ARKANSAS STATE CHAMBER MID-YEAR REPORT a Special Report of the Arkansas State Chamber of Commerce and Associated Industries of Arkansas

2019 CLASS

ARKANSAS ARKANSAS STATE CHAMBER MID-YEAR REPORT A Special Report of the Arkansas State Chamber of Commerce and Associated Industries of Arkansas

SUPPLEMENT TO Arkansas Business VOL. 36 NO. 25, JUNE 24, 2019 STATE EMERGENCY–TO LEARN, KIDS MUST LEARN TO READ By Randy Zook and Gary Newton

True. with letters or Truegroups of letters in an alphabetic writing system. In other words, even if Fifty-nine percent. That’s the percentage of Arkansas students, grades three through 10, you’ve never seen the word, you have the tools to decode it. who did not meet the readiness benchmark for reading on the 2016-17 ACT Aspire. The lightbulb for those of us who learned to read in pre-1980s Arkansas was realizing The good news? It was 61% in 2015-16. that how we learned to read (phonics) was no longer being taught. Most egregiously, The bad news? At the current growth rate, it will take just over 20 years to ensure all teachers have long emerged from our college, university and nontraditional teacher Arkansas students are ready in reading. preparation programs trained in Whole Language instead of Science of Reading/Phonics. In Arkansas’ school districts, reading readiness ranged from 65% at Valley View to 9% Subsequently, most of our children and grandchildren were being taught in a way with at Dollarway. which we are unfamiliar, and therefore we have not been able to help reinforce how they There is hope. Thanks to the advocacy of educators like Audie Alumbaugh, Kim Head were being instructed in school. and Melissa Hannah, supported by dyslexia warriors and thousands of literacy-focused As a result, K-12 has created an entrenched, publicly funded infrastructure around parents and educators, Arkansas’ education leaders are embracing and advancing a culture reading remediation. of reading. Instead of continually kicking the reading can down the road, what if we dedicated the With the passage of Act 416, sponsored by Sen. Alan Clark in the 91st General necessary resources to teach it right the first time? Assembly, any person applying for an elementary education K-6 teaching license or a What if we made an Arkansas Guarantee? special education K-12 teaching license must now successfully pass a stand-alone reading Every student not precluded by intellectual disability will read at grade level. Period. test and multi-subject test as a condition of licensure. It really is this simple: If a child does not learn to read, he/she will not be able to read In short, new teachers must know how to teach the Science of Reading. Additionally, to learn. under the leadership of Gov. Asa Hutchinson and Commissioner Johnny Key, the Arkansas Arkansas currently invests approximately $87,100 for each student’s K-12 journey. Department of Education launched R.I.S.E. (Reading Initiative for Student Excellence) Throw in local and federal sources, and the number is easily $140,000 per student. If our Arkansas. public districts and charters are not guaranteeing the basic building block of education, According to the department’s website, the initiative “encourages a culture of reading why do they even exist? by coordinating a statewide reading campaign with community partners, parents and When the Arkansas high school graduation rate is 87%, but 59% of students are not teachers to establish the importance of reading in homes, schools, and communities.” Also, reading-ready, we are not graduating students ready for K-12, much less college, career or aggressive professional development is being implemented to empower teachers in the community. Science of Reading. Not reading at grade level is an individual, family, community and state economic Here are the two over-simplified methods of reading instruction: development emergency, and it should be addressed with the utmost urgency. Whole Language: a method of teaching children to read at an early age that allows students to select their own reading matter and that emphasizes the use and recognition (Randy Zook is President & CEO of the Arkansas State Chamber of Commerce/ of words in everyday contexts. In other words, if you’ve never seen the word, you have no Associated Industries of Arkansas. He may be reached at rzook@arkansasstatechamber. tools to decode it. com and followed @ARStateChamber. Gary Newton is CEO of Arkansas Learns. He may be Science of Reading/Phonics: a method of teaching people to read by correlating sounds reached at [email protected] and followed @ArkansasLearns.)

2 2019 • LEADERSHIP ARKANSAS CLASS XIII AND ARKANSAS STATE CHAMBER MID-YEAR REPORT Arkansas Business RANDY ZOOK PRESIDENT & CEO ARKANSAS STATE CHAMBER OF COMMERCE/AIA Legislation adopted by the 2019 92nd General Assembly of the Arkansas Legislature • Maximize the impact of economic development efforts and the tools for success will enhance the vitality of the Arkansas business community for years to come. Arkansas with a goal of creating and maintaining a “best-of-class” state economic and workforce Governor Asa Hutchinson said this about the session: “I think I would make the claim development delivery system and to create the tools for the system to be successful that this last legislative session was the GOAT … the greatest of all time.” Our 2019 legislative agenda addressed issues in Arkansas Advantage 2030. We We’ll leave it to historians to rank the sessions, subsequently developed 11 bills and two joint resolutions on the key issues from our but multiple issues that the Arkansas State Chamber agenda and all were adopted. Those bills and resolutions address the following issues: of Commerce/Associated Industries of Arkansas has • Unemployment insurance worked on for more than a decade were adopted. • Taxation For employers, the most significant changes will be a • Workforce quality and education reduction in corporate, individual and unemployment • Transportation and infrastructure insurance taxes, which will provide at least $100 • Ballot initiative process million in savings. • Labor and employment In 2015, the Arkansas State Chamber/AIA • Legal environment commissioned a study, “Arkansas Advantage 2030,” Our work to support Arkansas businesses never stops. Business matters and there which identified four critical areas that Arkansas must is more work to be done. We appreciate the support of our many members’ businesses improve to increase its competitiveness with other throughout Arkansas. We encourage those businesses and organizations that are not states: currently members of the State Chamber or AIA to join our ranks. We will always lead the • Improve worker readiness with a goal of giving effort to secure Arkansas’ future through free enterprise. Arkansas businesses a competitive advantage by having the best trained and educated workforce for the Randy Zook jobs of the future President & CEO of the Arkansas State Chamber of Commerce/Associated Industries • Improve the Arkansas business climate with a goal of moving Arkansas into the best of Arkansas. He may be reached at [email protected] and followed @ (Top 15) ranked states for business climate ARStateChamber • Improve the Arkansas legal climate with a goal of promoting business expansion and economic growth through a more consistent and competitive civil justice system

WE HAVE A MAJOR IMPACT ON ARKANSAS BUSINESS.

rom our students to our faculty, staff and alumni, UCA is home Fto thought and industry leaders who are making a difference in Arkansas and beyond.

