Team
Team
Staff
The Water Walkers team is a dedicated group of individuals who believe in the transformative power of watersports, outdoor adventure, and education. Our staff, volunteers, and board of directors bring a diverse range of skills and experiences to the organization and are committed to making a positive impact in the lives of underserved youth in Nashville. On this page, you’ll meet our team and learn more about the individuals who are working hard to make a difference in our community.
Accepting the role of CEO in January, 2024, Archie is well-equipped to lead Water Walkers. He served as Program Director for two years, coordinating all programming and volunteers. As a nonprofit and education executive, he has excelled at creating programs and curriculums for communities, schools, and organizations to help make the community and world a better place one person at a time.
Archie has managed millions of dollars in assets, resources and services with companies such as National Renal Alliance (now RAI), Pencil Foundation, United Way’s Family Resource Center and Metro Nashville Public Schools. He has organized community outreach events in Nashville for over 20 years. Encourager, motivator, and organizer characterize Archie.
He graduated from MTSU earning a Bachelors of Science degree in Community & Public Health in just two years. He also holds a Tennessee Wildlife & Nature Certification, Tennessee Boating License, First Aid & CPR Certification, and a MNPS Teaching Certificate.
I grew up in a small town in the middle of nowhere Texas, spending almost all of my time as a child outside and on adventures. My favorite was going with friends to the lake on their boats. I remember being on the open water and feeling like it was an ocean of endless waves. There was a sense of freedom every time we set sail, where my imagination could run wild with all of the possibilities in such a big world… It’s hard to think about the trajectory of my life without those experiences, and I wouldn’t trade them for anything.
As our Program Assistant, he primarily helps with after-school programs, including driving the van to transport kids to those programs and outdoor adventure activities. He loves interacting with and encouraging the kids.
Originally from Oklahoma City, Tory has lived in Nashville, TN for 30 years where he has served in church and nonprofit leadership roles.
Tory is now building on his personal and professional experiences by writing persuasive copy and informative content that strengthen online marketing strategies for faith-based businesses and nonprofits who provide products and services that change lives and impact our world.
Tory and his wife Kim have four adult children, two of whom have special needs. He periodically teaches a Sunday morning Bible Class, is a member of a local Rotary Club, enjoys college football, and loves spending time with family, especially his three grandchildren!