WINC March 2020

MARCH 2020

Celebrating women making history

Meet these Faulkner County Pioneers...

Sarah Murphy w Shawanna Rodgers w Amy Whitehead w Adena White 1

2 WINC. | March 2020

THURSDAY APRIL 9, 2020 3

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HONORING FEMALE PIONEERS

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4 WINC. | March 2020

FAMILY VACATION

A LOOK BACK

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SERVING AS ROLE MODEL

FAITH FEATURE

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LOCAL FLAVOR

Contributing Writers Hilary Andrews Cindy Beckman Andrea Champlin

WINC team Happy March WINC readers.

How fast the year is already flying by. I hope you all had a great Valentine’s Day with your loved one or Galentine’s Day with friends.

The WINC Team Hilary Andrews, and our writers are exWINC editor cited to celebrate with you Women’s History Month. In this March issue, we have chosen to highlight many phenomenal women in the community who have worked hard to get where they are, pioneering many “first female” positions in higher education, local nonprofits, businesses, city work and more. We are so thankful for the many who have gone before us to carve the path toward what it takes to achieve that dream, those who have decided to mentor us along the way, speak words of wisdom in our ears and serve as great examples of what could be.

We are so excited to share this issue with you ... to celebrate and support, lift up and encourage the many amazing women around us.

In the March WINC, we have also had the opportunity to high-

Melissa Gates – Cover Story

light the work of Chris Quinn, who started the Conway Animal Welfare Shelter Support, a nonprofit organization created to help provide funds to support the Conway Animal Welfare Unit, which provides care for animals as well as the volunteers who support the corporation.

Through our monthly faith feature, we get a glimpse into the Biblical story of Lazarus and what happened after the stone was rolled away, physically and metaphorically, thanks to our March guest writer, Jennifer Foster.

The WINC Team is also very excited to share with you all a fresh feature we’ve been working on. Thanks to Cindy Beckman and her creative ideas, we welcome, “Local Flavors,” a new look into unique restaurants throughout our community, the famous dishes, what they have to offer and the unique qualities that make them special.

I encourage you all to pick up your copy of our March WINC magazine at our downtown office located at 1121 Front St. Happy March WINC readers!

Becké Stuart

Photographers Hilary Andrews Ron Beckman Andrea Champlin

Advertising Sales Executives Kelly Booy Crystal Geraldson

Editorial Board Hilary Andrews Cindy Beckman Andrea Champlin Melissa Gates

Questions or Comments?

Call (501) 327-6621 e-mail: Hilary Andrews at handrews@thecabin.net or write to: 1121 Front Street, Conway, AR, 72032 www.womensinc.net 5

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6 WINC. | March 2020

Powerful, ground-breaking women: Honoring local female pioneers Story by Melissa Gates

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Photos by Hilary Andrews

s we embark on the month of March, it’s natural to think of blooming flowers, spring break and warmer weather. But, March is also the time to celebrate women’s history.

In 1987, after being petitioned by the National Women’s History Project, the U.S. Congress designated the month of March as Women’s History Month and it was set aside as an annual time to highlight the contributions of women to events in history and contemporary society.

It is my honor to introduce you to some ground-breaking, pioneering women living and working amongst us in Faulkner County.

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Full name: Sarah Murphy Age: 40 Job title: Conway Human Development Center (CHDC) superintendent Education: Bachelor of Science in Psychology from the University of Central Arkansas; Licensed Nursing Home Administrator and a Qualified Intellectual Disability Professional (QIDP).

Family: Married to Jason Murphy. Three children: Hannah (18), Abby (15), and Maddie (11) and one grandchild, Ivy (10 months).

WINC: Explain a little bit about your job. What are some challenges, perks, etc.?

Murphy: As the superintendent/ administrator of CHDC, I am

responsible for the facility operations and ensuring the health and welfare of all the residents who are provided care at the facility.

CHDC, founded in 1959, employs around 1,000 people including physicians, nurses and therapists.

Being the administrator means that I work 8-4:30 p.m. Monday-Friday and am also on-call 24 hours a day to ensure the

facility is meeting all federal and state operating requirements.

The challenges of this position include being on-call and making frequent decisions that have a direct impact on residents and employees. As an administrator, you want to make the best decisions but often, you have to do so quickly, so you make the best with the information you have at 7

the time and then adjust as new information becomes available.

WINC: What’s an average day like for you?

Murphy: My No. 1 priority is ensuring CHDC residents are taken care of. My job is not one that ever gets “done” or is ever “finished.” It just isn’t that way when you take care of people.

WINC: What’s your favorite part about the work?

Murphy: My favorite part of the job is our residents. The folks we take care of our my friends. Having worked at CHDC for 19 years and starting out providing direct care, I know the residents that we provide services to; they visit me daily and I get to be a part of their lives. I have been able to see residents’s lives change for the better because of the services and supports we provide. We are in the “enhancing lives” business and it’s a great business to be in. When a resident shows me a new skill they learned, something they made for the Blue Umbrella Store, that they are getting paid, a medal they won at Special Olympics … those are my perks!

WINC: What do you think about making history as the first female in your position?

Murphy: Since 1959, CHDC has had seven superintendents, all of which were men until November of 2015 when I was hired. I am honored to be the first female superintendent at the Conway Human Development Center. I believe all people are created with the ability to step into a leadership role … that particular type of leadership looks different for some. Leading by example is important to me. I try to be a good servant. I believe what the Bible tells us that “whoever wants to 8 WINC. | March 2020

Submitted photo

become great among you must be your servant.”

WINC: How do you manage your staff, run your meetings, balance family life?

Murphy: CHDC has the absolute best employees, people that really care about others, and work to make their lives more enjoyable. My job is to give our employees what they need to be able to do their job successfully.

