There are many things that make living in the 37075 such a safe and enjoyable experience. However, the most important thing is its people. Sumner County is blessed with many leaders in business, government and nonprofits who are committed to making our community the best that it can be. This month, Hendersonville Lifestyle profiles three local men who are making a difference every day.
Jim Jones
Chief of Police
Jim Jones has been a key member of the Hendersonville Police Department for 38 years. He is a member of the Tennessee Association of Chiefs of Police (TACP), the International Association of Chiefs of Police (IACP), the State Guard Association of the United States (SGAUS) and the FBI National Academy Associates
Why Hendersonville?
“Hendersonville is home. I can’t think of a better place in which to live, work and raise a family. I met my wife Linda here, and it has also been home for our two sons and four grandchildren.”
Motivation
“I am motivated by seeing young men and women come to work in our department who are dedicated to serving our community.”
Mentor
“I have had many great mentors, but my parents are at the top of the list. They taught me many valuable lessons and they set high expectations for me when I was growing up.”
Life lesson
“Always treat others well and be fair in all of your dealings with people.”
What advice would you give your younger self?
“Pick a career in which you will be happy, and it will seem like you are never working.”
Bryan Hayes
Business Owner
As the founder and owner of Brian’s Motorsports, Brian is always on the go. Along with growing his business, he is also very active in the community, serving roles in C12 Group, Fight Club Ministry, Mission 615 and Full Count Baseball Ministry. Brian is also involved in local employee and homeless outreach efforts.
Why Hendersonville?
“I grew up here, and I love the fact that I still drive the same streets every day on which I used to ride my BMX bike as a child. Although Hendersonville has grown a lot, it is still a place where you can go to a football game or a car show on a Friday night and see lots of smiling faces.”
Motivation
“God allows me to wake up each day and enjoy my passion for helping customers build the car or truck of their dreams.”
Mentor
“My mentor was Pastor Morgan from COL Church – he was a strong presence in my early life. After I started my business, I also received a lot of support and encouragement from several other folks through daily breakfast roundtable at the Blue Goose Café.”
Life lesson
“Always put God first.”
What advice would you give your younger self?
“Stay the course and push hard every day.”
Rod Harkleroad
Market President/CEO
As the Market President for Highpoint Health with Ascension Saint Thomas and CEO of Highpoint Health – Sumner, Rod is one busy person. He is a board member of both Forward Sumner and the Gallatin Chamber of Commerce, and he also volunteers with Sumner County Schools the Tennessee Hospital Association.
Why Hendersonville?
“Sumner County is an amazing place to live and raise a family. We have the big city amenities close by, but we still enjoy local southern charm and hospitality.”
Motivation
“I love being challenged, and I love to make things better than how I found them. I also like taking care of people – that was one of the main reasons I became a nurse.”
Mentor
“I have had many great mentors, but the main reason for my success is my mother. She taught me the meaning of being good to people.”
Life lesson
“Life is short, and you have to live it to its fullest. If you are good to people and love God, you will find happiness.”
What advice would you give your younger self?
“Listen more and talk less. Learn to slow down and enjoy the moment.’”