IN THIS ISSUE · SPRING 2026 — Read the cover story
Luke Eldridge lives to serve the people of Cookeville.
Whether coaching youth soccer at the YMCA of Middle Tennessee, supporting families through the Salvation Army in Cookeville, or leading as a Cookeville City Council member and Vice Mayor, Luke’s life is defined by servant leadership and civic responsibility in the Upper Cumberland.
“When I think of being a servant, it’s about laying your life down and placing your desires or wants on the back burner for the betterment and success of those around you,” Luke shared. “I want to use every avenue provided to me to create an environment designed for success, just like I was given.”
Raised in Cookeville, Luke credits his parents for shaping his leadership philosophy. His mother modeled compassion and service, while his father instilled a disciplined work ethic. Those early lessons now guide his approach to public service and community leadership.
Beyond his elected positions, Luke serves on multiple boards, coaches youth athletics, volunteers locally, works in workforce development with Career Team, and leads youth alongside his wife Melissa at Engrafted Word Church. Balancing these commitments requires discipline and sacrifice.
“Busyness and impact exist together,” Luke explained. “I spread myself thin and thankfully my wife helps me retain balance. I’ve learned to tighten my focus and involve myself in the groups that have the most effect. I only have one life, and getting into places of high level servant leadership allows me to generate larger positive changes.”
To many residents, however, Luke’s most important roles are his elected ones: Cookeville City Council member and Vice Mayor.
In these positions, he directly impacts infrastructure decisions, city spending, public services, and long term planning for the future of Cookeville. His approach remains rooted in collaboration and service.
“What’s really great about our council is that we all truly care about the individuals of Cookeville,” Luke said. “We may not agree on everything, but at the end of the day we come together to do what’s best for our community.”
He continued, “We know our decisions today will direct the future. Everything we do — how we manage roads, where we spend money — is done with the people of Cookeville in mind. We’re not all made from the same mold; each council member is unique. While different, we genuinely like and respect each other. This allows us to be honest, authentic, and passionate, which is good for the community. We can work together in a practical, egoless way and exist as a unit with a single focus: the people of Cookeville.”
He concluded, “We work together to make sure what we do now creates the best possible outcomes for this beautiful city, whether we serve in our respective positions again or not. We want the citizens of Cookeville to thrive because of the decisions we make.”
By placing himself second, Luke Eldridge continues to put Cookeville first — for today and for the generations to come.
— By Andrew Buckner
Photo by Cris Stroud
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