WOMEN WHO LEAD
A shared commitment to leadership, service, and community defines these remarkable women.
Leadership in the law is defined by how you treat people. ~ Ashleigh Buckley
FAMILY: Husband, William; sons, Will and Ben HOMETOWN: Pocola, Oklahoma & Fort Smith, Arkansas
EDUCATION: Southside High School, Fort Smith; B.A. in Political Science, University of Arkansas Honors College; Juris Doctorate, University of Arkansas School of Law
ASHLEIGH'S FAVORITES • RESTAURANT: Anthony’s Italian Restaurant MUSIC: George Strait and Bob Dylan TV SERIES: The Marvelous Mrs. Maisel TRIP: Disney World
WOMEN WHO LEAD
ASHLEIGH BUCKLEY
PARTNER ATTORNEY AT THE BUCKLEY FIRM
Raised in the small town of Pocola, where days were spent riding horses until dark, Ashleigh learned early the values of hard work, resilience, and responsibility. Shaped by two very different grandfathers—one a self-taught mathematician, the other a true cowboy—she carries both discipline and grit into her legal career. What began as an interest in theater evolved into a passion for the courtroom, where storytelling and preparation matter just as much as performance. Today, her work is driven by a deep commitment to justice, particularly for women and children. "What I love most about my work is having the ability to help people when they feel unheard or powerless," she says.
WHEN DID YOU BEGIN TO SEE YOURSELF AS A LEADER, RATHER THAN SIMPLY SOMEONE DOING A JOB?
In 2017, I was asked to serve as President of the Junior League of Fort Smith. I had always seen myself as a workhorse, not a leader. Being trusted with that role instilled confidence and sparked a desire to further develop my leadership skills.
WHAT HAS IT BEEN LIKE BUILDING A LAW PRACTICE?
Law school teaches you how to think like a lawyer, not how to run a business. My husband and I learned payroll, accounting, policies, taxes, and marketing. Building our firm together is one of my proudest accomplishments as it reflects our shared values and commitment to our clients.
WHAT DEFINES LEADERSHIP IN THE COURTROOM, AND WHAT MATTERS MOST IN A JUDGE?
Leadership in the law is defined by how you treat people; being prepared, listening carefully, treating everyone with dignity, and making decisions rooted in the law and facts. Diligence, fairness, engagement, and experience are essential, because judges must safeguard the integrity of the justice system, ensuring that every person who enters the courtroom leaves knowing the process was fair.
WHAT MOTIVATED YOUR DECISION TO RUN FOR CIRCUIT COURT JUDGE?
I’ve seen firsthand how deeply court decisions affect lives. I believe courts function best when judges are prepared, impartial, and grounded in courtroom experience. Serving as Circuit Judge is an opportunity to strengthen public trust and ensure fairness remains central to the process.
HOW HAS YOUR EXPERIENCE AS AN ATTORNEY PREPARED YOU FOR THE BENCH?
Over the past 16 years, I’ve served as a prosecutor, defense attorney, federal prosecutor, and civil litigator. That breadth has given me a balanced perspective and a deep understanding of how decisions impact all sides of the courtroom.
WHAT HELPS YOU STAY GROUNDED DURING DEMANDING SEASONS?
My faith, my family, and horses. Prayer and church keep me centered, my husband and sons are my biggest supporters, and riding reminds me who I am—most at home in boots, not a suit.
WHAT HAVE YOU LEARNED ABOUT YOURSELF THROUGH LEADERSHIP AND PUBLIC SERVICE?
I have good instincts and trusting them matters. Preparation, careful listening, and confident decision making are essential when the weight of those decisions truly matters.
This work felt less like a career move and more like a calling. ~ Melissa Curry
FAMILY: Husband, Todd; daughters, MeKale Stermetz and Bennett Teeter; son, Duncan Curry; 8 grandchildren HOMETOWN: Fort Smith, Arkansas
EDUCATION: Advanced Dementia Practitioner, Johns Hopkins – Copper Ridge Institute
WOMEN WHO LEAD
MELISSA CURRY
CEO, METHODIST VILLAGE SENIOR LIVING
Melissa Curry grew up in the River Valley in a home where faith, hard work, and responsibility were simply part of everyday life. Leadership was lived through showing up, caring for others, and doing what needed to be done. Influenced deeply by her family, especially her grandmother, Melissa learned early the value of integrity, gratitude, and stewardship. Personal experiences with Alzheimer’s and dementia within her own family further shaped her calling to lead with compassion, dignity, and grace. “I believe this work is a way God allows me to serve others with empathy born from experience,” she says, a belief that continues to guide how she leads and serves.
