About Town

Susan & Herren Hickingbotham for UAMS – August 2008 Issue

Serving the community for nearly two decades, Inviting Arkansas continues to recognize philanthropic + civic leadership in Central Arkansas. As we begin this new decade, we have some buried treasures to share from the archives. These are just a few illustrious covers that reflect the continued mission fulfillment work in our community. Enjoy the memories, read about a few of the Capital City’s beloved foundations and remember to vote for your favorite cover – one of these nonprofit organizations will win a complimentary ad in the magazine. The contest will close on May 31st… #MakingPhilanthropyFUN

Susan & Herren Hickingbotham for UAMS – August 2008 Issue

Photography by Nancy Nolan | Hair & Makeup by Kakki Jones | Wardrobe from B. Barnett

Since word hit the street that the 70s music sensation The Commodores will headline the entertainment for Gala for Life, we’ve been dancing and reliving the era in preparation for an evening of fun and fundraising. Whether your favorite Commodores tune has an upbeat or slow tempo, the debut social event of the season will ensure you’ll be quick on your feet in dancing the night away. Undoubtedly, we think that Co-chairs Susan and Herren Hickingbotham should have the honor of first dance, as they have brought the event for the Winthrop P. Rockefeller Cancer Institute to a whole new level of enjoyment.

As previous co-chairs of some of the successful events in the non-profit world, the couple was methodical in making the decision to preside over such a responsibility. They comprise a team that is varied in strengths. The couple works closely with staff and volunteers to ensure all bases are covered. They’re hands-on from start to finish, as the Hickingbothams waste no time “learning the ropes”; they already know them.

It is always thrilling to hear the creative aesthetics of a major party and, of course, we’ll get to that. But first know that Herren and Susan get serious when discussing the fundraising aspects of the gala. “We have a one-time opportunity to maximize donations, as 100% of proceeds will be matched dollar-for-dollar by the state of Arkansas,”Herren says. The Winthrop P. Rockefeller Cancer Institute at the University of Arkansas for Medical Sciences has more going on than ever before. Herren credits the new executive director Peter Emanuel and the construction of a 12-story expansion- over 300,000 square feet for much needed cancer treatment and research- for the renewed energy. “People come from all over the globe to be treated at this world-class cancer center. The money we raise on September 5th will further enable the renown physicians to increase research and treatment,” he noted. “For folks to realize that our state -our city- is home to a top- tiered cancer research and treatment center is unbelievably vital.”

As expected, Gala for Life will be an exquisite evening from beginning to end. The Hickingbothams have enlisted the grand dame of New Orleans’ old-line restaurants, Galatoire’s, to produce a feast for gala goers savory delight. “We were introduced to Galatoire’s by Cindy and Chip Murphy several years ago when they brought Galatoire’s to town for the Opus Symphony Ball,” says Herren. “We followed suit when we co-chaired Opus, and I am thrilled that executive chef Brian Landry and Chief Operating Officer Melvin Rodrigue will join me and Susan for the Gala for Life.” The evening’s culinary experience will feature authentic French Creole cuisine coupled with impeccable presentation.

Inviting Arkansas

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