Stephanie Barger Conner

Stephanie Conner is an accomplished leader in public policy and state government with over 25 years of experience in advancing public administration initiatives and strategy. A graduate of Vanderbilt University, she has dedicated her career to executive service and advocacy in her home state of Tennessee.

Executive Leadership & Policy: After beginning her career as a Legislative Assistant in the U.S. Congress, Stephanie served in multiple executive capacities within the Governor’s Administration, including:

Assistant to the Governor for Boards and Commissions

Deputy Policy Director

Executive Director of the Tennessee Film, Entertainment, and Music Commission

Arts Advocacy & National Leadership: For over 20 years, Stephanie Conner (formerly Stephanie Barger) has been a driving force for the arts. Appointed by the Governor to the Tennessee Arts Commission, she served four terms as Chairperson. Her leadership extends to national and regional boards, including:

President, Tennesseans for the Arts

Executive Committee, National Assembly of State Arts Agencies (NASAA)

Board Member, SouthArts

Known for her commitment to fostering arts and cultural vitality, Stephanie leverages her expertise in government, public administration, and communication to advocate for the artistic and creative industries and their vital contributions to community development and economic growth. Stephanie is committed to supporting creative industries and community development in Tennessee and beyond.