Careers often hit a sweet spot a decade or two down a certain path. You’re settled in, comfortable, feel as though you’ve mastered your craft… But you’ve got more, maybe even much more, to contribute.
Arkansas Money & Politics once again is recognizing those business leaders in Arkansas who’ve hit that sweet spot, who fill that gap between young bucks and a gold watch. Our list of Achievers in Their Forties shines a light on those professionals at a midpoint in their careers — who have achieved a certain amount of success — and are positioned for more.
Susan Altrui
Director,
Little Rock Zoo
Susan Altrui is director of the Little Rock Zoo, an organization committed to inspiring people to value and conserve the natural world. As director, Altrui guides the care of more than 400 animals, ensures the zoo maintains its accreditation with the Association of Zoos and Aquariums and directs the overall strategic vision of the organization. Under her leadership, the Little Rock Zoo has more than doubled its annual revenue earnings and tripled its fundraising efforts with the Arkansas Zoological Foundation, a nonprofit that raises funds for the growth and development of the zoo. She volunteers on the board of Keep Little Rock Beautiful and former board chair of the Hot Springs Documentary Film Festival. She also serves on the boards of the Little Rock Police Foundation and Wildwood Park for the Arts and is a member of the Little Rock Rotary Club and the Little Rock Civitan Club.
Scott Anderson
Chief External Affairs Officer,
Forge Institute
At the Forge Institute, Scott Anderson is entrusted with the responsibility of leading various outreach, innovation, training and cyber-operations programs. He strives to build a culture of collaboration and growth, where every team member and partner can thrive and reach their full potential.
Prior to joining the Forge Institute, Anderson served in a variety of cyberspace-related positions in the United States Air Force and the Arkansas National Guard, including intelligence officer, information system security officer and cyber-conversion officer. During his service, he executed hundreds of intelligence, surveillance and reconnaissance missions supporting Operation Iraqi Freedom and Operation Enduring Freedom and earned multiple decorations including three Meritorious Service Medals. Anderson retired from the military as commander of a Cyberspace Operations Squadron of the Arkansas Air National Guard.
Morgan Blair
Sales Manager,
LKQ Corporation
LKQ is the largest provider of alternative vehicle collision replacement products and a leading provider of alternative vehicle mechanical replacement products, with our sales, processing, and distribution facilities reaching most major markets in North America.
About me: Raised in Benton AR, Lived in LR for the last 16 years. Wife, Jessica Blair and one son; 6yr old Barron. I manage inside sales for five LKQ locations here in Arkansas and Louisiana.
Proud to have charitable partnerships with Womens own Worth (WOW), Ronald McDonald House Charities of Arkansas, and the Bryant Boys and Girls Club.
Natalie Blaney
Owner,
The Fix Salon
Natalie Blaney is the owner and creative force behind The Fix Salon. With the support of her husband, Patrick, The Fix Salon opened in 2018. Most recently it was named AY Magazine’s Best Salon in Arkansas. Blaney started her beauty career by obtaining her cosmetology license. After several years behind the chair, she was led to attend the Fashion Institute of Design & Merchandising (FIDM) in Los Angeles. While attending FIDM, she began working at The Chris McMillan Salon in Beverly Hills. Upon her graduation from FIDM in 2008, she transitioned to a full-time role at The Chris McMillan Salon, serving as an apprentice to celebrity stylist, Jorge Serrano.
DeeDee Boswer-Helbig
Owner
Ava Bella Day Spa
DeeDee is the owner of Ava Bella Day Spa. She has been a licensed esthetician since 2000, and she opened the doors of Ava Bella Day Spa in August 2004. When she opened the spa, she had one goal in mind — to show people that relaxation is a necessity, not a luxury. With that goal in mind, she created a space and atmosphere where anyone from any walk of life could feel comfortable. She has a strong passion for people, natural skin care and giving back to the community.
Chad Bowie
District Manager
Acme Brick Tile & Stone
Chad Bowie is the district manager of Acme Brick Tile & Stone, which offers a wide selection of natural and manufactured stone, custom iron doors, outdoor living products and one of Arkansas’ largest selections of designer tile. The company strives to make products that outlast a mortgage, a roof or even a lifetime by providing Acme quality and a 100-year guarantee. To Bowie, the best part of the job is watching the staff’s skills and knowledge come together to create great customer experiences.
Ben Brainard
Co-owner
Big Bad Breakfast, Waldo’s Chicken and Beer
Ben Brainard is co-owner of Big Bad Breakfast, which opened in west Little Rock in 2022 and will open a location on Main Street in downtown Little Rock this fall. He and co-owner John Currence serve up hearty breakfasts with New Orleans flair at the establishment. Currence founded Big Bad Breakfast in Oxford, Miss., in 2008, and the restaurant now has locations throughout the South. Brainard is also co-owner of Waldo’s Chicken and Beer in Little Rock. He has partnered with Matthew John Foster, owner of Flyway Brewing in North Little Rock, and Phillip Schaaf to expand Flyway Brewing into Northwest Arkansas this fall. Before becoming a partner at Big Bad Breakfast, Brainard was a partner for Yellow Rocket Food & Beverage Concepts, a sustainable food company that has created Little Rock restaurants such as Big Orange and Local Lime. He has worked in the restaurant industry for roughly 25 years.
Brooke Brolo
Agency Owner
Brolo Insurance Group/Allstate
Brooke Brolo of Brolo Insurance Group, an Allstate agency in Maumelle, has more than 15 years of experience in the insurance industry. Her team provides a variety of insurance options, including auto, home, condo, renters, motorcycle, ATV, boat, business, life and more. Brolo earned her bachelor’s degree from the University of Arkansas at Little Rock. Her career successes have placed her in the top 10 percent of Allstate agencies countrywide. She has more than 20 awards to date, including Inner Circle Elite, Circle of Champions, National Summit and Honor Ring. Brolo is also a business coach with Craig Wiggins Coaching and Consulting, where she mentors insurance agents across the country. Brolo is a member of the North Little Rock Chamber of Commerce and Arkansas Business Network-Maumelle.
Amy Clemmons Brown
Attorney/Owner
McMullan & Brown
Amy Clemmons Brown is an attorney and owner of McMullan & Brown, an all-female law firm in business since 1988. Her areas of practice include general commercial litigation and appeals, particularly those involving real estate. Brown represents clients from across the nation, including title insurance underwriters, title companies, mortgage servicers, property owners, real estate brokers and agents. She also practices in estate planning and probate.
