10th Annual
LEADERSHIP EXCELLENCE CONFERENCE Sustaining Connection in a Changing World
Presented by the Center for Leadership Excellence
September 29, 2026
Celebrating 10 YEARS
GREETINGS! Welcome to the 10th Annual Leadership Excellence Conference at A-State! This is a special day of celebration, learning and networking. Today we honor the 10th anniversary of the Center for Leadership Excellence (CLE). During the past 10 years, the CLE community has encouraged each of us to pursue our dreams with courage, resilience, and joy. Now we are looking forward to the next 10 years in the CLE. Dr. Kathy White Loyd and 27 other co-founders known as the Founder's Circle first established the CLE as the Women's Business Leadership Center (WBLC) in 2016. Thus, the “Step Up, Reach Back” program of the CLE was born, with the goal of providing A-State students of every major the tools to become confident, capable leaders through mentoring, service projects, and careerreadiness programming. In 2025, the WBLC became the CLE, expanding its "Step Up, Reach Back" programming to all students across A-State's campus. Since its launch in 2016 with a founding cohort of 25 students, the CLE has grown to include cohorts of 75-100 A-State Leadership Intern students each year. Approximately 20 scholarships are awarded to select Leadership Interns annually. Several members of the 2016 founding cohort of 25 students are still active today as mentors, donors, and advisory board members, and now myriads of other Center Champions, mentors, volunteers, alumni and students have joined the CLE in its mission. We are grateful to our sponsors, donors, advisory board, volunteers, mentors, partners and participants today. Your friendship, time and resources have made this program possible. The impact of CLE will reverberate through generations to come. Thank you for spending your day with us and helping us grow our CLE family. If you want to become more involved as a donor, mentor, volunteer or student mentee, please contact us at CLE@AState.edu. We would love to sustain and deepen our connection with you. Dr. Kathy White Loyd, Founding Director Professor Patricia Quinn Johnston, Executive Director Ms. Gwennette Confer, Director of Student Engagement and Outreach
CENTER FOR LEADERSHIP EXCELLENCE | OUR MISSION We are committed to cultivating confident and capable leaders setting and achieving high goals on their paths to college and careers. Since its launch in 2016, the Women's Business Leadership Center has accomplished the following: • 1,000s of hours of mentoring and mock interviews • Hundreds of A-State students have completed the Leadership Intern program • More than 145 scholarships presented to Leadership Interns • More than 100 Reach Back service projects completed • First and only Forte Foundation partner university in Arkansas • Student trips to New York City, Atlanta, Little Rock, Nashville, and other locations for service, career and leadership development opportunities • Leadership Academy and other leadership workshops for high school, junior high and elementary students A-State students who participate in our Step Up, Reach Back mentoring and service program report that the program has provided them with: • • • •
More awareness of the value of mentoring relationships Opportunities to explore their unique strengths Enhanced feelings of being valued and belonging at A-State Greater confidence
We are a center without boundaries, committed to education, achievement, mentorship, caring and collaboration.
2016-17 Leadership Interns
SCHEDULE OF EVENTS Centennial Hall, Carl R. Reng Student Union 8:30 a.m. - 9:30 a.m. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . Check-In 9:30 a.m. - 10:45 a.m.. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . Opening Plenary Session Welcome Remarks Dr. Calvin White, Jr.
Interim Chancellor, Arkansas State University
Dr. Stacy Walz
Dean, College of Nursing and Health Professions
Keynote Speaker Marcy Doderer
President and Chief Executive Officer at Arkansas Children’s, Inc.
Emcee Elisabeth Lawrence
Nonprofit and Public Service Professional
Honors and Announcements 10:45 a.m. - 11:00 a.m. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . Break 11:00 a.m. - 12:00 p.m.. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . Breakout Session #1 12:00 p.m. - 12:30 p.m.. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . Lunch 12:45 p.m. - 1:45 p.m.. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . Breakout Session #2 2:00 p.m. - 3:00 p.m.. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . Breakout Session #3 3:00 p.m. - 3:30 p.m.. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . Networking and Dessert Alumni Lounge (outside Centennial Hall)
BREAKOUT SESSIONS 11:00 a.m. - 12:00 p.m. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . Session #1 Mental Health and Sustainable Success Dr. Dana Bevill Watson Building Wealth Without Burning Out Shamim Okolloh
12:45 p.m. - 1:45 p.m. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . Session #2 AI in Real Life - Practical Uses John Fehr Career Parents: Balancing Work and Raising a Family Panel: Vanna Headley, Lynette Hirsch, Kisha Miller, and Dr. Asher Pimpleton-Gray Leading Through Service: Nonprofit Leadership Panel: Cindy Boyle, Brian Burton, Heather Coats, Gina Gómez, and Ben Goodwin
2:00 p.m. - 3:00 p.m. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . Session #3 You've Graduated: Now What? Panel: Katlyn Allred, Roshawntae Boone, Olivia Huey Pennington, Samantha Risi, and Atin Suri NEA Regional Leadership Accelerator Academy: Leaders Transforming the Delta Panel: Andrea Allen, Bevin Hunter, Dr. Erika Krennerich Chudy, and Casey Pearce
The meeting room locations for Breakout Sessions are specified on a separate handout. All of these meeting rooms are on the third floor of Reng Student Union. If you need assistance finding your meeting room, ask a conference volunteer, a leadership intern or the registration desk. Please join us in the lobby outside of Centennial Hall for networking and dessert after Breakout Session #3 adjourns.