I value others opinions and have an open-door policy with all stakeholders (residents, employees, parents/guardians). I enjoy hearing other perspectives. A good leader always sees room for improvement and this is especially true with me, there is always an area that I can improve in.

WINC: What do you think best prepared you to do the work you do?

Murphy: My mother and father contributed to preparing me to be in a career of human service. My mom would have me assist her in Vacation Bible School and other

church ministries. This taught me how to serve. My dad always took me with him when he volunteered for SCAN, an organization that provided services for families of abused and neglected children.

My parents, through these volunteer experiences, taught me that people and their needs mattered.

At CHDC, our former superintendent, Calvin Price, probably best helped to prepare me for my current role. He mentored me and provided me opportunities to learn so many things throughout my years under his leadership. He was such a great example of what a good leader looked like.

WINC: What would you tell other women to help them achieve their goals?

Murphy: I would tell them that you can achieve anything you put your mind to, don’t hold yourself back and don’t compare yourself to others. We can break molds and beat new paths.

WINC: What are your goals personally or professionally?

Murphy: My goals, personally, are to spend more time with my family and to be mindful of the work balance … to remember how blessed I am at home and work and I want to enjoy fully both areas of my life. Kids grow up so fast and I don’t want to miss any of it. My husband and best friend, Jason, and I have been married for 18 years and my goal for us is to spend more time together. We love to hunt and I see a lot more adventures in our future. Professionally, my goal is to do my part to make CHDC the best place to live and to work. CHDC is such a blessing to the community and the families served and I want to keep us strong and viable as a future choice for services for many years to come.

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I wouldn’t say that I’ve currently had any challenges, but I will say Full name: Shawanna Rodgers I’ve encountered opportunities to Age: 39 view things from a different perJob title: Diversity and economic spective, which allows me to use development coordinator, Conway those moments and work to develOffice of the Mayor op a solution-based approach that Education: A bachelor’s degree works for everyone involved. in speech communications with a One perk that I love is the fact minor in writing from the Universi- that I’ve been blessed to work with ty of Central Arkansas Mayor Bart Castleberry and a Family: Single, father – Charles great group of individuals whom Rodgers age 67, mother – the Late we call #TeamMO. To be able to Juanita Rodgers and four siblings. brainstorm with a group of people WINC: Explain a little bit about with different perspectives but one your job. What are some challeng- main end goal for us all and that’s es, perks, etc.? to keep Conway moving forward Rodgers: As the diversity and and doing what’s best for Conway. economic development coordiWINC: What’s an average day nator, part of my responsibility is like for you? creating initiatives that will involve Rodgers: An average day for me the community, local businesses, as thus far consists of planning, meetwell as managing minority affairs. ings, community engagement, and 9

completion of current immediate tasks, which is the upcoming 2020 Decennial Census.

WINC: What’s your favorite part about the work?

Rodgers: One of the favorite parts of my job is being able to serve the Conway community.

Earlier this year, I had the distinct honor to work with Leona Walton on the grand opening of the Pine Street CommUnity Museum. This was a great historical moment, not just for the Pine Street Community but for the City of Conway as a whole. The museum holds such rich history of the African American community right here in Conway! For the history of the Historic Pine Street neighborhood to be preserved says a lot about our progressive city leadership and I’m honored to play a small part in that working for the office of the mayor. To see the joy expressed on the faces of the community members I know and love gave my heart great joy! It’s their legacy and now my history!

WINC: What do you think about making history as the first female in your position?

Rodgers: Making history in this position I am truly blessed; it is humbling and mind-blowing. It’s a distinct honor for me to not only serve as the first female, but it far exceeds being the first female in this position. The proactive approach for the city of Conway to create the new position in city government speaks volumes! To be the first to be active in this role not just in Conway but Arkansas as a whole, and as a woman of color …

I certainly don’t take this moment in history for granted!

WINC: How do you manage your staff, run your meetings, balance family life?

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Rodgers: In managing staff, meetings, family life, mentoring and serving, I try to implement good stewardship practices to properly manage my time, talents and resources. I’m currently single, yes, but it certainly doesn’t mean idle with excessive time to twiddle my fingers. I’d say in short there are three things: My faith is very important to me so taking time to practice what I call the one-minute pause can be practiced at any time of the day to help center my mind and focus as I transition from one task to the next.

Scheduling and planning are essential in helping me keep a balanced life and a point of reference to keep up with meetings and abstract ideas.

Practicing self-care is essential. It’s easy to get caught in the business of life. I take moments for me to enjoy some of the simple things in life like family, friends, live shows, and dining out just to name a few.

WINC: What do you think best prepared you to do the work you do?

Rodgers: My previous job helped a lot in preparation. I previously

worked at True Holiness for 13 years. I was afforded the opportunity to connect with the community in several facets. Those relationships, the spirit of excellence, and disciplines I learned during my tenure there, are assets I’ve been able to bring with me to my current position.

WINC: What would you tell other women, or girls, to help them achieve their goals?

Rodgers: I’d share with them one thing that I share with the college students and teens I’ve mentored and currently mentor … to, “Be an original! Don’t be the cheap carbon copy of someone else. Be you and love yourself!” It always tends to open up more dialogue with the end result being the original version of you is always better than lowering your standards and compromising to fit in with the crowd … that just because others don’t see your dream doesn’t mean you stop dreaming but use it as motivation to pursue that dream even harder. I love my babies (mentees).

They are my inspiration to keep moving forward.

WINC: What are your goals personally or professionally?

Rodgers: For me, it’s quite simple.

To stay in the center of God’s will for my life. When I leave this Earth, that I leave completely empty with every purpose inside me fulfilled and having left a positive imprint on every life I’ve been blessed to touch.

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Full name: Amy Whitehead Age: 36 Job title: University of Central Arkansas Chief of Staff Education: Bachelor of Science in public administration, UCA, 2006.