UCA Associate General Counsel and Compliance Officer Mindy Mindy Pipkin Pipkin is one of those leaders. Congratulations, Mindy, on your graduation from Leadership Arkansas Class XIII.

Arkansas Business LEADERSHIP ARKANSAS CLASS XIII AND ARKANSAS STATE CHAMBER MID-YEAR REPORT • 2019 3 Congratulations, Victoria, on your completion of TONI LINDSEY STATE CHAMBER OF COMMERCE Leadership Arkansas LEADERSHIP ARKANSAS DIRECTOR

Class XIII. Leadership Arkansas is designed to advance the development of existing and emerging business leaders into a committed, involved and diverse network of We are proud of you! community and economic activists in Arkansas. To date, nearly 700 individuals have completed this outstanding program, representing all types of businesses and industry, as well as educational, nonprofit, governmental and civic organizations. The Leadership Arkansas program examines issues critical to Arkansas, furthers development of leadership skills and provides a foundational background to formulate future opportunities by critically exploring Arkansas’ history, demography and diversities. One of the most rewarding and lasting benefits of Leadership Arkansas is the valuable time participants spend interacting with current leaders from a variety of professions, Victoria Lamb philosophies and locations, representing Arkansas’ Manager of Business Operations Arkansas Electric Cooperatives, Inc. diverse population and geography. Participants also discuss critical regional issues with a statewide perspective, enhancing their ability to work on local solutions while maintaining a statewide outlook. After nine months of intensive study and dialogue, those individuals who successfully complete the program have a comprehensive knowledge and understanding of the complexity of the state and local communities, and are uniquely positioned to make meaningful contributions in the future. 1 Cooperative Way | Little Rock, AR 72209 501-570-2200 | ecark.org Leadership Arkansas graduates have gone on to: • Chair local community projects • Serve on statewide boards and commissions • Volunteer their time • Invest in Arkansas’ local community • Serve as elected officials

There’s no question that Leadership Arkansas graduates help make our state work and grow, but that’s not the only benefit. When they fully participate in the program, they expand their network, their understanding of our state and their skills as leaders. We’re Proud of It’s difficult for a Leadership Arkansas graduate not to be changed as a person after connecting and working closely with others who share the desire for change and solutions. Plus, there’s no better way to get to know the place where you live. Our Leaders Many Leadership Arkansas participants who have lived in Arkansas for years or even decades have been surprised at how much they did not know about our state. Our history, the people, the problems, the solutions were all discovered because those Congrats to Rebekah Fincher for participants made a decision to get involved in the Leadership Arkansas program. We thank Citizens Bank of Batesville, ARcare, Electric Cooperatives of Arkansas, Completing Leadership Arkansas! Entergy Arkansas, Farm Credit Services of Arkansas, Nucor Arkansas, Southwest Power Pool and Walmart Inc. for their generous support of Leadership Arkansas Class XIII. As we prepare for Class XIV, we are seeking individuals to join us in discovering the many facets and needs of our state and take the lead in shaping Arkansas’ future.

Toni Lindsey Leadership Arkansas Director Director of Governmental Affairs State Chamber/AIA

ConwayRegional.org

Rebekah Fincher Chief Administrative Officer Conway Regional Health System

4 2019 • LEADERSHIP ARKANSAS CLASS XIII AND ARKANSAS STATE CHAMBER MID-YEAR REPORT Arkansas Business LEADERSHIP ARKANSAS 2018/ 2019 CLASS XIII SPONSORS UNDERWRITING SPONSOR SESSION I SESSION IV SESSION VIII Class XIII Orientation & Opening Agriculture and Outdoor Life Regional Development Session Dec. 13-14, 2018 - Stuttgart April 24-25, 2019, Fayetteville, Sept. 30 - Oct. 2, 2018, Red Apple Inn, Springdale and Bentonville PRESENTING SPONSOR Heber Springs SESSION V Cox Communications Gar-Bro Manufacturing Company Natural Resources, Defense and Liberty Utilities Industrial Development McKee Foods Corporation SESSION II Jan. 21-22, 2019 - El Dorado and Northwest Arkansas Regional Airport Arkansas’ Education & Workforce Camden Signature Bank of Arkansas STATEWIDE SPONSORS Nov. 1-2, 2018, Batesville Lanxess Solutions Tyson Foods, Inc. FutureFuel Chemical Company Lockheed Martin Missiles & Fire Control SESSION IX SESSION III SESSION VI Planning, Leadership & Graduation Government & Military Economic Development, May 23-24, 2019 - Little Rock November 27-28, 2018 - Little Rock, Infrastructure and Education Centerpoint Energy North Little Rock and Jacksonville Feb. 25-26, 2019 - West Memphis and McGriff Insurance Services AEP Southwestern Electric Power Company Blytheville Reception Governor’s Mansion Southland Casino Racing Nov. 27, 2018 - Little Rock Centerpoint Energy SESSION VII Dover Dixon Horne PLLC Tourism, History and Revitalization Tyson Foods, Inc. March 28-29, 2019 - Hot Springs Wright Lindsey Jennings LLP

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Arkansas Business LEADERSHIP ARKANSAS CLASS XIII AND ARKANSAS STATE CHAMBER MID-YEAR REPORT • 2019 5 6 2019 • LEADERSHIP ARKANSAS CLASS XIII AND ARKANSAS STATE CHAMBER MID-YEAR REPORT Arkansas Business BOB MOUSER 2019 CLASS Vice President GRADUATES Ritter Communications, Inc. ASHTEN ADAMSON MICHAEL GOSWAMI DR. KEEGAN NICHOLS Director of Consumer Marketing Attorney Vice President for Student Affairs Riceland Foods Rose Law Firm Arkansas Tech University

