New Beginnings Center Luncheon Celebrates Strength, Confidence and Community

Guests arrived at Hillwood Country Club for the annual New Beginnings Center Spirit of Wellness Luncheon — many greeting each other as friends and joking that they rarely see each other outside of the gym, with their hair done and makeup on. The atmosphere of the luncheon, much like The New Beginnings Center itself — which seeks to bring fitness to women who wouldn’t otherwise have access to it — was one of heartfelt community.

Celebrated news anchor Tuwanda Coleman took her post as event emcee and highlighted the ways women transform when they complete The New Beginnings Center program — emerging with improved self-confidence and a newfound sense of empowerment. Strength coach and center cofounder Tash Weddle emphasized the importance of working with women, many of whom are building strength for the first time. “I do know that over the years, I’ve seen a lot of pounds lifted, a ton of confidence gained,” Tash said. “I’ve witnessed women strengthen their self-regard and deepen their purpose. And I’ve seen many women find a place where they felt like they belonged, often for the first time.”

The afternoon continued with many more inspiring stories. And Jana Lisle Parham  presented the Spirit of Wellness award to Dr. Carol McCullough, an OB-GYN who has spent her career caring for women and advocating for women’s health. 

Vanderbilt University athletic director Candice Storey Lee closed out the event with a keynote speech that left attendees feeling both empowered and inspired. Growing up as a 6-foot-2-inch Black woman, Candice said she knew what it felt like to stick out. “When women walk through these doors, they don’t stick out anymore — they belong,” she said. “They’re surrounded by a team that lifts them up and encourages them and helps them discover what they’re capable of.”