KEYNOTE SPEAKER Marcy Doderer
President and Chief Executive Officer, Arkansas Children’s, Inc. Marcy Doderer, FACHE, is the president and chief executive officer at Arkansas Children’s, where she leads the state’s only pediatric health system. Under her leadership, Arkansas Children's is advancing specialized clinical research and academic programs to create a healthier future for children across the nation, especially in the American heartland. A true champion for children, Doderer is dedicated to improving child health by advancing patient care, building community, and championing excellence through digital transformation, engaged and efficient partnerships, and bold child advocacy. Her common refrain is, “Arkansas Children’s will not stop our pursuit of improving child health until Arkansas is the safest, healthiest place to be a child.” In more than a decade at Arkansas Children’s, Doderer has transformed it into a leading pediatric healthcare system. This expansion includes two hospitals (Arkansas Children's Hospital in Little Rock and Arkansas Children's Northwest), a pioneering research institute that includes a USDA nutrition center and the National Center for Opioid and Addiction Research (NCOAR), a philanthropic foundation, regional clinics and alliances, telemedicine, and statewide outreach programs. Doderer is a Fellow in the American College of Health Care Executives (ACHE) and is active in numerous professional organizations. She serves on the board of directors for the Children's Hospital Association. Within Arkansas, she is a member of Fifty for the Future, the Little Rock Regional Chamber Board of Directors, and the Arkansas Museum of Fine Arts Board of Trustees. Her leadership has been recognized both locally and nationally. She holds a Bachelor of Science in finance from Trinity University in San Antonio, and a Master of Arts in hospital and health administration from the University of Iowa. Doderer enjoys traveling with her family and relaxing at home with her husband, Mark, and their two dogs, Mojo and Margo. She is the proud mother of two daughters, Emily and her husband, Zach, and Katie, and grandmother to Savannah.
EMCEE Elisabeth Lawrence
Nonprofit and Public Service Professional Elisabeth Lawrence has built a career around nonprofit leadership, public service, and community engagement. Her experience includes more than a decade in local elected office, state and national advocacy, appointed leadership roles, and extensive work with nonprofit organizations and community initiatives. Her own leadership journey began at Arkansas State University, where she was deeply involved in campus life and held leadership roles across numerous student organizations and initiatives. She now enjoys bringing those experiences full circle by connecting people, facilitating conversations, and championing leadership at every stage of life.
BREAKOUT SESSION SPEAKERS Dr. Dana Bevill Watson
Clinical Supervisor, Families, Inc. Licensed clinical psychologist, Dana Bevill Watson, Psy.D., joined Families, Inc. in May 2011 as clinical supervisor of the Trumann clinic after moving back to Jonesboro from New York City where she worked for four years in geriatric and health/ rehabilitative psychology. She continues as clinical supervisor for the clinical staff serving the Poinsett County area, the Trumann School District, Bay School District, and Nettleton School District. Dr. Watson is based in the Jonesboro Clinic. Prior to her move to New York, she was the director of the Community Based Rehabilitation Program at Counseling Services of Eastern Arkansas for five years, and worked in correctional and forensic psychology in Petersburg, Va., while with the Federal Bureau of Prisons. She has taught graduate and undergraduate courses at East Arkansas Community College, Southwest Missouri State University and Springfield College. Beginning her education in Jonesboro, Dr. Watson received her Bachelor’s in Psychology from Arkansas State University. She achieved her Master’s and Psy.D. in clinical psychology from the APA Accredited Forest Institute of Professional Psychology in Springfield, Mo. In addition, Dr. Watson has specialized training in “rational living therapy” through the National Association of Cognitive Behavioral Therapy, is a certified traumatic brain injury specialist and in cognitive processing therapy, and has earned state certifications in Virginia and Arkansas in forensic evaluation training. Dr. Watson and her husband Brian are proud parents of two children, daughter, Ella and son, Luke. Dr. Watson frequently represents Families, Inc. as a spokesperson on mental health topics, relationships, and more, through interviews on local radio and television, as well as through its website blog. She has been selected as Premiere Magazine's Best Mental Health Professional a number of years.