Brown is licensed and practices in both state and federal courts, and she has been a member of the Arkansas Bar Association since 2007. Brown has earned the highest Martindale Hubbell Peer Review rating of AV and received numerous recognitions, such being recognized as a “Mid-South Rising Star” in Real Estate by Super Lawyers in 2021 and 2022.
David Choate
Chief Administrative Officer
Aon Transportation & Logisitcs
David Choate is CAO for Aon’s global Transportation & Logistics practice, headquartered in Little Rock. With offices in 120 countries, Aon is a trusted risk advisor and financial services provider for clients worldwide. His role encompasses business strategy and execution, operations, finance, team management, client service and retention, as well as new business. He serves on Aon’s regional DEI council and leads the Transportation & Logistics business internship program. He is a faculty member for Aon’s national colleague training programs and mentors new team members. He holds the CPCU, CRM, CIC, AIC, and AIS professional designations. Prior to joining Aon in 2013, Chaote was an attorney at Friday, Eldredge & Clark.
Latrecia Carroll
Senior Vice President & Operations Manager
Stone Bank
Latrecia Carroll is a graduate of Little Rock Central High School and the University of Arkansas at Little Rock. She has been employed in the banking industry in Central Arkansas since receiving her BA in Finance. Carroll currently serves as senior vice president and operations manager at Stone Bank, where she supervises employees throughout the company’s six locations and nationwide government-guaranteed lending operation. She serves as VP and president-elect of the Arkansas Bankers Association’s Emerging Leaders Council and is presently enrolled in the American Bankers Association’s Wharton School Leadership program at the University of Pennsylvania. Her volunteer activities include Junior Achievement of Arkansas and the Tjuana Byrd Internship program of the Women’s Foundation of Arkansas
Mary Chatelain
Founder
Pinnacle Hearing
Dr. Mary Chatelain, Au.D., is the founder of Pinnacle Hearing, a medical facility with multiple locations delivering hearing healthcare in Arkansas for over a decade. Chatelain is a graduate of Louisiana Tech University and was part of the inaugural class in Louisiana to achieve a doctoral degree in the field of audiology. Having nurtured a clinic widely recognized for its endeavors towards community development and education, she actively supports law enforcement, first responders, educators, wildlife enthusiasts and rural communities with the give-back initiative she created. Having grown up in Magnolia, she understands the importance of accessible medical care in rural areas. As a result, Chatelain has established partnerships with numerous organizations and medical facilities, including Ouachita County Medical Center in Camden, to bring essential services closer to these communities.
Jared Cox, DDS
Dentist/Motivational Speaker
Today’s Family Dentistry
Jared Cox, DDS, is a dentist, pilot and self-proclaimed fear expert whose goal is to live life as large as possible and to help others do the same. His experiences have prepared him to guide people as they find the courage to face the world and live with joy and possibility. Cox is avid in sharing his story through writing and speaking. He has a deep belief in human potential and human goodness, and his message is not about competing with fear, but collaborating with it. Cox obtained his undergraduate degree in chemistry at Harding University before studying dentistry at the Oklahoma University Medical Center. He maintains professional associations with the American Dental Association, Arkansas State Dental Association and the Academy of General Dentistry.
Michael Dampier
Chef and GM, The Ouachita Bar & Grill
Owner, The Burger Chef’s Rubs & Sauces
Often known simply as “The Burger Chef,” Michael Dampier is the chef, pit master and general manager of The Ouachita Bar & Grill in Hot Springs, as well as the owner of The Burger Chef’s Rubs & Sauces. A highly active member of the culinary community, Dampier has traveled the country to judge food contests since 2010, taking part in more than 200 events, and frequently travels the state to document food trips and BBQ trails and promote other Arkansas restaurants.
Dampier has also won numerous awards; during his eight years at the famous Ohio Club, his team won over 100 “Best of” food awards, including 26 Best Burger awards. He has been recognized by the Arkansas Food Hall of Fame no less than 19 times, winning the People’s Choice Award in 2020. Recently, he helped lead the Ouachita Bar & Grill to the Best Flavor Award at the 2023 Flavor of the Park event in Hot Springs.
Chief of Staff,
SVP of Stakeholder Engagement
Southern Bancorp
As Southern Bancorp’s chief of staff and senior vice president of stakeholder engagement, Kenya Davenport advises and provides counsel to the CEO, manages strategic projects and creates and maintains the engagement of investors, funders, shareholders and other stakeholders. Prior to joining Southern Bancorp, Davenport practiced civil litigation and family law in Little Rock and Memphis, managed her own law firm and served as “of counsel” at Gill Ragon Owen P.A. Her career also includes a background in finance as a financial advisor and in education as an algebra teacher in Memphis Public Schools.
Davenport is a graduate of Tennessee State University, an HBCU in Nashville, and Christian Brothers University in Memphis. She earned her law degree at the University of Arkansas at Little Rock William H. Bowen School of Law and is active in several local and national community organizations and professional boards.
Katherine Dudley
Director of Choral and Piano Studies
Pulaski Academy
Katherine Signaigo Dudley, Ed.D., is in her 19th year as the director of choral and piano studies at Pulaski Academy in Little Rock. She has always been passionate about education and bettering the world around her. This passion led her to run for public office in 2022 and motivated her to obtain her educational doctorate in leadership and innovation. She was awarded the Leadership & Innovation Research Impact Scholarship Award from Arizona State University for her dissertation, “Refining Resilience: Grit, Growth Mindset and Mindfulness in Female Adolescents.” She works to lead and inspire her students to achieve excellence as musicians and individuals. Under her direction, her students have performed nationally and internationally, including at Carnegie Hall. She has presented at multiple state and international conferences and was awarded Best Choice of 2020 in music education for the Kid’s Directory of Central Arkansas, as well as Central Arkansas Director of the Year.
