Franklin Tomorrow

July 30 Breakfast with the Mayors:
2024-07-30 07:00 - 09:00 (America/Chicago) | TN

August 12 FrankTalks: People to Know
2024-08-12 09:00 - 10:30 | TN
Franklin Tomorrow’s FrankTalks has a new location for August.
Franklin Tomorrow will host its monthly FrankTalks lecture on Monday, August 12, at Harbor + Union, located at 230 Franklin Road in Building 2, across from Harlinsdale Farm. See map below for parking.
A monthly event, we start at 9 a.m. with a 30-minute coffee social, followed at 9:30 a.m. with an hour-long program.
The theme for this program is “People to Know,” featuring a panel of business and community leaders.
Those participating are:

Bradley Boshers, Williamson County Archivist
Tinamarie Catterton, Certified Business Coach at Harbor + Union
Chris Musgrove, Executive Director of Franklin Fellows
Nat Taylor, Managing Director of The Moore-Morris History and Culture Center.

FrankTalks is presented monthly in partnership with Renasant Bank and Franklin Tomorrow’s sustaining partners, Atmos Energy and Williamson Health. Thank you to Lyon Leadership Group, our local McDonald’s franchisee for coffee for the event and to our host, Harbor + Union.

Parking Map Below

September 9 FrankTalks: Community Caring through Collaboration
2024-09-09 09:00 - 10:30 | TN
Join Franklin Tomorrow at Mercy Community Healthcare on September 9th for a FrankTalks program in which we will hear from several area nonprofits, with the theme, “Community Caring through Collaboration.”
The program will start at 9:30 a.m., preceded by a 9 a.m. coffee networking session as well as a chance to see display booths from area nonprofits.
Joining us for the program will be Alicia Bell, CEO of GraceWorks; Cindy Siler, CEO of Mercy Community Healthcare; and Chris and Elaine Whitney, Founders of OneGenAway.
Each will share their experiences and strategies for effective collaboration and community support. Their perspectives will offer valuable insights into how partnerships and innovative approaches can address pressing local challenges and improve lives. This event is a great opportunity to learn from those who are actively shaping positive change in our community.
FrankTalks is presented by Renasant Bank and our sustaining partners, Williamson Health and Atmos Energy.
Thank you to Lyon Leadership Group, our local McDonald’s franchisee for coffee for the event and to our host, Mercy Community Healthcare.

October 14 FrankTalks:
2024-10-14 09:00 - 10:30 | TN

October 29 Breakfast with the Mayors: Legacy Businesses
2024-10-29 07:00 - 09:00 | Rolling Hills Community Church, 1810 Columbia Ave, Franklin, Tennessee, 37064
Join Williamson County Mayor Rogers Anderson & Franklin Mayor Ken Moore on Tuesday, Oct. 29, as we celebrate the 225th anniversary of the founding of Williamson County by focusing on some landmark and longstanding businesses!
Breakfast With the Mayors is presented quarterly by Franklin Tomorrow with its presenting partners of Pinnacle Financial Partners and Gresham Smith.
The doors will open at 7 a.m. for a networking breakfast featuring Puckett’s Gro. & Restaurant and coffee from McDonald’s, courtesy of Lyon Leadership Group.
The program will start at 7:45 a.m. and last until 8:45 a.m.
The event is free to attend thanks to the generosity of our partners. Additional support for Breakfast With the Mayors comes from FirstBank, Hazen and Sawyer, Vulcan Materials, UHY Certified Public Accountants, and Williamson Memorial Funeral Home and Cremation Services.

November 4 FrankTalks:
2024-11-04 09:00 - 10:30 | TN
Franklin Tomorrow’s FrankTalks has a new date and location for November.
Franklin Tomorrow will host its monthly FrankTalks lecture on Monday, Nov. 4, at BrightStone, located at 3000 BrightStone Pkwy., in Franklin, just a few short miles south of the intersection of Columbia Highway and the Mack Hatcher Bypass..
A monthly event, we start at 9 a.m. with a 30-minute coffee social, followed at 9:30 a.m. with an hour-long program.
BrightStone is a non-profit, 501(c)3, work and life-long learning program for adults who live each day with developmental disabilities. BrightStone relocated to its 140-acre “Land of Dreams” campus in 2022, moving operations to its new 27,000-square-foot Center for Learning, Art, and Enterprise.
This move marked a huge milestone for BrightStone, as it served as the next step in a long-term vision that includes expanding its programs and community offerings to include an events center, horticulture, equine therapy, and more.
FrankTalks is presented monthly in partnership with Renasant Bank and Franklin Tomorrow’s sustaining partners, Atmos Energy and Williamson Health. Thank you to Lyon Leadership Group, our local McDonald’s franchisee for coffee for the event and to our host, BrightStone.

