Model Behavior 2025: Anne Cain

For more than a decade, Anne Cain has been a driving force behind the Tennessee State Museum’s mission to preserve, interpret and share the stories of Tennesseans, past and present. Through her volunteer work, creative energy and tireless dedication to events and fundraising, Anne has elevated the museum’s visibility and deepened its community impact.

Anne’s journey with the museum began through a personal connection, when her friend Nancy Russell introduced her to the organization’s work. And what started as curiosity soon became a calling. A seventh-generation member of the Joy’s Flowers family, Anne has always had a flair for beauty, storytelling and hospitality — qualities that make her a natural fit for the museum’s most significant fundraising and community events. Over the years, she has created floral arrangements, chaired galas and brought her signature touch to moments that matter.

Among her most cherished contributions was co-chairing the Sparkle and Twang event with her son, Austin Pennington. The duo was the first mother-son team to take on such a role, marking a significant family milestone in support of the museum. Anne and Austin later co-chaired A Tennessee Waltz, the museum’s premier fundraiser. Their partnership not only raised crucial funds for the organization, but also brought new energy and supporters into the museum’s circle.

Anne brings more than talent to her volunteer role — she brings vision. Her passion for community engagement, education and the arts is matched by her attention to detail and collaborative spirit. “I function in chaos and finish with flair,” she says with a smile, sharing a philosophy that has guided her through countless hours of service and large-scale planning.

What makes Anne’s involvement so impactful is her understanding that history is more than artifacts — it’s identity. “Supporting the Tennessee State Museum has given me a front row seat to the preservation of our state’s identity,” she says. “It’s not just about looking back. It’s about giving future generations the tools to understand who we are and where we come from.”

Anne hopes the museum will continue expanding its reach, especially to young people, through programs like Traveling Trunks. As she sees it, the museum isn’t just a cultural institution — it’s a home for all Tennesseans, and she’s honored to help keep the doors open for generations to come. 

Dress: Oscar de la Renta abstract butterfly cotton poplin dress (Gus Mayer)

Shoes: Valentino Garavani black bow wedges (personal collection)

Earrings: Gold diamond knot earrings (personal collection)

Necklace: Elizabeth Locke Montecatini link necklace (Neiman Marcus)

Bracelets: Elizabeth Locke hammered link Fat Bee clasp bracelet (Neiman Marcus), silver and diamond bangles (personal collection)

Ring: Elizabeth Locke gold Queen Bee ring (Neiman Marcus)

Florist: FLWR Shop