This week, we sit down with Dr. Candice McQueen, President of Lipscomb University, to explore the evolving role of higher education in Tennessee. We discuss how Lipscomb is balancing academic rigor with a Christ-centered mission, the importance of preparing students for both career and purpose, and how universities can stay grounded in their identity during times of cultural and institutional change. Dr. McQueen also shares insights on leadership, student development, and the connection between education, community, and workforce needs.

Tiffany Kerns, Executive Director of the CMA Foundation, joins Signature Required for a grounded conversation about music education, leadership, and the power of community partnership. As the philanthropic arm of the Country Music Association, the CMA Foundation works to expand access to music education for students across Tennessee and the nation.

Randy Boyd, President of the University of Tennessee, joins Signature Required for a conversation about entrepreneurship, public service, and the role higher education plays in shaping the future of Tennessee. From starting businesses in his early twenties to serving in state government and now leading one of the state’s most important institutions, Randy reflects on the through line that has connected each chapter of his career: a belief that education creates opportunity.

In this episode, James Pond, CEO of the Governor's Early Literacy Foundation, shares why early literacy matters and how programs like Dolly Parton’s Imagination Library, book buses, and storybook trails are helping Tennessee kids thrive.

Dr. Cynthia Osborne, founder and executive director of the Prenatal-to-3 Policy Impact Center at Peabody College, discusses the importance of early childhood development and the impact of state policies on families and children.

Dr. LaTonya Mouzon, Executive Director of Arise2Read, a Memphis-based literacy nonprofit, joins the conversation to discuss the critical importance of literacy in early education.

Elizabeth Sherrard and Elizabeth Atack are leaders at Nashville Public Library, working together to expand access to education, literacy, and community resources through innovative programs and donor support that uplift families across Davidson County.

Jeremy Qualls is the Executive Director of Entrepreneurship and Innovation for Williamson County Schools, leading naitonally recognized programs that prepare high school students for real-world business and career success.

Brittany Schaffer is the Dean of the Curb College of Entertainment and Music Business at Belmont University. With a background in law and leadership roles at Spotify, she is shaping the next generation of industry leaders through innovation, education, and industry partnerships.

Melanie Shinbaum, Executive Director of the Nashville Early Education Coalition Fund, joins us to discuss the critical challenges facing early education in Tennessee. From systemic issues like low wages and limited accessibility to the economic and emotional toll on families, Melanie shares innovative solutions, including public-private partnerships, scalable childcare models, and the role of businesses in creating flexible, high-quality childcare options. With insights from her extensive nonprofit experience and personal stories as a mother, Melanie sheds light on why early education is essential for Tennessee’s families and economy. Tune in to explore actionable steps toward solving this pressing issue and the coalition’s efforts to bring together businesses, policymakers, and communities to make a lasting impact.

Steven Gentile is the Executive Director of the Tennessee Higher Education Commission (THEC) and teaches education policy at Vanderbilt University. THEC plays a crucial role in advocating for an increase in the number of Tennesseans who obtain postsecondary credentials. In this episode, Stephen discusses the decision of whether to attend college, the benefits of choosing a technical degree, financial aid and grants, and THEC's future plans.

Diana Beach Batarseh is an accomplished educator, trainer, and presenter with extensive experience working with students from preschool to high school. Currently, she serves as the Head of School at King's Academy, where she champions a Christ-centered classical education in line with the academy's values. In this episode, Diana discusses the essence of King's Academy, highlighting its diversity, financial assistance, and strategies for fostering the growth of both the school and its community.

John Staubitz, Director of Behavior Analysis at TRIAD, Vanderbilt University, has spent decades helping children with autism and behavior disorders. In a discussion with Spencer and Annalee, he explores how educators and parents can support autistic children to be happy and engaged at home and school. Discover the essentials and take pride in TRIAD’s leading role in providing top-notch strategies for Tennesseans.

Dr. Maria Cronley, Provost of Austin Peay State University, talks with Spencer and Annalee about higher education in America. She discusses the university's efforts to provide flexibility for students, particularly military-affiliated students. Dr. Cronley emphasizes the value of a college education, warns of the upcoming enrollment decline in US institutions, and aims for a better-educated Tennessee.