Board Member Spotlight: Jesse Howard

TNSAE Board of Directors Spotlight Series

As part of our 2026 TNSAE Board of Directors Spotlight Series, we’re excited to highlight the leaders who are helping elevate and connect our association community across Tennessee. Through this series, we’ll introduce you to members of our board and share a glimpse into their professional journeys, passions, and what inspires their service.

Jesse Howard

Director, Association Management
Parthenon Management Group

Years in the association profession: 20
Years involved with TNSAE: 6
Board Position: Director

Tell us a little about your current role and the association or organization you serve.

Things are a little different at an Association Management Company. I serve as one of four Directors of Association Management. Our role is to help Executive Directors and organizations achieve their goals and execute their strategic plans. I also serve as the Executive Director of The College on Problems of Drug Dependence, a scientific research society dedicated to addiction science.

What first drew you to the association profession?

I entered association management somewhat by accident. I joined Host Communications because they managed the marketing and media rights for a NASCAR team, which initially aligned with my interest in motorsports marketing. My plan was simply to get my foot in the door through their association management division. However, after my first conference, everything changed. My interest quickly shifted from motorsports marketing to a deep and lasting passion for association management.

What has been one of the most meaningful or rewarding moments in your association career?

In 2025, my team was honored with the Martin and Toby Adler Distinguished Service Award from the College on Problems of Drug Dependence. This recognition reflects sustained, meaningful contributions to the field of substance use disorder that extend beyond research alone — including advocacy, public policy, mentorship, and service leadership aligned with CPDD’s mission. This is the highest award achievable by the organization, and I was honored our team received it after being voted on by the Executive Committee.

What advice would you give to someone newer to the association profession?

Give yourself grace. It will take you a full cycle to fully understand the nuance of your association and the differences in the business.

How did you first get involved with TNSAE?

I had been a member of ASAE for years prior to moving to Nashville in 2020. I first learned about TNSAE through our CEO, Sarah Timm, and wanted to be sure I got more involved in our own state society.

What inspired you to serve on the TNSAE Board?

I am deeply committed to helping my team identify new and meaningful ways to advance their careers and the missions of their organizations. I wanted to join the TNSAE Board of Directors to expand my passion for professional development and help TNSAE members find ways to advance their careers.

Tell us about your family, pets, and where you call home.

My partner and I reside in Nashville — Hermitage specifically. I moved to Nashville from Lexington, Kentucky, in 2020 to join PMG. We recently built a new home and are enjoying putting our touches on it.

What is something people may not know about you?

I am naturally a night owl, and my teams may occasionally receive emails from me during the evening or at unconventional hours. This is simply when my mind is most focused and creative. Seems strange, right? While I spend my days addressing immediate priorities, my most thoughtful and strategic work often happens later in the day. As I like to say, my best work comes late at night.

What are some of your favorite things to do outside of your professional role?

I am an avid dirt track racing fan and hiker. When I’m not working, I am likely traveling to a race or hitting a trail.