December 16 FrankTalks: Review, Preview
2024-12-16 09:00 - 10:30 | Columbia State Community College, 1228 Liberty Pike, Franklin, Tennessee, 37064
Franklin Tomorrow’s FrankTalks has a new date and location for December.
Join us for a special year-end FrankTalks event at Columbia State Community College on Monday, December 16th! We’re bringing together a panel of local leaders and experts to review the key events, initiatives, and challenges of 2024 and share insights on what’s ahead for 2025.
FrankTalks is presented monthly in partnership with Renasant Bank and Franklin Tomorrow’s sustaining partners, Atmos Energy and Williamson Health. Thank you to Lyon Leadership Group, our local McDonald’s franchisee for coffee for the event.
A monthly event, we start at 9 a.m. with a 30-minute coffee social, followed at 9:30 a.m. with an hour-long program.
FrankTalks is located at Columbia State Community College on 1228 Liberty Pike, Franklin, TN.

January 13th FrankTalks: People to Know-
2025-01-13 09:00 - 10:30 | TN
Due to the weather, this event has become a WEBINAR ONLY. If you already registered online, you should have received a link to Monday’s Webinar. If you’d like to register, click here: https://www.eventbrite.com/e/1125575018179?aff=oddtdtcreator

January 28th Breakfast w/ the Mayors
2025-01-28 07:00 - 21:00 | Rolling Hills Community Church, 1810 Columbia Ave, Franklin, Tennessee, 37064
Franklin Tomorrow’s popular Breakfast With the Mayors, presented by Pinnacle Financial Partners and Gresham Smith, will be held Tuesday, January 28, when Franklin Mayor Dr. Ken Moore and Williamson County Mayor Rogers Anderson will welcome the mayors of Williamson County’s cities to join them for a summit.
This event will feature a a panel discussion with Williamson County’s mayors from Brentwood, Fairview, Nolensville, Spring Hill and Thompson’s Station.
Breakfast With the Mayors is held quarterly with the support of presenting partners, Pinnacle Financial Partners and Gresham Smith, as well as our sustaining partners, Atmos Energy and Williamson Health.
The event is free thanks to the generosity of our partners. It will be held at Rolling Hills Community Church, 1810 Columbia Ave., with coffee service by Lyon Leadership Group, the local McDonald’s franchisee, as well as breakfast starting at 7 a.m.
Additional support for Breakfast With the Mayors comes from FirstBank, Hazen and Sawyer, Vulcan Materials, and UHY Certified Public Accountants.
Breakfast With the Mayors begins at 7 a.m. with a 45-minute networking breakfast provided by Puckett’s Gro. & Restaurant and coffee provided by Lyon Leadership Group, the local operator of McDonald’s.
The program will begin at 7:45 a.m. and will also be broadcast live on Franklin Tomorrow’s website and Facebook pages.
Furthermore, each mayor will offer insight into their community and give a brief update on projects and other aspects of government.
REGISTER HERE: https://FTBreakfastWithMayorsJan2025.eventbrite.com/?aff=Website

February 10 FrankTalks: City Hall on Wheels
2025-02-10 09:00 - 10:30 | Williamson Co. Enrichment Center, 110 Everbright Avenue, Franklin, TN, 37064, United States
Join Franklin Tomorrow for our February FrankTalks with Franklin City Administrator Eric Stuckey for a unique session titled, “City Hall on Wheels” on Monday, February 10.
FrankTalks will be held at Williamson County Enrichment Center located at 110 Everbright Avenue in Franklin, which will begin at 9 a.m. with a coffee social, followed by the hour-long program at 9:30 a.m.
FrankTalks is presented monthly with our presenting partner, Renasant Bank, and the support of our sustaining partners, Atmos Energy, RaganSmith, a Pape-Dawson Company and Williamson Health. Additional Support provided by Vanderbilt University Medical Center. We appreciate Lyon Leadership Group for providing coffee through the area McDonald’s.
Stop by to engage with the community, connect with neighbors, and learn more about what’s happening in Franklin. We look forward to seeing you there!

March 17th FrankTalks
2025-03-17 09:00 - 10:30 | The Heritage Room at The Factory, 230 Franklin Rd, Franklin, Tennessee, 37064
Join Franklin Tomorrow at The Factory at Franklin in the Heritage Room as we welcome Doug Kreulen, President and CEO of Metropolitan Nashville Airport Authority, to speak on Monday, March 17th at FrankTalks.
We’ll meet in the Heritage Room, which is next to Liberty Hall and best accessed by parking in the rear and entering by the walkway on the north side of the OLD Franklin Juice Co. Building.
Doug Kreulen has been a pivotal figure at the Metropolitan Nashville Airport Authority (MNAA) since 2012, serving as President and Chief Executive Officer since December 2017. In his previous role as Chief Operating Officer, he effectively managed operations, facilities maintenance, public safety, and development for both Nashville International and John C. Tune airports. We will hear an overview of Nashville International Airport (BNA), highlighting its remarkable growth and the significant impact it has on the local community.
FrankTalks is presented monthly by Renasant Bank and our sustaining partners, Atmos Energy, RaganSmith, A Pape-Dawson Company, and Williamson Health. Thank you to Lyon Leadership Group, our local McDonald’s franchisee for coffee for the event.
A monthly event, we start at 9 a.m. with a 30-minute coffee social, followed at 9:30 a.m. with an hour-long program.

