Soulful Sounds and Celebration: RSVP for Oct. 18!

Join us atop Petit Jean Mountain on Saturday, October 18, from 6:30 to 9 p.m. for a party celebrating 20 years of convening and collaboration. Enjoy live music, bold flavors, and breathtaking views. Doors open at 6 p.m.

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Soulful Sounds and Celebration: RSVP for Oct. 18!

Q&A: Derrick Rainey, Mayor of Wrightsville

I recently sat down with Mayor Derrick Rainey of Wrightsville, Arkansas, to discuss leadership, community, and the roles individuals play within them. As a Civic Arkansas Activator, public servant, and a youth pastor, Rainey shared how his faith, values, and (more recently) the Civic Arkansas Credential have shaped his approach to civic engagement.

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Q&A: Derrick Rainey, Mayor of Wrightsville

Austin DuVall Joins LeadAR Class 21

“This journey will be an incredible opportunity to grow as a leader, collaborate with changemakers, and contribute to the bright future of Arkansas,” DuVall said.

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Austin DuVall Joins LeadAR Class 21

Institute Mourns Barry McKuin, Longtime Board Member

Barry McKuin, who served as a board member for 15 of the Winthrop Rockefeller Institute’s 20 years of existence, passed away on the morning of February 18, 2025, surrounded by his family. He was 80 years old.

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Institute Mourns Barry McKuin, Longtime Board Member

Joel Smith Leadership Award Winner: Austin Bond 

Austin Bond, who marked his one-year anniversary with the Institute on November 13, was thankful for winning the Joel Smith Leadership Award. “I’m grateful to be here,” he said. “Having a great team to lead makes this possible.” His team echoed his sentiments during the award announcement, saying, “We are nothing without chef; he gives us purpose.”

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Joel Smith Leadership Award Winner: Austin Bond 

2023 Legacy Award Winner: LaDonna Cole

“The entire Institute has been going through a lot of changes, specifically regarding the implementation of Microsoft 365,” read one nomination. “We also started the Salesforce project last May, and throughout all this, LaDonna has been a bright, supportive light.”

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2023 Legacy Award Winner: LaDonna Cole