Today we’d like to introduce you to Jordan Owens.
Hi Jordan, can you start by introducing yourself? We’d love to learn more about how you got to where you are today?
I’ve always been passionate about serving my community and creating opportunities for young people and families to thrive. Growing up in Nashville, I saw both the strengths and the challenges that exist within our communities, which inspired me to pursue a career in social work.
I earned my bachelor’s degree in Psychology and my master’s degree in Social Work with a concentration in Children, Youth, and Families. Throughout my career, I’ve worked in education, higher education, and nonprofit leadership, always focusing on improving outcomes for youth and underserved communities.
Today, I serve as the Executive Director of Nashville Peacemakers while also managing mentoring efforts for the local school district. These roles allow me to support young people both at the individual level and through broader community partnerships. Along the way, I’ve learned that meaningful change happens through collaboration, listening, and investing in people. My goal is to continue building programs and partnerships that create lasting opportunities for the next generation and strengthen the communities in this place I call home.
I’m sure it wasn’t obstacle-free, but would you say the journey has been fairly smooth so far?
I would say the road has been fairly smooth. Because of my dedication, my village, and relationships I have made along the way.
Can you tell our readers more about what you do and what you think sets you apart from others?
My work is centered on creating opportunities for young people and strengthening communities through mentorship, education, and violence prevention. As the Executive Director of Nashville Peacemakers, I lead programs that provide youth with safe spaces, social-emotional learning, literacy support, and positive mentorship. In my role with the local school district, I oversee mentoring efforts that connect students with caring adults who can help them succeed both academically and personally.
I specialize in building partnerships that bring organizations, schools, and community leaders together around a common goal. Whether I’m securing funding, developing new programs, or connecting people to resources, I enjoy finding practical solutions that create lasting impact.
What I’m most proud of is helping turn ideas into sustainable programs that truly change lives. From expanding youth programming and increasing organizational funding to creating new collaborations that serve more families, I’ve seen firsthand how intentional relationships can transform communities.
What sets me apart is my ability to bridge different sectors, education, nonprofit leadership, and community engagement—to bring people together around a shared vision. I believe the best solutions are built through collaboration, and I’m passionate about creating spaces where young people feel supported, families feel empowered, and communities can thrive.
We’d love to hear about any fond memories you have from when you were growing up?
I have so many wonderful childhood memories, but the one that stands out the most is my eighth birthday sleepover. My mom helped my friends and me create a choreographed dance, and we spent hours practicing and laughing together. We were so proud of our performance, and it made me feel incredibly loved and celebrated. Looking back, it’s a memory that reminds me of the joy of childhood, the importance of family, and the special moments that stay with you for a lifetime.
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