WOMEN OF IMPACT - 2024

2024

WOMEN OF IMPACT Do South® is proud to recognize the achievements of accomplished women making an impact in our community.

We celebrate these passionate leaders who set the bar for excellence in their professions. Join us as we recognize the incredible women who propel our region forward!

A Do South® Paid Promotion

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2024

WOMEN OF IMPACT Do South® is proud to recognize the achievements of accomplished women making an impact in our community.

We celebrate these passionate leaders who set the bar for excellence in their professions. Join us as we recognize the incredible women who propel our region forward!

A Do South® Paid Promotion

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Arkansas Colleges of Health Education In a groundbreaking development at the Arkansas Colleges of Health Education (ACHE), four out of five programs are now under the guidance of accomplished women leaders.

Teressa Brown, PT, DPT, PhD, OCS, is a trailblazer in the field of physical therapy and leads as the Dean of the ACHE School of Physical Therapy. Jennifer Moore, PhD, esteemed Occupational Therapist (OT), serves as the Dean of the ACHE School of Occupational Therapy.

Dr. Shannon Jimenez, distinguished Doctor of Osteopathic Medicine (DO), has assumed

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the role of Dean at the Arkansas College of Osteopathic Medicine (ARCOM). Additionally, Alexis Gillett, PT, DPT, EdD, an accomplished professional in public health, has taken on the role of Program Director for the Master of Public Health (MPH) program.

This remarkable achievement not only reflects the commitment to diversity and inclusivity at the ACHE, but also highlights the exceptional leadership qualities of women in the health and education sectors. ACHE continues to foster an environment where women thrive and lead in shaping the future of healthcare education.

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Dr. Ashley Mohadjer B A P T I S T H E A LT H C A R D I O L O G Y The Baptist Health Cath Lab in Fort Smith can be compared to a symphony, with each medical professional playing their part. In Dr. Ashley Mohadjer’s case it’s more like a ballet, something she knows more than a little bit about. Before attending medical school, she ascended to the elite levels of dance, which came in handy.

“Medical school is very challenging,” she says. “There’s a lot of information thrown at you in a short period of time and that can become very overwhelming. I think having fifteen or sixteen years in the dance world gave me a lot of discipline and focus.”

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After earning various degrees in California, Ohio, Florida, and Tennessee, she arrived in Fort Smith in 2022 and ever since has channeled the same drive that led her to great heights in the art form into her life as a physician.

“I am passionate about cardiac disease and seek to provide a well-rounded, whole person approach to patient care,” says Dr. Mohadjer.

“Channeling my excitement for teaching and education, I want to teach my patients so that they may understand their disease process in their own terms.”

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The Women of The Call Formed with the mission to “educate, equip and encourage the Christian community to provide a future and a hope for children in foster care in Arkansas,” The CALL has grown rapidly statewide. Families recruited by The CALL make up over half of all foster families in Arkansas, families that have cared for over 30,810 children and created forever families for over 2,188 children since 2007.

Strong, committed women hold positions of leadership in The CALL throughout the state, helping to meet the objective of opening loving foster homes for waiting children. Some of these outstanding advocates include: Emily Treadaway has headed up The CALL in Crawford & Sebastian Counties since 2017, following a year as a volunteer. She brings a long list of community service to the role including with Junior League of Fort Smith, 100 Families, Every Child Arkansas and recently served on a working group for the Arkansas Strategic Plan for Foster Care Placement under Governor Sarah Sanders.

Brandy Shioyama has worked for the organization for thirteen years. A northwest Arkansas native, Brandy has also practiced social work in that corner of the state for nineteen years. An adoptee herself, she combined her unique life experience with advanced collegiate training in her field.

Leslie Maddox, a Paris, Arkansas, native and graduate of Arkansas Tech University, served the organization as a valued volunteer before stepping into River Valley coordinator position eighteen months ago.

In Sky Freeman’s previous career of real estate, the concept of home and family was of critical importance. As county coordinator for Pope, Yell, and Johnson counties, Sky helps families and children share the love of Jesus and the comfort of a safe home.

The CALL provides services to families and churches at no cost and is active in all seventy-five Arkansas counties, including throughout western Arkansas.

#1 Recruiter of Traditional Foster Homes in Arkansas

EMILY Our vision is to have no waiting children in foster care in Arkansas. Our mission is to educate, equip and encourage the Christian community to provide a future and a hope for children in foster care in Arkansas.

Find your county affiliate at thecallinarkansas.org.