Founders' Day Breakfast
2025-03-20 07:30 - 09:00 | 1799 Kitchen & Cocktails, 130 2nd Ave N, Franklin, TN, 37064, United States
Make plans to attend March 20 Founders‘ Day event
Join with Franklin Tomorrow’s founders, past presidents and board members, executive directors, and supporters to celebrate the organization on the 25th anniversary of the its founding on Thursday, March 20, at our Founders‘ Day breakfast.
Records show this was the day in 2000 Julian Bibb III filed the necessary paperwork with the State of Tennessee to create Franklin Tomorrow. Then began two years of work by hundreds of people in our community, working with our consultant Jamie Greene of ACP-Visioning & Planning, now planning NEXT of Columbus, Ohio, to set goals and select strategies for the purpose of initiating and implementing a broad-based, community-driven vision.
During our anniversary breakfast, we will revisit and remember some of the highlights of those 25 years, but also look at what’s ahead for Franklin Tomorrow as we work to continue to accomplish our mission today to engage the community, foster collaboration and advocate for a shared vision for the future of Franklin.
We will gather March 20th at 1799 Kitchen & Cocktails at The Harpeth Hotel, 130 2nd Ave. N., in downtown Franklin. Free parking is available in the City of Franklin Second Avenue Garage or paid parking in The Harpeth’s garage adjacent to the hotel.
Tickets range from $50 to $150. Seating is limited to 100 people, so please RSVP as soon as possible.

18th Annual Exemplary Community Volunteer Awards- NEW DATE
2025-03-24 18:00 - 20:00 | Franklin Theatre, 419 Main St, Franklin, TN, 37064, United States
THIS EVENT HAS BEEN RESCHEDULED TO MONDAY, MARCH 24.
For the 18th year, Franklin Tomorrow will host its annual Exemplary Community Volunteer Awards on Monday, March 24, at the Franklin Theatre on Franklin’s historic Main Street.
Lobby doors for the Theatre will open at 5 p.m., while the program will begin at 6 p.m. Concessions will be open in the lobby area.
Almost 40 nominations were submitted in five different categories which include categories for the awards, which include the Volunteer Spirit Award, which honors up to three individuals involved in altering the environment around them simply by their service and heart for their community; the Youth Initiative Award, given to individuals under the age of 21 who are involved either in a variety of community activities or primarily in one organization as a significant volunteer; the Neighbor to Neighbor Award, given to an individual or organization that has shown extreme generosity to its neighbors in Williamson County and has exceeded expectation in terms of giving back to the community; the Emerging Leader Award, which recognizes a young professional between 20 and 40 years of age whose professional or volunteer efforts are having a positive impact on his or her community; and the Corporate Volunteerism Award, awarded to a company or organization that sees the value of giving back to their community through successful volunteer programs with high levels of participation and impact.
Franklin Tomorrow will also present additional awards, including the Anne T. Rutherford Exemplary Community Volunteer Award and the Charles M. Sargent Leadership Award. Franklin Tomorrow Board Chair Teresa Ashworth Harris will also have awards.
A special part of the evening is an In Memoriam program which will honor many of the community leaders, volunteers and individuals who have passed away in 2024.
Each award carries a cash prize to the nonprofit of the recipient’s choice.
There is no charge to attend the Exemplary Community Volunteer Awards, thanks to the generosity of our partners, including Lineage Bank and Williamson Memorial Funeral Home & Cremation Service, Buerger, Moseley & Carson, PLC, Senator Jack Johnson and the Williamson Prevention Coalition. A number of Williamson County elected officials are also serving as sponsors and they include County Mayor Rogers Anderson, County Property Assessor Brad Coleman, Circuit Court Clerk Debbie Barrett, County Trustee Karen Paris, County Register of Deed Sherry Anderson, County Clerk Jeff Whidby, Juvenile Court Clerk Margaret Mahew, 21st Judicial District Attorney Stacey Edmonson, Juvenile Court Judge Sharon Guffee, and Sheriff Jeff Hughes.
Additionally, our 2025 Sustaining Partners Atmos Energy, RaganSmith, A Pape-Dawson Company, and Williamson Health.

April 14 FrankTalks to learn about local tourism impact, updates
2025-04-14 09:00 - 10:30 | Columbia State Community College, 1228 Liberty Pike, Franklin, Tennessee, 37064
Franklin Tomorrow will host Visit Franklin & Battle of Franklin Trust to discuss the continued growth of tourism, its impact & the recent brand reset by Visit Franklin, plus the new Visitors Center being constructed by the State of Tennessee at the BOFT site of the Carter House on Columbia Avenue.
FrankTalks will be held on Monday, April 14, at Columbia State Community College Williamson Campus at 1228 Liberty Pike. We will start with a 30-minute coffee social at 9 a.m. and the hourlong program at 9:30.
To RSVP, follow this link: https://FrankTalksApril142025.eventbrite.com/?aff=website
Visit Franklin CEO Maureen Thornton will discuss the recent rebranding process undertaken by Visit Franklin, as well as how it is being rolled out to attract visitors, but also highlight local assets for residents. Plus, there will be some giveaways!
Battle of Franklin Trust CEO Eric Jacobson will discuss what’s happening with the organization and the new Carter House Visitors Center and Museum, which broke ground March 28.
FrankTalks is presented monthly by Renasant Bank and our sustaining partners, Atmos Energy; RaganSmith, A Pape-Dawson Company; and Williamson Health. Thank you to Lyon Leadership Group, our local McDonald’s franchisee for coffee for the event.
A monthly event, we start at 9 a.m. with a 30-minute coffee social, followed at 9:30 a.m. with an hour-long program.

