2020 Leadership Fort Smith class announced

The Leadership Fort Smith Program, managed by the Fort Smith Regional Chamber of Commerce, on July 24 named the next 25 people to participate in the program launched in 1988.

According to the chamber, class members were selected based on leadership or potential leadership ability and commitment to the community, along with several other factors and considerations.

Leadership Fort Smith is a 10-month program that offers participants a backstage pass to the Fort Smith region. The class will focus on the strengths, challenges, needs, and overall community issues. Sessions will cover topics such as education, healthcare, history, crime, local government, economic development, and community outreach.

“The goal of Leadership Fort Smith is evident from the tag line on our logo – Learn. Connect. Lead. LFS gives participants the opportunity to learn the ins and outs of our community, connect to community leaders and organizations, and then use that knowledge to LEAD,” noted the chamber announcement.

Following are members of the 2020 class.

Mark Allen – Sebastian County
Brandon Bullard – Baptist Health Fort Smith
Jarrard Copeland – Sagely & Edwards Realty
Nina Copeland – Johnson Dermatology
Jayme Copher – Mercy Fort Smith
Greg Cornett – Umarex USA
Russell Gibson – City of Fort Smith
Jennifer Holland – University of Arkansas Fort Smith
Roger Holroyd – Arvest Bank
Garrett Houck – Oklahoma Gas & Electric
Heather Ketter – BHC Insurance
Tami Kuhns – Community Services Clearinghouse
Rudy Ledbetter – ArcBest/ABF
Mitzi Little – United Way of Fort Smith Area
Janet Miller – KFSM
Laura Pearn – Ledbetter\Cogbill\Arnold\Harrison LLP
Jarred Rego – Mercy Foundation
Blake Rickman – UAFS Foundation
Maggie Russell – Gerdau
Andrea Schwartz – Fort Smith Public Schools
Keley Simpson – First Presbyterian Church
Lt. Col. Blain Stewart – 188th Wing
Bill Stuckey – Pinnacle IT
Justin Wilbanks – Geno’s Pizza
Jenny Wilkinson – Farmers Bank