Catalyst NEA 2.0
Continuing the Discussion
Gov. Sarah Huckabee Sanders welcomes attendees to the second Catalyst conference by highlighting Arkansas’s continued momentum and the importance of working together across agriculture, entrepreneurship, regional partnerships, and infrastructure. She reinforces a shared focus on strengthening the state’s economy by aligning industry, education, and government to drive long-term growth.
Arkansas continues to lead in feeding the world while expanding its footprint in food and beverage innovation. Arkansas State University is driving that momentum by connecting education, research, and industry to prepare students to solve real-world challenges and strengthen communities across the Delta.
Panelists included:
- Matt Bell, Origami Sake
- Mickey LaTour, Arkansas State University College of Agriculture
- Wes Ward, Secretary of Agriculture, State of Arkansas
- Harvey Williams, Delta Dirt Distillery
At A-State, entrepreneurship is built on access—connecting students with real business leaders, alumni networks, and hands-on experiences that go far beyond the classroom. Through mentorship, applied learning, and resources like the SBTDC and Catalyst Innovation Center, A-State equips students with the skills, connections, and confidence to build ideas and strengthen the regional economy.
Panelists included:
- Amanda Herget, Gearhead Outfitters
- Eric Howerton, AdFury.ai, PodcastVideos.com & Doing Business in Bentonville
- Dave Stickler, Hybar
- Jim Washam, Arkansas State University Neil Griffin College of Business
Regions grow when business, government, and higher education work together with shared priorities—and in Northeast Arkansas, A-State plays a key role in bringing those partners together to align talent, innovation, and opportunity. Through initiatives like the CREST Center and ongoing collaboration with industry and community leaders, A-State is helping turn regional needs into workforce solutions that drive long-term growth and shared prosperity.
Participants included:
- Graham Cobb, Paceline Strategies & Emeraude
- Todd Shields, Arkansas State University
Arkansas is entering a major infrastructure growth cycle, and Arkansas State University is preparing the talent and innovation needed to support it. Through its College of Engineering & Computer Science, industry partnerships, and initiatives in advanced manufacturing, energy, and transportation, A-State is helping build the systems, workforce, and leadership required to sustain long-term regional growth.
Panelists included:
- Marvin G. Dalla Rosa, Garver
- Jerry Halsey Jr., Commissioner, Arkansas State Highway Commission
- Jessie Jones, Arkansas Department of Transportation
- Laura R. Landreaux, Entergy Arkansas