By Kim Meyer-Webb | Photography by Sarah Oden | Hair by Haydon Howard | Makeup by Aaron Perkins with Face Your Day Xpress | Wardrobe from Barbara Jean | Chanel Camilla Crystal & Pearl Signature Necklace courtesy of Jan Zimmerman | Shot on location at Arkansas State University System Office in Little Rock
Civic leadership blends seamlessly into every aspect of Alisha’s life. Alisha Curtis joined Governor Asa Hutchinson’s team in 2015 and has worked tirelessly throughout the state to improve the lives of Arkansans. Her community service includes a steadfast commitment to the welfare of all children including support of the Children’s Advocacy Centers of Arkansas, Children’s Tumor Foundation and the Cystic Fibrosis Foundation. Last year, as a Cystic Fibrosis Foundation Taste of the Finest honoree, Alisha received the Todd Miles Award – recognizing her as the top fundraiser + honoring the memory of Todd Miles, who lost his battle with cystic fibrosis at 40 years old.
Alisha was initially introduced to the health risks of cystic fibrosis when her friends Anne and Mike Preston were expecting their first child. “Through genetic testing, they found out they are both carriers of cystic fibrosis – meaning the baby had a 25% chance of having the life threatening disorder.” This discovery and uncertainty solidified Alisha’s devotion to funding and finding a cure for this disease. “I will forever be involved in this fight,” she adds.
Cystic fibrosis is a genetic disease that predominantly affects the lungs, the pancreas and the digestive system – causing infections and complications. Established in 1955, the Cystic Fibrosis Foundation supports innovative research and medical developments that treat the disease. As a result, the life expectancy of patients has increased dramatically. “The Cystic Fibrosis Foundation has two accredited care centers for patients to receive specialized care – one at Arkansas Children’s Hospital and one at UAMS,” Alisha explains. “There are approximately 300 Arkansans living with cystic fibrosis. The Arkansas Chapter also helps fund patient assistance programs.”
Each year, Taste of the Finest celebrates the best + the brightest young professionals in Central Arkansas for their dedication to the mission fulfillment work of the Cystic Fibrosis Foundation. These honorees not only cultivate support for life-saving research, they become advocates for the foundation with a longevity that is invaluable. Chairmen Tanya and Terrance James will welcome guests to an evening of entertainment by Mayday By Midnight, delicious food + drinks from a wide variety of local restaurants and breweries.
“For the first time ever, cystic fibrosis patients are achieving life milestones: graduating college, getting married, starting a family and watching it grow. That’s the reason I continue to support the Cystic Fibrosis Foundation.”