Master of Science in community and economic development, UCA, 2008.

Family: Married to Derek Whitehead. Two sons: Luke (6) and Jack (3).

WINC: Explain a little bit about your job. What are some challeng-

es, perks, etc.?

Whitehead: I recently passed the six-month mark as chief of staff. In this role, I support the president’s office in implementing key campus-wide initiatives and supporting the president’s leadership priorities.

I have the privilege of working with departments from all over campus, as well as the UCA Board of Trustees. I work closely with the office of human resources, university police, media relations, and our special events coordinator.

WINC: What’s an average day like for you?

Whitehead: There is no average day in the office!

WINC: What’s your favorite part about the work?

Whitehead: I love coming to work every day. President Houston Davis has assembled an outstanding leadership team and I feel blessed to work with – and learn from – those individuals as we work toward a

shared goal of student success.

WINC: What do you think about making history as the first female in your position?

Whitehead: I have not given much thought to being the first female chief of staff, but I have certainly noticed the way that UCA and president Davis have supported women in leadership roles. On an almost daily basis, I get to work with strong female role models, including Patricia Poulter, UCA’s first female provost, and Diane Newton, UCA’s first female vice president for finance and administration. There are many incredible women in leadership roles at UCA, and I think all of us at UCA benefit from being in that type of empowering environment.

WINC: How do you manage your staff, run your meetings, balance family life?

Whitehead: In terms of how I balance work and family – it’s an 11

to build relationships, remember to say, “thank you,” and find a mentor that can be open and honest with you. It’s also important to be focused and to keep moving forward even when there are setbacks.

WINC: What are your goals personally or professionally?

Whitehead: Professionally, I am fully committed to UCA. It’s been a very important part of my life since I was 18 years old. My goals are to work hard, serve with integrity and support the strategic vision of president Davis. ongoing balancing act, and it helps to work for a supportive organization like UCA. I think it is important for each person to be honest with themselves about what they need in order to stay healthy and in balance. My husband is very supportive of my work, and we have a strong family network to support and assist us.

WINC: What do you think best prepared you to do the work you do?

Whitehead: In my previous role as associate vice president of community and workforce development, I worked in communities all over the state of Arkansas. The diversity of backgrounds and perspectives that we had to navigate in our community work was great preparation for working in the president’s office.

Being actively involved in economic development efforts also helped me understand the role that UCA plays in the region’s workforce and as an economic driver for central Arkansas.

WINC: What would you tell other women, or girls, to help them achieve their goals?

Whitehead: In order to achieve your goals, I think it is important 12 WINC. | March 2020

gressives in blue states – who, like me, were disappointed and angry about the outcome of the election – expressed utter disdain for middle America and the South. Black Southerners, particularly those in rural areas, were rendered invisible.

A public relations professional by trade, I found where I could make a difference. In April 2017, I came up with the idea to launch a media company that would share the stories of black Southerners from all walks of life, both rural and urban, like Southern Living, but for black people and like The Root – website about black news, politics, opinion Full name: Adena White and culture – but geared toward a Job title: Conway Area Chamber particular region of the country. of Commerce director of commu- The name, Blackbelt, inspired by nications the Black Belt region of the SouthEducation: Bachelor of Arts in ern U.S., primarily in Alabama and speech communication and jourMississippi, where the soil was rich nalism (public relations emphasis) and dark, fertile ground for growfrom Arkansas Tech University in ing crops. The enslaved Africans 2007. Master of Arts in applied worked the soil and continued to communication studies from the live in the area after Emancipation; University of Arkansas at Little the term evolved to have a double Rock in 2012. Accredited in Public meaning.

Relations by the Universal Accredi- The idea for Blackbelt started tation Board and the Public Rela- as a printed publication, then to tions Society of America (PRSA), a weekly newsletter, then a blog.

2013. Also the first African-Amer- After interviewing my first guest ican president of the Arkansas in 2018, I realized that a podcast chapter of the PRSA. would be the best way to capture Family: Husband, Matthew, and the emotion behind the stories. son, Elijah, (1).

As an introvert who is much more White performs many tasks in her comfortable writing than speaking, position at the chamber, but in this I knew I needed a co-host. I was article, we spoke with her about her having coffee with Kara Wilkins, role as founder and chief storyteller an extroverted friend and great at Blackbelt Media LLC, a podcast conversationalist who also worked she recently started to share stories in communications, and knew about black southerners. that she would make the perfect WINC: How did you come up co-host. Later, while talking to with the idea for the podcast? my sister, Katrina Dupins on the White: After the 2016 election, I phone about our side hustles, felt an urge to do more. Those on she expressed that she was just the right used “Chicago” as a dog “a producer looking for a show.” whistle for black while white proShe previously worked at KATV

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Channel 7 as a producer and now works in PR at UAMS and I told her I wanted to make Blackbelt a podcast and she happily agreed to produce and edit the show. Her husband, Prentice Dupins Jr., composed the theme music for the show.

WINC: What issues do you discuss? Who are your guests?

White: Blackbelt Voices, “propagates the richness of Black Southern culture by sharing stories from and about Black folks down South.” Our topics center around social justice and racial equity, progressive politics, and black history and culture. In season one, we interviewed: l Karama Neal, president of Southern Bancorp Community

Partners, about her work to advance legislation in Arkansas to protect family land. l Brian Mitchell, assistant professor of history at UALR, about the massacre of black sharecroppers in Elaine, Arkansas. l Other episodes have focused on the importance of getting an accurate count for the 2020 U.S. Census, a researcher who received $2.5 million grant to support HIV education and prevention, a Memphis-based interior designer who centers blackness in her work and natural hair.

WINC: Why is it important to discuss those issues?