WAS THERE AN EARLY INFLUENCE THAT QUIETLY SHAPED THE PATH YOU’RE ON TODAY?
My grandmother influenced every part of who I am. She only went through the fifth grade and grew up very poor, but she was rich in wisdom and faith. She taught me how to whistle, the names of plants and trees, how to cook and sew. She taught me the importance of working with your hands, keeping your word, and finding joy and gratitude no matter the circumstance.
IS THERE AN EXPERIENCE THAT EXPLAINS WHY YOUR WORK IS SO PERSONAL?
Alzheimer’s and dementia have touched my family in very personal ways, my grandmother, and most recently through my father. Watching someone strong and independent struggle with fear and vulnerability changes you. It strengthened my resolve to lead with dignity, compassion, and grace, and to create spaces where people are honored for who they are.
WHAT PART OF YOUR LIFE OUTSIDE OF WORK MOST INFLUENCES HOW YOU LEAD?
Motherhood. Raising children taught me that fairness doesn’t mean treating everyone the same, but understanding what each person truly needs.
home, health, and sense of dignity. While financial responsibility matters, compassion and community must always guide the process.
WHAT HAVE RESIDENTS TAUGHT YOU ABOUT LEADERSHIP?
They’ve taught me to slow down and notice beauty, laughter, and connection. Leadership isn’t about checking boxes; it’s about honoring the people right in front of you.
WHERE DO YOU FEEL MOST LIKE YOURSELF?
When I’m with our residents; whether we are talking, laughing, playing poker, or painting our nails. In those moments, the worries of the day just fade away, and I’m reminded of why this work matters.
WHAT ADVICE WOULD YOU GIVE TO WOMEN STEPPING INTO LEADERSHIP ROLES?
Trust the path God has placed before you. Leadership can be lonely at times. Don’t let the opinions of others hinder what God has led you to do. Lead with humility, courage, and grace, stay rooted in your faith and values, and remember that your compassion and strength are gifts not weaknesses.
WHAT’S SOMETHING YOU’VE GROWN INTO VALUING MORE OVER TIME?
MELISSA'S FAVORITES • RESTAURANT: Uncork’d MUSIC: A cappella, especially Straight No Chaser MOVIE: Pride and Prejudice TRIP: Cliffs of Moher, Ireland
HOW DOES LEADING IN SENIOR LIVING DIFFER FROM MORE TRADITIONAL EXECUTIVE ROLES?
Senior living leadership is deeply relational. Decisions affect someone’s
Time. It’s precious, and once it’s spent, it can’t be replaced. I value time with family and the importance of keeping your word. Those are gifts from God.
Every trip represents meaningful moments you don’t get back. ~ Pam Kelly
FAMILY: Husband, Dr. James E. Kelly III
HOMETOWN: Fort Smith, Arkansas
EDUCATION: B.S. in Science, University of Arkansas; MBA, Colorado State University
WOMEN WHO LEAD
PAM KELLY
OWNER/ADVISOR KELLY CO TRAVEL
BY DREAM VACATIONS
Pam Kelly grew up in Fort Smith in a household where routine, responsibility, and faith shaped everyday life. Quiet as a child, she found her confidence over time, influenced deeply by an aunt who modeled grace, forgiveness, and unconditional love. Life’s challenges and personal loss reinforced Pam’s belief that work is a reflection of character and that choices matter beyond oneself. That perspective led her to open Kelly Co Travel by Dream Vacations, blending her business background with a lifelong love of travel. “Travel forces you to step outside what feels familiar,” Pam says. Today, she guides clients through thoughtful, stress-free travel planning so they can focus on making memories.
WAS THERE AN EARLY INFLUENCE THAT QUIETLY SHAPED THE PATH YOU’RE ON TODAY?
