Connections: Krista Cupp joins Heartland Forward

Heartland Forward, a Bentonville-based policy think-and-do tank, recently hired Krista Cupp as vice president of development. She previously was the communications officer for Runway Group, a Bentonville-based company that invests in outdoor recreation, hospitality, aviation, and real estate.

Steuart Walton and his brother, Tom Walton, co-founded Runway Group.

In her new role, Cupp will lead Heartland Forward’s private giving initiatives and expand its network of supporters to advance the organization’s mission of serving as a resource for the states and communities in the central United States.

She’ll also be responsible for preparing for the organization’s flagship event, Heartland Summit. The event convenes policymakers, investors, entrepreneurs, business, philanthropy, and thought leaders to share insights on advancing the heartland.

“We are excited to welcome Krista Cupp as vice president of development at Heartland Forward,” said Ross DeVol, president and CEO. “Krista’s extensive experience in both the public and private sector will be essential in building lasting, impactful partnerships that serve the needs of the heartland. As we work to build connected, innovative and resilient communities, her passion for the heartland will help amplify our efforts to strengthen the region.”

NEW HIRES
Banking & Finance
Blake Rutherford
Fayetteville
Employer: First Community Bank
Title: vice president, professional business development officer
Previous employer: Thaden School
Previous title: faculty member

Real Estate
Brad Freeman
Rogers
Employer: Cushman & Wakefield/Sage Partners
Title: managing director of property management
Previous employer: Butler Enterprises
Previous title: vice president of operations

Sara Whitlock
Rogers
Employer: Cushman & Wakefield/Sage Partners
Title: director of lease administration
Previous employer: Walmart Inc.
Previous title: senior manager, real estate

PROMOTIONS
Banking & Finance
Keith Bowles
Bentonville
Employer: Arvest Bank
Title: sales manager, Benton County market
Previous title: branch administrator, senior vice president, Benton County

Education
Jessica Andrews
Fayetteville
Title: interim director
Employer: McMillon Innovation Studio, University of Arkansas Office of Entrepreneurship and Innovation
Previous title: associate director

APPOINTMENTS
Nonprofit
Lisa Brence
Fayetteville
Employer: Walmart Inc.
Title: director of global communications
Appointment: board of directors
Organization: Creative Arkansas Community Hub & Exchange (CACHE)

Graham Cobb
Bentonville
Employer: Paceline Strategies
Title: president
Appointment: board of directors
Organization: Creative Arkansas Community Hub & Exchange (CACHE)

Josh Hall
Fayetteville
Employer: Excellerate Foundation
Title: vice president
Appointment: board of directors
Organization: Creative Arkansas Community Hub & Exchange (CACHE)

CALENDAR
• 16 — Central Referral Connection
Sponsor: Rogers Lowell Chamber
Time: 9-10:15 a.m.
Location: Golden Corral, Rogers
Contact: 636-1240

• 17 — Morning Brew
Sponsor: Springdale Chamber of Commerce
Time: 8:30-9:30 a.m.
Location: Admiral Moving Services Inc., Springdale
Contact: 872-2222

• 17 — Professionals Night Out
Sponsor: Fayetteville Chamber of Commerce
Time: 4:30-6 p.m.
Location: Lindsey & Associates, Fayetteville
Contact: 269-4423

• 17 — Business After Hours
Sponsor: Rogers Lowell Chamber
Time: 5-6:30 p.m.
Location: Great Southern Bank, Rogers
Contact: 619-3190