White: It’s important to paint a clearer picture of the South and black people’s role in shaping the

region’s history and culture. Too often, being “Southern” conjures up things associated with white people, especially on the national stage (country music, voting Republican, Confederate monuments). I want this podcast to shine a light on black Southerners and our experience living in, loving, and reconciling with the place we call home.

WINC: How did you find out Apple had ‘discovered’ the podcast?

White: I searched LinkedIn for the person in charge of PR for Apple Podcasts about featuring Blackbelt Voices during Black History Month, and he directed me to someone from their editorial team.

Little did I know, she had already come across the podcast and filed it 13

away in her mind before getting the email from her colleague. We were going to talk via phone the following week.

On the MLK holiday, Katrina, Kara and I were planning for season two. Kara asked when our most recent episode went live; I went to find the date. I had just told them about my email conversation with Apple but had no idea we were already featured in the “New & Noteworthy” section! I was pleasantly surprised and didn’t believe what I was seeing at first.

I excitedly told them, and they checked their phones and saw the same thing. Still in disbelief, we texted a few people to see if their phones were showing the same thing.

Blackbelt Voices was featured on the front page of the “New & Noteworthy” section and also in the “Society and Culture” section of Apple Podcasts. Our podcast art, designed by Kara Darling, was among the first things people saw when they clicked on the “Browse” tab of their Apple Podcasts app.

WINC: What is Apple currently doing with the podcast? And how has your following increased?

White: I learned that Apple is one of the few, if not the only, podcast platforms that hand curates what is featured; they rotate the shows every Monday. I am honored our show has gotten the attention of an actual person. Our contact at Apple is going to try to get us featured even more prominently toward the end of Black History Month. They already have planned their features for the early part of February.

As a result of the feature, our total downloads soared from around 400 to over 20,000 in one week. We are now at nearly 27,000.

We appeared on the Top 200 14 WINC. | March 2020

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podcasts on Apple Podcasts, peaking at 77. We have gotten requests from Georgia Public Broadcasting, the PBS and NPR affiliate for the state, to cross-promote our podcast with one of theirs and have received a pitch from a prominent political activist about appearing on the show in advance of their book release.

WINC: What would you tell other women or little girls who have goals they want to pursue?

White: One of my favorite quotes is by Howard Thurman, a theologian, educator, and civil rights leader: “Don’t ask yourself what the world needs. Ask yourself what makes you come alive, and go do that, because what the world needs is people who have come alive.” I would tell other women and girls to do just that. Find what you’re passionate about and pursue it.

WINC: What do you feel best prepared you for the successes you’re now seeing?

White: For nearly nine years, my full-time role as director of communications for the chamber has given me to the opportunity to tell

stories on behalf of dozens of businesses in the Conway area, which has helped me hone my interview and writing skills. My position at the chamber, plus my involvement on the board of directors for the Arkansas Chapter of the Public Relations Society of America, has also taught me the value of networking.

WINC: What are your goals personally and professionally?

White: My personal and professional goals are to continue growing the Blackbelt brand into a business that’s focused on storytelling and social change across the South, both through the podcast and through providing public relations and strategic communications to public policy organizations, foundations, and corporations across the South.

Melissa Gates has been telling stories in Faulkner County for more than a decade. She has interviewed a wide variety of interesting people from U.S. Presidents to rock stars and countless community leaders. After growing up in the Midwest, she is thrilled to call Conway home, alongside her husband and three kids.

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First female UCA provost talks importance of serving as role model for others

By Hilary Andrews

I

n 2017, the University of Central Arkansas began a nearly eight-month search to fill its vacant provost position.

The role oversees UCA’s six colleges, the graduate school, the Schedler Honors College and University College while reporting directly and working with the university president to develop strategic directions and plans to support the mission of UCA. During the search, Patricia Poulter from Kennesaw State University, felt she qualified for the position. UCA felt the same way and named her as the new provost and executive vice president of academic affairs March 14, 2018.

Since filling that empty office that July, Poulter has hit the ground running, quickly becoming a familiar face to many across the UCA community, getting involved in various organizations like the Women’s Leadership Network and excelling at the job she came to do, even through her July 1, 2019, breast cancer diagnosis.

Stronger than cancer, Poulter immediately started fighting back, supported by her family, friends and colleagues every step of the way.

“Like any great place to work, UCA is filled with great people,” she said. “I missed less than a week for each of my surgeries, and otherwise continued to work throughout my daily treatments.

Photo courtesy of the University of Central Arkansas

“People from work helped with meals, errands, and did things to keep my humor intact. Perhaps the most important thing was the grace I received from others when they knew I was exceptionally tired and unable to take on the ‘extra’ things that

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are a daily part of working at a vibrant campus.”

While she was prepared for many parts of the new role, what she didn’t realize was how historical her position was.

Turns out, Poulter became the first female to fill the provost role at UCA when she came on, a fact that initially surprised her.

“One of the most important things any of us do as educators, bosses, whatever the role, is we can serve as role models of possibility for others,” she said.

“I think that I do believe in this role I have a responsibility for helping people identify those opportunities.”

Poulter said we often hear the phrase “representation matters.”

With diversity front and center in every department across campus, UCA is a good representa-

tion of what it truly means to be inclusive.

Poulter wasn’t the first female to fill a similar role on campus either.

Diane Newton became the first female when hired as vice president for finance and administration and Amy Whitehead was the first female to be named as UCA chief of staff, among others.

“There are several female leaders at the University of Central Arkansas, in Central Arkansas and across the state,” Poulter said. “Each of us are showing others – female or male – what leadership ‘looks like’ now and how it will evolve in the future to be even more representative of the diversity of our society. “ The mentorship aspect to life is also important to Poulter,

“My hope is to do for others what my mentors have done for me. To encourage, to listen, to facilitate connections, to challenge, to open doors and remove false barriers.”

20 WINC. | March 2020

eager to help others following in her footsteps understand, they can do it too.