My aunt was the greatest influence in my life. She embodied grace, strength, and unconditional love. She taught me to forgive, to love without harboring resentment, and to lead with kindness, lessons that continue to shape both my personal life and the way I work with others.
IS THERE A PERSONAL EXPERIENCE THAT HELPS EXPLAIN WHY YOUR WORK MATTERS TO YOU?
My father worked hard, taking on extra jobs to provide opportunities for us. By the age of twenty-five, I had lost both of my parents, and I was responsible for shaping my own future. That same work ethic ultimately led me to start my travel agency, using something I love to help others travel with confidence while I manage the details.
WHAT PART OF YOUR LIFE OUTSIDE OF WORK MOST INFLUENCES HOW YOU LEAD?
Personal challenges and adversity. They’ve taught me resilience, compassion, and the importance of staying calm and steady, especially when others are relying on you.
of others what you’re unwilling to do yourself, learning from mistakes, loving unconditionally, avoiding judgment, and remembering God comes first.
HOW HAS FAMILY SHAPED YOUR PRIORITIES OR PERSPECTIVE?
Losing my parents at a young age gave me a deep appreciation for time spent together. That perspective carries into my work; travel is about experiences and moments you don’t get back.
HOW DO YOU APPROACH PLANNING TRIPS WHEN CLIENTS FEEL OVERWHELMED OR UNSURE WHERE TO START?
I start by listening. Travel planning can feel intimidating, so my role is to simplify the process, anticipate details clients may not think about, and guide them with clarity and care. When people feel supported, the experience becomes enjoyable long before the trip begins.
WHAT RESPONSIBILITY DO YOU FEEL WHEN PEOPLE TRUST YOU WITH THEIR TRAVEL PLANS?
PAM'S FAVORITES • RESTAURANT: Piatto MUSIC: Country, George Strait TV SERIES: Everybody Loves Raymond TRIPS: Scotland & Ireland
WHAT VALUES WERE MODELED FOR YOU EARLY ON THAT STILL GUIDE YOU TODAY?
Respect for our elders, never asking
Every trip represents a meaningful moment, often tied to celebrations or once-in-a-lifetime experiences. My responsibility is to plan thoughtfully, communicate clearly, and remove as much stress as possible so clients can enjoy the journey.
Leadership isn’t about a title. It’s about responsibility, collaboration, and caring deeply about the people you serve. ~ Jennifer Moore
FAMILY: Husband, Ken; children, Taylor, Jason, and Micha HOMETOWN: Fort Smith, Arkansas
EDUCATION: PhD and MA in Occupational Therapy, Texas Woman’s University; B.S. in Occupational Therapy, University of Central Arkansas
WOMEN WHO LEAD
JENNIFER MOORE, PhD
FOUNDING DEAN, SCHOOL OF OCCUPATIONAL THERAPY ARKANSAS COLLEGES OF HEALTH EDUCATION
Jennifer Moore leads with a steady belief in purpose, creativity, and connection, values shaped by watching the people around her show up with consistency and care. Her work in occupational therapy and education is grounded in the idea that meaningful participation, inclusion, and dignity matter at every stage of life. Whether mentoring future practitioners or creating spaces where individuals feel valued and supported, Jennifer’s leadership centers on meeting people where they are. “It matters to help someone not just get by, but keep doing the things that make life worth living,” she says. That perspective continues to guide how she teaches, leads, and advocates for others.
WHEN DID YOU BEGIN TO SEE YOURSELF AS A LEADER?
I began to see myself as a leader when I realized leadership wasn’t about a title, but more so about responsibility and collaboration—it's bringing people together around a shared goal and caring deeply about both the work and the people involved.
WHAT LED YOU INTO LEADERSHIP IN HEALTHCARE EDUCATION?
While I did not pursue it, I was given opportunities by people who believed in me, and I’m grateful for that trust. I truly enjoy serving others and watching the people I work with accomplish meaningful things.
HOW HAS MENTORSHIP INFLUENCED YOUR CAREER?
My parents and sister were my first mentors. Through their actions and guidance, they taught me how to work hard, enjoy life, treat people with respect, serve others, and remain resilient when life gets tough. Those lessons continue to shape how I lead, teach, and show up for the people I work with every day.
