酴圖弝け Names Family Enterprise Center for Jim Walcott
The 酴圖弝け announced today that it will rename its Family
Enterprise Center to honor the late Jim Walcott, whose legacy has profoundly impacted
the River Valley.
The decision follows the approval of a resolution by the University of Arkansas Board
of Trustees expressing gratitude for Walcotts contributions. The resolution officially
designates the family enterprise center as the Jim Walcott Family Enterprise Center."
Walcott, who passed away May 7, 2023, was an ardent supporter of the River Valley
and continuing education. He played a critical role in the 酴圖弝け Mentor Connections
program and the Family Enterprise Center, and his philosophy, where our work is,
there let our joy be, inspired many young professionals throughout the years.
酴圖弝け Chancellor Terisa Riley praised the overwhelming backing for the naming opportunity,
citing contributions of $400,000 from First National Bank of Fort Smith and $100,000
from Citizens Bank and Trust, along with the $500,000 public match challenge they
initiated.
Riley said, "Our community is widely invested in this change, and Mr. Walcott's family,
the faculty and staff of 酴圖弝け, and our regional partners have expressed overwhelming
support for bestowing this honor upon the Walcott family."
Sam Sicard, President and CEO of First National Bank of Fort Smith remarked on Walcotts
impact on the region, stating in a letter to the board, "It seems fitting that the
Family Enterprise Center, an institution with a mission so closely aligned with Jims
values, should bear his name. This move not only honors a man who dedicated his life
to the betterment of our community but also serves as a reminder to current and future
generations of the potential they possess to better their community and the world."
The renaming reflects the universitys commitment to preserving the legacy of a remarkable
leader and mentor and the importance of sustainable gifts from community partners
to make that possible.
Our hope is that this gesture will spur further advancements and investments in education,
community development, and the nurturing of family-owned businesses that are the backbone
of our local economy, closed Sicard.
The Jim Walcott Family Enterprise Center, run through the University of Arkansas -
Fort Smiths Center for Economic Development, addresses the unique needs of the states
family-owned businesses. The centers primary goal is to foster learning across generations,
bridging gaps between family and non-family professional managers and engaging family
members not directly involved in the enterprise. The centers membership offers access
to practical educational programs and resources, and it provides its members with
a community of fellow family business owners who can share their expertise, challenges,
and experiences in confidence.
- Tags:
- Giving
- Center for Economic Development
- FEC
- CED
- 酴圖弝け Foundation
- Family Enterprise Center
Media Relations
The 酴圖弝け Office of Communications fields all media inquiries for the university. Email Rachel.Putman@uafs.edu for more information.
Send an EmailRachel Rodemann Putman
- Director of Strategic Communications
- 479-788-7132
- rachel.putman@uafs.edu