“I have had several female mentors at several stages in my life, and to a one they saw potential in me I was unable to see, to encourage and challenge me to go beyond the limitations set by others, and to help me grow in confidence, strength, compassion, and knowledge,” she said.

“My hope is to do for others what my mentors have done for me. To encourage, to listen, to facilitate connections, to challenge, to open doors and remove false barriers.”

March is also Women’s History Month. We asked Poulter what the annual recognition meant to her.

“Women’s History Month is a time to recognize the women

who have shaped our world but have so often been left out of the common conversations and educational curricula,” she said.

“It is also a time to raise awareness and focus on representation of women in meaningful and important roles.”

Poulter said it’s this representation that is especially important for children as they are forming their beliefs about how the world functions.

“I also think it is important for all of us to challenge what we were taught – or not taught – about the importance of women in all aspects of society, culture, leadership, arts, literature, sciences, healthcare, and innovation,” she said.

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Simply The Best

By David Smith

In recognition of the theme of this month’s Women’s Inc issue, Women in History, I thought it might be interesting to take a look at how women have impacted the profession of pharmacy over the years.

And, more importantly, I thought I would “toot the horn” for the ladies who make our pharmacy run so smoothly and do such an amazing job of taking care of our patients. On top of that, they keep us guys in line around here.

Back in the dark ages, when I graduated from pharmacy school in 1974, the ratio of women to men graduates was about even.

That was indicative of a trend that had been changing from a predominantly male dominated profession to a more female dominated one. According to the National Bureau of Economic Research, women represented around 14 percent of pharmacy graduates in the mid 1960s. Today, that number approaches 65 percent, and about 55 percent of all practicing pharmacists are female.

Even though their numbers were statistically small back in the day, women have played many prominent roles in pharmacy throughout the years. I found it particularly interesting that Elizabeth Greenleaf is listed among the 32 apothecaries in colonial New England in the late 1600s and early 1700s. She owned an apothecary shop in Boston in 1727. Furthermore, she was a minister’s wife! Like so many of you ladies who work outside the home, she must have

had tremendous demands on her time between work and home.

No pharmacy could run efficiently or profitably without pharmacy technicians.

Without our amazing technicians, we could never take care of our patients properly.

The roles of technicians have evolved over time from a person who played a minor role in assisting the pharmacist in their tasks, to a much more critical role in the prescription dispensing process under the close supervision of a pharmacist. I researched several sites and could not find the ratio of female-to-male technicians but feel quite confident that women far outnumber men in this area.

I am blessed to have the best business partner in the world. My wife, Shirley, is a world-class technician and we have worked side-by-side for years. Believe it or not, we actually enjoy it. My first year of pharmacy school was her last year of high school, and a date for us would involve a burger and a long study session where she would work me through a huge stack of flashcards with drug names, structures, uses, etc. Who said I wasn’t romantic?!? Anyway, almost 48 years later, she still has my back and is the real boss around here. In addition to her technician duties, Shirley does all of the gift buying for the pharmacy and finds some of the coolest things at market.

She is also the go-to person for scheduling purposes which takes an enormous load off of me. She really is simply the best.

Bailey Williams is one of our staff pharmacists and to say that she is the brains of the outfit is an understatement. Bailey was valedictorian of the UAMS College of Pharmacy in 2017 which puts Blake and me to shame. She started with us as an intern while she was still in school and, somehow, we have managed to not run her off.

Bailey is down-to-earth, kind-hearted, and relates extremely well to our customers. She just also happens to be a really good barrel racer and is a true cowgirl!

Amanda Downes is another absolutely essential member of our staff. Amanda has been a technician for nearly 14 years, and I have personally worked with her for most of that time. She is a wizard when it comes to insurance claims processing and is our go-to guru for Dispill, our multi-dose packaging system. We have well over 100 patients who utilize Dispill to simplify and enhance adherence to medication therapy.

It is perfect for patients who have trouble remembering to take their medications and has dramatically improved patient outcomes. It takes a great deal of planning and supervision, and nobody does it better than Amanda.

We are blessed to get to work with our daughter, Jennifer Holst, who is also a technician. She has been on board with us since we opened Smith Family Pharmacy in May of 2013. Technicians play different roles in pharmacy and Jennifer is our go-to technician for ensuring the right medications get in the right bottles in the right amounts. Her other duties include inventory restocking and making sure patient’s medications are accurately stored in our will-call system for patient pickup. We use scan and image capture technology to aid in the process, but without her attention to detail, the entire process would break down.

I’m out of room, but need to mention our newest technician, Ali Burch, who has only been with us for a few months, and our current pharmacy intern, Ashlyn Tedder. They round out and complete the great women making history in our business.

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Making a difference through nonprofit work: C.A.W.S.S. supports animal welfare unit

By Hilary Andrews March 2020 is Women’s History Month. WINC Magazine and its writers wanted to explore female leaders within our local community and shine a light on the work that is being done by many.

I

n March 2019, Conway’s Chris Quinn decided it was time to start the Conway Animal Welfare Shelter Support, a nonprofit organization created to help provide funds to support the Conway Animal Welfare Unit, which provides care for animals.

“I have been involved in animal rescue since 1998,” she said. “I wanted to make a difference by helping the animals at the shelter, in turn, this helps the dedicated staff that works there too.”

Quinn has always been a “huge

animal advocate.”

Through C.A.W.S.S., a difference can be made, which she said is already happening.

C.A.W.S.S. is hosting its first Stobys Pancake Breakfast fundraiser for 2020 on April 19 at Stobys Restaurant.