BREAKOUT SESSION SPEAKERS Shamim Okolloh Author and Banker
Shamim Okolloh is an award-winning author, Arkansas-based banker, and passionate advocate for financial fluency in children. Born and raised in Nairobi, Kenya, she holds degrees from Spelman College and the Clinton School of Public Service. Her career blends a commitment to service, community development, and economic empowerment. Okolloh’s personal journey as a working mother and WIC program participant sparked a deep understanding of the barriers families face on the path to economic mobility. Seeing a lack of financial education storytelling books for children - especially those from underrepresented backgrounds, led her to co-author “Ella the Banker” with her son, Liam. The book introduces kids to banking in an inspiring, colorful and accessible way, and has been distributed to every elementary school in Arkansas. The City of Little Rock proclaimed January 9, 2024, “Ella The Banker Day.” Together with her children and business partners Liam and Ella, Okolloh is a national keynote speaker and has engaged nearly 2,000 children through interactive readings and outreach events. Their work has been featured on multiple television network stations in Little Rock. The sequel, “Ella The Banker: Let Us Save” focuses on saving and developing healthy financial habits early in life. Okolloh is on a mission to increase children’s awareness on careers in banking and ensure the next generation, especially girls, are better equipped to lead the industry.
BREAKOUT SESSION SPEAKERS John Fehr
AI and Cybersecurity Executive John Fehr is an AI and cybersecurity researcher, scientist, executive, educator, and technology leader with more than 35 years of experience in information technology, cybersecurity, data privacy, governance, risk management, compliance, and emerging technologies. His work focuses on advanced artificial intelligence systems and helping people and organizations use AI in practical, secure, and responsible ways. Fehr is currently finalizing a Ph.D. in cyber defense at Dakota State University’s Beacon College of Computer and Cyber Science. His doctoral research explores advanced AI systems inspired by biological intelligence, including their ability to learn, reason, adapt, and operate across multiple domains. His broader research interests include advanced artificial general intelligence, frontier AI models, multimodal AI, multiagent and agentic AI systems, humanoid AI systems, cybersecurity, data privacy, governance, and the legal, ethical, moral, and societal impacts of emerging technologies. His education also includes a Master of Science in national security, information protection and security from the University of New Haven, a Bachelor of Business Administration in management information systems from the University of New Mexico, and graduation from the FBI Citizens Academy. Professionally, Fehr has served in executive and leadership roles across information technology and cybersecurity, advising organizations as a chief information security advisor and chief information security officer. He has extensive experience as a lecturer, curriculum developer, and professional trainer, with teaching and training expertise in artificial intelligence, cybersecurity, data privacy, cyber defense, governance, risk, compliance, and security awareness.
BREAKOUT SESSION SPEAKERS Vanna Headley
Owner, Yellow Gorilla Marketing Agency Vanna Headley is a marketer, entrepreneur, community leader, volunteer, wife, and mom who knows firsthand that building a career and raising a family often means figuring it out as you go. A graduate of Arkansas State University with a bachelor’s degree in marketing with an emphasis in marketing management, Headley has spent the last 13 years working in marketing and sales. She also spent five years as a local business owner before recently taking one of her biggest professional leaps yet, founding Yellow Gorilla Marketing Agency, Northeast Arkansas’s most creative full-service marketing agency, helping local businesses stand out, grow, and succeed. As proud as she is of the career she’s built, her favorite roles are at home. Headley has been married to her high school sweetheart, Aaron Headley, for 15 years, and together they’re raising three children, ages 9, 8, and 5. Between running a business, staying involved in her community, school schedules, activities, pickleball, family time, and everything else that comes with raising three kids, Headley doesn’t claim to have the perfect formula for “balance.” Instead, she believes in being organized, intentional about what matters, giving yourself grace when things get messy, and building a career and a family life to be proud of, one busy season at a time.
BREAKOUT SESSION SPEAKERS Lynette Hirsch
Executive Director, The Foundation of Arts Lynette Hirsch is an Irish/Korean-American community leader, proud mother of five, and passionate advocate for building stronger, more connected communities through service, creativity, and collaboration. Her professional background spans ministry, nonprofit work, and public service, most recently serving as community engagement and marketing coordinator for the City of Jonesboro. While at the City, she focused on strategic communications, outreach, and initiatives that improve quality of life. Now serving as the executive director of the Foundation of Arts, Lynette brings her leadership and community-building experience to an organizational non-profit that enriches lives through creativity and the arts. As a career mother, Lynette is passionate about finding balance between professional purpose, family, and meaningful service to her community, and believes that each can strengthen the other. She wholeheartedly believes that diversity allows for opportunities to learn and grow, in every aspect of life.
