each day growing up. That is just her nature, and I am quite fortunate.
EM: I would have to say my parents. My mother, Karin Coble, was president of the Junior League and gave generously of her time her entire life. My father, Bill Coble, helped start the Cumberland River Compact and continues to serve causes that support the great outdoors.
What drives you to volunteer?
EM: I’ve always believed that the giver is really the one that receives. I have been touched by so many acts of kindness in my life for which I will always be grateful and hope to do the same for others.
MCM: When I reflect on my life, a cascade of people has supported me and my family at every turn. Any time I spend as a volunteer is my grateful response of reciprocation.