Chase Dugger
Founder
JCD Consulting
As founder of JCD Consulting, Chase Dugger leverages his expertise in campaign management, public policy and grassroots organization to assist clients in the political, corporate and nonprofit sectors. With nearly 20 years of experience, he has established himself as a leading political strategist in the state. Dugger specializes in government relations, political consulting and public affairs, catering to a diverse clientele including the Arkansas Health Care Association, Osage Creek Cultivation, Electric Cooperatives of Arkansas, Arkansas Children’s, ACE Scholarships and the County Judges’ Association of Arkansas. Before transitioning to the private sector in 2011, he served as the executive director of the Republican Party of Arkansas. Since then, he has successfully contributed to more than 200 campaigns nationwide, including those of Gov. Sarah Sanders and more than 50 current Arkansas legislators
Holly Duval
Director of Marketing & Business Development
The Poultry Federation
Holly Duval is the director of marketing and business development at The Poultry Federation (TPF). She has served in this role since 2014.
Her leadership steers TPF’s business development strategies, marketing initiatives and communications across Arkansas, Missouri and Oklahoma. With a background rooted in marketing, advertising, social media and sales administration, she brings a versatile skill set to the table.
Duval earned her Bachelor of Science Degree in Marketing Management from Arkansas State University.
Josh Earnhart
Vice President of Sales (NWA)
AAA Business Systems
Josh Earnhart is a sales leader with more than 20 years of experience in the office technology industry, where he helps organizations optimize their use of technology and achieve their business goals. As VP of sales for Northwest Arkansas at AAA Business Systems, he leads a team of professional sales reps who deliver exceptional service and value to their clients across various sectors and industries.
Earnhart’s core competencies include sales leadership, new business development, key account management and direct sales. He has a proven track record of creating long-term relationships with C-level executives and their supporting staff, introducing them to the most effective and efficient ways of utilizing office technology and the solutions they bring. He also has a strong background in sales training, coaching, and mentoring, helping his team members improve their skills and performance. A recent graduate of the Leadership Fayetteville program, his honors and awards include eight President’s Club awards and two Sales Rep of the Year awards.
Matthew Finch
President, Shareholder and Director
Gill Ragon Owen P.A.
Matthew Finch is a shareholder and director with Gill Ragon Owen P.A., and has served as its president since 2014. He was educated at Westminster College and the UALR William H. Bowen School of Law. Finch joined the Arkansas Bar in 2001. His practice focuses on general commercial litigation with expertise in commercial foreclosures, title claim defense litigation, construction litigation, creditor’s rights litigation (including FDCPA and TCPA defense) and corporate contractual disputes and litigation. He has been recognized as a “Mid-South Rising Star” by Super Lawyers, as one of Arkansas’ “Most Influential Lawyers,” “Best Lawyers” and “Men on a Mission.” Finch and his wife, Casey, were recognized as one of AMP’s 2023 Dynamic Duos.
Finch serves on the Bowen alumni board and served as president for the 2021-2022 year.
CEO
Arkansas Surgical Hospital
Originally from Springdale, Brian Fowler earned an accounting degree from Arkansas State University in 2004 and completed his MBA from the Walton College of Business at the University of Arkansas in 2005. Fowler completed the CPA exam in 2008 and got his start in public accounting at BKD in Little Rock, where he worked from 2005-2008. He has worked at a variety of health care organizations throughout his career, and joined Arkansas Surgical Hospital (ASH) as CFO in 2016. He was promoted to COO six months later and named CEO in January 2020.
Fowler is a fellow of the Healthcare Financial Management Association (HFMA), where he served as president from 2016-2017.
Jen Gerber
Filmmaker/Instructor
Inception to Projection
Jen Gerber holds an MFA in filmmaking from Columbia University and her debut feature film, shot entirely in Hot Springs, received international festival exposure as well as theatrical and digital distribution. Gerber recently opened a year-round film school in Hot Springs called Inception to Projection, where she draws from 17 years of experience as a professional filmmaker and seasoned professor to teach hands-on filmmaking courses for students of all ages. In addition, she has served as a mentor for the Sundance Film Festival Native Lab, was the creative director for the School of Creative and Performing Arts in in Los Angeles and New York and served as the executive director of the Hot Springs Documentary Film Festival.
She currently runs the annual film festival, Arkansas Shorts. Gerber is in development with her next directing projects, which include “Has-Been Beauty Queen,” a semi-autobiographical story set in Arkansas, and “Shelter,” starring Academy Award winner Melissa Leo, Zazie Beetz and David Rysdahl.
Rob Guthrie, MBA, CEM
Chief Development Officer
Bernhard
Rob Guthrie serves as the chief development officer at Bernhard, a prominent turnkey energy solutions provider with locations across the United States including Little Rock. Since joining the company in 2018, Guthrie has played a pivotal role in propelling the growth of Bernhard’s Energy-as-a-Service portfolio. This portfolio now boasts partnerships with a range of multi-hospital systems and higher education campuses across the nation.
With an impressive career spanning two decades in the industry, Guthrie is a proven leader in assisting clients in achieving long-term operational savings, realizing decarbonization objectives and bolstering facility resiliency. He acquired an MBA from the University of North Carolina Kenan-Flagler Business School and earned his undergraduate degree from the University of the South (Sewanee).
Lydia Hicks Hamlet
Associate Attorney
Law Offices of Katherine E. Blackmon
Lydia Hicks Hamlet is an associate attorney at the Law Offices of Katherine E. Blackmon, a trauma-informed family law firm with an emphasis on helping clients navigate difficult times with empathy and expertise. Hamlet has extensive trial experience and is a dedicated advocate for her clients. A Little Rock native, Hamlet obtained her Bachelor of Arts in psychology from Hendrix College and her Master of Arts in applied psychology from the University of Arkansas at Little Rock before going on to complete her juris doctorate at the Mississippi College School of Law in 2010.
Amanda Henard
Administrator
Unity Health–Searcy Medical Center
Amanda Henard is the administrator for Unity Health-Searcy Medical Center, where she manages the multi-specialty clinics consisting of 200 associates and more than 50 physicians and mid-level providers serving patients in White and eight surrounding counties.
A Searcy native, Henard began her career with Unity Health almost 20 years ago as an intern while completing her education at Harding University, where she graduated with a Bachelor of Business Administration in Healthcare Management and Master of Business Administration in Management and Business Ethics. She has been in the administrator role at Searcy Medical Center for more than four years and is a member of Arkansas and National Medical Group Management (MGMA).