BRANDY

LESLIE

SKY

Crawford & Sebastian Counties Emily Treadaway, County Coordinator

479.353.0767 / etreadaway@thecallinarkansas.org

Northwest Arkansas Brandy Shioyama, Program Coordinator

479.418.1314 / bshioyama@thecallinarkansas.org

River Valley Leslie Maddox, County Coordinator

479.651.8816 / lmaddox@thecallinarkansas.org

Pope, Yell & Johnson Counties Sky Freeman, County Coordinator

479.640.4705/sfreeman@thecallinarkansas.org

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The Women of Fort Smith Boys and Girls Clubs The Fort Smith Boys & Girls Clubs, a nonprofit dedicated to youth development, is driven by community, empowerment, and the belief in a greater purpose. As an organization that has operated within Fort Smith for almost a century, the Clubs have a longstanding legacy of leadership, which they recently expanded upon by hiring the organization’s first female CEO. Beth Presley, along with other notable women, are blazing forward, heels and all, to continue the organization’s mission of providing quality youth development services to every child in our community.

these incredible women collaborate across finance, management, leadership, programming, and marketing to make a collective impact on children, the community, and each other.

Led by women in key roles, such as Finance Manager Arlyn Bates, Unit Directors FaTima Jones and Yvonne Blackmon, Marketing & Donor Relations Manager Lauren Zavala, and Program & Volunteer Manager Amaica Howard, these leaders contribute diverse skills and decades of combined experience to ensure the well-being of Club kids and the high quality of programs they receive.

Grant & Program Director Jennifer Burchett strategically navigates growth, while CEO Beth Presley provides vision and leadership. Together,

EMPOWERING FUTURES Transforming Lives

Safe and Supportive Environment

Development Programs

Community Engagement & Mentorship Opportunities

Become a Mentor or Club Member, today!

(479) 782-7093 | fsbgc.org DOSOUTHMAGAZINE.COM

Education and Career Preparation

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Dr. Lori Boyd and Dr. Kailey Thompson CENTER FOR HEARING AND BALANCE Dr. Lori Boyd, a Fort Smith native and mother of three, has practiced audiology in the area since 1998. Lori is married to Justin, who is a pharmacist and local business owner. Along with their three daughters, they enjoy spending time together as a family. When not working, Lori can be found at various events around town, whether helping at one of her daughters’ school events, assisting with fundraisers, or using her talents at church and other community events.

In college, Lori studied communication disorders and enjoyed the research aspect of helping hearing-impaired individuals learn to communicate effectively. She carries this same passion with her today as a Doctor of Audiology, practicing at Center for Hearing and Balance since 2011.

Lori enjoys working with patients of all ages for both diagnostic testing and hearing aid fittings. She loves the challenges that come with solving problems for her patients to improve their hearing and avoid communication breakdown by helping them hear better.

Dr. Kailey Thompson is a dedicated professional at Center for Hearing and Balance whose passion lies in improving the lives of her patients through comprehensive hearing health care.

Her journey began at the University of Tennessee, where she discovered a critical need for specialized vestibular (balance and dizziness) providers.

Determined to make a difference, she sought out rotations specifically related to the vestibular system. Kailey's training extended from Tennessee to the largest ENT center in Colorado.

Now settled in the River Valley area, Kailey brings her expertise to our community. Around town, you can find Kailey attending her local book club, grabbing coffee from Olive Coffee Co., or going on outdoor adventures with her husband, Chandler.

QUALITY OF LIFE IS OUR TOP PRIORITY! Diagnostic Hearing Evaluations Vestibular and Balance Testing Complete Hearing Aid Center Tinnitus Evaluations Ear Cleaning / Wax Removal

Lori Boyd, AuD 7200 Cameron Park Drive, Fort Smith, Arkansas

Kailey Thompson, AuD 479.785.3277 centerforhearing.net

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Natalie Hedrick OWNER, CARD AND CLOTH Natalie Hedrick developed a love for fashion early and developed her skillset at The Art Institute in North Carolina, earning a degree in fashion marketing and management. She also studied in Milan, Italy, and spent time in the fashion scene of Los Angeles before coming home.

finding different brands of good quality for all our merchandise. A goal when I started was if a grandmother came in with her granddaughter, they could both find something they loved. We have girls who come in starting at age twelve and we have women in their eighties who shop with us, ” she says.

Her Card and Cloth stores indulge a wide range of stylish fashions for women, as well as a nice selection of gifts, home décor and baby items, many of which the store can personalize through embroidery or engraving to lend a personalized touch.

Natalie’s other passion is community service where she is heavily involved, hoping to make a difference. “My husband Chris and I grew up here and I’m thankful that Card and Cloth gives me the opportunity to be involved in the community,” she says.

“We work hand-in-hand with local schools and nonprofits to give back what we can throughout the year. That’s something we’re pretty passionate about.”

