The Alexis de Tocqueville Society was founded in 1981 by Dr. Thomas F. Frist, Jr. as a means to spur leadership in local philanthropic giving. The society’s name reflects the idealism outlined by the Frenchman in his monumental work, Democracy in America.
As soon as individuals with a cause have found one another out, they combine. From that moment, they are no longer isolated people, but a power seen from afar, whose actions serve for an example, and whose language is listened to.” — Alexis de Tocqueville
The Tocqueville Society has grown from one man’s idea to a renowned national network for philanthropic giving, and it started right here in Nashville. With the help of people like you, the Tocqueville Society celebrated 25 years of success in 2005.
25 Years of Tocqueville Society
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2008 Tocqueville Society Chair: William S. Cochran
Tocqueville Society Awards
The first local Tocqueville Society award was presented in 1985 to Dr. Thomas F. Frist, Jr. The award honored Dr. Frist's extensive involvement with United Way as a former campaign chair and board chair, as well as his many outstanding contributions to the health and welfare of Middle Tennesseans.
The United Way of Metropolitan Nashville's Tocqueville Society Award recognizes exceptional contributions as well and is given annual for distinguished and long-standing volunteer service.

Most recently the award was presented to Anne Russell (2007) by previous recipient Ken Melkus.
Previous Tocqueville Society Award Winners
Benefits of Tocqueville Society
When you join the Tocqueville Society, you will find yourself among a select and diverse group of community leaders who share a common vision and values. Members chose to invest in the United Way because they value the organizations’ high standards, community-wide mission and commitment to making the best use of valuable resources. In addition, the Society affords its members an opportunity to enjoy the business and social opportunities offered through membership, including:
• Exclusive Networking and Social Events
• Invitations to all United Way events and activities
• National and Local Recognition/Communication
• Inclusion in the local and national registry of Tocqueville Society members
• Quarterly updates via the Tocqueville Society newsletter, Fleur de Lis.
• Tax advantages
• Invitation to attend the annual Tocqueville Leaders Weekend
Next Generation Tocqueville
Are you under 45? Have you considered joining the Tocqueville Society but thought you needed to put it off a few years? There’s no need wait. With a gift of $5,000 and a commitment to increase your contribution to established minimum levels over a period of two to three years, you can begin enjoying the benefits of Tocqueville Society membership today. Click here to fine out more about the Next Generation Tocqueville Program.
Traditional Tocqueville Match Program
2008 brings a unique opportunity to become involved in United Way of Metropolitan Nashville’s Tocqueville Society. Through the generosity of several current members, match money is available in a two year step-up program. During the next year, members are encouraged to tour a United Way-funded program to see how their gifts are changing lives in our community. Click here to find out more about the Traditional Toqueville Match Program.
Check out Society news in our quarterly newsletter, the Fleur de Lis.
To view event photos, click here.
To view the calendar of upcomingevents, click here.
For more information email or call Diane Zandstra.
diane.zandstra@unitedwaynashville.org
615-780-2403