Leadership Arkansas

Floor Speech

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Mr. WOMACK. Madam Speaker, the entrepreneurial spirit of Arkansas has always been one of our greatest strengths. Forward-thinking and smart and visionary minds have helped shape the growth of our communities--I am proud to pay tribute to the next generation of emerging leaders.

I extend my hardiest congratulations to the latest class of Leadership Arkansas. This unique program brings together the best and brightest from across Arkansas to encourage growth and opportunity. From government and education to business and industry, diverse backgrounds and minds are assembled to cultivate the future of the Natural State.

For the last year, these highly motivated Arkansans have diligently worked to further enhance the economic outlook and development of our Natural State. The example of leadership and excellence they have displayed on all fronts is noteworthy.

Madam Speaker, I am submitting the names of the 48 graduating members to be added to the Record this morning.

I also salute the Arkansas State Chamber of Commerce, many members who are currently visiting the District of Columbia as I speak, and the Associated Industries of Arkansas for supporting this incredible program.

To the Leadership Arkansas Class XVI, including my chief of staff, Beau Walker, congratulations, you joined the distinguished alumni before you, and I look forward to seeing how you shape the future of our great State and Nation.

Madam Speaker, the entrepreneurial spirit of Arkansas has always been one of our greatest strengths. Forward-thinking and smart minds have helped shape the growth of our region--and I extend my highest congratulations to community leaders empowering our great state.

Leadership Arkansas brings together our best and brightest from across Arkansas to encourage growth and opportunity. By assembling people with a diverse set of interests and backgrounds, this unique program drives dynamic interactions between cities, industries, governmental units, and the people they serve--generating innovative and novel ideas that will profoundly impact our future. First introduced in 2005 by the Arkansas State Chamber of Commerce and Associated Industries of Arkansas, the initiative has continually grown.

The 48 members of Leadership Arkansas Class XVI are all distinguished and respected leaders within their communities and professions. The 2022 graduates include: Duncan Bellingrath, John Burkhead, Randy Bynum, Chrissy Chatham, Kyle Coggins, Steve Crowell, Lisa Davis, Michelle Dodroe, Jennifer Douglas, Amy Fallon, Bert Finzer, Adam Flock, Mary Kate Harrison, Chad Hearne, Kelly Hellbusch, James Hopper, Katie Parsons, Andrew Huntsinger, Paul Jara, Harrison Johnson, Bruce Jones, Daveante Jones, Megan Lahay, Candice Lawrence, Justin Lieber, Neil Linebarier, Erin Marcussen, Shanna Mears, Nycole Oliver, Paul Parnell, Dillon Patterson, John Peterson, Rachael Potter, Tyson Reimer, Ava Roberts, DeWayne Rose, Clint Schaff, Carlos Silva, Elizabeth Small, Anita Smith, Sandy Starnes, Courtney Strickland, Heather Talley, Beau Walker, Kellie Wall, Matt Westbrook, Tandee White, and Keli Wylie.

These highly-motivated Arkansans have worked diligently over the past several months to further enhance the economic outlook and development of the Natural State. I honor their commitment and thank them for their example of leadership and excellence on all fronts. To Class XVI, congratulations. I look forward to seeing how they shape the future of Arkansas and America.

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