Tricia Drake

Tricia joined Nashville Public Radio in 2024, bringing nearly 20 years of successful nonprofit leadership and development experience, along with an extensive background in fundraising best practices, major donor cultivation and stewardship, and complex project management. Known for her passion for public media and commitment to building lasting relationships, Tricia is deeply rooted in the Nashville philanthropic ecosystem and dedicated to creating partnerships that connect Nashville listeners to the stories that matter to them.

Originally from Murray, Kentucky, Tricia transferred to Vanderbilt as an undergraduate and has called Nashville home ever since. She’s a proud Vanderbilt triple ‘Dore, holding a Bachelor’s and Master’s degree in Geology, and a Master’s of Education in Independent School Leadership. Tricia began her career as a certified healthcare environmental manager for a national engineering firm before taking on a role with Vanderbilt’s Center for Environmental Management Studies. Drawn to nonprofit work, she later served for many years as the development officer and founding head of school at a local preK-8 independent school, and most recently, as Director of Development at a national nonprofit.

When she’s not championing public radio, you might find her on the hunt for Nashville’s best cup of butternut squash soup or exploring the local craft fair scene.