Drew Higginbothom
Vice President
Smith & Company Insurance
Drew Higginbothom is vice president of Smith & Company Insurance Inc., an independent insurance agency with offices in Stuttgart, Little Rock, Forrest City and Marianna. Since 2012, Higginbothom has overseen the operations of Smith & Company and helped facilitate the acquisition of seven other agencies. With partner Mark Smith, the firm has developed a niche in aviation risks through Unlimited Aviation Insurance LLC.
Higginbothom earned a Bachelor of Science in Business Administration from the University of Arkansas and later completed his MBA at UA Little Rock in 2008. He was recently elected president of the Independent Insurance Agents of Arkansas, which has more than 400 agency members and partners. In addition, Higginbothom serves on the board of directors at Armor Bank.
Brandon Huffman
Founder and Principal
Huffman & Co.
With more than two decades of real estate experience in multifamily, hospitality, office and retail, Brandon Huffman oversees Huffman & Co.’s development, construction and management divisions. He also oversees all new acquisitions and development business including capital structure, market focus and site selection.
Huffman attended the University of Texas before starting Huffman Drywall Company in January 2005. He has developed and constructed more than 30 projects. Huffman also serves as vice president and principal of Estage Property Management.
Daniel Hunt
Project Executive
Clark Contractors
As project executive for Clark Contractors, Daniel Hunt is responsible for leading project teams through preconstruction services, building construction and project turnover. He believes in working collaboratively to maximize the value of the client’s project. His extensive construction experience of 18-plus years is a testament to his dedication and hard work. Starting off as a laborer in college, he worked his way up to becoming a project executive and has been involved in almost $500 million worth of construction projects.
Hunt strives to be a role model, someone who is a valuable asset to any team, whether it is a co-worker, subcontractor, design professional or client. He also aspires to mentor and inspire the future generation of construction leaders, trade professionals and his church congregation.
Founder and Managing Partner
Monde Group/Aspen Property Acquisitions
Blake Jackson is the founder and managing partner at Monde Group, a multi-disciplinary development firm specializing in high quality real estate, architectural design, marketing, sales and management. In just 10 years since starting Monde Group, Jackson has completed and sold $67.4 million in resort and multifamily communities, including The Villa at River Pointe in Maumelle and the 92-unit first phase of the Esplanade District.
With his company, Aspen Property Acquisitions, Jackson has also started an investment portfolio of customized condominiums across the United States. In addition to working on two film projects and a podcast with his other company, Ghosthorn Productions, Jackson is writing a book chronicling his years as a developer. He has served on numerous boards, including the Argenta Downtown Council and the University of Arkansas Real Estate Advisory Board, and is an honors graduate of the University of Arkansas E. Fay Jones School of Architecture.
Glen Johnson
Co-CEO and Co-founder
DYNE Hospitality Group
Glen Johnson is the Co-CEO and Co-founder of DYNE Hospitality Group in Little Rock. He primarily leads the real estate, area developer territories, and finance and administrative side of the business. He started his professional career in the real estate industry when he was 16, and his experience provides a unique outlook to the retail, commercial real estate, oil and gas and private equity industries.
DYNE Hospitality Group is the largest Tropical Smoothie Cafe franchisee in the brand. In 2023, Tropical Smoothie Cafe named DYNE as the brand’s “Franchisee of the Year” and “Developer of the Year.” DYNE’s mission is to create opportunities using our God-given gifts.
Jordan P. Johnson Sr.
Owner
JPJ Consulting
With more than 20 years of communication consulting experience, Jordan P. Johnson has helped executives, companies, corporate boards, nonprofits and municipalities find their way. In addition, he helps companies navigate through crisis issues and economic development challenges. He served as the past chairman of the board for the Arkansas Foodbank and has recently served on the boards of the University of Arkansas National Alumni, Riverfest and Junior Deputy. Johnson earned a bachelor’s degree in Journalism from the University of Arkansas and a law degree from the William H. Bowen School of Law at UA Little Rock.
Jacob Jones
Co-owner/President
Jones and Son Diamond & Bridal Fine Jewelry
Jacob Jones attended The Gemological institute of America in 1997 and earned the coveted GIA graduate gemologist designation at just 19 years old. Since then, he has been involved in the day-to-day operations and interactions at Jones and Son Diamond & Bridal Fine Jewelry.
Jones, a Catholic High Graduate, feels passionately about giving back to the community. Jones and Son has been a presenting sponsor of Arkansas Children’s Hospital’s Miracle Ball since 2010. Through the years, Jones & Son has also been a presenting sponsor for the 20th Century Club’s Hope Ball and the jeweler selected year after year to participate in the Angels of Hope program. For the last 10 years, Jones and Son has been a presenting sponsor to the Miss Arkansas Pageant, and Jones personally designed the Miss Arkansas 2022-2023 official coronation ring.
Kristen Kennon
Owner
iRealty Arkansas
Kristen Kennon is the owner of what she believes is the most contagious real estate brand in Central Arkansas. iRealty Arkansas is a local company with almost 200 agents that has achieved more than $2 billion in sales. Kennon graduated from Henderson State University in Arkadelphia with a Bachelor of Science degree and Master of Science degree in sports administration. She became the director of parks and recreation for the city of Jacksonville, where she worked for eight years.
For the last 10 years, her full-time job is real estate, but she is a serial entrepreneur with ownership in 10 different companies. She believes in empowering others to be the best version of themselves by motivating and inspiring them to chase their dreams.
Robert Klein
President and Co-founder
The Property Group
Klein is president and co-founder of The Property Group in Little Rock, which he started with Cara Hazlewood in 2012. The company has since grown from a two-person operation to having 20 agents and more than $525 million in sales. Klein is primarily responsible for the recruitment of the firm’s agents and the development and implementation of its signature training program. In addition, he and Hazlewood have developed an award-winning marketing program that has garnered national attention. He has more than 15 years of experience in real estate and has earned multiple awards from the Little Rock Realtors Association as a top-producing broker. He currently serves on the board of directors of the Arkansas State Police Foundation and is slated to serve on the Little Rock Realtors Association board in 2024. He is also a past board member of the University of Arkansas Pulaski Technical College Foundation and the Arkansas Prostate Cancer Foundation.
Ben Kutylo
Executive Director
Forward Arkansas
Ben Kutylo joined Forward Arkansas in July 2020 and leads the organization’s work to support innovative solutions to improve learning, career and life outcomes for every Arkansas student.