“We really focus on providing something for everyone,” Natalie says. “We carry sizes extra small through 3X and I place a priority on

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Dr. Janissa Jackson CO-OWNER, LEARNINGRX Dr. Janissa Jackson is the first to tell people, she didn’t need another job when she made the decision to open the Fort Smith office of LearningRx. But after evaluating the published scientific research behind this program, she couldn’t pass up the opportunity.

“LearningRx is different than diagnostic testing because we do an assessment and consultation about brain skills,” she says. “We go straight to the heart of the matter, the source of the problem, and we offer a program to improve those brain skills.”

Janissa began her professional journey by earning her Ph.D. in clinical psychology in 2005 from the University of Arkansas following specialty training in the evaluation and treatment of children and adolescents with Arkansas Children’s Hospital and the University of Arkansas for Medical Sciences in Little Rock. She also completed additional training in the assessment and treatment of developmental concerns including autism spectrum disorders.

to doing testing. In this manner she focuses on diagnosis, the key step to opening doors for patients of all ages to meet their highest potential.

LearningRx’s unique and cutting-edge methodology dovetails perfectly with Janissa’s skillset and expertise. “Our approach is based on the science of neuroplasticity, which means that we can improve the weaker areas of the brain through directed exercises,” she says. “LearningRx is done one-on-one with your very own brain trainer in an open setting that is fun, collaborative and allows for incredible progress across all ages. Our youngest student is five years old, and our oldest is eighty.”

In addition to being a respected professional and busy entrepreneur, Janissa is also a wife and mother. She is a partner in LearningRx with her husband, Justin, and when not running the business, the duo spends their time on the family cattle ranch with their two children.

She began her practice in 2005 and has been practicing in Fort Smith since 2011, specializing in treatment and psychological evaluations, recently limiting her work

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Dr. Terisa C. Riley CHANCELLOR, UNIVERSITY OF ARKANSAS – FORT SMITH Dr. Terisa C. Riley, chancellor of the University of Arkansas – Fort Smith, embodies the title Woman of Impact. With more than thirty years in higher education, she brings a wealth of experience to the River Valley, championing transparency, integrity, and servant-leadership.

A dedicated wife and mother, she has raised four children while earning her advanced degrees. She leads with a keen understanding of the challenges of life and family, and approaches colleagues and students alike with empathy and a listening ear.

Leading by example, she has built a campus culture of inclusion, open dialogue, and

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accountability, where belonging is top of mind and excellence thrives. Her efforts in strategic planning and sustainability have led to significant achievements in enrollment, retention, and financial health – positioning UAFS as a powerhouse among regional public universities in Arkansas.

Dr. Riley also serves on the boards of the Fort Smith and Van Buren chambers of commerce and chairs the U.S. Marshals Museum Board.

She holds a Ph.D. from Saint Louis University and is a graduate of the National Police Institute.

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Ann K. Passmore, M.D., F.A.C.S. PA S S M O R E P L A S T I C S U R G E RY Some things change constantly; others remain the same. At least that’s the case at Passmore Plastic Surgery.

A Board Certified Cosmetic Surgeon, Dr. Passmore has practiced in her hometown of Fort Smith for more than two decades. During that time, her practice has constantly evolved. In addition to offering surgical solutions, she is always investing in the latest technology for non-surgical cosmetic treatments.

“Today’s technology provides a night-and-day difference from just a few years ago.

Patients see better results with very little if any downtime for many procedures.”

Among her latest tools is the Morpheus8 microneedling system and the Fraxel Dual Laser which use different modalities to improve sun damage, discoloration, and skin texture. Most recently, she introduced the River Valley to EvolveX – an in-office treatment to tighten, tone and transform loose, sagging skin on almost any area of the body. But while striving to offer her patients an evolving array of treatment options and skin care products, the core goal of her practice has never wavered.

“While I believe that my patients appreciate my training, expertise, and experience – I am confident that they equally appreciate my willingness to listen. Many come for a consultation because they are seeking confidence. There is something about their appearance that bothers them, and they want to discuss options for improvement. I hear it every day – patients want to feel better about themselves, and I consider it a privilege to help them achieve that. The tools we use have changed over the years, but my commitment to my patients and to helping them reach whatever goal they have in mind has not. That’s a big part of why I love what I do.”

Her medical practice is independent, well respected, and rather unique in that she is one of only a few female surgeons in the area. She is credentialed to perform surgery at two hospitals and two out-patient surgery centers. Dr. Passmore has been voted Best Cosmetic Surgeon by the Times Record for the past eight years.

Additionally, she has received the top award in the Democrat Gazette’s Best of the River Valley contest for the last several years.

CONFIDENCE IS WITHIN YOUR CONTROL Cosmetic procedures, the latest technology, and high-quality skincare products can give you the confidence boost you need.

With affordable pricing and the expertise of Dr. Ann Passmore, board-certified plastic surgeon, you’ll be ready to confront the job market or

Ann K. Passmore, MD, FACS

your next blind date.

