Waverly Ann Harris, M.S. ABA
Chief Executive Officer
Since 2009, Waverly Ann has been a dedicated force of energy, passion and heart at Friends Life Community. She first stepped in to teach exercise and nutrition using a statewide curriculum she co-created and directed. By 2011, she officially became FLC’s Program Director, just in time for the organization to earn its license as an adult day program, serving twelve Friends. Fast forward to today, and under her leadership, FLC has blossomed—growing to serve more than 100 participants while increasing its earned revenue by three hundred percent. What sets Waverly Ann apart is her unwavering commitment to community and her ability to think not just one, but 20 steps ahead. She’s always strategically putting the Friends and their families first—ensuring they have opportunities to build confidence, find joy and express themselves in ways that matter, whether through the arts program, the Treat Truck or other innovative initiatives. Waverly Ann is a leader who is constantly envisioning the future, making thoughtful decisions that pave the way for lasting impact. Waverly Ann brings a powerhouse background to the table, holding a bachelor’s degree in Sociology from Western Kentucky University and master’s degree in education for applied behavior analysis and master’s certificate in conflict management from Lipscomb University. Before FLC, she worked in nonprofit management across multiple states—and even internationally. She’s a pro at systems-thinking and collaborative problem-solving, always bringing people together to strengthen services and spark meaningful change. Waverly Ann has also been recognized as a Women of Influence by the Nashville Business Journal, an ATHENA nominee by Nashville Cable and member of the Rotary Club of Nashville. When she’s not leading the charge at FLC, Waverly Ann enjoys consulting, working with organizations and sharing her insights as a public speaker. She also cherishes time with her family as a loving wife and mother.
Sarah Edwards, M.A. RDT
Director of Advocacy Through the Arts
As a Registered Drama Therapist and the Performing Arts Specialist at FLC, Sarah oversees our Performing Arts Program. She leads Advocacy Through the Arts classes including Dance Ensemble and Tandem Troupe, and forges connections in the community to create opportunities for the Friends to connect with others through performance. Sarah first came to Friends Life Community in 2012 through a work-study position at Belmont University. After co-creating an original performance piece with the Friends that incorporated theatre, visual arts, and music, the piece was performed at Belmont University and served as her senior theatre capstone project. After receiving her BFA in Theatre Education, Sarah spent two years working with the Friends to increase their social skills and self-confidence by incorporating all aspects of theatre and dance into FLC’s day program. After a brief time away pursuing a master’s degree in Drama Therapy from Kansas State University, Sarah returned to FLC as a Registered Drama Therapist with the North American Drama Therapy Association. Sarah believes in the ability of each Friend and strives to release the magic found within them by providing opportunities that allow them to maximize their power, purpose, and self-expression. Sarah collaborates with the Friends to create original, dignified, and sophisticated performances showcasing their colorful, authentic, and unapologetically unique selves. She invites you to come and experience the magic for yourself!