Prior to joining Forward, Kutylo served as co-founder and executive director of Fremont Street, a national nonprofit organization focused on catalyzing locally led innovation in schools and communities across the country. Previously, Kutylo served as vice president of strategic partnerships at eSpark, a digital learning software company, and spent more than five years as director of program investments at the Chicago Public Education Fund, a nonprofit organization dedicated to improving Chicago’s public schools.
Before transitioning into education, he spent almost 10 years in customer-focused roles at various technology companies. Kutylo earned a bachelor’s degree from the University of Notre Dame and a master’s degree in education policy from Harvard University.
Candice Lawrence
Vice President of Programs and Partnerships/Executive Director, AEDCE
Arkansas State Chamber of Commerce/AIA
Candice Lawrence is vice president of programs and partnerships of the Arkansas State Chamber of Commerce/AIA and is responsible for the development, management and execution of the chamber’s programs and strategic partnerships. She also serves as the executive director of Arkansas Economic Developers & Chamber Executives, the professional association of local chamber executives and economic developers in the state. Lawrence most recently served as the state chamber’s director of communications, where she led its internal and external communications, marketing, events and media outreach. Before joining the chamber, she served for 12 years as a communications representative, visitor’s services manager and community outreach coordinator for a leading global manufacturer of construction equipment.
Lawrence is a graduate of Leadership Arkansas Class XVI, Leadership Greater Little Rock Class XXXV and currently serves on the boards of Junior Achievement of Arkansas and Arkansas Workforce Development. She began her career as a broadcast journalist after receiving her undergraduate degree from the University of Arkansas in Fayetteville.
Andrew Lewis
Owner
Clarksville Insurance Agency
Andrew Lewis is the owner, principal agent and third-generation family member to run Clarksville Insurance Agency (CIA). He continues to stand fast in the core foundation laid by his grandfather in 1947. Only 13 percent of businesses in the United States are third generation.
In 2019, the agency opened a second location, the Russellville Insurance Agency (RIA), and expanded the CIA team. The two agencies operate as a whole and deliver the same level of service.
Today, the company continues to thrive as an independent insurance agency. The agency prides itself in prompt, professional service, with a focus on protecting clients with comprehensive insurance portfolios ranging from personal lines to small, mid-size and large business insurance.
Scott Lucas
Owner
Scott Lucas Bath and Kitchens
Scott Lucas Construction of Central Arkansas takes time to focus on a family’s home features while maintaining a foundation of friendship at the same time — whether building new construction or remodeling a truly eye-popping transformation.
The home construction world runs in the family for builder Scott Lucas of Conway, who credits his uncle, a builder of custom homes in Central Arkansas for several decades, as a huge influence on him from a young age. Lucas, who was raised in Greenbrier and has lived all over Faulkner County his entire life, got his feet wet in the industry in 2003. In 2010, his own home business, Scott Lucas Construction, became a corporation. Before he knew it, he was building one home project after another. His is the dream story of a highly successful entrepreneur — to become a one-stop-shop for all things kitchen and bathroom
Chad Matone, DDS
Owner
Arkansas Dental Centers
Helping people live healthier lives is a both a passion and a profession for Chad Matone, D.D.S., of Arkansas Dental Centers. He earned his Doctor of Dental Surgery degree in 2006 from the University of Tennessee Dental School. In 2014, he established Arkansas Dental Centers to bring various dental practices and partnerships into one collaborative group. He is a member of the Academy of General Dentistry, the Arkansas State Dental Association and the Arkansas State Chamber of Commerce. He is a graduate of Leadership Arkansas, and he founded an endowed scholarship for Arkansas residents at the University of Tennessee School of Dentistry.
Justin Minton
Founder
Minton Law Firm
Minton Law Firm is a boutique, personal injury firm that takes pride in only accepting cases where it is sure its attorneys can add value for their clients. At its core, Minton Law Firm is committed to fighting in order to overcome the disparity between clients and large, economically powerful corporations and insurance companies.
The firm’s founder, Justin Minton, attributes his success to “a good balance of hard work and the people in my life.” As Minton sees it, his success is intertwined with the success of the community around him. That’s why Minton Law Firm handles many cases on a contingent or pro bono basis.
In addition to accessibility and communication, Minton Law Firm values truth and integrity at every step. The priority of every member of the firm is to “provide competent, truthful advice to clients, civility towards peers and candor towards the tribunals.”
Matt Nilles
Senior Director of Global
Products and Solutions
Euronet Worldwide
Matt Nilles serves as the senior director of global products and solutions at Euronet Worldwide, where he has been pivotal in spearheading instant payment solutions that champion financial inclusivity in emerging economies around the world. With a rich history in the payments sector, Nilles facilitated Euronet’s election to the Federal Reserve’s FedNow Service® Working Group. He expertly evaluates key M&A opportunities, is a sought-after voice in international forums and media publications and leads collaborations with major industry groups to shape the payment products of tomorrow.
Before joining Euronet, Nilles spent fifteen years with Acxiom, serving as an expert financial services and technology product strategist to Fortune 100 clients. Nilles earned an MBA from the University of Central Arkansas.
Telly Noel Sr.
COO
The Design Group
Underneath the surface of any successful professional, you will usually discover a strong, focused individual who does whatever is required to help clients reach their goals. Telly L. Noel Sr. is no exception. A marketing veteran and serial entrepreneur, Noel serves as COO at The Design Group in Little Rock, a company he co-founded in 2007 that is dedicated to multicultural marketing and providing expertise to clients who desire to reach African American, Latino, urban and youth consumer audiences.
Bringing an energetic spirit and love of the marketing and advertising industries to his work, Noel makes the development of campaigns a positive and rewarding experience. His passion for joining the power of ideas, words, emotions and culture has produced significant results for local and national clients. His extensive knowledge of the advertising and marketing arenas, has gained him a reputation as an agent in great demand.
Thomas O’Banion
Head of Marketing
First Orion
Thomas O’Banion is an accomplished marketing and communications professional with leadership experience that spans three decades. Throughout his career, O’Banion has been pivotal in developing award-winning marketing organizations and communication strategies in various industries, including healthcare, IT, aerospace and telecommunications.
