The Under 40 Forum was a statewide gathering that brought together young leaders from across Arkansas to advance ideas, solve problems, and envision a brighter future. The program was a partnership between the Winthrop Rockefeller Institute, the Clinton School of Public Service, Arkansas Business, and the Northwest Arkansas Business Journal. Each year, the 80 honorees from the “Forty Under 40” lists published by Arkansas Business and the Northwest Arkansas Business Journal were invited to participate.
Participants spent 24 hours at the Winthrop Rockefeller Institute on Petit Jean Mountain, where they connected with other emerging leaders, built new relationships, and examined some of the toughest issues facing Arkansas. Each Forum centered on a theme that shaped the conversations and collaborative work.
The 2020 Forum focused on hunger and poverty, two issues that affected Arkansans across the state. Participants took part in four interactive sessions that explored the structural and policy factors influencing these challenges in their communities and workplaces. Ronnie Dedman, President of AT&T Arkansas, delivered the keynote address, highlighting AT&T’s Believe Arkansas initiative to address hunger as part of its national community‑impact efforts.
The 2019 Forum focused on racial equity and equipped the honorees with tools to build a more inclusive Arkansas.
The 2018 Forum centered on the idea of “building a better brand for Arkansas.” Participants discussed how the state could be known nationally and internationally for its economic vitality and quality of life. They were challenged to create a roadmap to help Arkansas move toward that stronger, more unified future.
The 2017 Forum explored divisions within the state, including geographic, social, and political barriers. Former Arkansas Governor Mike Beebe opened the event with a keynote address, emphasizing that success in one part of the state contributed to success across the entire state. Participants examined the factors that kept communities divided and discussed opportunities to strengthen statewide unity.
The inaugural 2016 Forum challenged honorees to consider what Arkansas needed to do to retain and recruit young talent. Participants engaged in facilitated discussions, attended a keynote address by Arkansas Governor Asa Hutchinson, and participated in Q&A sessions. The program also provided opportunities for networking and collaboration among early‑career leaders.
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