CMA Women’s Leadership Academy Class of 2025. Photo: Emily April Allen/CMA
The Country Music Association (CMA) has officially launched its latest cohort for the Women’s Leadership Academy, a comprehensive 12-week program aimed at empowering women in the music industry. This year marks the fourth iteration of the initiative, which commenced on August 4 with a welcome address from CMA Board Chairman Jennie Smythe.
This program supports 14 women, providing them an opportunity to engage in weekly group coaching, develop peer relationships, and partake in hands-on leadership training. Participants will benefit from the expertise of executive coaches and industry mentors, along with access to a growing alumni network that encourages continued support beyond the program’s conclusion.
Program Overview
Initially, Academy participants will focus on establishing personal and professional goals that will serve as the cornerstone for their journey throughout the program. Led by executive coaches Lisa Gamble and Nicole Provonchee, the curriculum encompasses crucial leadership themes.
Topics Covered Include:
- Personal Branding
- Career Advancement
- Conflict Management
- Negotiation
- Self-Advocacy
- Influence and Confidence
This structure is designed to enhance participants’ clarity, impact, and resilience as leaders in the industry.
Quotes from Leadership
“The Women’s Leadership Academy has grown into a powerful reflection of the women who make this industry stronger every day,” said Tiffany Kerns, CMA Senior Vice President, Industry Relations & Philanthropy. “It’s not just about 12 weeks of programming; it’s about lifelong impact. I’m incredibly proud of the energy and intention behind this program and can’t wait to see how this new class builds on the momentum of the women who came before them. Together, they’re shaping the future of our business.”
Meet the 2025 Class Members
The participants of this year’s Women’s Leadership Academy include:
- Jackie Augustus – Lead, Country & Folk, Artist Partnerships, Spotify
- Shaina Botwin – Vice President, Boom Music Group | Co-Manager, Sasha Alex Sloan
- Sara Foster – TV and Live Event Producer
- Melissa Goldberg – Vice President, Digital & Social, CMT
- Morgan Kenney – Country Music Agent, WME
- Anna Kolander – Senior Manager & Head of A&R, Activist Artists Management
- Olivia Laster – Head of Artist & Label Relations, Sticks Management
- Rakiyah Marshall – Founder & CEO, Back Blocks Music
- Morgan Mills – Chief Marketing Officer, CmdShft
- Courtney Pender – Vice President, People Experience, Sony Music Publishing
- Karen Schillinger – Agent, Creative Artists Agency
- Chandler Nicole Sherrill – Senior Director, Creative, Electric Feel Entertainment
- Shana Melissa Saunders – Product Manager, Business Development, Music Corporation of America
- Christina Wiltshire – Senior Director, A&R, Warner Chappell Music
The Women’s Leadership Academy aims to fortify the careers of these women, equipping them with essential skills and a robust support system as they navigate the evolving landscape of the music industry.
