Two Legacies. One Community.
Founded in 1842, Cumberland University is the intellectual and economic heartbeat of our region. For over a century, the Bone family and Wilson County Motors have been inextricably linked to its mission — from the President’s office to the Board of Trust.
An Engine for Regional Growth
When its campus was burned to ashes during the Civil War, the institution didn’t fold — it rebuilt. Surviving the Great Depression and expanding through the 20th century, Cumberland has produced leaders of global consequence, including more than eighty members of Congress, governors, and Cordell Hull, the “Father of the United Nations.” Today it stands as one of the fastest-growing liberal arts universities in Tennessee.
Why we invest: a thriving community requires world-class institutions. Cumberland University drives real economic vitality into Lebanon and the surrounding counties. Our multi-generational commitment ensures that students, faculty, and alumni have the resources to push the region forward.
We don’t just operate a business in the shadow of the university — we are an active part of its ongoing history.
Four Generations
A century of shared leadership, academic dedication, and unwavering support.
The Academic Foundation
Dedicated his life to the institution, serving as both a Professor and ultimately President of Cumberland University. Authored the definitive historical text, A History of Cumberland University 1842–1935.
The Commerce Bridge
Founder of Wilson County Motors in 1927. Served for decades as a deeply influential Board Member, bridging the gap between local commerce and academia.
The Institutional Steward
A continuous force for growth — Board Member for decades and Past Board Chair, guiding the university’s strategic vision through expansion.
The Digital Pioneer
Brought early technological infrastructure to the campus as Director of IT prior to his move to Montgomery, Alabama in the 1990s.
The Operational Link
Earned his B.A. in History and MBA from Cumberland. Served as the university’s Chief Information Officer for nine years, and received the Distinguished Alumni Award. Met his wife Melinda while both were working on campus.
Nearly 100 years of
Bone family service
to Cumberland.
Frequently Asked Questions
Four generations of the Bone family have served Cumberland University. Winstead Paine Bone Sr. was a Professor and President of the university. Winstead Paine Bone Jr. founded Wilson County Motors and served on the Board. W.P. Bone III served as Board Member and Past Board Chair. W. Paine Bone IV was Director of IT. Mitchel Bone earned his B.A. and MBA there, served as Chief Information Officer, and received the Distinguished Alumni Award.
Cumberland University was founded in 1842 in Lebanon, Tennessee. It has produced more than eighty members of Congress, governors, and Cordell Hull — known as the Father of the United Nations.
Yes. Mitchel Bone earned a Bachelor of Arts in History and an MBA from Cumberland University, and served as the university’s Chief Information Officer for nine years before joining the dealership in 2006.
