Model Behavior 2025: Vicki Horne

In Nashville's world of philanthropy, few names are as synonymous with passionate arts advocacy as Vicki Horne. A devoted community volunteer since 1990, Vicki was nominated for this year’s Model Behavior honor by not one, not two, but three of Nashville’s premier cultural institutions: the Nashville Symphony, Nashville Repertory Theatre, and Nashville Ballet.

With a background steeped in the arts — her father, a Minister of Music, instilled in her the value of creativity, culture and community — Vicki has spent more than three decades championing the performing arts in Middle Tennessee. “The arts help me think beyond myself and my world,” she says. “They inspire me daily with their creativity and excellence.”

Vicki’s resume of service is remarkable. For the Nashville Symphony, she has served on the board, executive board, and as chair of both the Annual Fund and the renowned Symphony Ball and Symphony Fashion Show. For the Nashville Repertory Theatre, she’s not only a past president and executive board member, but the visionary behind the Broadway Brunch fundraiser — and the theater’s renaming from Tennessee Rep to Nashville Rep. She is also an Ovation Award recipient and has chaired events like Rep on the River. At the Nashville Ballet, she is a board member and has served as both chair and honorary chair of the Ballet Ball.

Vicki’s advocacy is deeply personal. “The arts bring joy to a community,” she says. “They are inclusive and connect us. The world needs that now more than ever.” Whether raising funds, rallying support or attending performances, Vicki embodies her role as a patron of the arts. “I try as hard as I can to support them with my time, talents and resources,” she says. “These organizations enrich my life, and I hope I remain worthy of their greatness.”

When she’s not working behind the scenes, Vicki’s favorite pastime is simply being in the audience at the symphony, the Rep or the ballet. Add to that a passion for wine, travel and time spent with family and friends, and you’ll find someone who lives life fully, with deep gratitude and purpose. She is known for her oft-used social media caption, “always something going on " — and for Vicki, that statement couldn’t be any more true.

Her hope for the future? “That these organizations not only survive but thrive,” she says. “The arts aren’t a luxury — they’re a necessity.”

Dress: Oscar de la Renta laser-cut appliquéd taffeta dress (Gus Mayer)

Shoes: Jimmy Choo Bing embellished mesh heels (personal collection)

Earrings: Sky blue topaz and diamond earrings (Patricia Marie Fine Jewelry)

Necklace: Egg clasp pearl strand (Margaret Ellis Jewelry)

Bracelet: Diamond tennis bracelet (personal collection)

Florist: Lauren Marie Atkinson Designs