WOMEN TO WATCH

Holly Rose

Executive Director of Development
University of Arkansas at Little Rock

In December 2017 I joined the development team at UA Little Rock. I manage fundraising of major and annual gifts. I have the pleasure of working directly with university supporters to identify their areas of interest or passion and matching it with the needs of the university to create the perfect donor experience.

As a proud alumna, I served two terms on the alumni board. It was during this time that I discovered a strong desire to serve my alma mater in a more permanent, full-time capacity.

PRESSING QUESTIONS

What keeps me coming back to my job every day:

Development of major gifts for our institution is changing the lives of the students we serve by providing scholarships, quality education and internships that lead to successful careers. We are creating an educated workforce needed to move our state forward.

The one thing I wish people knew about my field:

Private support is critical to providing the financial support the majority of our students need to obtain a quality education without incurring insurmountable debt.

A nonprofit I wish more people knew about:

Since my husband was diagnosed with ALS, or amyotrophic lateral sclerosis, earlier this year, the ALS Association has become near and dear to my heart. They are doing much-needed work.

How I knew this was my passion:

It was through my volunteer work on the alumni board that I became passionate about helping students overcome the financial barriers of higher education. Serving on the scholarship committee and hearing the students' stories had a huge impact on me.

Best career moment so far:

Assisting an anonymous donor with a transformative bequest has been my best career moment. Getting to know the donor and witnessing the donor's passion for serving others through the gift of education has been tremendously rewarding for me.

Best advice I've ever received:

My dad instilled in me that anything worth doing is worth doing well. My mom taught me at an early age that "can't never could."

If I could lunch with any woman, it would be:

My great-grandmother Mattie Harral and I shared a special bond. I miss her dearly. I would love an opportunity to thank her for raising strong women and for always speaking her mind. She had a lot of spunk!

What makes Little Rock feel like home:

Little Rock is a great place to work and play. There is something here for everyone. It has all of the conveniences of a huge city but has the feel of community. There's no place I'd rather be.

IT'S ALL IN THE DETAILS

Hometown

Bradford

First thing I do at the office

Read email

Last good read

The Bible

Best recent local discovery

Three Fold Noodles & Dumpling Co.

Latest splurge

Apple watch

Hobbies

Gardening

Most-used app

Maps

Dream vacation

Hawaii

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