Kisha Miller
Director of Education, Jonesboro Human Development Center Kisha Miller is the director of education for Jonesboro Human Development Center. She has a passion for advocacy, service and building community. She serves on several boards and civic organizations including the Keep Jonesboro Beautiful Commission and Democracy for Women. She is also chief of staff for a state legislative race. She serves as longstanding board member of City Youth Ministries, and is on the Jonesboro Regional Chamber of Commerce’s Green Business Committee. She has one daughter who is currently a student at ASU-Newport, and three dogs. She loves spending time with family, traveling, hiking and spending time outdoors.
BREAKOUT SESSION SPEAKERS Dr. Asher Pimpleton-Gray
Associate Professor in Psychology and Counseling, Arkansas State University Dr. Asher Pimpleton-Gray is a licensed professional counselor with 20 years of training and experience in the field of counseling. She has also been a counselor educator and clinical supervisor since 2012. She currently serves as an associate professor in psychology and counseling at Arkansas State University. Additionally, she acts as a board member and clinical faculty supervisor for the Lupine Wellness Center, which provides counseling and academic services to A-State students, faculty and staff, as well as the community. She earned two degrees from Central Michigan University: a Bachelor of Science in journalism with a minor in political science and a Master of Arts in professional counseling. She went on to complete her doctoral degree in counselor education with concentrations in clinical mental health counseling and couples and family therapy from Southern Illinois University–Carbondale. Her clinical experience includes working with individuals, couples, families, groups, and those with different levels of ability regarding a variety of issues. Her research and presentation interests include topics such as sexual health and decision-making, cultural competence, group work, social justice, mental health and wellness, and leadership. She has facilitated discussions on several of these topics at the state, regional and national levels while also serving on various committees within the Counseling profession.
BREAKOUT SESSION SPEAKERS Cindy Boyle
Founder, Boyle Consulting, LLC Cindy Boyle is an executive coach, leadership adviser, and board director dedicated to developing leaders who create stronger organizations and lasting impact. As the founder of Boyle Consulting, LLC, she provides executive coaching, and board training helping senior leaders enhance their effectiveness, navigate complex challenges, and achieve their professional and organizational goals. Prior to founding Boyle Consulting, Boyle retired in 2025 as the national practice leader of the Forvis Mazars IT Risk and Compliance Practice. In this role, she led a national team of professionals, developed future leaders, and advised organizations across diverse industries. She serves as vice chair of the Arkansas State University Center for Leadership Excellence board and is a member of the Founder’s Circle. She is also a founding board member of the Leadership Foundation for Women, which promotes professional growth, leadership development, and networking opportunities for professional women. Boyle and her husband, T.J. Boyle, were named Outstanding Philanthropist in 2021 by the Arkansas Chapter of the Association of Professional Fundraisers.
BREAKOUT SESSION SPEAKERS Brian Burton
Chief Executive Officer, Arkansas Foodbank Brian Burton, a native Arkansan, became the chief executive officer of Arkansas Foodbank in 2022, succeeding Rhonda Sanders. Burton brings over 25 years of nonprofit leadership experience to the role. During his recent 11-year tenure at Three Square Food Bank in Las Vegas, Burton nearly tripled the amount of food provided to the community. His professional expertise includes rapid organizational growth and development, program sustainability, community engagement, public policy work, and diversified fundraising. Burton has a history of working in the philanthropic sector and building high-impact nonprofit organizations. He is a subject-matter expert, advocating for social and economic conditions that improve the lives of people who struggle with poverty and hunger.
Heather Coats
Executive Director, United Way of Northeast Arkansas Heather Coats is the executive director of United Way of Northeast Arkansas, where she strives to offer an opportunity for donors to unite under one umbrella in order to create change in Northeast Arkansas. With over seven years of experience in public school education and eight years in post-secondary education, Coats decided to make a career change in 2022 that led her to the United Way. Starting off as director of community impact, she quickly realized that her passion about serving society which led her to a teaching career was a huge asset in the role of community impact. After a year in this role, she was promoted to executive director. Sharing a clear vision of where Northeast Arkansas neighbors are and where the community wants to go alongside building strong partnerships within the community is just one of her many roles at United Way. Coats, alongside her colleagues, board members, and many community members, has a deep commitment to the organization's mission while letting her passion for nonprofit work guide what can be accomplished together.
