Allison Stansberry is a leader in every sense of the word.
She graduated with a B.A. in English Literature and Creative Writing from Sweet Briar College. She was Vice President of the Student Government Association, Sigma Tau Delta-English Honor Society, President of The Croquet Society, varsity swimming team, and varsity lacrosse team. She holds an MBA in Healthcare Concentration from Belmont University. Her volunteer hours are extensive and include serving on the board of Humanities Tennessee, where she is a member of the Finance Committee. She is also a member of the Junior League of Nashville. Stansberry works for HCA Healthcare in Talent Engagement and Development.
This year, Stansberry will chair the 2024 Authors in the Round, which returns for its second year on October 25 at the Country
Music Hall of Fame and Museum. The special event dinner provides vital funding for the 36th annual Southern Festival of Books and enables Humanities Tennessee to continue to present the festival at no charge. More than 175 authors are expected to attend the festival, and 40 of those authors will attend Authors in the Round, with one author seated at each table for an intimate and lively dinner among lovers of the written word.
We chatted with Stansberry to learn more about the event and her involvement. (humanitiestennessee.org)
Nashville Lifestyles: What made you want to chair Authors in the Round?
Allison Stansberry: Authors in the Round is more than just a fundraising event — it’s a celebration of storytelling and community. Where else would you have the opportunity to have dinner with an author? The event not only supports a cause I deeply believe in — keeping the Southern Festival of Books free and accessible — but it reminds us of the power that stories have to connect people and broaden perspectives.
NL: How are the funds raised from this event utilized and how much has been raised over the years?
AS: All proceeds from the dinner are used to cover the expenses for the Southern Festival of Books, from author honoraria and performers on the various stages, to tents, electricity, rentals, and permits. It takes more than half a million dollars to produce this event, which is offered entirely free to the community. Over its 13-year history, Authors in the Round has raised nearly $1.2 million, and we hope to add significantly to that total with the 2024 dinner. Ensuring the festival remains free affirms our belief that stories are for everyone and that everyone has a story, as well as our values of shared knowledge and accessibility. Together, the dinner and festival build community among readers and writers.
NL: Why do you think supporting Humanities Tennessee and the Southern Festival of Books is important and vital to our community?
AS: Supporting Humanities Tennessee and the Southern Festival of Books is vital because they champion the idea that the humanities help us see the world and understand each other. Humanities Tennessee and the programs it supports enriches our cultural landscape, encourages lifelong learning, and provides a platform for diverse voices through empathy and cultural understanding.
NL: What inspires you to utilize your time, talents, and treasure to support nonprofits?
AS: The belief that everyone deserves access to culture, education, and community drives me to support nonprofits. I’m inspired by the idea that even small contributions can create lasting change, and I’m motivated by the chance to help build a more inclusive and informed society. The Humanities Tennessee tagline, “Our Stories. Our State,” perfectly encapsulates why this work is crucial; it brings our diverse community together through shared narratives.