This feature is in our weekly Monday Morning Report newsletter, which showcases our highest-level members. Leaders You Should Know highlights community leaders who are making a notable impact in the Nashville region.
Click here to join our e-newsletter subscriber list.
Meet Ana Schwager, Senior Corporate Responsibility Regional Manager at Southwest Airlines
Tell us about yourself.
I’m a proud Nashville resident and have the privilege of leading Southwest Airlines’ charitable efforts throughout the Southeast, including Nashville, Knoxville, Atlanta, Orlando, and Tampa. I also oversee our award winning Repurpose with Purpose program, which works with community partners to turn retired aircraft seat leather into new, useful products. Since launching in 2014, the program has donated more than 1.4 million pounds of leather—helping create jobs, provide skills training, and generate meaningful social impact in communities across the U.S. and Central America. At the heart of my work is connecting people, purpose, and community in ways that truly make a difference.
Tell us about your business/industry.
Southwest Airlines Co. is one of the world’s most admired and awarded airlines, delivering a distinctive value proposition built on operational excellence and a strong culture of hospitality. Founded in 1971 with a mission to democratize air travel, Southwest pioneered reliable, low cost service and today operates across 117 airports in 11 countries. The airline carries more domestic nonstop passengers within the United States than any other carrier and, in 2024 alone, served more than 140 million customers. Powered by a workforce of more than 72,000 employees, Southwest’s people first culture drives performance, customer loyalty, and long term growth. Guided by a purpose driven legacy, the company remains deeply committed to supporting the communities it serves, recognizing that strong communities and strong businesses go hand in hand.
What should we know about you?
I love to explore the world and experience different cultures firsthand! To date, I’ve had the privilege of visiting 30 countries, with many more still on my travel list. Each journey has enriched my understanding and appreciation of the global tapestry of traditions, landscapes, and people.
How did you get to your current position?
Over my 31-year tenure at Southwest Airlines, I’ve had the privilege of serving in various roles across reservations, marketing, and corporate responsibility. My current position emerged as Southwest sought to expand its community outreach efforts, allowing me to focus on initiatives that strengthen our connections with the communities we serve. It’s a dream job!
What value do you see in Chamber involvement?
Being a member of the Nashville Area Chamber of Commerce has been invaluable to me. The Chamber offers a wealth of opportunities for professional development, networking, and community engagement. Through its diverse programs and events, I’ve gained insights into regional economic trends, connected with fellow business leaders, and contributed to initiatives that enhance the livability and prosperity of Middle Tennessee. The Chamber’s commitment to fostering collaboration and growth has significantly enriched my experience as a business leader in Nashville.
What has been a career highlight for you?
One of my career highlights at Southwest was serving on the planning team for the unveiling of Tennessee One—a Boeing 737 700 featuring an artist’s rendition of the Tennessee state flag. The aircraft was introduced to commemorate 30 years of Southwest’s service in Tennessee and to honor the employees and customers who made that journey possible. That moment, ten years ago, holds special meaning today as we celebrate 40 years of serving Nashville in 2026. What began in 1986 with just eight nonstop flights to two destinations has grown to 203 daily departures to 80 destinations, with Southwest proudly serving Nashville as its largest carrier.
What makes Nashville a great place to do business?
Nashville’s greatest business advantage is its collaborative spirit. That sense of partnership not only accelerates economic success but also builds a vibrant community where innovation, relationships, and people flourish together.
What advice would you give a student about entering the workforce?
Build genuine connections within and beyond your organization and remember to embrace humility and humor along the way.
What is the best advice you have received?
During my initial training as a reservations sales agent at Southwest Airlines, my trainer imparted a principle that has guided me throughout my 30-year career: “You’ll never get in trouble for erring on the side of the customer.” This philosophy aligns with Southwest’s commitment to delivering the highest quality of customer service with warmth, friendliness, individual pride, and company spirit. It has been my guiding principle, ensuring that customer satisfaction remains at the forefront of my professional journey.