BREAKOUT SESSION SPEAKERS Gina Gómez
Executive Director, El Centro Hispano Gina Gómez is the visionary leader of El Centro Hispano, one of Arkansas’s trusted community organizations. Originally from Bogotá, Colombia, Gina holds a degree in psychology from La Sabana University and has led El Centro for 23 years. Under her leadership, El Centro has expanded its impact across Arkansas, providing education, health, entrepreneurship, legal, and cultural services to thousands of Hispanic and immigrant families. Gómez’s leadership and community impact have earned numerous honors, including recognition as one of Arkansas’s 250 Most Influential Leaders in 2024 and 2025, Top 100 Women of Impact in Arkansas in 2023, and the Winthrop Rockefeller Foundation’s 40 Years 40 Leaders. She was also awarded the key to the City of Jonesboro. Gómez continues to champion connection, equity and empowerment, particularly for Hispanic youth and underserved families. Outside of her work, she enjoys spending time with family, friends, and her dogs.
Ben Goodwin
Executive Director, Our House Ben Goodwin is the executive director of Our House in Little Rock. Over the past 16 years, he has led Our House to become a national model for empowering homeless families and individuals to overcome homelessness and achieve lasting selfsufficiency. Our House serves more than 3,000 people annually with an 82% success rate in helping families escape homelessness.
BREAKOUT SESSION SPEAKERS Katlyn Allred
Controller, GPS Dental Katlyn Allred is the controller at GPS Dental (Guided Practice Solutions), a dental service organization that partners with 113 dental offices across the country. A proud graduate of Arkansas State University, Allred is a certified public accountant (CPA) who is committed to mentoring young leaders and giving back to the A-State Center for Leadership Excellence, where she was a member of the inaugural class of interns in 2016. She currently serves on the CLE board.
Roshawntae Boone
Staff Auditor, Arvest Bank Roshawntae Boone is a business professional with a background in banking and auditing. She earned her Bachelor of Science in business administration from Arkansas State University in 2018 and began her career in retail banking, where she spent six years developing expertise in financial services and customer relations. She currently works in internal audit at Arvest Bank. Boone is also pursuing a Master of Accounting, reflecting her commitment to continuous learning and professional growth. She currently resides in the Dallas–Fort Worth area and is passionate about making a meaningful impact through leadership, mentorship, and service.
BREAKOUT SESSION SPEAKERS Olivia Huey Pennington
Project Buyer, Designed Conveyor Systems Olivia Pennington is a project buyer at Designed Conveyor Systems (DCS), specializing in procurement, supplier management, and process optimization. A proud A-State alumna with degrees in business administration and finance, she is a former Women's Leadership Intern and current advisory board member for the Center for Leadership Excellence. Pennington is passionate about leadership development and empowering the next generation of professionals.
Samantha Risi
Program Manager, Walmart Samantha Risi is a program manager with more than seven years of experience driving global impact at Amazon and currently at Walmart in Bentonville. She believes the best leadership combines integrity, curiosity and operational excellence to solve complex problems and create better experiences. A WLC alumna and current CLE board member, Risi is passionate about mentorship, leadership development and helping others build meaningful careers.
BREAKOUT SESSION SPEAKERS Atin Suri
Chief Executive Officer, Suri Hospitality Group Atin Suri is an award-winning hospitality executive and community leader serving as chief executive officer of Suri Hospitality Group, which owns and operates Comfort Inn Jonesboro Central and Hampton Inn Jonesboro. Beyond hospitality, Suri is actively involved in civic and community leadership. He serves as president of the Jonesboro Young Professionals Network, a member of the board of directors and Goodwill Ambassador for the Jonesboro Regional Chamber of Commerce, advisory board member for the Center for Leadership Excellence, board member of the Delta Symphony Orchestra, talent ambassador for Always Jonesboro, and steering committee member for Plan Jonesboro with the City of Jonesboro. A recipient of the Ed Way Outstanding Young Professional Award, Suri is passionate about connecting people, developing future leaders, creating opportunities, and contributing to the continued growth of Jonesboro and Northeast Arkansas.
BREAKOUT SESSION SPEAKERS Andrea Allen
Executive Director, Delta Center for Economic Development Andrea Allen serves as the executive director of the Arkansas State University Delta Center for Economic Development, where she leads initiatives to strengthen communities across the region. The Delta Center’s mission is to foster economic growth and collaboration by connecting the university’s resources with local, regional and state stakeholders. With more than 25 years of experience spanning local, state and federal government, Allen has built a distinguished career centered on connecting people, ideas and resources to improve lives and enrich communities. From 2011 to 2016, she established and directed three district offices for a U.S. congressman, overseeing constituent services and advancing federal programs throughout the district. Her previous roles include director of family programs at the Army National Guard’s National Training Center, policy director for a gubernatorial campaign, and operations director for one of Arkansas’s fastest-growing municipalities. Earlier in her career, she spent six years on the staff of a U.S. senator, gaining valuable insight into legislative processes and constituent engagement. Allen is the co-founder of both the Arkansas Delta Women’s Leadership Academy, Northeast Arkansas Leadership Accelerator Academy, and NEA Political Animals, organizations dedicated to cultivating civic leadership and community involvement. She has been appointed by the governor as a commissioner on the Arkansas Tobacco Settlement Commission and as a commissioner on the Arkansas Rural Development Commission. Additionally, she serves on the Arkansas Advanced Energy Foundation.
