HATCHER & FELL PHOTOGRAPHY.
Erica Gilmore
Our annual list of trailblazing women are creating lasting legacies for themselves and for the city of Nashville. Now they’re sharing their stories, their triumphs, their setbacks, and their advice with us. Prepare to be inspired.
Early Aspirations
I did not know anything about the practices of the collection of money growing up. The people that I know that were collecting money growing up were the number men or the bankers. It was a little far removed. However, I did know I wanted to help people, educate, and advocate. My family does have a history of service from the time of my grandmother who did it informally until my mother who served in a more formalized way in government as Tennessee State Senator and a former councilmember. My father mentored men throughout the city; he was a legend in this way. Many men who are now grown share with me how grateful they are for my father assisting them through their most difficult times. I discovered my own passion when I served as a councilmember.
Making Her Way
I taught in Nashville public school for years. I decided I wanted our neighborhood to improve and envisioned a way to accomplish this goal. I ran for public office as a city councilmember and won the election. It was a conflict to work for the Metropolitan Public School System and serve as a councilmember. As a result, I pursued an advanced degree and taught at the university level. I continued to teach English at the university and serve as an elected district councilmember and later as an at-large councilmember. I ran for Mayor and had an unsuccessful bid but learned a lot of wonderful life lessons. I was at a crossroads and became very reflective about my next steps: do I continue to pursue public service? If so, I would need to do it full-time so that I could focus all my attention on my responsibilities. The Trustee that held the seat for many years departed. When he passed, I wanted to continue this legacy of trustworthiness and honorability. I knew I could make a difference in people’s lives positively and create innovative strategies to educate people about the office to empower them if given the opportunity.
The Definition of Success
Being my best and doing my best at my chosen vocation. Making God look good is my heart’s desire. I am clear that I am vessel in this position for this time. Quality is most important to me, so I give it my all.
Advice for Others
Chart your path. Live your truth. Prepare. Help other women. Do your best. Be thorough. Ask yourself, “How can I improve others as well as myself?”
Meet Erica Gilmore and other women in the local community who are the best in their fields at our annual Women in Business event.
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The mix and mingle reception will be held on August 24 from 5-7:30 p.m., to network with our Women in Business honorees plus 200 other local business professionals. Throughout the evening, we will be doing live Q and A sessions with each woman!
Guests will enjoy hors d'oeuvres from Virgin Hotels Nashville along with wine from Biltmore Winery and cocktails from Tito's Handmade Vodka. Beverages from a full bar will also be available for purchase (credit cards only).