WHAT EXCITES YOU ABOUT THE FUTURE OF OCCUPATIONAL THERAPY?
JENNIFER'S FAVORITES • RESTAURANT: Crawpappy’s Cajun
Cuisine MUSIC: Classic Rock and Motown MOVIE: Remember the Titans TRIP: New Orleans
The next generation entering the profession; their creativity, energy, and willingness to think differently are incredibly encouraging. They challenge
systems, speak up for their clients, and imagine better ways to deliver care. OT is rooted in problem solving and innovation, and today’s students bring fresh perspectives and a strong desire to advocate for meaningful change.
WHAT ADVICE WOULD YOU GIVE TO FUTURE EDUCATORS?
Choose education because you are passionate and sincere about mentoring students and advancing our profession. Teaching requires a lot of flexibility, preparation, creativity, and emotional energy. Remember your “why,” especially when the work feels challenging.
WHAT LEGACY DO YOU HOPE TO LEAVE AT ACHE?
I hope my legacy reflects why we built this program. Watching my father navigate life with COPD showed me how meaningful care can preserve dignity, purpose, and independence. That experience shaped my belief in preparing therapists who see people before diagnoses. I want our graduates to be compassionate, capable practitioners who make a real difference, especially in rural and under-resourced communities.
WHAT ENERGIZES YOU OUTSIDE OF WORK?
Spending time with people. Being outdoors, swimming, or taking walks also helps clear my mind. Some of my favorite days begin with my husband saying, “Let’s go for a drive and see where we end up.”
Women Women WHO LEAD CELEBRATING
We are proud to celebrate the women who lead at ACHE visionaries, mentors, and changemakers who inspire progress every day. Their leadership strengthens our mission, shapes our culture, and drives meaningful impact across our organization. Today, we recognize their achievements and thank them for leading with purpose, integrity, and heart.
Leadership isn’t just about high standards, it’s about bringing people with you. ~ Beth Presley
FAMILY: Husband, Darryl; children, MaKenzie and Camryn HOMETOWN: Born in Fort Huachuca, Arizona; formative years in Springfield, Missouri; Fort Smith, Arkansas for the past 30 years
EDUCATION: B.S. in Education, William Woods College/ Missouri State University; M.S. in Kinesiology, University of Illinois at Urbana–Champaign; Ed.D. in Workforce Development (ABD), University of Arkansas, doctoral coursework
BETH'S FAVORITES • RESTAURANT: Rolando’s MUSIC: ’80s rock, especially Bon Jovi, I’ve seen them 11 times MOVIE: The Lost Boys TRIPS: London, Amsterdam, Oxford
WOMEN WHO LEAD
BETH PRESLEY
CEO, FORT SMITH BOYS & GIRLS CLUBS
Growing up in a military family meant home was always changing for Beth Presley, with childhood shaped by moves across the country and overseas, she learned how to adapt quickly and confidently connect with others. Influenced by mentors who emphasized teamwork and leading with heart, Beth developed an early belief in service and advocacy. From organizing fundraisers as a child to championing causes she believes in today, she has long understood the power of people coming together. “I’ve always believed that when people are given the opportunity to help, they rise to the occasion,” Beth says, a belief that guides her as CEO of Fort Smith Boys & Girls Clubs.
HOW HAS YOUR UNDERSTANDING OF LEADERSHIP EVOLVED OVER TIME?
I am driven and competitive, and I care deeply about doing things well. With experience, I came to understand that leadership isn’t just about setting high standards, but about bringing people along with you.
WHAT DREW YOU TO NONPROFIT LEADERSHIP?
I’ve always enjoyed working with people and helping tell stories that matter. During college, I helped lead a fundraising phonathon and saw firsthand how sharing personal experiences could inspire others to give. That experience confirmed how meaningful it can be to invite people to invest in a cause, and it ultimately led me toward nonprofit leadership.
HOW DO YOU DEFINE SUCCESS?
In youth-focused nonprofit work, results aren’t always immediate. Success shows up in relationships built, in confidence gained, and in opportunities created. When kids return years later and share their stories, you realize the impact was there all along.
HOW DO YOU ADVOCATE FOR CAUSES THAT DON’T ALWAYS HAVE LOUD VOICES?
