2024 Music City SCI Board Members
At the heart of the Music City Chapter of Safari Club International are its dedicated board members. Each individual brings a unique blend of expertise, passion for wildlife conservation, and a commitment to safeguarding hunting traditions. Together, they work tirelessly to advance our mission, ensuring the legacy of ethical hunting, conservation, and advocacy continues for generations to come. Meet the team that drives the vision forward.
Troy Nicolson / president
Born and raised in the Dakotas, Troy Nicolson began hunting with his father in the 1970s and 80s. His love for big game hunting continued while stationed in Alaska, where he hunted Grizzly Bears, Black Bears, Caribou, and Moose. Troy has also taken Mountain Lion in North America and has hunted big game in South Africa. As a dedicated hunter and an SCI member for over a decade, Troy continues to pursue his passion for conservation and the outdoors.
WRyan Bailey / Vice President
Wryan Bailey was born and raised on a Tennessee Walking Horse farm in Nashville, TN, where his love for the outdoors took root early. By the age of four, his father had already taught him gun safety and marksmanship. Not long after, Wryan received a pack of Beagles and a shotgun, sparking a lifelong passion for hunting. Every Saturday during rabbit season, he and his father would head to their family land in West Tennessee, which has been proudly owned by his ancestors for over 100 years. These formative experiences shaped his values as a gentleman, a steward of the land, and a protector of family traditions.
Bill tallent, jr / treasurer
Born and raised in Nashville, TN, Bill grew up with a passion for fishing until high school friends introduced him to hunting. From that moment, he was hooked, spending much of his time pursuing whitetails and turkeys. Recently, Bill has expanded his hunting interests to include other big game. Originally joining SCI to learn more about hunting beyond whitetails, Bill quickly became inspired by the organization’s conservation efforts. His dedication led him to become an active member of the Music City Chapter, where he is committed to helping SCI achieve its mission.
Kathy Nicolson / Secretary
Originally from Humble, Texas, Kathy Nicolson developed a love for hunting and the outdoors early in life. In 1974, she relocated to Alaska, where she lived for over 40 years before retiring from the Anchorage Police Department. As a mother to a blended family of six, Kathy continued to pursue her passion for hunting and fishing, traveling from Alaska to South Africa and beyond in search of new adventures.
Jimmie Johnson
originally from Birmingham, Alabama, Jimmie moved to Nashville to attend Tennessee State University, where he earned a degree in Physical Therapy. His passion for construction began early, inspired by his grandparents’ real estate ventures. After starting with property repairs, Jimmie co-founded Landon Development, which was honored with the Chairman’s Award by the Nashville Business Incubator Center in 2018.
In addition to being a proud member of Music City SCI, Jimmie serves on the boards of The Maddox Foundation, the Nashville Business Alliance PAC, and the Middle TN Home Builders Association.
Mark Moore / Chapter Liaison
Mark Moore is a dedicated public servant, business owner, and advocate for wildlife conservation. As the President of Music City SCI From 2021-2025, he led the chapter to achieve notable accomplishments, including the prestigious SCI Chapter of the Year award in 2024. Mark’s commitment to conservation is further reflected in his role as Chairman of the Tennessee Wildlife Resources Foundation, where he champions responsible land stewardship.
Michael woods
Introduced to hunting at 12, Michael Woods began dove hunting with his baseball coach, which soon expanded into duck, deer, and turkey hunting. With over 25 years of experience in the construction industry, Michael now runs his family’s business. His passion for hunting has taken him to Tennessee, Arkansas, Alaska, and even Argentina and Mexico.
Rodney Bass
Raised in Middle Tennessee from a young age, Rodney Bass was born in Germany while his father served in the Air Force. His passion for the outdoors was sparked early through rabbit hunting trips with his grandfather, leading to a lifelong love for outdoor adventures. Rodney has shared this passion with his son and daughter, creating cherished family memories in the great outdoors. Upon learning about SCI's dedication to preserving hunting and outdoor traditions worldwide, Rodney felt compelled to get involved and support the cause.
randy howington
Kim Alley
Bill Swan
Bill Swan brings a wealth of experience and a lifelong commitment to wildlife conservation. A graduate of the University of Tennessee with a Bachelor’s in Business Administration and a Master’s from the University of Delaware, Bill has dedicated decades to advancing conservation efforts and supporting hunters' rights.
A member of Safari Club International (SCI) since 1979, Bill has served in numerous leadership roles, including President of the Chattanooga Chapter (now Tennessee Valley SCI) and Founding Member of the Music City Chapter. His contributions have earned him multiple accolades, including the SCI President’s Award (2013) and the Tennessee Wildlife Federation Conservation Award (2009).
Bill’s involvement with SCI extends nationally and globally, serving as a Director at Large and member of various committees, including Audit, SCI PAC Trustee, and SCIF Humanitarian Services. He is also a Lion & Shield Society Member and Master Measurer. Beyond SCI, Bill is active with Ducks Unlimited, having been named Tennessee Area Chairman of the Year in 1993, and is a Life Member of both DU and the NRA.
With a passion for education and conservation, Bill continues to lead and inspire through his tireless work and dedication to preserving the outdoors for future generations.