DINA BATES ADRIENNE GRIFFIS JASON ORLICEK Vice President, Products and Education Attorney Senior Vice President/Loan Manager Arkansas Farm Bureau Insurance Dover Dixon Horne, PLLC Signature Bank of Arkansas

DAN BERANEK JORDAN HALE MEREDITH PETTIGREW President, Little Rock Offi ce Director of Government and Community Relations Senior Director McClelland Consulting Engineers University of Arkansas-Fort Smith Mitchell Communications

LEN BLAYLOCK, III BURT HICKS MINDY PIPKIN Owner Sr. Executive Vice President/COO/Corporate Secretary/General Counsel Associate General Counsel/Compliance Offi cer Everette Operations, LLC Encore Bank University of Central Arkansas

DARRELL BOGGS MICHAEL HOGGARD DAWN PRASIFKA CEO Vice President and Controller President and CEO Arkansas811 Citizens Bank Girl Scouts-Diamonds of Arkansas, Oklahoma, Texas

JORDAN BURGESS KENDRA JONES GREGG RATLIFF Associate General Counsel Senior Counsel Director of Development Delta Dental of Arkansas Tyson Foods, Inc. ARcare

COL. TOM CRIMMINS DAVID KELLEY MATT RICKFORD Commander, 189th Air Wing Director, Seams and Market Business Development Offi cer Arkansas Air National Guard Southwest Power Pool Nabholz Construction

CHIP CULPEPPER, II KELSEY KELTON JEANNE ROEPCKE Principal and Chief Creative Offi cer Regional Manager, Community Development Division Environmental and Special Technology Facilitator Mangan Holcomb Partners Arkansas Economic Development Commission Batesville School District

HOLLY CUMMINGS KRISTIN KIRK REGGIE ROSE Human Resources Senior Operations Accountant Vice President/Community Banker Walmart, Inc. Legacy Equipment, LLC Simmons Bank

KERRIE DIAZ CHRIS KNOLLMEYER PAYTON SMITH Vice President of Marketing Director of Purchasing Chief Operating Offi cer Snyder Environmental Ben E. Keith Foods Metro Disaster Specialists

CHASE DUGGER VICTORIA LAMB BILL SOLLEDER President President/CEO Director of Marketing JCD Consulting Services Arkansas Electric Cooperatives, Inc. Visit Hot Springs

BAILEY FAULKNER LAURA LANDREAUX LUKE STORY Executive Director Manager, Business Operations Executive Director Ozark Mission Project, Inc. Entergy Arkansas, Inc. Arkansas Broadcasters Association

REBEKAH FINCHER SARAH LANE NACOLE SWEENEY Chief Administrative Offi cer Senior Vice President/Chief Retail Offi cer Economic Development Director Conway Regional Health System Citizens Bank City of Harrisburg

WILLIAM FLETCHER MARGOT LEMASTER HILARY TRUDELL Executive Vice President/Chief Operating Offi cer Executive Director, EngageNWA Director of Local Programs and Regional Outreach Kinco Constructors, LLC Northwest Arkansas Council Clinton School of Public Service

PODY GAY GREGG LONG KEVIN WELDON Director of Discovery Network Vice President Hot Side Project Lead Museum of Discovery Crafton Tull Nucor Steel Arkansas

LISA GAZAWAY JASON “J.D.” MCGEHEE LAWREN WILCOX Sales Associate/Property Manager District Director Senior Project Manager/Business Team Leader Gazaway & White Real Estate Offi ce of Congressman Bruce Westerman Garver, LLC

KATHERINE GENTRY JIM MCGILL TEMEKA WILLIAMS Project Manager, Business Development Vice President/Business Unit Manager Operations Director Arkansas Economic Development Commission SFI Arkansas Hunger Relief Alliance

ANNA BETH GORMAN VANESSA MOODY EMILY WOOD Executive Director State Director Senior Director of Development, College of Engineering Women’s Foundation of Arkansas Offi ce of U.S. Senator Tom Cotton University of Arkansas

CHRIS GOSNELL JAIMIE MOSS AMIEE YORK President/CEO Partner Community Affairs Program Manager Farmers Bank and Trust Wright, Lindsey & Jennings, LLP Black Hills Energy

Arkansas Business LEADERSHIP ARKANSAS CLASS XIII AND ARKANSAS STATE CHAMBER MID-YEAR REPORT • 2019 7 LEADERSHIP ARKANSAS INVESTING IN CLASS XIII Leadership TESTIMONIALS “Leadership Arkansas has been a great experience that helped me grow as a leader for my company and Congrats to as a person. It also helped me to learn more about Chris Gosnell many areas of our wonderful state and the amazing for Completing work being done by small towns — like the educa- Leadership tion strides in Batesville, and cities where we saw the Arkansas! revitalization in downtown areas — Hot Springs and El Dorado. It has been a privilege to be a part of this group and I'm grateful Tyson nominated me. I have made long-term friends in this group and look forward to seeing what we all accomplish in the future.” — Kendra Jones, Senior Counsel, Tyson Foods, Inc.

MyFarmers.Bank

“Leadership Arkansas has been a wonderful opportunity to meet, network and build relationships with Burt Hicks amazing leaders from all over the state. Learning what Arkansas Leadership Class XIII drives the economy of the various regions of our state has been an added bonus that has really helped me better appreciate what it takes to make things happen. Keep your eyes on Class XIII because these individuals will be the movers and shakers of their respective communities and the state of Arkansas for years to come.” — David Kelley, Director, Seams and Market Design, Southwest Power Pool, Inc.