Franklin Tomorrow’s April 29 Breakfast With Mayors focus 2025 County Property Reappraisal, impact on residents
2025-04-29 07:00 - 09:00 | Rolling Hills Community Church, 1810 Columbia Ave, Franklin, Tennessee, 37064
Franklin Tomorrow’s popular Breakfast With the Mayors, presented by Pinnacle Financial Partners and Gresham Smith, will be held Tuesday, April 29, when Franklin Mayor Dr. Ken Moore and Williamson County Mayor Rogers Anderson will welcome Williamson County Property Assessor Brad Coleman.
To RSVP for the free event, go to https://April29BWTM.eventbrite.com/?aff=website
Williamson County is completing a reappraisal of all property, commercial and residential, and Coleman will offer a snapshot of the potential impacts of the reappraisal on Williamson County property owners and their property tax burdens.
During a recent City of Franklin Budget and Finance Committee meeting, Coleman compared the 2024 total assessed value of property in Franklin at $7.6 million to the projected 2025 assessed value of $11.7 million.
The City of Franklin’s current tax rate is $.3261 per $100 of assessed value, but with the growth in the assessed value, the projected tax rate Coleman told the commission was $.2111. State law requires a reappraisal be “revenue neutral,” meaning the certified tax rate may only generate the same amount of tax revenues for the city as the previous year.
In Tennessee, agricultural and residential property is assessed at 25% of its appraised value, while commercial is assessed at 40% of its appraised value.
Coleman will offer insight into how property owners across the county, not just Franklin, may be impacted, with values in some areas projected to increase by more than 50%. Williamson County Trustee Karen Paris will talk about tax relief programs and Coleman is also expected to discuss the appeals process.
Breakfast With the Mayors is held quarterly with the support of presenting partners, Pinnacle Financial Partners and Gresham Smith, as well as our sustaining partners, Atmos Energy, Williamson Health and Ragan Smith, a Pape-Dawson company.
The event is free thanks to the generosity of our partners. It will be held at Rolling Hills Community Church, 1810 Columbia Ave., with coffee service by Lyon Leadership Group, the local McDonald’s franchisee, as well as breakfast from Puckett’s Gro. & Restaurant starting at 7 a.m.
Additional support for Breakfast With the Mayors comes from GFiber, FirstBank, Hazen and Sawyer, and UHY Certified Public Accountants.
Breakfast With the Mayors begins at 7 a.m. with a 45-minute networking breakfast.
The program will begin at 7:45 a.m. and will also be broadcast live on Franklin Tomorrow’s website and Facebook pages.
Franklin Tomorrow recently celebrated the 25th anniversary of its founding as Franklin’s longtime community visioning and engagement organization. Its mission is to engage the community, foster collaboration, and advocate for a shared vision for the future of Franklin.

May 12th FrankTalks: Franklin Special District, Reaching New Heights
2025-05-12 09:00 - 10:30 | Franklin Special District Office, 205 Eddy Lane, Franklin, TN, 37064, United States
Join Franklin Tomorrow on Monday, May 12, as we visit the new headquarters of the Franklin Special District at 205 Eddy Lane to hear officials tell us about how the district is “Reaching New Heights for Students,” whether in the classroom or community, or with district leadership.
Established in 1906, by the Franklin Board of Mayor and Aldermen, the Franklin Special District (FSD) is a public school system serving pre-kindergarten through eighth-grade students in eight schools within the city of Franklin. A special act of the legislature in 1949 allowed the district to make changes in its funding sources, thus becoming the first special school district in Tennessee. This change in status gave the School Board the authority to approve its own budget and levy taxes to fund education. From that point forward, the school district would be known as the Franklin Special School District. And in 2024, the Board of Education made the decision to rebrand, reintroducing ourselves as the Franklin Special District, or FSD.
FrankTalks is presented monthly by Renasant Bank and our sustaining partners, Atmos Energy; RaganSmith, A Pape-Dawson Company; and Williamson Health. Thank you to Lyon Leadership Group, our local McDonald’s franchisee for coffee for the event.
A monthly event, we start at 9 a.m. with a 30-minute coffee social, followed at 9:30 a.m. with an hour-long program.