“Our organization is already making a difference for the welfare of animals at the Conway Animal Welfare Unit,” Quinn said. “I have developed a great relationship with the shelter director and the staff there over

C.A.W.S.S. mission and purpose: The purpose of the Conway Animal Welfare Shelter Support is to support the Conway Animal Welfare Unit by providing funds that may provide care for animals at the Conway Animal Welfare Unit that need medical assistance for which the city does not afford funds to do so. In addition, C.A.W.S.S. may provide funds for any need benefiting the welfare of the animals for which the city does not provide funding. It will also be the mission to increase awareness that will support the Conway Animal Welfare Unit through education; i.e., the benefits of spaying and neutering, responsible pet ownership, proper animal care and pet adoptions.

23

the last 11 years as president of another nonprofit.

“I have also been in retail and sales for all my adult life and I love working with the public. I love what I do in animal rescue and working with people.”

In addition, the nonprofit is also planning another obedience training 101 workshop with Stuart Holt starting April 25 for six weeks at $60.

As a female business leader in the community, WINC asked Quinn what type of challenges and struggles she’s faced.

“There is really not a struggle, per say, that I can think of, however, the challenge that males or females face that are owners, managers and leaders would be the sometimes difficult task of motivating your staff/or volunteers,” she replied. “I believe a person needs to treat their employees with respect and to never withhold praise and recognition when the opportunity presents itself. I believe if you treat people with respect and kindness they will be loyal to you. As a leader you must be willing to set the example.”

C.A.W.S.S. l 100 percent volunteer board: Chris Quinn, president, Betsey Helton, vice president, Terri Freeman, treasurer, Sharon Clack, secretary, Karl Justice, director, Charlsie Hum, director, Scott Hayes, director, Branden Hampton, director, and Cody Stoner, director. l Donations can be mailed to C.A.W.S.S. 1455 Tolkien Drive Conway, Arkansas, 72034, or you can donate through the Facebook page, all of which are tax deductible.

Conway Animal Welfare Unit: Located at 4550 Hwy. 64W in Conway. l Operated by taxpayer dollars and donations. l Staff includes shelter director, two customer service representatives, three animal control officers, two kennel technicians and one part-time veterinarian. l Takes in a total of 1700-2100 each year, most strays. l To volunteer, visit www.conwayanimalwelfare.org or the CAWU Facebook page. l

As for some of the win-wins she’d share with young women today to encourage them, Quinn said it’s all about the long-lasting relationships she’s built with her customers, consigners at the Furniture Consignment, which she owns, and the board members of C.A.W.S.S.

“I have had the privilege of training and hopefully being a mentor to the young people who have worked for me over the years,” she said. “It is extremely rewarding when I see them going forward in a different career and using some of the tools they learned while working here.”

Upcoming opportunities to show your support for the Conway Animal Shelter

Stoby's Pancake Breakfast April 19th - $5/person 100% volunteer board Chris Quinn, President; Betsey Helton, Vice President (not pictured); Terri Freeman, Treasurer; Sharon Clack, Secretary; Karl Justice, Director; Charlsie Hum, Director; Scott Hayes, Director; Branden Hampton, Director; Cody Stoner, Director 24 WINC. | March 2020

Obedience Training 101 Starts April 25th - 6 weeks, $60 For more details, check out our Facebook page!

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Trying our Luck at Crater of Diamonds State Park

By Andrea Champlin

I

’ve lived in Arkansas for most of my 40 plus years on this earth, and until recently, I had never been to Crater of Diamonds State Park, affectionately known to most Arkansans as, “the diamond mine.”

We visited a couple years ago during spring break. My three kids had been so excited about going to this state park ever since they first learned of its existence. It’s the only diamond mine in the world where you’re able to keep any diamonds you find. Sometimes the coolest places to go are in your own backyard.

We had a couple days available during spring break, so we decided to drive to Hot Springs and spend the night there. After a fun-filled day, we got to bed early and headed for the diamond mine the next morning after breakfast.

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We first stopped at the local discount store and picked up some spades, gloves, sunscreen and buckets. I had planned to buy rain boots for all on our way there, but the store was sold out. So my children were mining in chacos and flip flops. We clearly weren’t going to be mistaken for professional miners.

The Crater of Diamonds State Park is located in southwest Arkansas in the little town of Murfreesboro. As soon as you drive in, you realize that the diamond mine is a huge tourist draw. The town square is loaded with souvenirs for the visiting tourists. We didn’t stop at any of the shops because my husband was driving. Ladies, you understand.

Since we were visiting the park during spring break and the weather was beautiful, I was prepared for a large crowd. It may have been a little more crowded than usual, but there was plenty of diamond mining space for everyone.

The entrance is well marked. We went to the visitor’s center, which has several displays where you can learn about the history of the park and learn about the diamonds you may find there, to purchase tickets.

Once those were bought, we made our way down to the supply rental area. We brought with us spades, a rake, a shovel, and three big buckets; we only rented a screen. You

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can choose between wet and dry mining and we chose dry, obviously, because I had visions of three muddy children.

I’d read that you may want to bring a wagon to haul gear but I’m glad we didn’t. It’s not a long walk and I don’t think it’s necessary to have a wagon unless you’re just bringing tons of gear. We did see some serious miners that looked like they knew what they were doing and they had a wagon to haul gear but we were more recreational miners. I even took some gold dollars to throw out to make sure some treasure was found.

There is no shade in the field.

There is a lone tree in the field and it looks dead, plus you’re not allowed to dig around it. We all wore hats and I put sunscreen on the kids as well.

Once we checked in and rented a screen, we found a spot in the field that looked undisturbed and set up

our supplies.

Our very thorough way of digging for diamonds included collecting the top layer of dirt in our spade and sifting through it with our hands, or putting it in the sifter that we rented. That’s it. We put any cool rocks in our bucket to take home with us.

We lasted about two hours digging, then, we packed up our gear and returned our rented sifter.

The park had someone – I’m not sure if he was a volunteer or employee – but he looked over all our stones and identified what they were. Our stones were mostly jasper, although my son Adam is sure there was a diamond in there.

