The Sycamore Institute, an independent and nonpartisan public policy research center for Tennessee, announced today the appointment of Christi Branscom to its board of directors and the election of new board officers. Branscom is a Knoxville native who serves as principal, general counsel, and managing broker for Partners Development. She has served in leadership roles with both state and local government, most recently in the cabinet of Governor Bill Lee as Commissioner of the Department of General Services.
“Civic leaders across Tennessee rely on the Sycamore Institute’s impartial insights and analyses to clarify the landscape and highlight opportunities,” said Executive Director Brian Straessle. “Christi has seen firsthand Sycamore’s impact at the state and local level, and she brings an invaluable perspective to our board of directors. We are grateful to Christi and our new board officers for their service to Sycamore and our state.”
Christi Branscom is a native Knoxvillian who recently returned home and rejoined her former firm, Partners Development, as principal, general counsel, and managing broker. She recently completed almost six years of service as Commissioner of the Department of General Services (DGS) for the State of Tennessee. She began her career in public service when she served as deputy to the mayor/COO for the City of Knoxville following a promotion from senior director of public works—making her the first female in Knoxville history to be named to either position. Before her tenure in public service, Branscom enjoyed a successful career as COO/general counsel and principal managing real estate broker at Partners Development for 20 years. Branscom earned a Bachelor of Science in finance cum laude from the University of Tennessee and a Juris Doctorate from the University of Memphis.
Additionally, the board of directors elected Matt Marshall as chairman, succeeding Leslie Hafner. Marshall is the President and CEO of the United Way of West Tennessee. Karen Pershing, Director of Grants and Government Relations for Metro Drug Coalition, was named board treasurer. Finally, Doug Overbey, partner at Owings, Wilson & Coleman and former U.S. Attorney and state senator, was selected as board secretary.
Full bios for every Sycamore staff and board member are available here.