June 9th FrankTalks: City Hall on Wheels
2025-06-09 09:00 - 10:30 | Williamson Co. Enrichment Center, 110 Everbright Avenue, Franklin, TN, 37064, United States
Join Franklin Tomorrow for our monthly FrankTalks with Franklin City Administrator Eric Stuckey for a unique session titled, “City Hall on Wheels” on Monday, June 9th.
FrankTalks will be held at Williamson County Enrichment Center located at 110 Everbright Avenue in Franklin, which will begin at 9 a.m. with a coffee social, followed by the hour-long program at 9:30 a.m.
Franklin City Administrator Eric Stuckey will offer insight into the 2025-26 City of Franklin budget and the projects and personnel it may fund pending Board of Mayor and Aldermen approval. The creation, approval and execution of the operating budget is one of the most important policy and financial decisions the City of Franklin is tasked with annually. The City of Franklin adheres to the guidance and principles for budgeting set forth by the Government Finance Officer’s Association (GFOA) of the United States and Canada. For more information, visit https://www.franklintn.gov/government/departments-a-j/budget-performance/budget/fy-2026-budget
FrankTalks is presented monthly with our presenting partner, Renasant Bank, and the support of our sustaining partners, Atmos Energy, RaganSmith, a Pape-Dawson Company and Williamson Health. Additional Support provided by Vanderbilt University Medical Center. We appreciate Lyon Leadership Group for providing coffee through the area McDonald’s.

July 14th FrankTalks: People to Know
2025-07-14 09:00 - 10:30 | Moore-Morris History & Culture Center, 108 Bridge Street, Franklin, TN, 37064, United States
On Monday, July 14, join Franklin Tomorrow for our monthly FrankTalks lecture series, this month featuring a panel of “People to Know” at the Moore-Morris History & Culture Center at 108 Bridge Street in downtown Franklin.
We will start with a 30-minute coffee social at 9 a.m. and the hourlong program at 9:30.
Our theme for the month is “People To Know,” and will feature a panel of “new” faces in Franklin or individuals in new roles. Participating in the panel will be William Scales, Board Chair for the Heritage Foundation; Neily Boyd, the new Executive Director for High Hopes PreSchool and Pediatric Therapy; and Dr. Shane Hall, the new vice president for the Williamson Campus of Columbia State Community College, as well for community engagement.
To RSVP, follow this link.
FrankTalks is presented monthly by Renasant Bank and our sustaining partners, Atmos Energy; RaganSmith, A Pape-Dawson Company; and Williamson Health. Thank you to Lyon Leadership Group, our local McDonald’s franchisee for coffee for the event.

Cheers to 25 Years! A Franklin Tomorrow Celebration
2025-07-17 18:00 - 21:00 | Bicentennial Park Pavilion, Franklin, TN, 37064, United States
You’re invited to a special summer evening celebrating 25 years of Franklin Tomorrow and the incredible community that’s made it all possible!
We’re hosting a fun, casual gathering at the beautiful new Bicentennial Park Pavilion, filled with live music, good company, and plenty of summer spirit.
🎶 Dance and sing along to the sounds of The Exotics, one of Franklin’s favorite local bands
🍉 Enjoy light bites and refreshing drinks
🎉 Celebrate our impact and toast to the future of Franklin
Tickets are required and include food, entertainment, and a great time with friends and neighbors. Proceeds help support Franklin Tomorrow’s mission to engage the community, foster collaboration, and advocate for a shared vision for the future of Franklin.
Let’s come together to mark this exciting milestone — 25 years of bringing people together for the good of Franklin.

July 29 Breakfast with the Mayors
2025-07-29 07:00 - 09:00 | Rolling Hills Community Church, 1810 Columbia Ave, Franklin, Tennessee, 37064

August 11 FrankTalks: 2025 Williamson County Education Outlook
2025-08-11 09:00 - 10:30 | TN
Jason Golden
FrankTalks will be held on Tuesday, Aug. 11, at Columbia State College – Williamson County campus, 1228 Liberty Pike, in the administration building.
The hour-long program will begin at 9:30 but join us for a 30-minute coffee social starting at 9 a.m.
Our theme for the month is 2025 Williamson County Education Outlook and will feature Jason Golden, who is the superintendent of Williamson County Schools. Golden was appointed full superintendent in June 2019. His previous career experience includes working in the district as its attorney, chief operating officer, and deputy superintendent.
He will bring members of his leadership team and others to offer an update on education in Williamson County Schools, but also the start of the 2025 school year and exciting opportunities ahead. In May 2025, Dr. David Snowden updated attendees on the Franklin Special District and looked ahead to the 2025-26 school year.
To RSVP, follow this link: https://Aug112025FrankTalks.eventbrite.com
FrankTalks is presented monthly by Renasant Bank and our sustaining partners, Atmos Energy; RaganSmith, A Pape-Dawson Company; and Williamson Health. Thank you to Lyon Leadership Group, our local McDonald’s franchisee for coffee for the event.
A monthly event, we start at 9 a.m. with a 30-minute coffee social, followed at 9:30 a.m. with an hour-long program.

