2026 Begins with Leadership
As we step into 2026, I’ve been thinking a lot about the city we love — the 901 — and the kind of future we want to help shape together.
City Leadership was founded in 2010 on a simple but demanding belief:
Everything rises and falls on Leadership.
Not position.
Not title.
Not influence for influence’s sake.
Just everyday people choosing to step forward — in neighborhoods, workplaces, schools, nonprofits, churches, and homes — because someone else’s well-being matters.
The truth is, cities don’t change because of slogans or strategies alone.
They change when leaders decide not to wait.
They change when someone notices a problem and says, “I’ll own that.”
When someone sees potential and says, “I’ll invest there.”
When someone else is tired, overlooked, or stuck — and a leader shows up.
As we begin 2026, I’m filled with hope — not because the challenges are smaller, but because the capacity for leadership in Memphis is enormous. We see it every week in the people we serve, the partners we work alongside, and the stories emerging from across our city.
This year at City Leadership, we’re doubling down on our mission:
Developing the next generation of leaders
Connecting volunteers to needs
Strengthening the civic fabric of our city
Serving those who train up our children
Putting a spotlight on good and hope
Taking initiative for the benefit of others
A brighter, stronger 901 doesn’t come from waiting for someone else to act.
It comes from us choosing responsibility, courage, and generosity in the places we already stand.
Thank you for being part of this community. Thank you for caring about leadership that serves others. And thank you for believing that Memphis’ best chapters are still ahead.
Let’s step into 2026 ready, and more than ever, together.
