Nashville, Tenn. (Jan. 12, 2026) Meharry Medical College hosted its 2nd Annual Corporate Partners Breakfast, bringing together corporate leaders, foundation partners and community stakeholders to celebrate the institution’s 150-year legacy and the vital role corporate support plays in advancing its mission.
The program kicked off with a panel discussion featuring local corporate partner leaders who support the institution and its mission to educate and send Black physicians, dentists, physician assistants and researchers into society to provide quality healthcare. During the program, James E.K. Hildreth, president and CEO, reflected on Meharry’s enduring commitment to educating health care leaders. “This is our 150th year of reaching young minds and encouraging them to set forth on the arduous path of learning the intricacies of health care,” Hildreth said.
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He emphasized the impact of partnership, noting, “One gift or grant has the potential to change the condition of countless thousands. Put simply, we need you.”
During the program, Meharry recognized five Legacy Award recipients that contributed
more than $125,000 to the college over the past year. The 2026 honorees included Aramark,
Delta Dental of Tennessee, First Horizon Bank, HCA Healthcare and United Concordia. These partners were recognized for their sustained support of scholarships, academic programs and access.
Nicole Dunigan, senior vice president for Pinnacle Financial Partners, said her partnership with Meharry reminds her of an African proverb: “If you want to go fast, go alone. If you want to go far, go together.” She said her hope is that Pinnacle’s work with Meharry will inspire other organizations to pursue a meaningful partnership with Meharry.
Formal remarks were delivered by Juan A. McGruder, senior vice president for institutional advancement, who underscored the importance of convening corporate partners. “It is so important to us that we have these get togethers, not only so you can hear from us about what’s happening here, but so you hear from each other,” McGruder said.
Closing remarks were delivered by Tyrone Jimmison, senior associate vice president for institutional advancement, who thanked partners for their engagement and Dr. Courtney Blakemore for planning the breakfast. “Events like this are a reflection of what’s possible when vision, collaboration and purpose align,” Jimmison said.
The breakfast takes place annually during the third week of January.
View photos from the event here.
Written by: Dionne Lucas, donor communications director at Meharry Medical College
