Meet the 2026 Chairs for A Little Night of Music!
A Little Night of Music, PENCIL’s signature fundraiser, returns to the Grand Ole Opry on Monday, May 4! We are thrilled to introduce our remarkable chairs who have been planning this exciting evening for months. They took a minute to share their thoughts on the event, high school, and PENCIL.
Shohreh Daraei is National Workforce Development Manager at Ascension Saint Thomas and a member of our Governing Board. Her connection to PENCIL is both personal and professional. She attended MNPS schools and now works closely with students, educators, and community partners to build career pathways that lead to successful futures.
Why are you excited to chair this event?
As someone who came through MNPS, this opportunity feels full circle. And honestly, how often can you say you get to stand on the Opry stage with your friends and family while also supporting schools?
When you think on going back to school, what do you think of?
I graduated from Hillsboro High School, and I am a proud Burro. As a Kurdish immigrant who went through MNPS, I think about the support, the programs, and the people who helped me along the way. It was a place that helped me build confidence, community, and opportunity.
What’s one thing you wish everyone knew about PENCIL?
I wish more people knew that PENCIL does so much more than provide school supplies. PENCIL is a connector. It helps bring together schools, employers, nonprofits, and individuals who want to invest in students in real and lasting ways.
Edwin Feagins, Jr. owns Liv Medical LLC. Volunteering for initiatives that connect community resources to students and teachers, he has seen firsthand the impact that engaged partnerships can have on strengthening classrooms and improving student outcomes.
Why are you excited to chair this event?
Growing up in Nashville, music has always been a part of my life and the way I experience this city. Being able to lead an event with these meaningful qualities that directly supports our students and teachers is incredibly special.
Who was your favorite teacher in school?
My favorite teacher was Dr. John Barrow, who made American History feel real. His emphasis on Tennessee history helped me see my home state in a different light. It wasn’t just about learning dates and events, it was about understanding where you come from and why it matters.
Why should people support PENCIL?
PENCIL gives you a real, direct way to make a difference in our schools. It brings the community into the classroom in a way that connects intention to action. When you support PENCIL, you are investing in kids, educators, and the future of Nashville in a very tangible way.
Rachel Hockenberger is CEO of Parman Holdings Corporation. Her headquarters is a neighbor to PENCIL’s offices, and we serve the same community. To her, it makes complete sense for Parman to partner with PENCIL and help create opportunities together.
What do you like most about ALNM?
A Little Night of Music brings out the biggest supporters for PENCIL and puts the best in talent on display.
What was your favorite subject or teacher in school?
Looking back, my 4th grade teacher was my favorite because she became a part of my entire life. She served as a second mom, and I am fortunate to say that our relationship continued for years.
Why should people support PENCIL?
Supporting PENCIL is an investment in the future of Nashville. PENCIL connects businesses, like Parman, and other resources to the classrooms and children which need them most.
