Dawn's Story

Community Roots

Dawn White is a lifelong conservative Republican who has always believed in the values of faith, family, and community. Growing up in Eagleville as the daughter of Gloria Jean and Dwight Throneberry, she learned early on that strong families and strong communities go hand in hand. She attended Rutherford County Schools before becoming a proud graduate of Middle Tennessee State University, where she earned her Bachelor of Science in Early Childhood Education, her Master of Education in Curriculum and Instruction, and an Education Specialist degree in Administration and Supervision. These experiences shaped her belief that education and opportunity are the foundation of a thriving Tennessee. Dawn has never wavered in her commitment to ensuring those opportunities exist for every family in the 13th District and across our state.

From Classroom to Capitol

Dawn began her professional life as a kindergarten teacher in the Murfreesboro City School System at Black Fox Elementary, where she taught for seven years. In the classroom, she saw firsthand the challenges facing Tennessee teachers and students. She witnessed the importance of parental involvement in shaping a child’s success both in school and in life. Dawn also came to understand the unique struggles that many families face when trying to provide for their children. Her years as a teacher gave her a personal understanding of why Tennessee must continue to raise its educational standards while empowering parents and supporting educators at every level.

Service and Community Engagement

Outside the classroom, Dawn dedicated herself to serving the community she loves. She became actively involved with organizations that tackle some of the greatest needs in Rutherford County, from helping families in crisis to supporting local charities and civic efforts. Dawn has always believed that government cannot solve every problem and that strong communities are built by neighbors stepping up for each other. Her years of community service reflect her belief in personal responsibility, faith-driven action, and service before self. Whether volunteering or legislating, Dawn’s focus has always been on making life better for families in her community.

Entrepreneurship and Small Business Success

In 2005, Dawn answered the call of entrepreneurship and small business becoming an owner of an internet retail business focused on vacuum cleaners and related parts and supplies. She eventually expanded by launching a separate ecommerce site focused on sewing machines and related accessories. Through hard work and smart decision-making, Dawn tripled the size of her business, providing jobs and economic opportunities in Rutherford County, while navigating the real challenges of budgeting, payroll, and customer service. She knows what it means to make tough choices, stretch resources, and keep people employed. Dawn’s years as a small business owner gave her the practical experience needed to cut through bureaucracy, promote economic growth, and ensure Tennessee remains one of the most business-friendly states in America.

Serving the 13th District

Dawn met her husband, Chad, while attending Middle Tennessee State University, and they married in 2001. Together, they lived in Smyrna for a decade before settling in Murfreesboro, where they remain active members of LifePoint Church. In 2012, Dawn was elected to represent the 37th District in the Tennessee House of Representatives, which includes portions of La Vergne, Smyrna, Murfreesboro, Walter Hill, and Leanna. She was re-elected in 2014 and 2016 thanks to her strong record of conservative leadership and her commitment to the people she serves. In 2018, Dawn took her fight for Tennessee families to the State Senate, where she now represents the 13th District—covering much of Rutherford County including Eagleville, Rockvale, Almaville, Blackman, Leanna and portions of Murfreesboro, Smyrna, Walter Hill and Christiana. Dawn currently serves as Chairman of the Senate Education Committee, as a member of the Senate Judiciary Committee and as Secretary of the Senate Republican Caucus.

A Proven Conservative Leader

From teacher to business owner to public servant, Dawn White’s journey has been defined by her belief in hard work, strong families, and conservative values. She has fought for safer communities, higher educational standards, lower taxes, and smaller government. Dawn is proud of her Rutherford County roots and remains committed to ensuring Tennessee remains a place where faith and freedom are respected. Her leadership reflects the values of the 13th District and the people who call it home. Dawn White’s story is one of service, perseverance, and an unshakable dedication to the conservative principles that make Tennessee strong.