David H. Lillard, Jr.
2025 Hall of Fame Inductee
David H. Lillard, Jr., is a distinguished leader whose career spans both the public and private sectors, with expertise in finance, the municipal market, economic development, budgeting, treasury operations, and financial reporting governance.
As Tennessee’s state treasurer since 2009, he has worked tirelessly to strengthen the state’s financial standing and improve the lives of Tennesseans. His visionary leadership led to the restructuring of Tennessee’s state pension into a hybrid system—widely recognized for its innovation and long-term stability. Under his guidance, the state also launched several transformative initiatives, including the TNStars College Savings Program, the Tennessee Financial Literacy Commission, and ABLE TN, a pioneering savings program for individuals with disabilities. Working with Governor Bill Haslam in 2013, Treasurer Lillard and Treasury Staff helped create the Tennessee Promise Scholarship Endowment Fund that funds free last dollar scholarships to community colleges and Tennessee colleges of applied technology for all qualifying graduating high school seniors – a first-in-the-nation program.
Treasurer Lillard’s leadership extends beyond Tennessee. He has served as president of both NASACT and NAST. In 2012, NASACT honored him with the President’s Award for his dedication to improving municipal market transparency, enhancing government efficiency, and advancing the Association’s mission.
His commitment to sound financial governance is further reflected in his service on the Governmental Accounting Standards Advisory Council and his service in 2019 through 2023 as a trustee of the Financial Accounting Foundation, which oversees FASB and GASB, critical standard-setting bodies for publicly-traded privately held companies as well as governmental entities.
Before entering public service, Treasurer Lillard earned a Master of Laws in Taxation degree and practiced business law for over 25 years, specializing in municipal finance, securities, health regulatory, and tax law. His excellence was recognized through repeated listings in The Best Lawyers in America and the highest peer rating from Martindale-Hubbell for legal ability and ethical standards.
His dedication to public service is equally notable at the local level. He served as Shelby County Commissioner, including roles as chairman of the commission and president of the Tennessee County Commissioners Association, and was a Shelby County Election Commissioner for nearly a decade.
David Lillard exemplifies the highest standards of integrity, professionalism, and commitment to public service. His legacy is one of innovation, stewardship, and tireless dedication to advancing government efficiency—not only for Tennessee but for the nation.