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Shan Foster
TEDx Speaker, CEO, Executive Director, Consultant, Board Member, Board Chair, Sports Commentator, Vandy Legend
Shan Foster is a prominent advocate and leader in the movement to end violence against women and girls. He currently serves as the Executive Director of AMEND Together and the Vice President of External Affairs at YWCA Nashville & Middle Tennessee. AMEND Together is a key initiative that focuses on engaging men and boys to promote violence prevention and cultural change, emphasizing education about healthy masculinity and respect.
Background and Education
Foster graduated from Vanderbilt University in 2008 with a Bachelor of Science in Human and Organizational Development. During his college years, he was a standout athlete, being named SEC Men’s Basketball Player of the Year and finishing as Vanderbilt's all-time leading scorer. He was drafted into the NBA by the Dallas Mavericks in 2008 and has since been inducted into several halls of fame for his contributions to sports, including the Tennessee Sports Hall of Fame.
Career Highlights
Before joining YWCA, Shan Foster was the Dean of Culture at the Intrepid College Preparatory Charter School in Nashville. His leadership skills have been recognized through various awards, including being named one of Nashville’s 40 Under 40 in 2019 and receiving accolades from the Nashville Business Journal as a Power 100 Disruptor.
Foster is also a co-founder of Fostering Healthy Solutions, LLC, which addresses diversity issues through education and training across various sectors. He is a sought-after speaker, frequently addressing audiences at national conferences and corporate events, including engagements with organizations like the NFL and Major League Soccer.
Community Involvement
In addition to his roles at YWCA and AMEND Together, Foster contributes to several boards, including the Tennessee Sports Hall of Fame, the Nashville Sports Council, and the Martha O’Bryan Center’s Explore Academy. He actively participates in advisory committees for organizations such as the Joyful Heart Foundation and Prevent Child Abuse Tennessee.
Through his work, Shan Foster aims to elevate conversations around violence against women, encouraging men to take on leadership roles in promoting respect and healthy relationships among youth.


