44TH NATIONAL PHILANTHROPY DAY WITH AFP ARKANSAS

Celebrating the people who make philanthropy possible in Arkansas

Each year, the AFP Arkansas Chapter brings together philanthropists, nonprofit leaders, fundraisers, volunteers, business and community leaders to celebrate the people and organizations whose generosity and service make a difference across Arkansas. 

Thursday, November 5, 2026

11:30 a.m. – 1:00 p.m. (Doors open at 11:00 a.m.) 

DoubleTree by Hilton Little Rock

GET YOUR LUNCHEON TICKETS NOW!

*Attending the full Festival of Philanthropy? Your Festival registration already includes admission to the National Philanthropy Day Luncheon & Awards. Luncheon-only tickets are available for those attending the celebration without the full-day Festival.

The 2026 National Philanthropy Day Honorees include...

Outstanding Philanthropist: B. Thomas Golisano

Outstanding Foundation: Marion & Miriam Rose Fund

Outstanding Corporation: Subaru of Little Rock

Outstanding Fundraising Young Professional: Mollie Henager

Outstanding Fundraising Professional: Emily Piechocki

Outstanding Volunteer Organization: Red Shoe Crew

Outstanding Youth Volunteer Organization: Young Men’s Service League

Outstanding Youth Volunteer Fundraiser: Ben Blackmon

Outstanding Volunteer Fundraiser: Marisa & Jake Nabholz

President’s Award:

Jane & Dave Gearhart

Jane and Dave Gearhart have made a lasting mark on philanthropy in Arkansas through decades of leadership, generosity, and service. During his career in higher education, Dave Gearhart helped elevate professional fundraising across the state and fostered a culture of philanthropy among both donors and fundraising professionals. He also shared his knowledge through his work and writing on philanthropy, fundraising, and capital campaigns.

Together, Jane and Dave have continued that commitment through significant philanthropic support for education and other causes across Arkansas. Their giving has helped expand opportunities for students, including support for the University of Arkansas Honors College and the Jane B. Gearhart Full Circle Food Pantry. Their example demonstrates how professional leadership and personal generosity can work together to strengthen institutions and open doors for others.

Lifetime Achievement Award:

Cindy Conger

For decades, Cindy Conger has demonstrated the lasting difference that thoughtful philanthropy and committed volunteer leadership can make. Her generosity and service have supported organizations including the Women’s Foundation of Arkansas, UA Little Rock, and the Arkansas Symphony Orchestra, helping advance opportunities for women and girls, education, and the arts.

Cindy’s contributions extend well beyond financial support. Through years of board service, advocacy, and active involvement with the organizations and causes she cares about, she has helped build stronger philanthropic communities and encouraged others to become engaged philanthropists themselves. Her longstanding commitment to giving back makes her a fitting recipient of AFP Arkansas’s Lifetime Achievement Award.

FOR MORE INFORMATION, CONTACT:
VP of Conference - Shelby-Allison Hibbs, shelby.hibbs@youthhome.org
VP of National Philanthropy Day - Bobbi McDaniel, bobbismithmcdaniel@gmail.com