Fall 2020 Faulkner Lifestyle

2020
WOMEN in
BUSINESS
Jennifer Boyett
Executive Director of the United Way of Central Arkansas
Jennifer, the Executive Director of United Way of
Central Arkansas, is deeply rooted in Faulkner
County. Born and raised in Conway, she is a 1997
graduate of Conway High School and 2001 graduate
of the University of Central Arkansas. “I went to
work for UCA 10 days after graduating and worked
there for 12 years. I took a brief detour to Arkadelphia
to serve at Henderson State University but returned
home in February of this year,” Jennifer says.
When asked what brought her back to Faulkner
County, Jennifer says, “I came back to Faulkner
County because it’s the best place to live, work
and raise a family. Last fall, when our family was
thinking about our next chapter, we knew we could
go anywhere in the world, but what we ultimately
decided was that we longed to come home. While I
was looking for the next step in my career, I learned
that the United Way was in the early stages of
looking for a new executive director, so I reached out
and decided to apply. My love for my hometown
combined with my background in public relations,
marketing, fundraising and nonprofit management
made working for the United Way the perfect opportunity
to make a meaningful impact back home.”
The United Way is a worldwide organization that’s
been around since 1887, and The United Way of
Central Arkansas has been in existence for more
than 60 years. “I’ve found that a lot of people are
like I was and know that the United Way is a local
nonprofit, but sometimes aren’t clear on what
we do. We raise funds that are given as grants to
many local nonprofits that are working to make
positive change in the areas of health, education
and financial stability. We are really involved with
our nonprofit partners. We recognize that we must
work together to ensure our collective success
in helping those in need in the community. I am
blessed to have the opportunity to lead this organization
in my hometown,” Jennifer says.
Jennifer’s husband, Corey, is also a Conway native
and works for the state. Their son, Hunter, is a
student at Ellen Smith Elementary. “I think my
family will be here for a very long time. We moved
away for a few years, but there’s no denying
the comfort of being back home. I want to be
involved in programs and projects that make a
positive lasting impact on Faulkner County. I love
being where I grew up. It’s so familiar, but it’s also
progressive. All of Faulkner County is growing and
change in so many positive ways.”
Jennifer’s interests include running and bicycling.
“I prefer long distance. I’ve done 3 marathons, but
an ultra is on my bucket list. I love being back in
Conway because I’ve been able to
rekindle my love for bicycling.
We are so fortunate to have
such a bike-friendly community.
I hope that continues to
grow. I don’t do well sitting
still, so when I’m at home,
I’m generally crocheting.”
Jennifer’s advice to those
just starting out is,
“Be authentic to
yourself and to
others. Authenticity
is key in building
relationships that
will last a lifetime
— whether in
your personal or
professional life.
I think that will
carry you further
than just about
anything else.”
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