BREAKOUT SESSION SPEAKERS Bevin Hunter
President and Chief Executive Officer, Wynne Economic Development Corporation Bevin Hunter was appointed president and CEO of the Wynne Economic Development Corporation (WEDC) in June 2023. In this role, she leads strategic initiatives to strengthen and expand existing businesses, attract new investment, and position Wynne as a competitive and compelling location for prospective companies. Under her leadership, WEDC launched and administers the Renew Wynne Grant program, an initiative designed to support local businesses in enhancing their exterior facades from signage and storefront improvements to parking lot upgrades, helping elevate the visual appeal and economic vitality of Wynne’s commercial corridors. From 2017 to 2023, Hunter served as director of economic development for the Lawrence Group. During her tenure, she led the development of Wilson AR Works Inc., managed key special projects, and supported city infrastructure priorities. Prior to her work with the Lawrence Group, Hunter spent 14 years with the Delta Regional Authority (DRA), serving in multiple leadership roles. As director of the Washington, D.C., office, she collaborated closely with federal agencies and congressional staff across the region and directed several flagship programs, including the Delta Leadership Institute, the Delta Doctors J-1 Visa Waiver Program, and Innovative Readiness Training missions with the Department of Defense. She also served on the FEMA Economic Recovery Support Function Working Group under the National Disaster Recovery Framework and coordinated major events with federal partners and the White House Rural Council. In addition to these responsibilities, Hunter served as senior advisor to the federal co chairman, chief administrative officer, and acting chief of staff, overseeing agency operations and staff. Her leadership in these roles strengthened organizational performance, federal engagement, and the execution of mission-critical initiatives across the region. A native of Cherry Valley, Hunter now resides in Wynne and remains active in Rotary as a member of the Executive Board, PEO, and other service organizations. She also serves on several statewide and regional boards, including the Arkansas Economic Developers & Chamber Executives Board, the East Arkansas Planning and Development District Board, the Arkansas Women’s Hall of Fame Board, and as president of the Arkansas Community Development Society Board.
BREAKOUT SESSION SPEAKERS Dr. Erika Krennerich Chudy
Vice Chancellor for University Advancement, Arkansas State University Erika Krennerich Chudy provides executive leadership for the university’s comprehensive advancement program, including fundraising, donor relations, alumni engagement, and advancement operations. She is responsible for developing and implementing philanthropic strategies that advance the mission and priorities of Arkansas State University while cultivating meaningful relationships with alumni, donors, friends, corporations, foundations and community partners. Chudy leads fundraising efforts that support both the academic enterprise and Arkansas State Athletics, securing private investment for scholarships, academic programs, capital projects, athletic excellence, and strategic institutional priorities. Working closely with university leadership, and the Arkansas State University System Foundation, she helps foster a culture of philanthropy across campus. She also oversees the Arkansas State University Alumni Association, guiding programs and engagement initiatives that strengthen lifelong connections. As a member of the university’s executive leadership team, Chudy collaborates with the chancellor, provost, and campus leaders to align philanthropic investments and alumni engagement efforts with the institution’s strategic goals and long-term vision. A Jonesboro native and four-time A-State graduate, Chudy is deeply rooted in Northeast Arkansas and has dedicated much of her professional career to public service and leadership. Prior to joining the university, she served in several key roles for Congressman Marion Berry, representing Arkansas’ 1st Congressional District. During her tenure, she worked as a project manager, legislative assistant, district director, and chief of staff, gaining extensive experience in government relations, constituent services, public policy, and organizational leadership. Chudy and her husband, Dustin, owner of Wilco Aviation, are proud parents of a son, Luke. A strong advocate for civic engagement, Chudy served as president of the Rotary Club of Jonesboro in 2023–2024 and was recognized as Rotary District President of the Year. Outside of work, she enjoys spending time with family and friends. While they embrace skiing, kayaking, and other recreational pursuits, Chudy is often happiest with a good book in hand, enjoying the view from the sidelines.