20 years later, "Widow of The South" impact topic of Sept. 8 FrankTalks
2025-09-08 09:00 - 10:30 | Carnton, 1345 Eastern Flank Circle, Franklin, TN, 37064, United States
Franklin Tomorrow’s monthly FrankTalks will be held on Monday, September 8th at Carnton, 1345 Eastern Flank Circle, Franklin. The hour-long program will begin at this month at 9 a.m., with coffee ready at 8:45 a.m.
In another change, we will be outdoors for this event, with chairs on the lawn in front of the home. Guests are encouraged to bring a sweater and while seating will be available, if you wish, bring your own chair.
September 2025 marks the 20th anniversary of the publication of “The Widow of the South” by the late Robert Hicks. Hicks was a New York Times bestselling author for his 2005 novel, “The Widow of the South,” in which he told a fictionalized account of the life of Carrie McGavock, matron of Carnton Plantation, to tend the graves of more than 1,500 soldiers killed in the Nov. 30, 1864, Battle of Franklin.
The book brought international attention and a flood of visitors to Franklin, Carnton and other Civil War historic sites after it was published in 2005. He was named Tennessean of the Year in 2005 by The Tennessean for the impact of the novel as well as for the co-founding of Franklin’s Charge, which brought together numerous organizations in a broad-based coalition dedicated to reclaiming Franklin’s Civil War legacy through land acquisition and interpretation. Hundreds of acres have been reclaimed and Franklin’s Charge remains a vital community organization, which has raised millions of dollars through its efforts.
The National Park Service called the success in Franklin “the largest battlefield reclamation in North American history.”
Among those participating on Sept. 8 will be Eric Jacobson, CEO of the Battle of Franklin Trust, and Julian Bibb III, co-founder of Franklin’s Charge. Maureen Thornton of Visit Franklin and Tim Kearns, chair of the BOFT Board, will attend, as well as other special guests.
FrankTalks is presented monthly by Renasant Bank and our sustaining partners, Atmos Energy; RaganSmith, A Pape-Dawson Company; and Williamson Health. Thank you to Lyon Leadership Group, our local McDonald’s franchisee for coffee for the event.
To RSVP for the event, follow this link.

Oct. 21 Breakfast With Mayors moves to The Factory to discuss Building a Healthy Democracy
2025-10-21 07:00 - 09:00 | Liberty Hall at The Factory, 230 Franklin Road, Franklin, TN, 37064, United States
Franklin Tomorrow will host a special edition of Breakfast With the Mayors on Tuesday, Oct. 21, from 7–9 a.m. at The Factory at Franklin’s Liberty Hall.
Earlier this year, Franklin and Franklin Tomorrow were selected by the National Civic League as one of only two cities nationwide to participate in the Healthy Democracy Project, designed to help communities build stronger civic connections and tackle local challenges through community engagement.
At this event, attendees will hear from Williamson County Mayor Rogers Anderson and Franklin Mayor Dr. Ken Moore and then move into small-group dialogues focused on three community priorities identified through surveys and meetings:
• Youth Engagement & Leadership
• Civic Awareness & Engagement
• Community Infrastructure & Public Services
Breakfast is included, and youth (middle school and above) are encouraged to attend and participate.
📅 Tuesday, Oct. 21, 7–9 AM
📍 The Factory at Franklin, Liberty Hall
👉 Register here: Eventbrite link
This is more than a breakfast, it’s a chance to help shape the future of civic life in Franklin. Join us!
Breakfast With the Mayors is presented on a quarterly basis by Franklin Tomorrow with support from Pinnacle Financial Partners and Gresham Smith as co-presenting partners. A host of other partners help to keep the event free, such as our sustaining partners, Atmos Energy, Williamson Health and Ragan Smith, a Pape-Dawson company. Additional support comes from Vanderbilt University Medical Center, GFiber, FirstBank, Hazen and Sawyer, and UHY Certified Public Accountants.

Nov. 10 FrankTalks
2025-11-10 09:00 - 10:30 | The Heritage Room at The Factory, 230 Franklin Rd, Franklin, Tennessee, 37064
FrankTalks will be held on Nov. 10, at Columbia State College – Williamson County campus, 1228 Liberty Pike, in the administration building.
The hour-long program will begin at 9:30 but join us for a 30-minute coffee social starting at 9 a.m.
Our theme for the month is our quarterly City Hall on Wheels, where Franklin City Administrator Eric Stuckey and staff will discuss current city projects and topics.
To RSVP, follow this link: https://Nov10FTCityHallonWheels.eventbrite.com
FrankTalks is presented monthly by Renasant Bank and our sustaining partners, Atmos Energy; RaganSmith, A Pape-Dawson Company; and Williamson Health. Thank you to Vanderbilt University Medical Center for their support of this FrankTalks event. Thank you to Lyon Leadership Group, our local McDonald’s franchisee for coffee for the event.