We had a great time digging together as a family at Crater of Diamonds State Park. I don’t know that we will go again, but I’m glad we had the experience. It was definitely worth it and a great spring break day trip.

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Faith Feature

Rolling Stones

By Jennifer Foster

T

he story of Lazarus has become one of my favorite stories, quite possibly because I myself have spent some precious time in a tomb. I know what it’s like to be dead and wrapped tight in burial rags. I know the feeling of being sealed away shielding the world of its awareness to my rampant decay and I know what despair feels like when Jesus doesn’t seem to come fast enough.

32 WINC. | March 2020

Those closest to Lazarus cried out to the one they believed in but he purposefully delays. His delay is perceived as an unanswered prayer and one could assume this resulted in a host of emotions ranging anywhere from anger to despair. Martha appears to be the only one brave enough to voice what everyone else was probably thinking as she in so many words accuses Jesus of being slow. Martha’s despair came

from a place of an unmet expectation. You see, Martha had the faith for healing. She believed he could heal the sick. But what she didn’t have the faith for was a resurrection and in order to give her that kind of faith, that increase, he had to let Lazarus die.

Lazarus cold and dead lay inside a tomb, and the only thing separating life from death was one large stone. With one command, Jesus taught the world a

basic yet challenging truth.

The removal of the stone is necessary for any resurrection from the dead. It’s the very thing dividing freedom from bondage. The stone being rolled away was critical for the resurrection of Lazarus, and it’s just as critical for the resurrection in us. Sadly, we react as Martha did as we question the true need. The removal of the stone would plague the air with the stench of death, and let’s face it, the thought of exposing our decaying places is more than we think we can bear.

We claim to believe that he can bring life back into our dead, broken places, but when he starts to move and commands the stone be rolled, we question and doubt. Knowing our stench would be pretty ugly to the world, we’d rather just keep it sealed off than lay it open bare before others.

The truth is, we all have our dead places: places within us that once beamed with life but are now dry and cold. We all have unmet longings, complex identities and hopes that have died to fear. I often wonder what it would look like if we, as the body of Christ, got tired of the darkness and decided to step out into the light … into his marvelous light.

What if we finally decided we’d had enough of hiding our dead places and chose instead to expose them allowing the love of the Father to call forth life?

The removal of our stone is essential. It’s the first step in our freedom and this obedience puts us in a place to receive everything the father has for us! It’s this simple act that shows the father that our freedom from bondage is worth the risk of judgement by others. We surrender our pride, and he redeems our souls.

We exhale fear and inhale faith, and he responds with grace and redemption.

So, if you find yourself longing for the light and deem the stench worth it, I encourage you to soak in his presence and allow his redeeming power to bring life to something that was once dead. Find the courage today to roll away the stone, allowing him to uncover your dead places.

Then, embrace the grace that comes with pursuing the freedom he died to give you.

“Father, help us to live authentically before You and others as we truly catch Your gaze for us. Let us see You in all of Your greatness so that the value of everything we need to surrender pales in comparison to having You! Increase our faith to believe in your resurrection power that breathes life on dry bones, and commands the dead to rise again. And when fear impedes on the rolling of our stones, remind us of Your commitment to us as we choose your heart and step into the light.

In Jesus’s name, AMEN!”

Jennifer Foster is a wife, mom, and woman who has lived many years barren and bound, and though both of these presented themselves differently in different seasons of her life, she spent years unaware of what true freedom felt like. But, one day she woke up at the bottom, exhausted and desperate for more: for freedom, for a new song, and for His breath on her dry, brittle bones. And in a moment her barren places met His beauty and her life was changed forever. Jennifer lives in Conway with her husband Jonathan and their two sons, Bennett and Steele.

Between homeschooling and sports, her world is pretty busy, but her heart is passionately pursuing the voice of the Father and His love for His people.

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A Look Back...

Photo courtesy of Log Cabin Democrat.

Dr. Maude C. Carmichael, center, former SCA economics professor and department chairman, and three of her former students – Dr. Silas D. Snow (far left), C.W. Harper (background right) and Dr. Bessie Moore (far right). The four were at a luncheon of the Carmichael Foundation where Dr. J. Carter Murphy (second from left), chairman of the Department of Economics at SMU spoke. Dr. Moore presented a check to the foundation.

Dr. Maude Carmichael (1887-1974)

By Cindy Beckman

1

987, March was designated as Women’s History Month, a time to celebrate the vital role that women have played in American history. This look back recognizes the contributions Dr. Maude Carmichael made to Conway and to Arkansas education.

A little over a year ago, I ran across a picture from January 1969. In it were three notable individuals, Dr. Silas D. Snow, UCA president who led the col-

36 WINC. | March 2020

lege to university status in 1975; Cleddie W. Harper, president of First National Bank of Conway; and Dr. Bessie Moore, director of the Arkansas Council on Economic Education (now Economics Arkansas), and their former teacher, Dr. Maude Carmichael. They were attending a luncheon

for the Carmichael Foundation at State College of Arkansas (now UCA).

At the time, I thought how pleased

Dr. Carmichael must have been to have taught these accomplished individuals who had contributed so much to their community and impacted the lives of so many. After a little research, however, I soon found Dr. Carmichael’s legacy lives on in so many areas.

Maude Savilla Carmichael was born August 19, 1887 in Van Buren County to William W. Carmichael, Sr. and Matilda Ann Thompson Carmichael. After graduating high school in Clinton, she earned her bachelors’ degree at Hendrix College in 1917 before receiving her master’s degree at Columbia University in 1923. During this time, she also taught in the public schools at Clinton, Little Rock and North Little Rock.

In 1923, Carmichael was

hired as an associate professor of history at Arkansas State Normal School. Two years later, as the school transitioned to become Arkansas State Teacher’s College (ASTC), she was promoted to full professor.

