UAFS Center for Economic Development

NEXT WEEK❗❗

How can philanthropy strengthen not only a community, but also the long-term legacy and leadership of a family business?

Join the Jim Walcott Family Enterprise Center for our June Quarterly Breakfast:

Philanthropy with Purpose – Strengthening Legacy and Leadership in Family Enterprise

Presented by First National Bank (F1RSTNB) Trust & Wealth Management, this breakfast will explore how intentional, structured philanthropy can support:
• family values
• next-generation leadership development
• succession planning
• governance
• long-term enterprise legacy

The morning will feature a brief presentation followed by an interactive panel discussion with experienced leaders in wealth management, estate planning, tax strategy, governance, and philanthropy.
Wednesday, June 24, 2026
8:00 – 9:30 AM
UAFS Center for Economic Development at The Bakery District

Enjoy breakfast, networking, and a thoughtful discussion designed specifically for family business leaders and advisors.

Reserve your seat today: https://www.givecampus.com/schools/UniversityofArkansasFortSmithCenterforEconomicDevelopment/events/jwfec-june-quarterly-breakfast-2026

This week, Justin Smith, Director of the Jim Walcott Family Enterprise Center at the UAFS Center for Economic Development, had the opportunity to present at the Family Business Directors Alliance annual conference in Denver, Colorado.

His presentation, Beyond the Banquet: Building a Signature Experience for Your Center, shared lessons learned from developing the Center's Excellence in Family and Small Business Awards into a signature event that has become a gathering place for family-owned and small businesses throughout our region.
The conference brought together family business center directors from across North America to exchange ideas, best practices, and innovative approaches to serving family enterprises.

In addition to presenting, participants visited several multigenerational family businesses, including the original creator of the western snap-button shirt, now a fourth-generation company that continues to balance tradition and innovation.

We are proud to see the work of the Jim Walcott Family Enterprise Center recognized on a national stage and grateful for the opportunity to share Northwest Arkansas and River Valley success stories with colleagues from across North America.

Be looking for this year’s nomination information very soon for the annual UAFS CED Excellence in Family and Small Business Awards! 👀