Dec. 8, 2025 FrankTalks
2025-12-08 09:00 - 10:30 | Columbia State Community College, 1228 Liberty Pike, Franklin, Tennessee, 37064
Join Franklin Tomorrow for our final FrankTalks of the year as we review 2025 and look ahead to 2026 with community leaders and nonprofit officials.
We’re still forming the panel, but the event will be held Monday, Dec. 8, in the administration auditorium on the campus of Columbia State Community College, 1228 Liberty Pike, in Franklin.
A 30-minute coffee social & networking time will begin at 9 a.m. followed by the hourlong program at 9:30 a.m.
FrankTalks is presented monthly by Renasant Bank and our sustaining partners, Atmos Energy; RaganSmith, A Pape-Dawson Company; and Williamson Health. Thank you to Vanderbilt University Medical Center for their support of this FrankTalks event.
Thank you to Lyon Leadership Group, our local McDonald’s franchisee, for coffee for the event.

Jan. 12 FrankTalks to feature local leaders looking ahead to 2026
2026-01-12 09:00 - 10:30 | Columbia State Community College, 1228 Liberty Pike, Franklin, Tennessee, 37064
Join Franklin Tomorrow for our first FrankTalks of 2026 as we gather to hear from local leaders regarding what’s ahead for 2026 and how they responded to the challenges of 2025.
Among those offering their insights will be Franklin Mayor Dr. Ken Moore and Williamson Inc. President/CEO Matt Largen, along with Williamson County Mayor Rogers Anderson. Additional speakers may be added.
The event will be held in the Administration Building auditorium on the Columbia State Community College Williamson Campus, 1228 Liberty Pike, Franklin, Tenn., starting at 9 a.m. for a 30-minute coffee social and the hourlong program at 9:30 a.m.
There is no cost to attend to the event thanks to the generous support of our presenting partner, Renasant Bank, as well as our sustaining partners: Atmos Energy, Williamson Health and PAPE-DAWSON.
Additional support for this event comes from Vanderbilt University Medical Center.
To RSVP, go to https://events.humanitix.com/jan12franktalks

POSTPONED: Jan. 27 Breakfast With the Mayors now Feb. 3
2026-02-03 07:00 - 09:00 | TN
Due to the forecast of a severe winter storm, the first Franklin Tomorrow Breakfast With the Mayors of 2026 is has been postponed from Tuesday, Jan. 27, to Tuesday, Feb. 3, with the location to be announced.
We hope to be able to be at Rolling Hills Community Church, 1810 Columbia Ave., but are awaiting confirmation.
Williamson County Mayor Rogers Anderson and Franklin Mayor Dr. Ken Moore will be joined by the mayors of Williamson County’s cities for the Williamson County Mayoral Summit. Each mayor will have a chance to speak, but also respond to questions submitted by the audience in advance.
The event is free to the public thanks to the generosity of our presenting partners, Ascension Saint Thomas, Gresham Smith and Pinnacle Financial Partners.
To RSVP, visit https://events.humanitix.com/jan27bfastwithmayors
A 45-minute networking breakfast will begin at 7 a.m., followed by the hourlong program at 7:45 a.m.
Additional support for Breakfast With the Mayors comes from our Sustaining Partners, which include Atmos Energy, PAPE-DAWSON and Williamson Health. We also appreciate the support of Williamson Memorial Funeral Home & Cremation Service, Burr-Forman, Hazen & Sawyer, FirstBank, Vulcan Materials, and others.
Breakfast will be provided by Puckett’s Gro. & Restaurant with coffee service from McDonald’s, thanks to Lyon Leadership Group.

Feb. 9 FrankTalks to focus on disaster preparedness, response
2026-02-09 09:00 - 10:30 | Williamson County Public Library, 1314 Columbia Ave., Franklin, TN, 37064, United States
Join Franklin Tomorrow on Monday, Feb. 9, to hear from local experts on preparing for the next emergency as Williamson County continues its recovery from the winter storm which struck in January.
We’ve invited those in the know to help us prepare for the next event as well as talk about what they may have learned from the most recent event. We will announce more details as they become available.
The event will be held at the Williamson County Public Library, 1314 Columbia Ave., Franklin, starting with coffee and treats at 9 a.m. and the hourlong program at 9:30 a.m.
FrankTalks is presented monthly by Renasant Bank, with additional support from our sustaining partners, Atmos Energy, PAPE-DAWSON, and Williamson Health.

