Catalyst NEA 1.0
A Time to Come Together
Gov. Sarah Huckabee Sanders welcomes attendees to the inaugural Catalyst event by highlighting Arkansas’s economic momentum and the importance of collaboration across business, education, and government. She emphasizes the state’s commitment to innovation and workforce development, positioning gatherings like Catalyst as key to driving long-term growth and opportunity.
Northeast Arkansas has become a national leader in steel production, and Arkansas State University is playing a central role in supporting that growth through workforce development and industry collaboration. By partnering with regional colleges and steel producers, A-State is building a skilled talent pipeline and advancing research in areas like AI, materials science, and manufacturing to strengthen the industry’s future.
Panelists included:
- Dan Brown, Senior Vice President of Advanced Technology Steelmaking, U.S. Steel Corp. & Chief Operating Officer, Big River Steel
- Chris Heigle, President of Arkansas Northeastern College
- Zach Moon, Vice President & General Manager of Nucor-Yamato Steel
- Patrick Schueck, CEO of Lexicon, Inc.
- Todd Shields, Chancellor of Arkansas State University
At Arkansas State University, mentorship is a cornerstone of leadership development, connecting students with faculty, industry leaders, and peers to build skills, confidence, and professional networks. Through a range of targeted programs, A-State prepares graduates to lead and innovate while also providing a model for organizations to strengthen mentorship and workforce development.
Panelists included:
- Sandy Alstadt, Retired, Entergy Services, Inc.; Owner, Alstadt Solution, LLC & Mentor with Arkansas State University Women’s Business Leadership Center
- Joshua Brown, Principal of Haag Brown Commercial Real Estate & Development
- Carlitta Moore, Vice Chancellor for Access and Institutional Engagement at Arkansas State University
- Patricia Quinn Robertson Johnston, Professor of Business Law & Executive Director of the Arkansas State University Women’s Business Leadership Center
Healthcare is a key driver of economic growth, and Arkansas State University is helping meet that need by training the next generation of healthcare professionals through strong academic programs and hands-on partnerships. From nursing and medical education to the upcoming College of Veterinary Medicine, A-State is expanding access to care while strengthening workforce pipelines across Arkansas and the Delta.
Panelists included:
- Len Frey, Senior Advisor for Strategic Initiatives & Sr. Associate Dean, College of Veterinary Medicine, Arkansas State University
- Michael Givens, Administrator/COO of St. Bernards Healthcare
- Sam Lynd, Administrator & CEO of NEA Baptist Health System
- Shane Speights, Dean at New York Institute of Technology College of Osteopathic Medicine at Arkansas State University
Arkansas State University is redefining workforce development by combining technical training with emotional intelligence, leadership skills, and a strong focus on well-being. Through flexible partnerships like Coursera and expanded mental health initiatives, A-State is preparing students and professionals to adapt, lead, and succeed in today’s evolving workplace.
Panelists included:
- Mark Foster, Chair of Graduate Nursing Programs, Arkansas State University, College of Nursing and Health Professions
- Laura Nick, Chief Communications Officer of Garver
- David Peacock, President of Hytrol Conveyor Co.
- Patrick Schueck, CEO of Lexicon, Inc.
- Jim Washam, Dean of Arkansas State University Neil Griffin College of Business