2026 Power of 10 Summit

The Annual Power of 10 Summit is the culmination of Cumberland Region Tomorrow's work in conversation, education, and collaboration. Throughout the year, we listen and learn alongside communities across all 10 counties, gathering insights, sharing knowledge and building partnerships that strengthen our collaboration within the region.

At the Power of 10 Summit, it all comes together.

Bringing together more than 375 leaders from across the region, the Power of 10 is where local perspectives meet regional priorities. It's a place to reflect on what we've learned, deepen our understanding of the challenges ahead, and align around solutions that will shape the future of Middle Tennessee.

Be part of the conversations shaping the future of our communities. This full-day event will feature:

• Keynote speakers and expert presentations

• Regional data and insights on growth, housing, infrastructure, and more

• Facilitated breakout sessions on pressing issues

• Real conversations with people shaping the future of Middle Tennessee

AGENDA 

7:45–8:15 AM | Arrive & Connect
Registration, light breakfast, and informal networking.

8:15–9:15 AM | Set the Stage for Better Growth
Demetria Kalodimos welcomes attendees and frames the day around a central question: What would it look like for Middle Tennessee to grow better—not just bigger? Nationally recognized planner and author Ellen Dunham-Jones serves as our morning keynote and explores how communities can retrofit for growth, followed by conversation and audience Q&A with Demetria.

9:15–10:15 AM | Prepare for What’s Ahead
Senator Heidi Campbell and Clifton Lowry, moderated by Demetria Kalodimos, discuss the energy infrastructure investments Middle Tennessee needs to support continued growth. 

10:15–12:15 PM | Explore Solutions in Breakouts
Two rounds of breakout conversations move from big challenges to practical solutions, with sessions focused on water infrastructure, housing, community engagement, and transportation and featuring leaders from across the region.

12:15–1:00 PM | Lunch & Regional Leadership Recognition
A networking lunch featuring recognition of leadership programs from across Middle Tennessee.

1:00–1:45 PM | Think Differently About Place
Afternoon keynote Carl Rodrigues explores how strategic institutional land planning—from schools and healthcare to cultural institutions and public spaces—can help create more connected, resilient, and vibrant communities.

1:45–2:30 PM | Hosting in Our Hometown
Moderated by Alfred Degrafinreid, Deana Ivey, Burke Nihill, and Doug Kreulen consider what Middle Tennessee needs to prepare for its next era of growth, including infrastructure, workforce, innovation, housing, and major opportunities such as the Super Bowl.

2:30–3:30 PM | Hear from Leaders Across Tennessee
Stephanie Coleman moderates a signature Mayors Forum featuring Freddie O’Connell, Mary Esther Reed, Matt Fitterer, Bill Anderson, and Kevin Hoover. Together, they will explore how communities are navigating growth, infrastructure, housing, community character, public trust, and regional collaboration.

3:30–4:00 PM | Close with a Call to Action
Key takeaways from the day and an invitation to continue the work of growing better together through Cumberland Region Tomorrow and its partners.

4:00–5:00 PM | Regional Leadership Reception
Continue the conversation with colleagues over refreshments and networking. 

Sponsorship is open to anyone and everyone! Click HERE to explore more and sign up.

With questions, please contact Jennifer Chalos, CRT Executive Director at jennifer@yourcrt.com.

To learn more about Cumberland Region Tomorrow, please visit us at yourcrt.com.