It starts with storytelling. Real stories put faces to the need and help people understand why investment matters.
Advocacy means building relationships, educating the decision-makers, and staying consistent. Sometimes the most effective advocacy isn’t loud, it’s steady.
WHAT MOMENTS HAVE AFFIRMED YOU’RE IN THE RIGHT ROLE?
When the CEO position opened, everything in my career aligned. With experience across nonprofits, athletics, and banking, stepping into the role felt like a natural next step and affirmed I was where I was meant to be.
WHAT LEADERSHIP LESSONS HAVE COME DIRECTLY FROM THE KIDS YOU SERVE?
They remind me that every child’s story is different and success looks different for everyone. Every child needs someone to listen, believe in them, and tell them they matter. Honestly, that’s something we all need.
WHAT KEEPS YOU HOPEFUL ON HARD DAYS?
The kids. I’m also grounded by my family, our staff, and the supporters who believe in this mission. On difficult days, I remind myself that consistency and care can change a life.
WHAT ADVICE WOULD YOU GIVE TO FUTURE NONPROFIT LEADERS?
Find your passion, then build a team that believes in the mission. Nonprofit leadership isn’t about doing everything yourself. When passion, teamwork, and purpose align, real impact follows.
Strong Girls Become Strong Women
We help girls discover their strength early — so they can carry it for a lifetime.
The Fort Smith Boys & Girls Clubs provide safe, supportive spaces where girls can grow, learn, and discover who they are.
Through programs like Smart Girls, POM Squad, STEAM exploration, Adventure Club, and Athletics, girls build confidence, develop leadership skills, and discover their strengths — growing into young women ready to lead in their families, careers, and communities.
My role is to help people understand their finances, not feel intimidated by them. ~Melanie Radcliff
HOMETOWN: Fort Smith, Arkansas
EDUCATION: B.S. in Accounting, Arkansas State University
MELANIE'S FAVORITES • RESTAURANT: Rolando’s MUSIC: Classic Rock MOVIE: Baby Boom TRIP: Banff, Canada
Melanie Radcliff CPA/PFS is registered with, and securities are offered through Kovack Securities, Inc. Member FINRA/SIPC. 6451 North Federal Hwy, Suite 1201, Fort Lauderdale, FL 33308, 954.782.4771. Investment Advisory services are offered through Kovack Advisors, Inc. Old Fort Wealth Management and Hack Your Tax are not affiliated with Kovack Securities, Inc. or Kovack Advisors, Inc.
WOMEN WHO LEAD
MELANIE RADCLIFF
FINANCIAL ADVISOR/CPA; FOUNDER & PRINCIPAL OLD FORT WEALTH MANAGEMENT AND HACK YOUR TAX
Melanie Radcliff didn’t grow up imagining a career in financial services, but life has a way of steering people toward the work they’re meant to do. Raised in Fort Smith, she learned early what it felt like to live with financial uncertainty, an experience that later fueled her determination to understand money rather than fear it. After starting over more than once, she built her own firm with a clear philosophy: education first, relationships always. Today, Melanie approaches finance with equal parts precision and empathy, helping clients replace stress with confidence. “Money doesn’t have to be scary,” she said. “When you understand what’s happening and why, everything changes.”
WHAT DO PEOPLE MISUNDERSTAND MOST ABOUT WORKING WITH A FINANCIAL PROFESSIONAL?
Many people assume it’s about selling products or chasing numbers, when it should really be about education and trust. My role isn’t to talk at clients, but to help them understand what’s happening, why it matters, and how decisions today affect their future. Finance doesn’t have to feel intimidating when it’s approached with transparency, strategy, and care.
HOW DO YOU EARN TRUST IN A FIELD WHERE PEOPLE OFTEN FEEL VULNERABLE OR OVERWHELMED?
By listening first. People come in carrying stress, fear, or past experiences that didn’t go well. I focus on meeting them where they are, explaining the why behind recommendations, and making sure they feel informed rather than rushed. Trust grows when people feel seen and understood.
WHAT MISCONCEPTIONS DO PEOPLE HAVE ABOUT TAXES OR WEALTH MANAGEMENT?
