ACM Lifting Lives, the philanthropic partner of the Academy of Country Music, has announced its new board of directors for the 2025-2026 term, featuring a blend of returning leaders and fresh industry voices.
Fletcher Foster of F2 Entertainment will serve as Chair, with John Hickman of the Dallas Cowboys taking the Vice-Chair position, Chandra LaPlume of Sandbox Entertainment as Vice-President, Paul Barnabee of FBMM as Treasurer, and Brooke Boyd continuing her role as Secretary of ACM Lifting Lives.
Leadership transition brings seasoned industry professionals to guide ACM Lifting Lives’ mission into 2025-2026.
The organization’s public directors include industry veterans Scott Adkins, Sandi Borchetta, Daniel Miller, Tree Paine, and Troy Vollhoffer, representing companies across the music spectrum from publicity to production.
Five newly elected public directors will join the board: Greg Hill, country music star Tracy Lawrence, Adi Sharma, and public directors-at-large Shelley Grayson and Blain Rhodes, bringing fresh perspectives to the organization’s leadership.
Additionally, Darin Murphy and Storme Warren have been elected as representative directors, positions that carry significant influence in shaping the organization’s strategic initiatives within the country music industry.
The board is further strengthened by emeritus directors Rod Essig from CAA and Gayle Holcomb from WME, who provide valuable advisory support based on their extensive experience.
The organization continues to focus on health-related initiatives and community support, particularly during times of need.
Their impact has been bolstered by significant donations, including Mitchell Tenpenny’s recent contribution of $117,471.50, which will help fund their expanding programs.
Looking forward, ACM Lifting Lives plans to enhance its philanthropic efforts through strategic development and expansion of health initiatives, which aligns with their groundbreaking industry health push.
The organization aims to increase community engagement through music and forge new industry partnerships, while developing innovative fundraising strategies to support their growing mission.
Through the strength of the country music community and its dedicated board of directors, ACM Lifting Lives is positioned to make a substantial impact in 2025 and beyond.
The board’s leadership includes several distinguished past chairs like Lori Badgett, Mark Hartley, and Debbie Carroll, whose previous guidance has helped establish the organization’s reputation for excellence in philanthropic work.
The organization’s mission is centered on lifting lives through music and providing support for those affected by intellectual and developmental disabilities.
The board also plans to create programs helping musicians establish diverse income streams to promote financial stability during challenging economic times.
The board will leverage social media platforms to maximize outreach and engagement with supporters, a crucial strategy for nonprofit growth in today’s digital landscape.