Franklin Tomorrow Exemplary Community Volunteer Awards Feb. 18
2026-02-18 18:00 - 20:00 | Franklin Theatre, 419 Main St, Franklin, TN, 37064, United States
The community is invited to come together on Wednesday, Feb. 18, to join as volunteers and organizations in numerous categories are honored as part of Franklin Tomorrow’s 19th annual Exemplary Community Volunteer Awards, which will be held on Wednesday, Feb. 18, at 6 p.m. at the Franklin Theatre in Historic Downtown Franklin.
Doors will open at 5 p.m., and thanks to the generosity of partners, including presenting partner Williamson Memorial Funeral Home & Cremation Services, there is no cost to attend this year’s event, but RSVPs are requested at https://events.humanitix.com/2026ftvolunteerawards.
More than 40 nonprofits, other organizations and individuals submitted nominees for the awards, which carry a cash prize to the nonprofit of the recipients’ choice.
With the significant number of nominees in this year’s awards, visit www.franklintomorrow.org or click the links below to see nominees in the following categories: Emerging Leader, Youth Initiative, Volunteer Spirit, Civic Group, Corporate Achievement Award, and Individual Corporate Achievement.
Also, a special In Memoriam program will honor community leaders, volunteers and individuals who have passed away over the last year.
Franklin Tomorrow will also present additional awards, including the Anne T. Rutherford Exemplary Community Volunteer Award and the Charles M. Sargent Leadership Award. Franklin Tomorrow Board Chair Peggy Kidd will also have awards.
Each award carries a cash prize to the nonprofit of the recipients’ choice.
In addition to Williamson Memorial, Franklin Tomorrow wishes to thank Buerger Moseley Carson, PLC; and the following elected officials for their support — County Mayor Rogers Anderson, Property Assessor Brad Coleman, County Clerk Jeff Whidby, Trustee Karen Paris, Register of Deeds Sherry Anderson, Circuit Court Clerk Debbie Barrett, Juvenile Court Judge Sharon Guffee, District Attorney Stacey Edmonson, Sheriff Jeff Hughes, and Juvenile Court Clerk Margaret Mahew. Franklin Tomorrow’s Sustaining Partners, Atmos Energy, PAPE-DAWSON and Williamson Health, also support this event. State Sen. Jack Johnson is also a partner in the awards.
It is not too late to be a sponsor and those interested can email CEO Mindy Tate at mindy@franklintomorrow.org.
Civic Group Nominees
Corporate Award Nominees, Group & Individual
Emerging Leader Nominees
Neighbor to Neighbor Nominees
Volunteer Spirit Nominees
Youth Initiative Nominees

March 16 - FrankTalks: "People to Know"
2026-03-16 09:00 - 10:30 | Williamson Co. Enrichment Center, 110 Everbright Avenue, Franklin, TN, 37064, United States
Join Franklin Tomorrow on Monday, March 16, 2026, to hear and connect with community leaders who are shaping the future of our city.
Whether you are new to the community or a longtime resident, this is your chance to strengthen your connections in Franklin.
Franklin Tomorrow has changed the date of its March FrankTalks to the third Monday of the month, March 16, due to spring break.
Set for the Williamson County Enrichment Center, the topic will be “People to Know,” featuring a unique panel of speakers on a variety of topics. The event will begin at 9 a.m. with a 30-minute coffee social, followed by the hourlong program at 9:30 a.m.
The panel will include Bo Segers, Board chair of the Heritage Foundation of Williamson County; Paul Clements, a seasoned historian and author with nearly five decades dedicated to studying and writing about history; and the winners of the Williamson County Schools Entrepreneur & Innovation Center Pitch Contest.
To RSVP, visit https://events.humanitix.com/march16franktalks
As well as serving as Heritage Foundation Board Chair, Segers is the General Counsel for The Breakaway League, LLC. In this role, he has primary responsibility for the legal issues affecting the League. In addition, he assists his clients in understanding the implications of their retirement choices. Segers has been practicing law since 1991, and he is licensed in Tennessee, Georgia, Texas, and Arkansas. Before being appointed Board Chair to the Heritage Foundation of Williamson County this year, Segers has served as a Board Member since 2023. In addition, he served as the Heritage Ball Chair with his wife, Debbie, for the 52nd Annual Heritage Ball in 2025.
The Williamson County Schools Entrepreneurship and Innovation Center (EIC) in Franklin, hosts recurring Pitch Nights and an annual Final Pitch Program where high school students present business ideas for potential startup funding. Winners of the Final Pitch Program were the inventors of SipBack, a modular beach chair system with an integrated beverage tap system.
Clements, a seasoned historian and author with nearly five decades dedicated to studying and writing about history, recently served as editor of “Battle Ground Academy Voices From Back in the Day.” The book is a compilation of the history of BGA through distillation of a series of oral interviews of noted alumni.
Clement’s work began with a focus on architectural history, culminating in the publication of his first book in 1987, “A Past Remembered,” a detailed two-volume exploration of antebellum homes in Davidson County. Over time, his interest shifted towards capturing the living history of Middle Tennessee through personal narratives. This focus is evident in “Tell Them We Were Rising,” which compiles 23 stories highlighting the experiences of Black individuals navigating slavery and the Jim Crow era, both in Nashville and surrounding areas.
FrankTalks is presented monthly with support of Renasant Bank, as well as Franklin Tomorrow’s sustaining partners: Atmos Energy, PAPE-DAWSON, and Williamson Health. Lyon Leadership Group provides coffee for the event.
The event will be held at the Williamson County Enrichment Center, 110 Everbright Ave, Franklin, TN 37064, starting with coffee and networking at 9 a.m. and the hourlong program at 9:30 a.m.
FrankTalks is presented monthly by Renasant Bank, with additional support from our sustaining partners, Atmos Energy, PAPE-DAWSON, and Williamson Health.