Many people view taxes as something to deal with once a year, rather than an ongoing part of a bigger strategy. Wealth management works best when planning, taxes, and long-term goals are connected. When those pieces work together, people feel more in control and less reactive.
WHAT LEADERSHIP LESSON HAS SURPRISED YOU THE MOST AS YOUR BUSINESS HAS GROWN?
That systems are just as important as people. Early on, you rely heavily on hustle and personality. As you grow, structure allows both your team and your clients to thrive consistently. Good systems create space for better relationships and allow advisors to focus on people, not paperwork.
WHAT PART OF YOUR WORK BRINGS YOU THE MOST FULFILLMENT?
Taking fear away. When someone walks in overwhelmed and leaves feeling confident and clear, that shift is incredibly rewarding. Helping people feel calm and informed never gets old.
WHAT DO YOU DO TO RESET WHEN WORK GETS INTENSE?
Honestly, I head to Home Depot. There’s something therapeutic about working with power tools and building things. Using my hands clears my head and helps me reset.
WHAT’S A TRAIT YOU’VE GROWN INTO APPRECIATING ABOUT YOURSELF OVER TIME?
Persistence. I used to see it as stubbornness, but now I recognize it as resilience. I don’t quit easily, and that’s helped me keep going when starting over felt overwhelming.
ENJOY WHAT YOU SAVE!
You’ve worked hard for your money and saved diligently for a secure retirement. But have you taken the most important step? Too many people faithfully build a nest egg only to give too much of their retirement savings back in taxes. At Old Fort Wealth Management, we believe clients should enjoy what they’ve saved to the fullest. Our process, THE TAX NAV SYSTEM, creates a GPS-like roadmap to position your resources to navigate a better route and potentially minimize taxes. It may give you more security and enjoyment in retirement, plus smarter legacy planning for your future.
With many substantial changes to the tax code right around the corner, there’s never been a better time to discover the Old Fort difference. Schedule your consultation today!
OUR MISSION:
• Set the standard for meaningful client-advisor connection.
• Provide tools to help accumulate wealth, while potentially saving on taxes.
• Guide you as you navigate the future with confidence, both today and tomorrow.
Melanie Radcliff CPA/PFS - Financial Advisor
Leadership often shows up through service and a willingness to help others grow.
~ Molly Radhakrishnan
FAMILY: Husband, Dr. Muthukumar Radhakrishnan; children, Ethan, Elliot, Emelia, and Eli HOMETOWN: Fort Smith, Arkansas
EDUCATION: B.S., Cardiorespiratory Care, UAMS
MOLLY’S FAVORITES • RESTAURANT: Las Americas TV SERIES: This is Us PRINCIPLE: Stewardship TRIP: Iceland
WOMEN WHO LEAD
MOLLY RADHAKRISHNAN
EXECUTIVE BROKER, THE HERITAGE GROUP REAL ESTATE CO.
Molly Radhakrishnan grew up in a community where family, faith, and service were part of everyday life. Watching her parents and church community lead with consistency and care shaped how she connects with people today. Before entering real estate, Molly spent several years working in healthcare, an experience that continues to influence her approach to advocacy, communication, and problem-solving. She brings a strong sense of structure and reliability into her work, believing clients deserve clarity and followthrough. Family remains central to how she defines success, grounding her professional goals in values that emphasize presence, integrity, and service.
WHEN DID YOU BEGIN TO SEE YOURSELF AS A LEADER?
I never set out to be a leader by title. Through mentorship and support roles in healthcare, and now as a broker, I realized leadership often shows up through service and a willingness to help others grow.
WHAT INITIALLY DREW YOU TO REAL ESTATE?
I have always really enjoyed following market trends, open houses, and how communities evolve. What keeps me passionate is helping people navigate major life transitions with confidence, clarity, and informed guidance.
HOW WOULD YOU DESCRIBE YOUR LEADERSHIP STYLE?
My leadership style is collaborative, communicative, and very adaptable.
I believe strong outcomes come from clear communication, openness to change, and mutual respect.
WHAT DOES “BOOTS ON THE GROUND” MEAN TO YOU IN THE CONTEXT OF SERVING YOUR CLIENTS AND COMMUNITY?
