Former Nashville Chamber CEO Ralph Schulz named executive-in-residence in College of Leadership & Public Service
Kim Chaudoin |
Lipscomb University has appointed Ralph Schulz, former president and CEO of the Nashville Area Chamber of Commerce and one of Middle Tennessee’s most respected civic and business leaders, as an executive in residence in the College of Leadership & Public Service.
In this role, Schulz will share his deep expertise and decades of leadership experience with students preparing for lives of service and impact. He will serve as an instructor of practice and contribute to special initiatives and strategic projects across the university. Schulz will begin his work with Lipscomb on July 1.
“Ralph Schulz has played a central role in shaping Nashville into the vibrant, thriving city that it is today,” said Lipscomb President Candice McQueen. “His heart for public service and his commitment to the common good align perfectly with our mission and core values. We are honored to welcome him to the Lipscomb community.”
Schulz recently concluded nearly 20 years leading the Nashville Chamber, where he was a driving force in the city’s growth and transformation. Under his leadership, Nashville attracted major employers such as Amazon and Oracle, expanded workforce development efforts and built stronger regional collaboration across Middle Tennessee. He also led through key moments in the city’s history, including the 2007 financial crisis, the 2010 flood and the COVID-19 pandemic.
“Ralph brings unmatched insight into how leadership, collaboration and vision can shape the future of communities,” said Steve Joiner, dean of Lipscomb’s College of Leadership & Public Service. “Our students will benefit immensely from his experience and wisdom as they learn how to be more effective leaders in their communities and organizations.”
Schulz’s legacy in Nashville also includes championing the Music City Center, supporting the launch of the Nashville Entrepreneur Center and strengthening the connection between education and workforce readiness.
“Lipscomb is preparing the next generation of leaders to make a real difference in their communities, and I’m excited to be part of that mission,” said Schulz. “I look forward to working alongside students and faculty as we explore how to lead effectively in today’s ever-changing world."
A graduate of the University of Tennessee, he has held leadership roles with the Adventure Science Center and the National Federation of Independent Business, and has served on numerous civic and nonprofit boards. Most recently, he was named the 2025 recipient of the Jack B. Turner Regionalism Award by Leadership Middle Tennessee, an honor that reflects his deep commitment to collaboration and community betterment.