“The Leadership Arkansas experience has inspired us to seek new opportunities on how we can serve our state. This dynamic leadership experience assembles some of Arkansas’ most impactful servant leaders. The program by design presents challenges and opportunities impact- Encore Bank ing our state. It is then incumbent on each participant to decide what more can they do to help Arkansas thrive.” 501.228.6000 | www.bankencore.com — Jason D. McGehee, District Director, Office of U.S. Rep. Bruce Westerman, Arkansas’s Fourth Congressional District

8 2019 • LEADERSHIP ARKANSAS CLASS XIII AND ARKANSAS STATE CHAMBER MID-YEAR REPORT Arkansas Business “The Leadership Arkansas experience has challenged CONGRATULATIONS me to look outside of my current way of life — both GREGG LONG business and personal. It has showed me the challeng- YOUR LEADERSHIP AT CRAFTON TULL AND YOUR es that we face as a state and helped prepare me with COMMITMENT TO IMPROVING COMMUNITIES IS GREATLY APPRECIATED! the tools needed to make a difference. The network- ing with people from all across the state in different roles and focuses will be irreplaceable in my journey to becoming a great leader for both Nucor and the great

state of Arkansas.” Gregg Long, LEED AP — Kevin Weldon, Environmental Lead, Nucor Steel Arkansas Vice President | Infrastructure Leadership Arkansas “Being a part of Leadership Arkansas Class XIII gave Class XIII — 2018 / 2019 me the opportunity to connect with leaders across this state, see the impact various industries not only have locally but across this nation and worldwide, and to hear about the impact of current and future growth taking place around Arkansas that will help grow this state.” — Michael Hoggard, Controller, Citizens Bank

“Leadership Arkansas is truly a unique experience. I have learned so much about our state’s economy and business climate, and I have met people from all over Arkansas who will continue to impact my life — both personally and professionally — for years to come. Strong leadership Thank you to the Arkansas State Chamber for your dedication to this rewarding and engaging program, powers Arkansas. and for allowing me to be a part of it.” — , Attorney, Wright Lindsey Jennings Jaimie Moss Entergy Arkansas proudly recognizes Laura Landreaux, president and chief executive “Having the opportunity to participate in Leadership officer of Entergy Arkansas, as a Arkansas has been a great opportunity to learn about 2019 graduate of the Arkansas State Chamber of Commerce the various businesses, industries, government agen- Leadership Arkansas Class XIII. cies and non-profit organizations that have an impact She has been an integral part of on our state. This program is also very important in the Entergy team for 12 years, and we look forward to her continued providing the participants the chance to learn about leadership as we build a brighter the socioeconomic challenges of the various regions in Arkansas. Arkansas. For me, it has been a very rewarding experience.” — Gregg Long, LEED AP, Vice President | Infrastructure, Crafton Tull and Associates

Arkansas Business LEADERSHIP ARKANSAS CLASS XIII AND ARKANSAS STATE CHAMBER MID-YEAR REPORT • 2019 9 TESTIMONIALS CONTINUED

“We've spent significant time in every part of the state. We've been granted firsthand exposure to important leaders, challenges, developments and plans in each location. Personally, I also got to spend time with a col- lection of truly talented, incredibly bright and seriously energetic individuals I doubt I would have met under different circumstances, and I certainly appreciate the time we've spent together.” — Chip Culpepper, Principal/Chief Creative Officer, Mangan Holcomb Partners CONGRATULATIONS KRISTIN A. KIRK! “Leadership Arkansas offers a unique opportunity to LEADERSHIP ARKANSAS CLASS XIII GRADUATE travel our great state and experience the driving forces We are so proud of your hard work behind our state's economy. The byproduct of those and achievement on graduating from Leadership Arkansas. travels is a very deep network of professional and

www.legacyequipment.com (870) 340-2189 personal relationships. Most importantly, Leadership

Arkansas: Paragould, Corning, Piggott Missouri: Kennett, Hayti, Portageville, New Madrid Arkansas invokes attendees to become involved in their communities at the local and statewide level by high- lighting our responsibility to work together to fortify the Creating Arkansas’s future educational and economic pursuits of Arkansas going requires a creative mind. forward.” — Reggie Rose, VP, Community Banker, Simmons Bank

“Leadership Arkansas was everything I imagined it would be and so much more! The knowledge I have gained from leaders across our state is invaluable not only for my professional career but also helps to personally challenge me to be a part of making our state a better place to live.” — Dina Bates, CPCU, AIS, API, AINS, Vice President - Products & Education, Farm Bureau Mutual Insurance Company of Arkansas, Inc., Southern Farm Bureau Casualty Insurance Company Leadership takes courage and creativity to inspire participation. And Chip Culpepper’s vision, passion and ideas motivate others to do extraordinary things every day for clients, coworkers and community. “The Leadership Arkansas program was an incredible Congratulations, Chip, on your graduation from Leadership Arkansas experience! The program provided new perspectives on Class XIII. the businesses and communities throughout Arkansas. I We’re honored to work with you. left each session inspired and with new understanding of the networks that flow through our state.” — Kerrie Diaz, Vice President of Marketing, Marketing | Advertising | Public Relations | Digital/Social Media ManganHolcomb.com | TeamSI.com Snyder Environmental Member 4A’s

10 2019 • LEADERSHIP ARKANSAS CLASS XIII AND ARKANSAS STATE CHAMBER MID-YEAR REPORT Arkansas Business “I have recommended Leadership Arkansas to every business leader I know. Not only does the program immerse you in the various industries and communities that make Arkansas such a great place to live, it also provides the best leadership training I’ve experienced, introduces you to some of the best and brightest minds in the state and helps you create lasting connections with Arkansas’ future leaders. Each session taught me about the unique opportunities and challenges that Arkansas faces and left me motivated to want to make a difference. This program is undoubtedly worth the time commitment and I’ll continue to share my experience and recruit new leaders to the program.” — Jordan Burgess, Associate General Counsel, Delta Dental of Arkansas

