As Vice President of Industry Relations & Philanthropy at the Country Music Association and Executive Director of the CMA Foundation Tiffany Kerns oversees the strategic direction and management of all CMA’s membership events, initiatives and programming. By developing and enhancing new, robust and innovative membership strategies, Kerns ensures that professional development pathways exist that align with the needs of both the member base and the future of the industry. Offering world class programming focused on mental health and wellness, diversity, equity and inclusion, research, leadership and financial security, Kerns amplifies the voices of each facet of the music business and equips all members to operate confidently and successfully within the industry. She is also responsible for the growth, development and execution of the nonprofit’s charitable investments by creating intentional partnerships and implementing an impact-driven grant process. With a steadfast focus on improving the philanthropic model of giving, Kerns has led the charge in enriching music education programs across the United States, working to ensure every child has access to a high-quality music education and every music educator is provided the resources they need to create a thriving program.
Prior to joining CMA in 2013, Kerns worked for the Cystic Fibrosis Foundation. She was named a Billboard Country Power Player in 2021 and 2022 and received the CMA Chairman’s Award in 2021. She was a 2018 Women in Music City Award recipient and led the CMA Foundation to receiving the 2017 National Stand for Music Award supporting music education advocacy. Kerns is a member of the Berklee College of Music’s City Music Advisory Board and serves on the Center for Nonprofit Management (CNM) board of directors. Additionally, Kerns is a member of the Arts Ed SEL Advisory Board as well as the National Independent Venue Association (NIVA) Advisory Board, where she continues to use her voice to place emphasis on growing and fostering DEI efforts throughout the music industry. Originally from Bradenton, FL, Kerns graduated from University of Tennessee Knoxville with a degree in political science and a minor in business administration.