In 1929, the year the stock market crashed, she co-authored a textbook, “Elementary Economics,” with Thomas Nixon Carver.

Carmichael became department chair in 1931, serving as head of the Social Science department then the Economics and Sociology. Business education was eventually put under her supervision. In 1933, her nine-month contract was $1,725; by 1947, it had grown to $2,565.

During breaks from classes, Dr. Carmichael continued her own education with work at the National Summer School in Utah,

Photo courtesy of UCA Archives

In 1968, ASTC named the new campus residence hall for women in honor of Dr. Maude Carmichael.

37

Photo courtesy of UCA Archives

In 1968, ASTC named the new campus residence hall for women in honor of Dr. Maude Carmichael. Here Dr. Carmichael is seen with friends at the dormitory’s open house.

the University of Utah Agricultural College, Iowa University and George Peabody College. In 1935, she received her Ph.D. from Radcliffe College, the female counterpart of Harvard. Her doctoral dissertation was entitled, “The Plantation System in Arkansas: 1850-1876” and is housed in the UCA Archives.

In 1941, Dr. Carmichael was one of 12 charter members to organize and establish the Conway branch 38 WINC. | March 2020

of the American Association of University Women (AAUW) at ASTC, serving as its first president. She also organized and sponsored the college’s first honorary history organization, Phi Alpha Theta, and the first Greek letter sorority, Pi Kappa Sigma.

In 1944, she was named to “Who’s Who in America.”

During her time at ASTC, Dr. Carmichael was known as a leader on campus, as well as in the state, in improving race relations. She wrote several articles on the subject in the Arkansas Historical Quarterly and the Journal of Negro Education.

After 30 years at ASTC, Dr. Carmichael retired in June 1953. She built a new home and taught a year at Hendrix before head-

ing the Department of Economics at Henderson State College in 1957-58. She taught at Arkansas Tech in 1959.

Dr. Carmichael was also one of 42 founding members of the Faulkner County Historical Society when it was founded in 1959.

She served as its president in 1964 and 1965 before becoming an ex officio director. In 1965, the Conway Chamber of Commerce awarded her its annual distinguished service award in recognition of her work with the history society. The log cabin museum on the courthouse grounds, a project she spearheaded, was dedicated in 1966.

In 1968, ASTC established The Carmichael Fund to honor Dr. Carmichael’s parents. This endowment funds the Carmichael Chair for Economics at UCA, currently being held by Ling He, DBA. This endowment, named in honor of her parents, was an extension of Dr. Carmichael life’s work in providing Arkansas students with an understanding of the important economic forces that affect their lives.

The ASTC board of trustees also voted unanimously in June 1968 to name the new campus residence hall for women in her honor. Carmichael Hall, south of the UCA Student Center, is still in use today.

Cindy Beckman is a local freelance writer and columnist who has authored several local history books and articles. Her weekly History Mystery and Artifact of the Week columns appear in the Tuesday edition; the A Look Forward column appears bi-monthly in the Sunday edition; and the Yesterdays column appears daily in the Log Cabin. She is also editor of Faulkner Facts and Fiddlings, the journal of the Faulkner County Historical Society. She may be reached at beckman@wind stream.net.

Photo courtesy of UCA Archives

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Local Flavors

O’Malley’s Irish Grill

Photo by Ron Beckman

By Cindy Beckman

This month, WINC begins a new feature, which will take a look at some of the marvelous locally-owned restaurants in the area. Here, readers will learn more about the flavors of these restaurants, as well as the owner’s inspirations and Faulkner Square visions for a unique dining experience.

803 Harkrider Street What was the dream and vision behind opening this restaurant?

Conway, AR 72032 The vision is to create a fun, relaxing gathering President – Greg Shofner place for the community, offering delicious Irish fare Executive Chef & and American cuisine to complement the many great General Manager – Wayne Petty establishments already in downtown Conway.

What do you want people’s experience to be when they come in?

Welcome. Warm and genuine. Relaxing and fun. We want everyone who enters to feel like they are dropping by a friend’s home. There are no strangers here but rather friends not yet met.

O’Malley’s Irish Grill

40 WINC. | March 2020

Describe a few of your specialty dishes.

Fish & Chips – House made beer battered Atlantic cod filet served with fries, tartar sauce and mushy peas.

Shepherd’s Pie – Slow braised beef and veggies in a rich porter gravy topped with mashed potatoes and served with house made Irish soda bread.

Guinness Stew – Slow cooked chunks of beef and veggies in a rich beef and Guinness Extra Stout base topped with Irish champ potatoes and served with house made Irish soda bread.

The Braveheart – Thinly sliced grilled corned beef, sauerkraut, house made Russian sauce

topped with Swiss cheese and served on a toasted hoagie roll.

Philly Cheesesteak (Traditional) – Thinly sliced Angus Ribeye, Sauteed onion and green peppers, melted white American cheese.

Caramel apple-pie cheesecake – Grandma’s apple pie meets cheesecake, topped with our house made salted caramel.

If you could serve only one dish, what would it be and why?

Fish and chips. It’s a wonderful comfort food that can take you back to a certain place and time.

What kinds of activities/events do you have to draw people in?

We have multiple televisions,

so there will always be great game-day viewing. Additionally, we are planning fun events, music and specials throughout the year including St. Patrick’s Day, Toad Suck Daze, Friday Lent specials and more.

Cindy Beckman is a local freelance writer and columnist who has authored several local history books and articles.

Her weekly History Mystery and Artifact of the Week columns appear in the Tuesday edition; the A Look Forward column appears bi-monthly in the Sunday edition; and the Yesterdays column appears daily in the Log Cabin.

She is also editor of Faulkner Facts and Fiddlings, the journal of the Faulkner County Historical Society. She may be reached at beckman@wind stream.net.

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