The Arkansas Broadcasters Association (ABA) has named Betsy Broyles Arnold as its 2026 Arkansan of the Year, recognizing her decades of work supporting Alzheimer’s caregivers and raising awareness of the disease across Arkansas and beyond.
Broyles Arnold will receive the honor during the ABA Arkansan of the Year Luncheon on Sept. 14 at the association’s annual convention.
Her advocacy began after her mother, Barbara Broyles, the wife of former University of Arkansas Athletic Director Frank Broyles, was diagnosed with Alzheimer’s disease. Broyles Arnold moved her family from Texas back to Arkansas to help care for her mother alongside her twin sister, Linda.
After Barbara Broyles’ death, Betsy Broyles Arnold partnered with her father to help other families facing similar challenges. Their work led to the creation of the Frank and Barbara Broyles Legacy Foundation and the development of Coach Broyles’ Playbook for Alzheimer’s Caregivers, a resource designed to support those caring for loved ones with the disease.
According to the ABA, more than 1 million copies of the caregiver guide have been distributed in 11 languages.
Since then, Broyles Arnold has dedicated her time to supporting caregivers while providing education and training for healthcare facilities. She and her daughter, Molly, have delivered more than 250 presentations and made more than 400 radio and television appearances, earning national recognition for their work to improve the lives of caregivers.
“The ABA is very proud to honor Mrs. Broyles Arnold. The work of the Broyles Foundation has had a meaningful impact on so many Arkansans who have had a family member suffering from the disease,” said ABA President Kristen Speer. “The Broyles family’s courage in sharing their journey with the public has been both helpful and inspiring to so many caregivers.”
According to the Alzheimer’s Association, more than 60,000 Arkansans are living with Alzheimer’s disease this year, while nearly 175,000 family members across the state are providing care and support.
The Arkansas Broadcasters Association has presented the Arkansan of the Year Award since 1977. Previous recipients include J. William Fulbright, Johnny Cash, Bill Clinton and Don Tyson, among other leaders in business, politics, sports and entertainment.
Photo Credit: Broyles Award/Facebook
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