“As a new Arkansan and in a position that serves the entire the state, the Leadership Arkansas program has been the foundation for my career and life in Arkansas. I have both personally and professionally benefited from participating in the program. Many of my classmates are the first people I go to for knowledge, advice, phi- lanthropy and, most importantly, for friendship. I am graduating the Leadership Arkansas program a better leader of character, with a heart of compas- sion and a spirit of servanthood. I’m proud to be an BUILDING EXCELLENCE Arkansan!” — Luke Story, Executive Director, Arkansas Broadcasters Association Strong leadership “Leadership Arkansas is a valuable experience for builds Arkansas. those leaders who want to not only contribute at the highest level as an employee, but for those that desire William Fletcher

to be a leader helping propel our state forward. The We are proud of the relationships built through this experience are truly a many accomplishments representation of what makes Arkansas a great place you have mastered.

to live, work and raise a family. Regardless of your sea- Congratulations on son of life, I highly recommend Leadership Arkansas completion of the

for any leader wanting to be more at their workplace, in WilliamLeadership Fletcher, VP/COO Arkansas their community or for the state.” KincoClass Constructors, XIII. LLC — Rebekah S. Fincher, Chief Administrative Officer, Conway Regional Hospital

Little Rock Springdale www.KincoConstructors.com

Arkansas Business LEADERSHIP ARKANSAS CLASS XIII AND ARKANSAS STATE CHAMBER MID-YEAR REPORT • 2019 11 SESSION PHOTOS CLASS XIII

Diane LaFollette talks to Class XIII at Mid America Museum in Hot Springs

At Tyson Foods

Conifex USA Tour

Class XIII on Riceland Tour Oaklawn class photo

Citizens Bank congratulates graduates of Leadership Arkansas

Thank you for your leadership. You make us a better bank.

Michael Hoggard Sarah Lane Vice President & Controller Senior Vice President & Chief Retail Officer

12 2019 • LEADERSHIP ARKANSAS CLASS XIII AND ARKANSAS STATE CHAMBER MID-YEAR REPORT Arkansas Business Amiee York, Adrienne Griffis and Kristin Kirk tour a C130 at the Jacksonville Air Force Base

Conifex USA Tour Retreat Team building exercise El Dorado Mayor Veronica Creer-Smith speaking to the class

Arkansas Business LEADERSHIP ARKANSAS CLASS XIII AND ARKANSAS STATE CHAMBER MID-YEAR REPORT • 2019 13 LEADERSHIP ARKANSAS CLASS XIV APPLICATION PROCESS GENERAL • Please keep in mind that while the Selection Committee is evaluating individual applications, it is also building a class that represents Arkansas’ diversity —professionally and geographically, as well as in the areas of age, race, gender and ethnicity. • This application is available for download online at https:// www.arkansasstatechamber.com/partners-links/leadership-arkansas/ application-requirements/ • Online submission is preferred. If you have an issue submitting it online, please contact the program director asap. • Your application is not considered complete until we have received your two letters of recommendation and the $25 application fee. (Payment instructions are included at the end of the application.) • If you have any questions, please contact Toni Lindsey, Leadership Arkansas Program Director, at tlindsey@ BECOME A PART arkansasstatechamber.com or (479) 409-4389. OF ARKANSAS’ FUTURE NETWORK OF BUSINESS LEADERS DEADLINES WHO WE ARE BENEFITS OF PARTICIPATION • Application period opens June 3, 2019. • Applications must be submitted online by August 2, 2019. Leadership Arkansas is a unique program designed to take Class members gain: • Applications will be reviewed in August and notifications will be a comprehensive view of the economic and political challenges • An inclusive network of colleagues and resources distributed the week of August 19, 2019. that face our state. First introduced in 2005 by the Arkansas State • A broad understanding of state issues and developments Chamber of Commerce and Associated Industries of Arkansas, our • A better sense of personal leadership potential and enhanced RECOMMENDATION LETTERS staff, with the guidance of the organizations’ boards and executive leadership skills Be sure to request recommendation letters from your references committees, recruits highly-motivated individuals to experience • in advance. firsthand the dynamic interactions between cities, industries, Employers and sponsoring organizations acquire: They should be sent directly to Leadership Arkansas by August 2, governmental units and the people they serve. Employees connected to a diverse network of dynamic • • 2019. Leadership Arkansas is grounded in the belief that it is from leaders Recommendation letters may be sent electronically to tlindsey@ bringing diverse interests and backgrounds together that real Individuals with knowledge to discuss a variety of issues at • • arkansasstatechamber.com — please have your reference put LAR progress is achieved. Through shared experiences and frequent the state and community levels Class XIV and your name in the subject line. interactions, Leadership Arkansas participants, facilitators and Staff energized and motivated to apply program information • If your reference prefers to mail a hard copy, please have it sent alumni learn and grow as they advance through an innovative, to organization situations • to Attn: Toni Lindsey Leadership Arkansas P.O. Box 3645 Little Rock, AR nine-month program designed to expose class members to the Leaders prepared to address issues and keep companies in • 72203-3645 challenges and opportunities of our local communities and their action impact on the state as a whole. THE SELECTION CRITERIA APPLICATION REQUIREMENTS Please email a recent color photograph and your bio WHAT WE OFFER The Leadership Arkansas Selection Committee seeks to identify • (suitable for use in publications and publicity) to tlindsey@ Leadership Arkansas has helped nearly 700 graduates deepen individuals most likely to use their leadership abilities for the long- arkansasstatechamber.com. In the subject line, please put your name their background and understanding of issues facing the state and term benefit of the State of Arkansas. Class size is typically between and Class XIV Applicant. Your application is not considered complete has provided them with effective tools to develop initiatives to 50 and 55. Space limitations will result in a number of highly until we have received the following: improve the quality of life in Arkansas. We also have helped create qualified applicants not being selected for Class XIV. Applicants a. Application submitted online a statewide community to generate dialogue on those issues, setting who are not selected are encouraged to apply in subsequent years. b. Color photograph the stage for progress throughout the state. Participants have been The selection committee will seek diversity in areas including, c. Bio developing, strengthening and connecting with emerging leaders but not limited to, profession, geography, education, state of career, d. $25 application fee in Arkansas for several years. We count among our graduates well- ethnicity and gender. Leadership Arkansas does not discriminate e. Two letters of recommendation established political, business and community leaders. on the basis of age, sex, race, religion, sexual orientation or national origin. HOW THE PROGRAM WORKS Successful candidates will be well-rounded and actively PARTICIPATION REQUIREMENTS Participants are required to attend at least 80% of the program The mission of Leadership Arkansas is to build a strong, involved in many facets of their communities, such as business, sessions, including the entire opening session, which is mandatory. The diverse, statewide network of leaders with a shared commitment to education, the arts, religion, government, community-based 2019-2020 program year is tentatively scheduled as follows: connect our communities and to make Arkansas a better place in organizations and volunteer service and will reflect the diversity of Arkansas’ communities. Prior leadership program participation is • Orientation^: Sunday, October 6–Tuesday, October 8, 2019 – Red Apple Inn, which to live and prosper. Heber Springs; not required but may be noted on your application. • Agriculture & Outdoor Life: Tuesday, October 29–Wednesday, October 30, Leadership Arkansas sessions include: 2019 – Stuttgart; • Annual educational, issues-oriented, nine-month class COSTS • Education & Workforce: Monday, November 18–Tuesday, November 19, program • Application fee: $25 2019 – Fort Smith; • Nine day-and-a-half sessions held in various communities • Tuition: $3,000 per participant payable upon • Government & Military: Tuesday, December 10–Wednesday, December 11, throughout the state acceptance to the program. This includes all meals as well as 2019 – Little Rock, North Little Rock & Jacksonville; • Arkansas leaders who represent a wide geographic base and accommodations during the mandatory opening retreat. • Natural Resources Defense & Industrial Development: Monday, Jan. 13– have diverse backgrounds and vocations • Travel and lodging for the remaining sessions is the Tuesday, Jan.14, 2020 – El Dorado & Camden; Exposure to the many social and environmental complexities responsibility of participant. • Economic Development & Infrastructure: Monday, Feb. 17–Tuesday, Feb.18, • 2020 – West Memphis & Blytheville; of the state • Limited scholarships are available. • Tourism, History & Revitalization: Wednesday, March 11–Thursday, March 12, • On-site demonstrations and tours 2020 – Hot Springs; • Diverse geographical and cultural experiences • Regional Development: Wednesday, April 22–Friday, April 24, 2020 – • Insight into the people, places and history that influence Northwest Arkansas; public policies • Leadership, Planning & Graduation: Thursday, May 21–Friday, May 22, 2020 • Fun and casual settings which foster new relationships and – Little Rock camaraderie ^Orientation runs from 12 p.m. Sunday, October 6 through 12 p.m. Tuesday, October 8, 2019