BREAKOUT SESSION SPEAKERS Casey Pearce
Director, External Relations, Marketing & Alumni Relations, New York Institute of Technology College of Osteopathic Medicine at A-State Casey Pearce is the director of external relations and marketing at NYIT College of Osteopathic Medicine at Arkansas State University. Pearce leads all media relations, advertising, civic engagement, and alumni relations for the medical school, which opened in 2016 on the A-State campus. A native of Russellville, Pearce earned his undergraduate degree from A-State in 2003. He then spent 13 years in various communications positions in the National Football League, including stints with the Tennessee Titans, New York Jets, San Diego Chargers, and St. Louis Rams. Upon the Rams’ relocation to Los Angeles in 2016, Pearce returned to Jonesboro to serve on the marketing team at Ritter Communications. He joined NYITCOM in November of 2018. Pearce currently serves as the chair of the board of directors for the Jonesboro Regional Chamber of Commerce and is actively involved in a number of community organizations, including board roles with the Food Bank of Northeast Arkansas and El Centro Hispano. He earned his Accreditation in Public Relations (APR) from the Public Relations Society of America in 2020 and is a former board member for Arkansas PRSA. Casey and his wife Autumn live in Jonesboro with their two children, Cooper (12) and Annie (8).
BREAKOUT SESSION SPEAKERS Lauren Jones, Melanie Ricker, Carolyn Schaaf, and Dr. Philip Tew
Kays Foundation Scarlet to Black Program for Financial Independence (Scarlet to Black) The Kays Foundation Scarlet to Black Program for Financial Independence (Scarlet to Black) is a primarily student-led financial wellness program that strives to empower students with the knowledge and tools to make smart financial decisions and continue through their education journey. Our materials are free, and we are always willing to talk to any group/organization/class about anything under the umbrella of financial wellness. About the speakers: Lauren Jones - Senior middle-level education major from Arkadelphia. Melanie Ricker - Assistant director, Scarlet to Black program. Assistant director, Center for Economic Education and Financial Literacy. Carolyn Schaaf - Second-year financial services major from Little Rock. Dr. Philip Tew - Associate professor of finance. Director of the Scarlet to Black program. Director of the Center for Economic Education and Financial Literacy.
FOUNDERS CIRCLE The Center for Leadership Excellence opened on November 10, 2016. We owe our gratitude to the women in the Founders Circle who made this opening possible with generous contributions of time and resources. Sandy R. Alstadt Cindy Boyle Erika Krennerich Chudy Christy Clark Sharon Davis Nancy Elphingstone Nancy Everitt
Marty Floyd Lisa Sitzer Golden Gail Hudson Marilyn Hummelstein Sharon D. James Patricia Quinn Johnston Rachelle Keller Kathy White Loyd
Karen McDaniel Susan Naylor Beverly Nix Deana Osment Tera Payne Melodie Philhours Charlotte Razer Beth Ashcraft Smith
Barbara Sugg Dianna Way Mary Catherine Way Cari Griffith White Kim Worlow
CENTER CHAMPIONS AND JUNIOR CHAMPIONS We thank our Center Champions and Junior Champions for their generous financial support. Katlyn Allred Shamsa Al-Zadjali Jaren Beavers Roshawntae Boone Erin Calhoun Meghan Cantara Tori Carmack Tina Coots Kimberly Dale
Summer DeProw Jennifer Hannah Nanette Heard Melissa Hendricks Karen Heslep Kathryn Hicks Allison Holland Seanna Horne Olivia Huey
Thomasina Huggins Georgina Bautista Jett Cherisse Jones-Branch Catrina Lucio Lisa Melton Laura Newth Beverly Parker Kim Pierce Mary Beth Piorkowski
Carrie Quraishi Samantha Risi Ahad Sanjrani Virginia Shackelford Sherry Stringer Elizabeth Wakefield Theressa Walker Colette Vaughn Stephanie Ziller
We also thank our army of mentors and volunteers who have given their time and energy to our students. A special thanks goes to Sandy Alstadt (2024 Mentor of the Year), Sharon Davis (2025 Mentor of the Year), and Cindy Boyle (2026 Mentor of the Year) and the CLE Advisory Board, chaired by Sandy Alstadt, for their unwavering support.