To me, it means being fully present, proactive, and accessible. It is about stepping in and filling gaps. That includes attending inspections, meeting vendors, checking on properties, and handling time-sensitive details on a client’s behalf. It also means staying deeply connected to the community, continually learning, and sharing that knowledge to provide real value.
HOW HAS WORKING ACROSS MULTIPLE MARKETS SHAPED YOUR CLIENT GUIDANCE?
It provides broader perspective, stronger data insight, and adaptability. It allows me to help clients compare options and make informed decisions aligned with their goals.
WHAT RESPONSIBILITY COMES WITH GUIDING CLIENTS' MAJOR DECISIONS?
It requires honesty, patience, and discernment. Sometimes the best guidance is helping clients pause or pivot when a decision doesn’t align with their long-term goals.
WHAT’S SOMETHING ABOUT YOUR WORK THAT MIGHT SURPRISE PEOPLE?
The amount of time I spend educating, listening, and guiding rather than selling often surprises people. Relationship building matters just as much, if not more, than the transaction itself.
WHAT HAS LEADERSHIP TAUGHT YOU ABOUT YOURSELF?
I’ve learned to trust my instincts, embrace growth through discomfort, and remain grounded in my values as responsibilities expand.
WHAT ADVICE WOULD YOU OFFER WOMEN CONSIDERING A CAREER IN REAL ESTATE?
Build confidence through education, stay consistent even when progress feels slow, and surround yourself with people who support both your personal and professional growth.
by Molly Radhakrishnan
Leading with empathy instead of judgment changes everything. ~ Emily Treadaway
FAMILY: Husband, Chad; children, Brandon and Alicen
HOMETOWN: Alma, Arkansas
EDUCATION: B.S. in Marketing, University of Arkansas–Fort Smith; Master of Nonprofit Leadership and Management (in progress), Arizona State University
WOMEN WHO LEAD
EMILY TREADAWAY
DIRECTOR, UAFS CENTER FOR NONPROFITS
Emily Treadaway grew up in Alma, Arkansas, surrounded by family, community, and a strong sense of fairness. From a young age, Emily was aware of how inequality and circumstance could shape opportunity, an awareness that gradually guided her toward a life rooted in service and advocacy. Experiences within her own family deepened that perspective and reinforced the importance of empathy and understanding. Guided by faith and a strong work ethic, she brings compassion and purpose to her leadership. “Where I’m at today is really the culmination of many experiences that encouraged me to use my voice and influence to help others,” she says.
HOW DO YOU SUPPORT NONPROFIT LEADERS WITHOUT LEADING FOR THEM?
I see my role as a connector. My job is to help leaders build relationships with one another and with the resources they need to succeed. It may be organizing trainings, hosting workshops, or creating space for collaboration. The most rewarding part is watching leaders solve problems together and strengthen their organizations.
WHAT DOES IT TAKE FOR NONPROFIT LEADERSHIP TO BE EFFECTIVE LONG TERM?
Sustainability starts with planning. Leaders benefit from clear goals, a strong financial foundation, and contingency plans for change. Long-term success also requires adaptability and collaboration. Nonprofits don’t operate in isolation, and shared solutions often lead to the greatest impact.
WHAT ADVICE WOULD YOU GIVE NONPROFIT LEADERS JUST STARTING OUT?
Clarify your mission and explain it simply. Take a close look at your board and make sure they are engaged and supportive. Most importantly, build relationships. Nonprofit work thrives on connection, and partnerships are essential for growth.
WHAT PART OF YOUR WORK FEELS MOST MEANINGFUL TO YOU?
EMILY'S FAVORITES • RESTAURANT: R&R Curry MUSIC: Queen MOVIE: Serenity (2005) TRIP: Ireland
Making connections that matter. When I can introduce a nonprofit to a resource they didn’t know existed
and it truly helps them move forward, that’s incredibly rewarding. Recently, I connected a nonprofit with a local consultant who provided free grant services, and I was just as excited for them as if I had won the grant myself.
WHAT PERSONAL EXPERIENCES SHAPE HOW YOU LEAD?
I’ve had so many experiences I could write a book. At the root of everything for me is family. I’ve seen loved ones struggle with addiction, disability, foster care, and poverty, and those experiences remind me to lead with empathy instead of judgment. Everyone is someone’s mother, brother, aunt or cousin and I try to remember that. My faith also guides how I show up for others, encouraging me to lead with love, patience, kindness, and self-control.
