Mercy promotes Ellison as VP of philanthropy

Mercy recently named Clark Ellison as regional vice president of philanthropy for its south central communities. In his new role, Ellison will continue to lead Mercy Health Foundation Northwest Arkansas, while also overseeing Mercy Health Foundation Fort Smith.

Having begun his career with Mercy in 1998, Ellison has many notable accomplishments as vice president and chief development officer for Mercy NWA, including Mercy Hospital in Rogers, that was funded by a $42 million capital campaign.


During his 16 years at Mercy, Ellison has championed multiple fundraising initiatives in order to advance the work and spirit of Mercy in the community.

“As a nonprofit organization, donor support and true partnership is how we successfully bring health care excellence to the community,” said Patricia Arnold, Mercy’s philanthropy vice president. “Clark is gifted at this. His personable approach in building meaningful relationships, along with his strong leadership and management skills, will be added benefits to strengthening our south central communities’ philanthropic efforts.”

As regional vice president, Ellison will be responsible for developing and enhancing philanthropy programs, increasing support, strengthening donor, member and volunteer relations, and building visibility with stakeholders, corporations, foundations and the public. 

He will collaborate with fellow regional vice presidents and Mercy’s philanthropy team, as well as hospital presidents, physicians and volunteer leaders throughout the region to enhance awareness of the foundations.

In addition to Ellison’s fundraising capabilities, he assisted Mercy Health Foundation Joplin with co-worker and community relief and special projects after the May 2011 tornado.