by Tony Murchison, East Tennessee Regional Director, Tennessee Nonprofit Network
Since stepping into my role with TNN in November 2025, I’ve had the chance to meet nonprofit leaders from across East Tennessee. In almost every conversation, I’m reminded how much this work depends on connection: people learning from each other, sharing challenges, and finding solutions together.
Those conversations also remind me why I care so much about this sector.
I’ve spent more than two decades working in nonprofit organizations, and like many of you, I’ve worn a lot of hats along the way. That experience shapes how I approach this role and how I hope to support nonprofits across our region.
I’m also a big believer in the idea that everyone brings expertise to the table. Some folks call it “popular education,” but the concept is simple: people are experts in their own experiences. When we share what we know and learn from one another, we usually get closer to the solutions we’re all looking for.
A Little More About Me
In 2007, I joined a large mental health agency where I spent nine years in several roles, including staff training and program compliance. During that time, I helped develop the organization’s first quality program, led a team responsible for dozens of annual audits, and managed outcomes data across nearly 100 programs.
The organization also merged with five others during that period (!!) so I’m very familiar with the opportunities and growing pains that can come with organizational change.
Along the way, I stayed engaged in the broader community. I served on the board of the Appalachian Community Fund for social justice grantmaking, supervised social work interns, and taught as an adjunct with the University of Tennessee College of Social Work. My favorite classes were Intro to Macro Practice and Social and Economic Policy.
In 2016, I joined the UT College of Social Work full time. Over several years I served in multiple roles before becoming Director of Outreach and Engagement. That work allowed me to build partnerships across Tennessee and launch the Social Justice Innovation Initiative, a microgrant program that invested more than $500,000 in communities across the state.
I’ve also had the opportunity to serve on several nonprofit boards, including the Mental Health Association of East Tennessee, the Maryville College Alumni Association, and Magnolia Harbor Carefarm, where I currently serve as co-chair.
All of these experiences shaped how I approach this work. They also helped me build relationships across nonprofit, public, and academic sectors – relationships that continue to inform my work today. At the same time, this role at TNN has introduced me to many new faces: leaders who are passionate, creative, and deeply committed to their communities.
So please consider me a resource for your nonprofit work. I may not have every answer, but chances are I’ve seen at least a few of the challenges you’re navigating.
And that brings me to something I’ve noticed in many of the conversations I’ve had so far about TNN.
Two Reactions That Tell a Bigger Story
Almost every conversation I have about TNN starts with one of two reactions.
The first is enthusiastic: “We love TNN! We’ve been to the Summit (or a training), and we’re big fans. How can we get more involved?”
When I hear that, I’m reminded of the impact TNN is already having. People talk about leaving trainings with practical tools, renewed confidence, and the feeling that they’re not doing this work alone.
The second reaction is simpler: “What is TNN?”
That question doesn’t bother me—in fact, it motivates me. It reminds me that awareness isn’t universal and that many organizations doing incredible work may not yet know about the resources available to them.
Both reactions tell an important story. One shows the value of the work already happening. The other reminds us there’s still more work to do.
If you’re in that second group, here’s the short version: TNN exists to support nonprofits across Tennessee. Membership is free and provides access to training, resources, advocacy, and a network of nonprofit leaders across the state.
You can learn more or sign up here.
Showing Up Where Nonprofits Already Are
One thing I’ve learned quickly is that nonprofits don’t need more noise. They need support that’s timely, relevant, and useful.
That’s why TNN’s trainings, convenings, and peer learning opportunities matter so much. These events give people a chance to step out of the day-to-day grind and connect with others who understand the challenges—whether that’s staff burnout, funding uncertainty, or governance questions.
I always encourage folks to check the TNN events calendar and join us when they can. Sometimes one good conversation at an event can change how someone approaches their work moving forward.
Being “The Guy” for East Tennessee
When I talk about my goals for 2026, I often say I want to be “The Guy” for East Tennessee—and I want to be clear about what that means.
It doesn’t mean having all the answers or being the loudest voice in the room. It means being present, responsive, and dependable.
I want nonprofit leaders to feel comfortable reaching out—to ask questions, share challenges, or talk through ideas. I want to help create training opportunities that matter, encourage collaboration, and support the people doing this work every day.
Let’s Keep Building Together
If there’s one thing I hope comes through here, it’s this: TNN is here, and we’re committed to East Tennessee.
Please share TNN with your colleagues and invite them to engage with us. And don’t hesitate to reach out if I can ever be helpful to your organization.
I’m grateful for the warm welcome I’ve already received, and I’m excited about what we can build together as we continue strengthening nonprofits and communities across East Tennessee.