7805 Phoenix Avenue | Fort Smith, Arkansas | 479.242.2442 | passmoreplasticsurgery.com DOSOUTHMAGAZINE.COM

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Patti Kimbrough E X E C U T I V E D I R E C T O R , G O O D S A M A R I TA N C L I N I C After thirty-plus years in nonprofit work, Good Samaritan Clinic Executive Director Patti Kimbrough attributes her career choice to the influence of her mother. “My mom was a registered nurse and spent her entire life caring for people.” A portrait of Patti’s inspiration (and namesake) hangs above her desk as a constant reminder of why service to our community is vitally important.

A Fort Smith native, Patti has held leadership roles in locations from Northwest Arkansas to West Virginia. After years of living away, she discovered that there’s truly no place like home. She has seen many changes during her seven years directing the clinic; the biggest being the clinic’s soon relocation to 1400 Zero Street in Fort Smith. “Mercy generously gifted us a clinic, and we couldn’t be happier. We have

Serving and Caring for the River Valley for Over 20 Years!

Medical Care | Vision Care | OMT/Chiropractic Care | Counseling Services (English & Spanish)

outgrown the space we’ve occupied for twenty years, and now we can help more patients in need of services,” Patti said.

The goal is to be in the new facility in July.

Patti and staff are excited for the ten new exam and procedure rooms with additional space for training medical and nursing students during clinical rotations. Patti says, “We get to provide medical care to those who need us the most, while also training the doctors and nurses of tomorrow.”

Exciting things are ahead for the Good Samaritan Clinic, and Patti is thrilled to be a vital part of it all. She definitely found her calling and is proud to carry on her late mother’s legacy of service and compassionate care.

LOVE ACCESS COMPASSION ENGAGEMENT OUR MISSION To improve the health in our region by providing access to compassionate, quality healthcare, for the uninsured in our community.

HOW TO BE A GOOD SAMARITAN: #IAMGOODSAM

1. TELL A FRIEND ABOUT GOOD SAMARITAN 2. FOLLOW US ON SOCIAL MEDIA 3. SHARE YOUR STORY 4. GIVE. YOUR TIME, TALENT OR RESOURCES

We’re moving to 1400 Zero Street in 2024! Our new facility will give us more room to better serve our patients and train medical/nursing students.

615 North B Street, Fort Smith, Arkansas 72901 479.783.0233 | goodsamaritanfs.com DOSOUTHMAGAZINE.COM

HOW TO DONATE

Online: goodsamaritanfs.com By mail: 615 N B St., Fort Smith, AR 72901

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The Women of The Woodsman Company When one ponders the history of women in the outdoors, their impact can be overlooked. Take fly fishing, for example. The brand Orvis was founded on the love a daughter had for tying flies for her father’s rod company, a love which continued as she and her son journeyed on many adventures, furthering their passion for the outdoors. Joan Wulff, the epitome of a distance fly caster, showcased that distance casting had nothing to do with brute strength, but rather timing and balance.

The Women of The Woodsman Company have been serving the River Valley for thirty-nine years through procuring a vast selection of merchandise, coordinating custom orders, fitting customers for shoes, clothing, backpacks and equipment, and providing a unique environment that is welcoming to all who love the outdoors.

The Woodsman Company has always embraced the qualities and talents that women bring to the outdoors and is proud of those traits in the skillful women that work within the company. The Women of The Woodsman Company are

in the outdoors to push their physical and mental strength of mastering new heights through fly fishing, kayaking and rafting, hiking, trail running, biking, and photography. They bring a unique perspective to customers by providing advice on what gear to take on a trip, giving safety tips to ensure protection in the outdoors, and sharing stories to encourage confidence in the outdoors.

Lydia, Ashley, Kayla, Mallory, Schuyler, Teri, Joyclen, Montze, Christine, Caycee, Caroline, Anna, and Jazmin – we thank you for being part of The Woodsman Company family of incredible outdoor women! The Woodsman Company looks forward to the future as we continue reaching out with outdoor education. What a great joy to outfit a family of women; grandmothers, mothers, and daughters as they prepare to go adventuring together. Putting together clothing and gear for a trip to the Grand Canyon for photography and hiking, or fly fishing gear and rainwear for fly fishing in Alaska, or quick-dry clothing and backpacking food for a rafting trip through the Idaho wilderness or taking a closer look at our home state with a bike packing trip! We are excited to share those adventures with you and your family.

W ilderness O utdOOrs M Ountains e xplOre n ature 5609 Rogers Ave., Ste., D, Fort Smith 479.452.3559 | thewoodsmancompany.com

Lydia • Ashley • Kayla • Mallory DOSOUTHMAGAZINE.COM