STEVENS TRANSPORT WELCOMES

We are pleased to announce Richie Henderson will be joining Stevens Transport, Inc. effective June 6th as our Chief Financial Officer.

For the past 28 years, Richie has been a leader in finance and business strategy, resulting in multi-billion-dollar growth. His experience includes corporate development, mergers and acquisitions, financial strategy, information technology, engineering, marketing, and HR at J.B. Hunt.

Over his career with J.B. Hunt, Richie served in many senior leadership roles. As Vice President of Finance and Administration, Richie was responsible for the Dedicated Contract Services Division, directing all finance, accounting and budgeting, pricing, market research, strategic planning, information technology and human resources for a 6,000+ personnel business unit. These strategies became standardized across the entire J.B. Hunt organization.

As Senior Vice president of Administration and Technology, Richie engineered supply chain methodologies and systems including leading development and architecting for the DCS back-office system and the JBHunt 360 digital e-commerce platform. Richie further created the strategic plan to own logistics end-to-end in the innovative last-mile home delivery program resulting in a division exceeding $1 billion in revenue.

Richie graduated from the University of Arkansas, with a Bachelor of Science in Business Administration and Finance. He received his MBA from John Brown University, where he has also served as Adjunct Professor of Global Operations and Supply Chain Management and serves as Advisory Board Member.

Richie enjoys spending quality time with his family and giving back in his community, where he serves on the school board of Shiloh Christian and Project RED Friday - a non- profit organization focused on awareness and recognition for military service members. Richie is a published author in multiple trade publications covering supply chain, and we are excited to have him joining our executive leadership group.

Welcome to the team, Richie!

Make-A-Wish is a nonprofit organization that grants the wishes of children with critical illnesses, bringing them hope, joy, and a respite from their medical challenges. The organization works tirelessly to fulfill the dreams of these courageous children, whether it's meeting their favorite celebrity, going on a dream vacation, or experiencing an extraordinary adventure. By granting these heartfelt wishes, Make-A-Wish aims to create magical moments that inspire hope and provide strength to children and their families during difficult times, leaving a lasting impact on their lives.

Emma Rose Straub, a remarkable young girl from central Pennsylvania, has defied the odds and triumphed over a series of complex medical conditions since birth. Now, she stands as an inspiration to others, showcasing strength, resilience, and an unwavering positive spirit. Born with tracheoesophageal fistula and esophageal atresia (TEF/EA) as well as coarctation of the aorta (CoA), Emma faced immediate medical intervention to address these life-threatening conditions. TEF/EA involved the surgical separation of her esophagus from her windpipe, while CoA required corrective surgery on a narrow section of her aortic arch. These critical surgeries were performed at a children's hospital in Delaware, as the expertise required was not available locally. Emma underwent heart surgery at just three days old, followed by the esophagus surgery at 13 days old. Emma's journey also included the diagnosis of congenital hip dysplasia, which necessitated a corrective surgical procedure and the use of a spica cast for three months. Due to the limited mobility during this time, Emma developed a misshapen head, leading her to wear a helmet for five months to restore its proper shape. Additionally, she coped with various respiratory procedures, including bronchoscopies, tracheoscopies, and laryngoscopies, as a result of tracheobronchomalacia (TBM), a condition affecting her airways.

Despite the physical challenges, Emma maintains a positive outlook and radiates joy. During her treatment, she found solace in the presence of service dogs brought by the Child Life team at the hospital, along with their comforting toys. Emma's resilient spirit was evident when she regained her strength, engaging in imaginative play, storytelling, and singing, bringing her immeasurable joy. Notably, Emma hasn't been admitted to the hospital for four years, a testament to her perseverance.

One of the standout moments for Emma was participating in the Make-A-Wish Truck Convoy. The event provided her with a memorable experience, filled with delicious food, carnival games, and encounters with beloved characters and new acquaintances. Riding in the Pink Peterbilt truck "Ms. Clarissa" during the convoy was an exhilarating adventure for Emma, who loved waving at the enthusiastic crowds lining the streets. Though her arm tired from continuous waving, the excitement far outweighed any temporary discomfort in Emma. "Stevens Transport and Nikeyta Matthews, also known as "Pinky," treated me exceptionally well," says Emma "They went above and beyond to make me feel special. Pinky gave me gifts like stuffed animals, a personalized keychain, even flowers for my mom on Mother's Day." Pinky's generosity and kindness were truly heartwarming. Such thoughtful acts touched Emma and her family deeply.

Looking ahead, Emma nurtures dreams of becoming a zoologist, driven by her unwavering love for animals. She also finds great joy in singing with a local youth chorale. Despite her lifelong medical conditions, Emma remains positive and determined to pursue her aspirations. Throughout her medical journey, Emma Rose has been fortunate to have the unwavering support of her loving family and friends.

In her closing statements, Emma Rose reflects on the challenges she has overcome and the blessings she has received. Despite the difficulties she faced during her early years and subsequent health struggles, she finds solace in her faith. Emma Rose believes that she must keep moving forward, knowing that the Lord will always care for her. Grateful for the support she has received throughout her medical journey, she actively gives back to her community. Emma Rose participates in events organized by Make-A-Wish and Give Kids the World, speaks at local charity events for Children's Miracle Network, and organizes an annual toy drive for her local children's hospital. Through these endeavors, she spreads hope and inspiration to others.

To learn more about Emma Rose and her extraordinary journey, she invites you to follow her on Facebook at "Prayers for Emma Rose" and subscribe to her YouTube channel, "Cat's Got Fleas (Emma)." As you follow Emma follow "Pinky" at OTR Diva on YouTube. Through these platforms, Emma shares her experiences, spreads positivity, and encourages others to embrace resilience and gratitude in the face of adversity. Emma Rose's story is a testament to the power of determination, the strength of familial and community support, and the spirit of a young girl determined to make a difference in the world.

Nikeyta 'Pinky' Matthews, an esteemed member of the Stevens Transport driving community, inspires women in the trucking industry as a trainer and dedicated YouTube vlogger known as OTR Diva, advocating for driver safety. In her second year of lease purchase, she showcases the benefits of business ownership through unwavering commitment. Beyond trucking, she unveiled her pink-wrapped Peterbilt 579, "Ms. Clarissa," in Dallas, raising breast cancer awareness and supporting survivors. Personal experiences with cancer have driven her to raise awareness and provide solace. Stevens Transport recognized her compassion, selecting her as their ambassador against cancer. The profound impact of her truck has garnered gratitude from drivers and pedestrians, emphasizing its significance for affected families. Partnering with Stevens Transport, Nikeyta considers it an honor to combat all forms of cancer.