Celebration of Betty Nixon's Birthday

Let’s celebrate Betty Nixon’s upcoming birth date this coming Thursday, January 12th.  It will be a light supper followed by sharing our memories of our beloved friend.   I have included her obituary at the end of this email for those who didn’t get the privilege of knowing Betty before her death in 2016.  So even if you didn’t know Betty, please join us to be inspired by her legacy.

Please let Rhonda know of any dietary restrictions and its BYOB.  Rhonda's phone number is 615-788-2991.  RSVP to Rhonda at rhonda.g.phillippi@gmail.com by January 10th. 

Betty was the first woman elected to the Metropolitan Nashville City Council (1975-1987), representing the Hillsboro Belmont area; the first Council candidate elected on a neighborhood improvement platform; and the first woman to chair the Budget and Finance Committee of the Council. She became the first major female candidate to run for mayor of Nashville/Davidson County. Throughout her time in Metro government, she was a tireless advocate for the preservation of Nashville neighborhoods and historic architecture, including the Customs House on Broadway.    Following her career in politics and government, Nixon began working at Vanderbilt University, from which she retired as Assistant Vice Chancellor in 2007. She continued an active life in public service, including chairing the Board for the Metro Election Commission, and campaigned vigorously for the election of Mayor Megan Berry.

She rejoiced in a community of friends, colleagues, and fellow community activists and advocates for justice, equality, and education. She is remembered for over four decades of commitment to Nashville's neighborhoods, schools, and universities; for her leadership in preserving its historic buildings; and for bringing communities together to strengthen Nashville's civic life.