14 2019 • LEADERSHIP ARKANSAS CLASS XIII AND ARKANSAS STATE CHAMBER MID-YEAR REPORT Arkansas Business ARKANSAS STATE CHAMBER

MID-YEARND REPORT 92 GENERAL ASSEMBLY HISTORIC SESSION FOR BUSINESS

Legislation adopted by the 92nd General Assembly will enhance the vitality of the Arkansas business community for years to come. Governor Asa Hutchinson said this about the session, “I think I would make the claim that this last legislative session was the GOAT ... the greatest of all time.” We’ll leave it to historians to rank the sessions, but multiple issues we’ve worked on for more than a decade were adopted. For employers, the most significant changes will be a reduction in corporate, individual and unemployment insurance taxes, which will provide at least $100 million per year in savings.

Signing ceremony for SB 298, now Act 512

ASHTENASHTEN ADAMSONADAMSON

Thank you so much for lending your talents to our team. Your dedication and leadership excellence are unparalleled and we’re so proud of your achievements. Keep up the good work.

Arkansas Business LEADERSHIP ARKANSAS CLASS XIII AND ARKANSAS STATE CHAMBER MID-YEAR REPORT • 2019 15 WE ARE PROUD TO HAVE PAYTON SMITH PRO-BUSINESS ON OUR TEAM! LEGISLATIVE Thank you for your hard work and leadership at Metro Disaster VICTORIES Specialists. Congratulations UNEMPLOYMENT INSURANCE on Graduating Leadership Creates system to index wage Arkansas Class XIII. Unemployment Insurance Cost base and will lower wage $40 to $60 million annual Reduction SB 298-Act 512 base from $10,000 to either savings to employers Payton Smith $8,000 or $7,000, effective Chief Operating Officer January 1, 2020. TAXATION Corporate Income Tax Rate Business Tax Reforms will be reduced from 6.5% $39.3 million in savings to SB 576-Act 822 to 6.2% effective January 1, employers by 2023 2021, then to 5.9% effective CALL METRO • Corporate Tax Reduction January 1, 2022 DISASTER SPECIALISTS • Net Operating Loss (NOL) Effective January 1, 2020 Licensed General Contractors Specializing in all Carry Forward NOL carry forward period types of Disaster Restoration including Contents. increases from five years to Estimated savings of $70 • Marketplace Fairness eight years, then to 10 years million by 2032 Fire • Smoke • Water • Storm • Environmental effective January 1, 2021. • Single Sales Factor Emergency (501)758-2845 • Toll Free 1-855-METRO-79 On July 1, 2019, out-of-state Response retailers with more than Hotlines www.MetroDisaster.com $100,000 of in-state sales or 200 annual transactions with Improved Competitiveness for Arkansas citizens will be In-State Retailers required to collect and remit sales taxes.

Use of a single sales factor CONGRATULATIONS instead of the current double-weighted formula Arkansas will join 25 other will tax in-state businesses states using a single sales MATT solely on their sales in factor Arkansas, not physical RICKFORD investment, payroll and sales in Arkansas.