In his current role as head of marketing at First Orion, he is responsible for developing and executing marketing strategies for one of the most innovative technology companies at the forefront of inventing products reshaping how all wireless subscribers experience phone calls. First Orion and its marketing organization have reached new heights, which includes being listed on the Inc. 5000 fastest-growing companies list and fueling demand in an emerging market for businesses throughout the United States. First Orion has also experienced a remarkable 3X year-over-year customer base growth for its branded communication solutions. The marketing team has been pivotal in establishing the company as a driving force and thought leader in its industry, creating brand awareness, and generating new revenue opportunities. The organization also won multiple Hermes Creative Awards for its marketing campaigns.
Dan Oberste
President and CEO
BSR Real Estate Investment Trust
Dan Oberste is the president and chief executive officer of BSR Real Estate Investment Trust (BSR). Prior to becoming CEO, Oberste served as president and chief investment officer of BSR and its predecessor. Prior to joining BSR, Oberste worked as an attorney in the corporate practice group at Kutak Rock LLP.
He earned his undergraduate degree from the Sam M. Walton College of Business at the University of Arkansas and his Juris Doctorate from the Leflar School of Law at the University of Arkansas.
Ryan Orrell
Founder
Webmonster
Webmonster.com is owned and led by search engine marketing veteran and Arkansas native Ryan Orrell, who founded Webmonster 22 years ago and helps corporate clients gain greater value and maximize profitability as an internet marketing visionary and advertising professional. Orrell is a certified search engine optimization strategist and award-winning web developer with a stellar reputation in crafting aggressive marketing campaigns designed to increase corporate profitability. He is the author of best-selling ebook, “Internet Millions,” and is a 10-time award winner in Web Design/Development from the Web Marketing Association.
A Lake Hamilton High graduate, Orrell is based in Hot Springs.
Brannon Pack
Director of Cycling Tourism
Experience Fayetteville
Brannon Pack is the director of cycling tourism for Experience Fayetteville, the destination marketing organization for Fayetteville. In his role, Pack oversees the organization’s cycling initiatives including community and business relationships, content development and event attraction and retention. Pack served as the projector director for the committee organizing the 2022 UCI Cyclo-cross World Championships in Fayetteville, successfully bringing the event to the United States for only the second time in its 72-year history. His work led to Fayetteville’s recognition as a UCI Bike City, an international designation awarded to only one other North American city.
Additionally, Pack is developing college curriculum and providing instruction to future outdoor professionals through the University of Arkansas’s outdoor leadership minor. A seasoned cyclist, Pack is teaching a skills-based activity course on Bikepacking — a multi-day cycling discipline where camping gear is carried on the bicycle creating opportunities for more remote cycling experiences.
Lindsey Ponwith
Owner, Director and Nurse Practitioner
Revive Lifestyle Medicine
Lindsey Ponwith, APRN, is the health care director and clinician at Revive Lifestyle Medicine in Little Rock, a functional health care practice operated by Health Care Providers that includes nurse practitioners, physician assistants and nurses. Revive has grown significantly and serves more than 5,000 patients. Ponwith looks forward to the growth to come in the next few years while she expands her clinic structure and locations while maintaining a luxury family practice setting and holistic approach for Revive’s patient base. The business received designation as a Women-Owned Small Business in 2021.
Ponwith began her nursing career at Arkansas Children’s Hospital as both a floor nurse and a nurse practitioner in the Latino clinic. Ponwith has two bachelor’s degrees and a master’s degree, and she is pursuing her Doctor of Nursing Practice. She will certify as a member of the North American Menopause Society in October.
Kristi Price
Executive Director of Institutional Affairs
Lyon College
Kristi Price is the executive director of institutional affairs at Lyon College. As a member of the president’s executive cabinet, she currently manages the accreditation processes for the upcoming schools of veterinary and dental medicine and provides shared oversight for strategic planning and operations in the undergraduate school and the impending Lyon College Institute of Health Sciences in Little Rock. Price brings expertise from academic affairs, especially regarding student success and retention, having served as the first director of first year advising at Lyon.
With a B.A. in English from the University of Central Arkansas, she began her career in Magnolia at Farmers Bank & Trust, where she quickly learned the value of relationships and long-standing commitment to community. A multitude of roles at Lyon, plus her studies at the University of Missouri, where she is earning a M.Ed. in higher education leadership and policy analysis, have prepared her to lead with confidence and compassion.
Brian Rader
Chief Strategy Officer
Alleviant Health Centers
Brian Rader started at the Little Rock office of Alleviant Health Centers, which he helped grow to a national network of full-service mental health clinics, in 2018 as director of sales and business development manager.
His role was to help grow each franchise through clinic introduction, ensuring each client’s needs are being met, and treatment education for potential referring providers and promote network clinics to end users. In 2020, he was promoted to chief strategy officer.
His focus on ensuring patient needs are being met was developed by his previous employment in the medical sales industry. Rader previously worked as territory manager for Verathon Medical and international business development director for Nanova. With Nanova, he developed medical and dental distributors domestically and in 12 international markets including South America, Canada, Africa, the Middle East and Asia.
Grace Raja, M.D.
Medical Oncologist
CARTI
Grace Raja, M.D. is a medical oncologist with CARTI, a not-for-profit multidisciplinary cancer care provider with 18 treatment locations across the state and Arkansas’ first dedicated cancer surgery center. A team member for nearly a decade, Raja currently treats patients at the CARTI Cancer Centers in Conway and Little Rock. In 2021, she was appointed to serve on the CARTI Foundation’s board of directors, where she helps support fundraising efforts to reduce patients’ potential barriers to treatment and improve their quality of life. She completed her medical degree at the University of Texas at Southwestern Medical Center (UT Southwestern) and fellowships in hematology and oncology at the Keck School of Medicine at the University of Southern California and UT Southwestern. She is board certified in internal medicine and hematology/oncology.
Kymberlie Reed
Financial Advisor
Small & Associates Financial/Ameriprise
Kym Reed is a distinguished financial advisor in Arkansas, recognized as one of the best in 2023. With a Certified Military Financial Advisor certification acquired last year, she has exhibited dedication to her craft. Her 17-year tenure at Ameriprise showcases her commitment to clients’ financial well-being. Her team’s passion for financial planning is evident by the recognition in Forbes as one of the Best In State Wealth Management Team’s for 2023. Reed’s passion for guiding clients towards their financial aspirations drives her work.
