LITTLE ROCK, AR — The Arkansas State Chamber of Commerce announces that Garver External Communications Team Leader Anita Smith has been chosen for the 16th class of Leadership Arkansas, a program aimed at developing a wide-ranging network of individuals who can meet and overcome challenges facing the state.

In explaining the reason for Smith’s inclusion, Arkansas State Chamber of Commerce President and CEO Randy Zook said that she had “demonstrated a superior level of professional and personal performance and a commitment to helping lead this great state.”

As part of Leadership Arkansas’ nine-month curriculum, Smith will travel the state with members of her cohort, from Jonesboro to Magnolia, attending monthly sessions in which she will have a chance to observe firsthand many of the opportunities and challenges that face Arkansas communities.

In his letter recommending Smith for the program, Garver Director of Transportation and Leadership Arkansas alumnus Jerry Holder, PE, highlighted how Smith’s creative thinking has moved the needle forward for everyone at Garver: “Her admirable leadership style is evidenced in the dynamics of her team, which exudes creativity and positivity — qualities she exhibits and instills each day.”

In being named to the program, Smith joins a group of 800 alumni, many of whom are Garver employees. These include Roadway Team Leader John Cantabery; Aviation Operations Manager Adam White; Bridge Team Leader Lawren Wilcox; Transportation Team Leader Ron Petrie; Corporate Communications Leader Laura Nick; Director of AssetMax Keith Tencleve; and Holder.