Tennessee Nonprofit Network is excited to welcome Angela Meekins as our new West Tennessee Regional Manager! Angela, a Memphis, TN native, brings a wealth of experience in nonprofit development, communications, broadcasting, and event management. A dynamic leader in storytelling, community engagement, and project management, Angela’s career has been defined by her passion for connecting people and driving impactful initiatives. As the former Engagement & Event Manager at Porter-Leath, Angela spearheaded key community partnerships and elevated outreach efforts across the region. She was instrumental in managing logistics for high-profile fundraising events, including the Rajun Cajun Crawfish Festival, one of the largest crawfish festivals in the U.S. Before transitioning to the nonprofit sector, Angela built a successful career in broadcasting. She served as Promotions Director at Entercom Communications, where she led the creation and execution of marketing strategies for a regional cluster of radio stations. Angela also shined as a producer and on-air personality at ABC Radio Networks, where she planned and produced nationally syndicated broadcasts, including the widely renowned Tom Joyner Morning Show, which reached millions of listeners.
Learn more about Angela below.
What excites you about the work that Tennessee Nonprofit Network is doing?
I am inspired by the way Tennessee Nonprofit Network connects nonprofits across the state to collaborate in serving our communities. This unified approach empowers organizations to amplify their impact and better address the needs of our neighbors and local communities.
What do you think the biggest challenges are for nonprofits right now?
I see three significant challenges. First, there’s a notable decline in traditional funding sources, not just in Tennessee but across the nation. Second, rebuilding the sense of community post-pandemic is crucial. Many nonprofits lost the in-person connection with their clients and have been working hard to restore those bonds. Finally, regrowing organizational capacity and support to keep pace with community needs remains an ongoing struggle.
What do you love about the nonprofits in your area?
I love how the nonprofits in the Mid-South collaborate to create a continuum of services. There is a shared commitment to partnership and a willingness to combine efforts to make a bigger impact across various causes.
Describe your role at your company/organization and what a typical day looks like.
As the West Tennessee Regional Manager, I focus on building and sustaining relationships with nonprofit member organizations while creating opportunities for them to connect and grow. My role includes logistical support for Tennessee Nonprofit Network programs, driving membership and partnerships, brand promotion, and sharing critical research, advocacy, and public policy information with members. My work day is so dynamic, filled with outreach, strategy development, and support for our region’s nonprofit community!
What do you like to do for fun?
I love watching documentaries and diving into thought-provoking podcasts. I’m also fascinated by learning random facts, which I enjoy sharing with others, whether or not they have any practical use!
Name a nonprofit leader that inspires you.
This is a tough one because there are so many! Nationally, I have to go with another Angela… Angela F. Williams, President and CEO of United Way. Her impressive career in service is only matched by her smile and optimism. Locally, Mike Warr stands out. He was my mentor when I first entered the nonprofit world, giving me a “no holds barred” introduction to the realities of fundraising and relationship-building. His wisdom shaped my path in this sector.
If someone were to visit you, where would you take them to eat?
Since I travel all over the state, I will share a few of my favorite spots from each region! In West Tennessee, I would take them to Westy’s in Downtown Memphis. For Middle Tennessee, we would head to Midtown Nashville for lunch at Elliston Place Soda Shop. And in East Tennessee, Mauricio’s Italian Restaurant in Cookeville is a must-visit.
What’s your favorite movie?
It is hard to choose because I do not watch many movies as an adult. But as a child, I loved fantasy films like The Neverending Story. I also enjoyed the mix of fantasy and comedy in films like The Princess Bride, Spaceballs, and Beetlejuice.
Any book recommendations?
Absolutely! The 7 Habits of Highly Effective People by Stephen R. Covey is a classic for personal growth and leadership. I’d also recommend Refuse to Choose! by Barbara Sher for anyone feeling pulled in many directions or struggling to focus on just one passion.
What change do you most want to see in the nonprofit sector?
I would love to see more nonprofits working together cohesively. By collaborating and aligning their efforts, they could drive greater impact and lasting change in our communities.
How can nonprofits in your area benefit from becoming a member of Tennessee Nonprofit Network?
Well, for starters, they get me as their head cheerleader! Beyond that, being part of the Tennessee Nonprofit Network offers the opportunity to connect with other nonprofits in a supportive, non-competitive environment. It is a place where organizations can collaborate, learn, and grow together, with a focus on the bigger picture of serving our region effectively.