Blake Rickman
Vice Chancellor for University Advancement/Executive Director, UAFS Foundation
University of Arkansas at Fort Smith
Since 2019, Blake Rickman has been vice chancellor for university advancement and executive director of the UAFS Foundation at the University of Arkansas at Fort Smith. Under his leadership, the UAFS Foundation’s endowment grew from $78 million to $130 million, highlighted by an institutional record $18.7 million gift from the Windgate Foundation. Before his time at UAFS, he spent 10 years at the University of Arkansas, Fayetteville, where he led efforts to secure $120 million from the Walton Family Charitable Support Foundation to endow and establish the School of Art, which at the time was the largest outright gift to the visual arts in the history of American higher education.
Outside academia, he contributes to boards like Mercy Hospital of Fort Smith, the Community Services Clearinghouse, the Clayton House and CASA of Sebastian County. A Fort Smith native, Rickman is a supporter of the Fort Smith Boys and Girls Club and holds degrees from Arkansas Tech University and the University of Arkansas.
Wendy Schay
Co-owner
The Croissanterie
Wendy Schay is an American Culinary Federation (ACF) Certified Executive Pastry Chef and co-owner of The Croissanterie in west Little Rock. In 2019, Schay and her co-chef, Jill McDonald, started selling croissants and other fresh breads at local farmers markets before opening a food truck followed by a brick-and-mortar restaurant in March of 2022. They have built a menu of authentic French pastries mixed with Southern comfort cuisine, offering catering, custom cakes and serving breakfast and lunch Wednesday through Sunday.
After just one year in its brick-and-mortar location, The Croissanterie was named the Little Rock Regional Chamber Small Business of the Year 2023. Prior to owning The Croissanterie, Schay competed in baking and pastry competitions across the country. She has won numerous awards, including Gold Medals for SkillsUSA Arkansas Commercial Baking 2014 and 2015 and ACF Central Arkansas Chefs Association Pastry Chef of the Year 2016.
Aaron Scott
Principal Architect
Cromwell Architects Engineers
As director of Cromwell’s health care practice, Aaron Scott brings 21 years of experience in medical planning and architectural design. He first joined Cromwell as a summer intern, and after returning in 2005, was added to the firm’s board of directors in 2021. He’s held leading roles on projects for medical clients from hospital systems and physician-owned clinics to ambulatory surgery centers and imaging suites in Arkansas, Missouri as well as DoD projects across the U.S. and abroad. Under his leadership, Cromwell was named a top 50 Healthcare Design firm by Building Design + Construction magazine in 2022. A Jonesboro native, Scott received his Bachelor of Architecture from the Fay Jones School of Architecture and Design at the University of Arkansas. He is a 2017 graduate of Leadership Arkansas Class XI, currently serves as VP of the Historic Arkansas Museum Foundation Board and is active in AIA Arkansas’ MERGE mentoring program.
Karrie Sharp
Manager
American Abstract and Lenders Title
Karrie Sharp is a highly experienced and dedicated manager in the title insurance industry, handling title work for American Abstract and Lenders Title. She has a long history of producing title commitments and manages a team of researchers and policy writers. Additionally, she balances her professional life with her role as a mother of two children, one of whom is also in the title business. Sharp is known for the ability to handle her responsibilities both at work and at home.
Tommy Sisemore
Executive Director
Bikes, Blues & BBQ
Tommy Sisemore is executive director of Bikes, Blues & BBQ, the world’s largest charity motorcycle rally, which benefits women, children and the underserved members of the Northwest Arkansas community. The event takes attendees to scenic areas throughout the region including the Pig Trail, downtown Rogers and Eureka Springs. Since 2000, the rally has raised $3 million for local nonprofit organizations. The 2023 Bikes, Blues & BBQ, which runs Sept. 20 to 23, will feature live music, vendors, Harley-Davidson demo rides and a barbecue competition. More information is available at bikesbluesandbbq.org.
Tywanna Smith
President
The Athlete’s Nexus
Dr. Tywanna Smith is an award-winning sports manager, filmmaker, best-selling author and speaker. For more than 16 years, she has worked with NBA, NFL, WNBA and overseas athletes. As president of The Athlete’s Nexus, Smith’s expertise includes business management, professional development and branding. She also is an inspirational speaker, having led keynote speeches with the NFL, the Black Student-Athlete Summit and the 2022 Ole Miss MBA Commencement. Her work has been featured at the L.A. Times Festival of Books, Forbes and other media. She a member of Delta Sigma Theta Sorority and leads the Tywanna Inmon-Smith Scholarship.
Randy Southerland
North Little Rock Market Manager, Senior Vice President
Arvest Bank
Randy Southerland serves as North Little Rock market manager for Arvest Bank. In leading the
North Little Rock market, Southerland is a banking professional who works with commercial clients to provide lending, financial solutions and recommendations for their businesses among other responsibilities. He has more than 17 years of experience in the banking industry, serving
businesses in the North Little Rock market for the last 13 years.
Southerland joined Arvest in 2013. He obtained his undergraduate degree in business administration with an emphasis in finance from Ouachita Baptist University. He also holds a FINRA Series 7 license, an NASAA Series 66 license and licensing in Accident Health & Sickness, Life and Variable Products. Southerland serves on the boards of the North Little Rock Chamber of Commerce and the Arkansas Aerospace & Defense Alliance.
Errin Stanger
CEO
Arkansas Innovation Hub
Errin Stanger is director of the Arkansas Regional Innovation Hub at Winrock. The Innovation Hub is a nonprofit organization dedicated to improving the lives of Arkansans by inspiring innovation and expanding opportunities. Since the Hub’s opening in 2014, its state-of-the-art facilities have provided tools and training to entrepreneurs, students, and other makers, preparing them to join and grow Arkansas’s economic ecosystem. Prior to her current role, Errin served as the Hub’s deputy director and has worked in various capacities since the Hub’s founding. She has extensive experience in nonprofit organizations including the Arkansas Children’s Hospital Auxiliary, the Argenta Arts Council, Argenta Community Theater, the American Heart Association and Susan G. Komen for the Cure. She has a bachelor’s degree in biology from Rhodes College in Memphis, where she minored in urban studies.
Scott Taylor
Branch Manager
Mortgage Financial Services
Scott Taylor is a branch manager at Mortgage Financial Services, which he joined in February of 2019. With 10 years of mortgage lending experience and 15 years of total lending experience, Taylor led his branch to be the number one producing branch for Mortgage Financial in 2021, and he was personally honored as the second top producing loan officer in the company in 2022. He has been recognized for the past three years in the prestigious Scotsman Guide as one of the top producing loan officers in the nation.
