Model Behavior 2025: Roxianne Bethune

For over a century, YWCA Nashville & Middle Tennessee has bolstered the local community by advocating for and supporting those in need. But this vital work wouldn’t be possible without dedicated team members —  like Roxianne Bethune, who first brought her compassionate, inspiring perspective to the organization in 2019. 

“Roxianne Bethune embodies everything the YWCA stands for — leadership, equity and empowerment,” says Sharon Roberson, president and CEO of YWCA Nashville & Middle Tennessee. “Her unwavering dedication to uplifting others truly sets her apart.” 

Founded in 1898, YWCA is one of the oldest and largest nonprofits dedicated to promoting gender and racial equality in the region. Its early efforts reached Nashville’s segregated communities, and the organization played an active role in the city’s integration in 1964. The YWCA’s Weaver Domestic Violence Center has also provided emergency shelter and trauma-informed services for women and children since 2000. 

These wide-spanning efforts to improve living conditions across Middle Tennessee initially piqued Roxianne’s interest in the organization, where she now serves on the board of directors. “I was drawn to the YWCA because of its clear and long-standing commitment to racial justice and women’s empowerment,” says Roxianne. “The organization does not just talk about equity — it takes action, offering real support, education and advocacy for communities that need it most.”

Roxianne, the founder and owner of Alliance Synergy Group, combines the leadership and team-building skills she’s gained professionally with her strong Southern roots and warm personality to raise awareness about the causes she’s devoted to. She previously co-chaired the beloved Wine Women & Shoes fundraiser and will resume the role this year. “While I love a good event or fundraiser, it is the transformative outcomes — the lives changed, the voices uplifted, the spaces made safer and more inclusive — that keep me connected and inspired,” she says.

While passionate about her volunteer efforts, Roxianne hopes that, one day, organizations like YWCA won’t need to exist. “I want to see even more women, children and families breaking cycles of violence and poverty, finding healing and thriving because of YWCA’s programs,” she says.

But until that moment comes, she’s prepared to work diligently and continue inspiring compassion and change — throughout Nashville and beyond. “To me, Model Behavior is about showing up with integrity, empowering others, and using your voice and position to lift as you climb,” she says.

Top: WINGATE white tank (Gus Mayer)

Coat: WINGATE Cleo fuchsia jacket (Gus Mayer)

Pants: WINGATE Pamela palazzo pants (Gus Mayer)

Shoes: Hot Chick slingback pumps (Christian Louboutin)

Earrings: Lillian earrings (Patricia Marie Fine Jewelry)

Necklace: Silver disc collar necklace (Margaret Ellis Jewelry)

Rings: Jenna Blake palm leaf ring, Lucy Delius pavé signet ring (Department)

Florist: Imogen Floral Design