Personal Income Tax Rate Savings for individual will be reduced from 6.5% taxpayers of $97 million Individual Income Tax to 6.2% effective on January by 2022, which includes a Reduction SB 211-Act 182 1, 2020, then reduced to significant reduction for most 5.9% effective January 1, Arkansas business entities 2021. The brackets are also simplified. WORKFORCE QUALITY AND EDUCATION

Amends duties of Career LEADERSHIP ARKANSAS CLASS XIII Education and Workforce Workforce Development Increases business and Leadership SB 522-Act 1079 Development Board and industry involvement in renames it the “Office of Your hard work made you a leader at Nabholz, workforce training Skills Development and a leader in your community, and now, a leader the Career Education and among leaders. Workforce Development B o ard .” We are proud to call you one of our own.

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16 2019 • LEADERSHIP ARKANSAS CLASS XIII AND ARKANSAS STATE CHAMBER MID-YEAR REPORT Arkansas Business Provides training options for teachers in advance Weighted Credit Courses placement programs New standards to approve SB 478-Act 632 and broader options for weighted credit courses Department of Education to approve weighted credit courses.

Allows two-year institutions of higher education to Elimination of Higher market and offer courses or Broader student access to Education Service Areas provide services regardless of community colleges SB 659-Act 944 service areas.

Creates new literacy requirements on Department of Education and school Improving Student Reading Literacy plan by categorized districts, plus coordinates SB 603-Act 1082 school districts and directs support from Department of Education to certain school districts not performing satisfactorily. TRANSPORTATION Transfers some casino tax revenue and indexes fuel tax at wholesale level equivalent Highway Maintenance to 3 cents a gallon on gas $300.6 million for highway SB 336-Act 416 and 6 cents on diesel to maintenance: generate increased revenue. Referral to 2020 General $95 million from Act 416 Election Ballot HJR 1018 Voters may extend existing half-cent sales $205.6 million if voters tax that is committed to approve HJR 1018 highway maintenance and construction. BALLOT INITIATIVE PROCESS

Act cleans up laws regarding Ballot Initiative Reform SB signature gathering and Protecting the Constitution 346-Act 376 and HJR 1008 removes Attorney General from the process of clarifying ballot title language and providing authority to collect signatures.

Referral to 2020 General Election Ballot seeks to: • Set January 15 of election year as filing date for ballot title and petitions • Set April 15 of election year as filing deadline for legal challenges • Eliminates the signature cure period • Increases required vote of legislature from simple majority to 60% to refer measures to the ballot • Increases the number of counties from 15 to 45 (60%) from which a specific number of signatures are required ready LABOR & EMPLOYMENT AND LEGAL ENVIRONMENT

Clarifies employment laws Employment Law Enhancement on wage payment and Legal protection for employers HB 1751-Act 853 aligns certain Arkansas employment laws with to lead. federal law. Congratulations to Amiee York on Lowers the interest rate her recent graduation from Leadership on pre & post judgments Pre & Post Judgement Interest Savings in court cases Arkansas. From all of your colleagues from 10% per annum to the Rate Reduction SB 544-Act 995 and friends at Black Hills Energy, Federal Reserve primary thank you for your exemplary credit rate plus 2% and in contract actions, the lower of leadership within our organization contracted amount or new and throughout your community. rate.

Arkansas Business LEADERSHIP ARKANSAS CLASS XIII AND ARKANSAS STATE CHAMBER MID-YEAR REPORT • 2019 17 STATE CHAMBER/AIA HOSTS ANNUAL LEGISLATIVE RECEPTION ON JANUARY 22

The State Chamber/AIA hosted the Annual Legislative Reception on January 22 under the big tent on their parking lot following the convening of the 2019 General Assembly of the Arkansas Legislature. The event drew a crowd of more than 300, including members of the Arkansas General Assembly, elected Constitutional officers, state agency heads and State Chamber/AIA members. The Annual Legislative Reception provides the opportunity for members of the state’s business community to network and interact one-on-one with state legislators and other elected officials.

Mike Callan, Paul Berry and State Rep. Lane Jean

Kelley Bass, Steve Edwards, Rep. Steve Hollowell, Rep. Matthew State Rep. Dwight Tosh, Bruce Sheppard, Campbell, State Sen. Dave Wallace and Denver Peacock State Sen. James Sturch

Nate Steel, State Rep. Denise Garner and State Rep Andrew Collins. Stanley Hill and Matt King of Arkansas Farm Bureau, State Sen. and Mrs. John Cooper.

Cody Burkham of Ark Cattlemen’s Association, State Rep. Don Walker of Arvest Bank and State Rep. Jim Dotson State Sen. Bruch Maloch, Stacy Williams, Becca Gardner LeeAnne Burch and Lee Pittman of International Paper of Central Arkansas Transit Authority and Brandon Morris Company of Union Pacific

18 2019 • LEADERSHIP ARKANSAS CLASS XIII AND ARKANSAS STATE CHAMBER MID-YEAR REPORT Arkansas Business Congratulations to Reggie Rose

Sen Mark Johnson, Jeremy Fitzpatrick of Flywheel Energy, Rep. Rick Beck and Rodney Baker of AIPRO Join us in congratulating Reggie Rose, Community Banker, on his achievement of membership of the Arkansas State Chamber of Commerce Leadership Arkansas Class XIII.

