Arkansas State University’s Neil Griffin College of Business will host the 2025 Catalyst: NEA Economic Development and Leadership Forum on Nov. 6 at the Embassy Suites Red Wolf Convention Center in Jonesboro. The program will feature panel discussions on agriculture, entrepreneurship, infrastructure and regional collaboration with an eye on how northeast Arkansas is strengthening the state and influencing global industries.
“After a successful inaugural forum in January we’re proud to establish Catalyst as an annual fall event,” Chancellor Todd Shields said. “This year’s agenda brings some of the brightest minds and doers in Arkansas together across agriculture, entrepreneurship, infrastructure and regional collaboration to share what’s working, compare notes, celebrate successes and commit to next steps for future growth.”
Last year, A-State’s total economic impact reached $2.5 billion, including $480 million from university operations, student and visitor spending and an additional $2 billion from alumni who live and work throughout the state. That impact supports over 16,000 jobs and returns $7.10 for every dollar invested by the state.
“A-State is committed to serving as a convener for industry and a catalyst that turns intent into action,” said Provost and Executive Vice Chancellor Calvin White Jr. “Collaboration leads everything we do, and we’re seeing how strong cooperation between employers and higher education aligns curriculum with real hiring needs, connects research to industry challenges and builds stronger pathways from classrooms to careers. Ultimately, these efforts are building a stronger northeast Arkansas and Arkansas.”
Featured speakers include:
• Laura Landreaux, CEO of Entergy Arkansas
• Dave Stickler, CEO of Hybar
• Jerry Halsey, Arkansas Highway Commissioner / CEO of Halsey Real Estate
• Amanda Herget, Co-Owner of Gearhead Outfitters
• Marvin Dalla Rosa, Senior Project Manager of Garver USA.