ARKADELPHIA, AR, Oct. 1, 2024: The Arkadelphia Regional Economic Development Alliance and Area Chamber of Commerce is proud to announce the kick-off of Leadership Clark County Class X, presented by Citizens Bank. This year marks the fifteenth anniversary of the program, which continues to bring together individuals from various sectors who are dedicated to the growth and prosperity of Clark County. 

The class began with an orientation retreat held at Iron Mountain Lodge and Marina on September 26th and 27th. During the overnight retreat, participants had the opportunity to get to know one another and strengthen their connections. They attended various sessions covering leadership, communication styles, the history of Clark County, and worked together to determine their class project. 

“The beginning of Class X is particularly significant as we celebrate fifteen years of shaping leaders who are passionate about making a difference in Clark County,” said Shelley Short, President and CEO of the Alliance and Chamber. “We look forward to the impact this group will have, not only through their participation in the program but through their continued contributions to the community.” 

Leadership Clark County is an immersive leadership development initiative led by the Arkadelphia Area Chamber of Commerce to equip participants with the skills, knowledge, and networking opportunities necessary to address the challenges and opportunities of our community. Over the 9-month program, participants will engage in a series of workshops, community projects, and mentorship opportunities, gaining insight into the region’s economic, social, and political landscape.  

Leadership Clark County Class X Members: 

• Lisa Bell, Henderson State University 
• Charley Bonner, Citizens Bank 
• Amber Bailey Brownlee, Henderson State University 
• Samantha Brown, Samantha’s Bakery & Café 
• Brucilla Buford, Twin Rivers Health & Rehabilitation 
• Laura Eckert, Clark County Farm Bureau 
• Jon Fitzgerald, Sodexo – OBU 
• Shea Fogerty, The J.M Smucker Co. 
• Derek Franklin, Bluebird Real Estate 
• Shane Haas, Southern Bancorp 
• Ashely Halcombe, South Central Arkansas Electric Cooperative 
• Brandy Harvell, Southern Bancorp 
• Cutter Jester, KW Jester Logging/Cutway Logging 
• Kristine “Krissy” Kimbro, Arkansas Department of Agriculture Forestry Division 
• Christi Nelson, Baptist Health Medical Center – Arkadelphia Hospice 
• Ashley Nelson, Scott Nelson Construction/Keller Williams 
• Paul Price, The Pentecostal Church 
• Lynette Smith, Baptist Health Medical Center – Arkadelphia 
• Angela Suttle, Suttle Ridge at DeGray 
• Shelley Tucker, South Central Connect 
• Andrea Wagner, Henderson State University 
• Kyuana Wells, Group Living, Inc. 

Special thanks to our sponsors in this endeavor: Citizens Bank, Henderson State University, Southern Bancorp, and Baptist Health Medical Center – Arkadelphia.