HOW HAS YOUR ROLE CHALLENGED OR STRETCHED YOU SO FAR?
Building something new requires patience, trust, and a willingness to listen. I’ve been stretched to think more strategically, balance urgency with sustainability, and stay focused on longterm impact rather than quick wins.
HOW DO YOU RECHARGE AFTER A CHALLENGING DAY?
Spending time with my husband, a good meal, and a hot shower. Sometimes simple routines are exactly what I need to reset and show up ready to do the work again.
Listening is at the heart of good medicine. ~ Merit Turner, MD
FAMILY: Husband, Landon Turner, DPT; son, LJ, daughter, Maeve, daughter due in April HOMETOWN: Fort Smith, Arkansas
EDUCATION: B.S. Science in Psychology and Biology, minor in Chemistry, University of Oklahoma; Doctorate of Medicine, University of Arkansas for Medical Sciences; Residency, Internal Medicine, University of Arkansas for Medical Science
WOMEN WHO LEAD
MERIT TURNER, MD
INTERNAL MEDICINE PHYSICIAN, BAPTIST HEALTH ADULT MEDICINE SPECIALISTS
Growing up in Fort Smith in a busy household with four siblings, Dr. Merit Turner learned early the value of connection, commitment, and showing up for others. While she didn’t always plan to follow in her parents’ footsteps as physicians, watching them build lasting relationships with patients left an impression. Over time, she discovered that listening, continuity, and genuine care were just as important as diagnosis and treatment. Today, Dr. Turner approaches care with curiosity and compassion, focused on understanding the whole person behind the chart. “I want my patients to feel heard, supported, and confident we’re working through things together,” she says—a philosophy that guides her work every day.
WHAT SURPRISED YOU MOST ABOUT BEING A PHYSICIAN ONCE YOU STEPPED INTO THE ROLE?
That it truly is a 24-hour responsibility. Even when I’m home or not on call, I’m still checking labs, vitals, and following my patients’ progress. There’s a constant sense of responsibility, and I take that very seriously. These patients are trusting me with their care, and that commitment doesn’t end when I leave the office.
WHEN DID YOU SEE YOURSELF AS A PHYSICIAN SHAPING LONG-TERM CARE, RATHER THAN SIMPLY TREATING SYMPTOMS?
During residency, I realized how much I valued long-term relationships. I often wondered how patients were doing after seeing them just once in the hospital or a specialty clinic. I wanted to be someone in their corner for the long run, not just during a single episode of care.
HOW DO YOU HELP PATIENTS FEEL HEARD WHEN ANSWERS AREN’T IMMEDIATELY CLEAR?
MERIT'S FAVORITES • RESTAURANT: Pho Vietnam
TV SHOW: Outlander MOVIE: Harry Potter
TRIPS: London & Scotland
I focus on listening. I want patients to share their concerns and ideas and know I’m committed to seeing things through with them. I tell them we’re on the same team. Every patient is someone’s parent, child, sibling, or
spouse. That perspective keeps me grounded and reminds me to care for people the way I’d want my own loved ones treated.
WHAT HELPS YOU MAINTAIN PERSPECTIVE DURING EMOTIONALLY DEMANDING DAYS?
Going home to my family and giving my full attention to my children helps ground me and reminds me why I do this work. It’s important to care deeply for patients, but also to maintain perspective so you can continue showing up fully for each person. Every room holds a different story, and each patient deserves my best, every time.
WHAT MOMENTS HAVE AFFIRMED THAT YOU’RE EXACTLY WHERE YOU’RE MEANT TO BE?
When patients tell me they were referred by a friend or family member, it means everything. That kind of trust is incredibly meaningful.
WHAT’S SOMETHING ABOUT YOU THAT MIGHT SURPRISE PEOPLE?
My husband and I won our honeymoon to Thailand on The Price Is Right. It was unexpected, but it turned into an unforgettable experience we’ll always laugh about. Also, my husband and I rescue animals regularly; 4 dogs, 1 cat and a guinea pig - even the guinea pig is a rescue!