State Rep. Mark Perry, Katie Burns with Katie Burns Consulting and Justin Allen Leadership Arkansas Class XIII

From the boardroom to the courtroom to the community, we are committed to making a difference. Our firm has promoted a culture of State Rep. service for 119 years, and we are proud that Brian Evans, Melissa Rust Jaimie shares that commitment. with University of Arkansas Systems and Jaimie G. Moss State Sen. Ricky Hill Banking & Secured Transactions Bankruptcy & Creditor's Rights Commercial Litigation & Contract Disputes e-Discovery Services

Lucas Hargraves, Stacie Smith, State Sen. Mat Pitsch and Haskell Dickinson

Arkansas Business LEADERSHIP ARKANSAS CLASS XIII AND ARKANSAS STATE CHAMBER MID-YEAR REPORT • 2019 19 WASHINGTON FLY-IN 60TH ANNUAL WASHINGTON FLY-IN & CONGRESSIONAL RECEPTION DRAWS DIVERSE CROWD

The State Chamber/AIA’s 60th annual Washington Fly-In & Congressional Reception, which was held May 8-10, drew a diverse crowd including the entire Arkansas Congressional delegation, Arkansas Governor Asa Hutchinson, Arkansas Senate President Pro Tem Jim Hendren and Arkansas Speaker of the House Matthew Shepherd. The gathering included a Chiefs of Staff Reception the evening of May 8, meetings with the Arkansas federal delegation and U.S. Chamber of Commerce and cabinet official meetings during the day on May 9, the Congressional Reception and Arkansas Concert featuring NBC’s “The Voice” finalist Barrett Baber the evening of May 9, and an Arkansas Leadership breakfast featuring special guest Sarah Huckabee Sanders on Friday morning, May 10.

Far left: Members of the Arkansas Congressional Delegation brief Washington Fly- In participants during a breakfast meeting. Left: U.S. Sen. John Boozman addresses participants during the breakfast meeting.

All of us at Rose Law Firm are proud to congratulate MICHAEL GOSWAMI on his graduation from Leadership Arkansas Class XIII.

Little Rock Fayetteville 501-375-9131 479-695-1330

roselawfirm.com

20 2019 • LEADERSHIP ARKANSAS CLASS XIII AND ARKANSAS STATE CHAMBER MID-YEAR REPORT Arkansas Business Far left: Chris Caldwell, Federal Co-Chairman of the Delta Regional Authority, speaks during a breakfast meeting. Center: Ronnie Dedman of AT&T Arkansas and State Rep. Andy Davis Left: Sarah Huckabee Sanders speaks to Washington Fly-In participants.

Right: Gina Radke of Galley Support Innovations, Toni Lindsey of the State Chamber/ AIA, musician Barrett Baber, Andrea Jones of ARcare and Elizabeth Solano of MISO at the Rooftop Reception Far Right: Governmental Affairs team Randy Zook, Kenny Hall, Toni Lindsey and Andrew Parker.

Congratulations, Leadership Has DAVID a New Name. KELLEY Dina Bates is the name, and Farm Leadership Arkansas Bureau Insurance is Class XIII Graduate proud to celebrate Thank you her recent graduation for your dedication from the Leadership and commitment to Arkansas program. Southwest Power Pool’s culture of collaboration Congrats, Dina! and continuous improvement. You help us accomplish our mission of helping our members work together to keep Dina Bates the lights on… today and in the future.

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Arkansas Business LEADERSHIP ARKANSAS CLASS XIII AND ARKANSAS STATE CHAMBER MID-YEAR REPORT • 2019 21 Leadership Arkansas Class XIII State Chamber of Commerce WASHINGTON FLY-IN CONTINUED

U.S. Chamber Executive Director Employment Policy Division Sean Redmond provides a legislative update during the U.S. Chamber briefing.

Congratulations, Hilary Trudell Director of Local Programs and Regional Outreach

Business news you can’t wait to read.

U.S. Chamber Senior Vice President International Affairs John Murphy discusses trade policy during the U.S.Chamber briefing.

Arkansas Business Daily Report From the latest Arkansas business news to industry trend reports, it keeps your finger on the pulse of what’s going on.

ArkansasBusiness.com/DailyReport Ted McKinney of the U.S. Department of Agriculture briefs Fly-In participants.

22 2019 • LEADERSHIP ARKANSAS CLASS XIII AND ARKANSAS STATE CHAMBER MID-YEAR REPORT Arkansas Business 2019 Board of Examiners two- day training. A PROVEN BLUEPRINT FOR A COMPETITIVE FUTURE TRAIN | ASSESS | RECOGNIZE

The Arkansas Institute for Performance Excellence (AIPE) is an Arkansas State RECOGNIZING EXCELLENCE IN ARKANSAS Chamber of Commerce affiliated organization that administers the Governor’s Quality The Governor’s Quality Award Program offers opportunities for all businesses in Award Program. AIPE provides training, assessment, recognition and coaching to all types the state to assess their performance through a systems perspective and receive award of Arkansans. The program provides in-depth, low-cost assessments to companies striving recognition and feedback. The award process uses the Baldrige Excellence Framework, for continuous improvement, engaged employees and increased return on investment. a proven management framework for more than 25 years for all types of businesses and AIPE offers industry-specific workshops, some of which have included “ISO organizations including manufacturing, health care, education, government agencies and 9001:2015: Key Requirements Management Must Know,” that are offered to manufacturers nonprofit. As organizations grow and improve, their communities benefit from increased and an annual health care seminar focusing on key areas for health care entities such as revenue and job opportunities, as well as better education, government and health care workforce quality, managing change, and data reporting and analysis. services. There are four possible award levels. Applications are evaluated by teams of expert examiners and applicants receive written feedback reports citing strengths and areas for improvementand are recognized by the governor at the annual banquet.

For a free introductory webinar, contact Trish Villines, Executive Director at 501-372-2222 or [email protected]

Award table with awards for 2019 recipients. Gov. Asa Hutchinson presenting 2019 awards.

Arkansas Business LEADERSHIP ARKANSAS CLASS XIII AND ARKANSAS STATE CHAMBER MID-YEAR REPORT • 2019 23 Nucor’s Arkansas family of steel facilities would like to congratulate our teammate, Kevin Weldon, for successfully completing this year’s Leadership Arkansas program. At Nucor, we are focused on making steel that goes into the world’s biggest projects. But we also want to build something bigger: good jobs, strong community, and a bright future. We know Kevin will play a big part in making Arkansas a better place.

NUCOR STEEL ARKANSAS NUCOR-YAMATO STEEL NUCOR CASTRIP ARKANSAS www.nucor.com