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Adam Lister
Adam Lister
01:22

Adam Lister

Tennesseans for Student Success

Franklin, TN USA

"The ability to identify a north star but modify the path to get there—you should give yourself license to do that."

Career Roadmap

Adam's work combines: Politics, Education, and Upholding a Cause and Belief

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Day In The Life

President & CEO

I leverage political advocacy to enhance educational opportunities for students.

02:29

Day In The Life Of A CEO Of An Education Nonprofit

My Day to Day

In my role leading a nonprofit focused on advocacy, I immerse myself in the vision of impacting lives beyond our immediate environment. Daily, I inspire my team to align with our collective vision, pushing the boundaries of strategy and innovation. I spend my time engaging with legislative leaders and coalition partners to craft and build support for our vision.

Skills & Education

Advice for getting started

I recommend engaging in politics and saying yes to as many opportunities as possible when you are young. Get exposure to many different things and follow through on what you are asked to do.

Here's the path I took:

  • High School

  • Bachelor's Degree

    Political Science

    Kentucky Wesleyan College

Learn more about different paths to this career

Life & Career Milestones

My path in life took a while to figure out

  • 1.

    I’ve always had a passion for government and politics, and aspired to be like Matlock.

  • 2.

    I earned my bachelor’s degree in political science from Kentucky Wesleyan College.

  • 3.

    I pivoted to economic development, focusing on rural infrastructure projects.

  • 4.

    I moved into education policy after a critical report exposed Tennessee's educational shortcomings.

  • 5.

    That ultimately led me to join Tennesseeans for Student Success, advocating for higher standards and better assessments.

  • 6.

    I now serve as CEO of Tennesseeans for Student Success, driving impactful education policy changes and advocating for student success.

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