Taylor strives to treat every customer he works with the way that he would want to be treated, guided every step of the way by his core values of truth, transparency and honesty. He earned a bachelor’s degree in business management from the University of Arkansas at Little Rock.
Ryan Walmsley
President of the Fabrication Group
Lexicon Inc.
Ryan Walmsley has been an integral member of the Lexicon Inc. team since 2019. After four years of steady, focused leadership with the company, in March 2023 he was promoted from vice president to president of the company’s Fabrication Group, which includes Custom Metals, Prospect Steel and Steel Fabricators of Monroe. In this role, Walmsley leads the fabrication and erection teams on commercial and industrial projects, which are the company’s largest business lines.
With 20 years of experience in the steel industry, Walmsley has played a key role in numerous Lexicon projects, including the fabrication and erection of the new Tesla manufacturing facility in Austin, Texas; fabrication of a new steel mill in Brandenburg, Ky., for Nucor Steel; large Amazon sortation buildings in multiple states; and fabrication of a new steel mill in Osceola for Big River Steel. Before joining the company, Walmsley served as project manager and director of sales and estimating at LPR Construction Co. in Loveland, Colo. He graduated from Colorado State University with a degree in construction management.
Mitch Ward
Owner
Red River Dodge
CEO Mitch Ward and his father, Dennis Ward, purchased the Dodge Chrysler Jeep Ram (DCJR) dealership in Heber Springs in 2005. Dennis Ward started in the car business in the ‘70s, and the two had already worked together in the used car business in Jacksonville for years before starting Red River.
Red River grew from selling six vehicles a month to now selling 250-300 vehicles a month out of Heber Springs. Ward considers his first big break to be the purchase of a new store in Heber Springs. He describes the automotive sales and service industry as “active, fun and risky with rewards.” Ward considers one of his greatest achievements being named the No. 1 new DCJR dealership, as customers always tell him that Red River represents their best buying experience.
Ben Wellons
President and Lead Developer
Wellons Real Estate
An Accredited Land Consultant (ALC), Ben Wellons has carved out a reputation as an industry leader both locally and across the country. He has received top commercial broker awards for land sales in Arkansas — including some of the state’s premier waterfowl tracts — and ranks among the top 20 land brokers in the United States.
Wellons attributes his company’s success to his team’s unique approach to partnering with clients. He says his is the only company in Arkansas that not only specializes in recreational properties, timberland and agricultural real estate, but also assists landowners in creating a vision and implementing development strategies for their properties.
Wellons tells his clients, “If you can dream it, we can make it happen.”
Founder
Pinnacle Advisors
Victor Werley founded Pinnacle Advisors in 2003 and has been practicing as a financial consultant since that time. He has a bachelor’s degree in psychology from Lyon College in Batesville, AR. He is a Certified Financial Planner, a Chartered Financial Consultant, a Certified Divorce Financial Analyst, a Certified Valuation Analyst, a Master Analyst in Financial Forensics and a Certified Fraud Examiner. He and his team focus on providing quality valuation and analysis for both families and businesses. He has provided analysis on topics ranging from mergers and estates to litigation and private equity transactions. Werley is a native of Arkansas and serves as vice chair on the board of directors for Lyon College.
Amy Williams
Regional Manager, Northeast Region
Arkansas Economic Development
Commission
Amy Williams is a dedicated professional serving as the community development manager for northeast Arkansas at the Arkansas Economic Development Commission. With a passion for fostering growth and prosperity, she has been a driving force in advancing economic initiatives and enhancing community development in the region.
Her leadership and advocacy extend beyond the office, demonstrating her genuine desire to make a lasting, positive impact on the lives of those around her. Williams’ ability to inspire and lead by example sets her apart as a professional in community and economic development. She is an active volunteer with Main Street Arkansas, Little Rock Air Force Base Community Council, Arkansas State University and Williams Baptist University.
Wendy Williams
Owner
Fyzical Therapy
Wendy Williams is co-owner and COO of FYZICAL Conway, a therapy and balance center. She knows all too well how to multitask and balance her time, thanks in part to a patient she will never forget. “I once had a patient who was a CEO of a Fortune 500 company,” she recalls. “He told me that setting boundaries on work hours everyday is the biggest gift I could give my family and myself. There are always exceptions, but all in all, this boundary makes life much more enjoyable because we can all work around the clock and miss special time. This proved to be true in that the uninterrupted time with family and friends has been a blessing.”
Williams says she honors this with employees, taking care to make sure their family time is sacred as well.
Mark Wilson
President and COO
FAB&T
Mark Wilson, brother to fellow 2023 Achiever Patrick Wilson, will tell you that he’s been in banking for “47 years — basically all of my life.” However, he didn’t officially start with FAB&T until he began working as a teller during the summers of his high school years. In 2001, Wilson began as a loan officer and has held several positions since, including supervising online banking, debit cards, retail services, the customer service call center, loans and credit cards. Now, as president and COO of FAB&T, he oversees commercial and consumer lending activities, the bank’s retail network of 21 Arkansas locations, and the bank’s credit card-issuing operation in Kennesaw, Ga.
A native of Jacksonville, Wilson is a graduate of Hendrix College with an MBA from the University of Arkansas. He also is an avid woodworker and the co-owner with his wife, Rebel, of Cliffdale Cottage, which specializes in quality, handmade home furniture and goods.
Patrick Wilson
Partner
Wright Lindsey Jennings
A Jacksonville native, brother to fellow 2023 Achiever Mark Wilson and graduate of Catholic High, Patrick Wilson has a law practice centered around construction, banking, contract matters and other commercial disputes, and he also assists clients in the defense of general negligence, real estate and other litigated disputes. Through his construction practice, Wilson assists owners, general contractors, subcontractors, architects, engineers, material suppliers and homeowners with lien issues, contract disputes, alleged negligence in the construction of buildings and homes, securing payment on projects and other related issues.
Wilson regularly assists large and small material suppliers and professionals with filing and foreclosing on materialmen’s liens and represents owners of construction projects and contractors in attempting to defeat lien claims. Since 2021, he has been selected for inclusion in The Best Lawyers in America© in the field of Construction Law. He also received the “Lawyer of the Year” in Little Rock designation for 2023 in the construction law practice area.