LEADERSHIP INTERNS The Center for Leadership Excellence is proud of these students at Arkansas State University who were selected to participate in the Step Up, Reach Back program for 2025-26. JONESBORO Mellina Jannah Abdoulaye Harouna Pranika Adhikari Lily Agee Maliha Razvi Ali Andres Gustavo Ambriz Gudiel Emily Anguiano Josh Bands Hailey Beasley Shradha Bhatta Hemanta Bhattarai Meenaz Bhimani Gianni Bunton Karla Caraway Neha Chillukamari Katlynn Craig Danielle David Mary Dean Alissa DeLong Chelsea Diaz Mackenzie Dunbar Tran Duong Alexiz Edwards Purevlkham Enkhtur Kaneisha Finch Shye Fischer Morgan Foster Dhanraj Gaddam Muskan Gaha Barsha Gahatraj Geetansh Garg Ryleigh Gaston Hailey Glueck Pauline Gonzalez
Emily Grommet Samantha Hammaker Asa Hendrix Tara Henry Emma Hernandez Maci Hollis Mia Huch Gwendolyn Hutton Maria Jasso Alexandria Jenkins Amaris Jenkins Veronika Jergenson Madison Jones Haley Jordan Varshitha Kacham Kamana Kafle Aayushi Kafle Sravya Kasireddy Binita Katuwal Manroop Kaur Simranjit Kaur Sharnpreet Kaur Sakshi Kaura Saudamini Khanal Nikita Lama Madison Lewis Dante Lopez Prisha Malla Patricia Malunga Lauren Maness Natalie Mason Aswitha Mathukumalli Tianna Matthews Amouria Maufas Liam Mcgregor
Mani Megla Agnes Mensah Nikas Moktan MD Mahamudun Nabi Fahemah Nambafu Brianna Nava Fnu Neha Kadan Newson Thu Nguyen Binh Nguyen Ca Nguyen Biplab Ojha Faith Omowonuola Alisha Poudel Md Motinur Rahman Samita Rana Magar Sangeetha Saravanan Pradeep Sharma Sobita Singh Divyaranjan Singh Anna Slatton Mariam Sow Sarah Stahl Kaylee Stout Arati Subedi Sachita Thapa Sumi Thapa Magar Anecia Tucker Raji Uprety Asuman Waganiala Rachel Washam Mariah Watson Madison Wintizer Abby Wire Sara Woolard
We are very grateful to the many mentors and volunteers who made the program successful this year! If you are interested in becoming a leadership intern, ambassador or mentor for the CLE, please visit AState.edu/CLE or e-mail CLE@AState.edu
Congratulations to all of the CLE Leadership Interns! - Neil Griffin College of Business
Congratulations to the Leadership Interns of the Center for Leadership Excellence. We are proud of you! - Encore Consulting Group
Boyle Consulting Congratulations to the Leadership Interns on a decade of impact in the Center for Leadership Excellence! - Boyle Consulting
Thank you to our wonderful sponsors, supporters and committee members PARTNER-LEVEL SPONSORSHIP
Boyle Consulting CHAMPION-LEVEL SPONSORSHIP
Griffin Graduate Programs
STORYTELLING-LEVEL SPONSORSHIP
BENEFACTOR-LEVEL SPONSORSHIP
Access & Institutional Engagement
FRIEND-LEVEL SPONSORSHIP
Thank you to our wonderful sponsors, supporters and committee members A special thank you to the Chancellor's Office, President Todd Shields, Interim Chancellor Calvin White, Jr., and Vice Chancellor Heather Nelson for their unwavering support for the Center for Leadership Excellence, our students, and this conference. We are grateful for the leadership at A-State! Thank you to our conference committee members and advisory board for all of your work.
COMMITTEE MEMBERS Juliana Alcantara Lindsay Burnett Dr. Erika Krennerich Chudy Gwennette Confer Sheena Gammon Ravan Gaston Caiden Hinkle
J Jagriti Dr. Patricia Quinn Johnston Dr. David Kern Dr. Steve Leslie Dr. Jim McGinnis Laura Miller Shivani Payyavula
Dr. Melodie Philhours Dr. Paula Ruby Kerry Tew Himani Vidhani Madison Weeks
Christy Clark Gwennette Confer Director Sharon Davis Ravan Gaston (Advancement) Dr. Veronica Guinn Dr. Patricia Quinn Johnston Executive Director
Amouria Maufas Daniel McAdoo Olivia Huey Pennington Mary Beth Piorkowski Samantha Risi Atin Suri Sumi Thapa Magar
ADVISORY BOARD Sandy Alstadt Chair Dr. Kathy White Loyd Founding Director Katlyn Allred Roshawntae Boone Cindy Boyle Vice Chair Dr. Erika Krennerich Chudy (Advancement)
Thank you to University Marketing and Communications staff for their remarkable work on this conference throughout all 10 years of our history. Thank you to Chris Bahn and Natalie Mason, C. Bahn Strategic Partners, and The Polish Agency for their creativity and passion for this 2026 10-year anniversary project. Thank you to our door prize donors: Dr. David Kern, McAdams-Frierson Chair of Bank Management, A-State Research and Technology Transfer, A-State Graduate School, and the Center for Leadership Excellence.
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A R K A N S A S S TAT E U N I V E R S I T Y
The Center for Leadership Excellence is committed to cultivating confident and capable leaders setting and achieving high goals on their paths to college and careers.
For more information, see AState.edu/CLE or email us at CLE@AState.edu
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