My passion for public service began in my early 20s while volunteering for local candidates. That experience led to me serving as finance director for the Republican Party of Arkansas. There, I led fundraising initiatives and worked to bring high-profile leaders to the state for events. When Asa Hutchinson was elected governor in 2014, I was honored to join his staff as his executive assistant, AEDC liaison and director of special projects. In July 2019, I was appointed chief communications and legislative director for the newly created Department of Commerce.

pressing questions

Biggest challenges in my career

With the COVID-19 pandemic, we saw an unprecedented and devastating number of unemployed Arkansans. I am proud to be a small part of the Commerce team helping to get resources and assistance out to those who desperately need it.

What keeps me coming back to my job every day

It's knowing how important our department is to the lives of every Arkansan, especially during the pandemic. I'm proud that Commerce is mission-focused with a team of dedicated professionals.

I wish someone told me at the start of my career

If you are going to work in politics, you better have thick skin.

How I knew this was my passion

My educational background is in TV news, but I’ve always had a passion for politics. At the Department of Commerce, I have the best of both worlds working with legislative issues and serving as spokesperson for the department.

Best career moment so far

There's no role more unique than being the Governor’s right-hand staff person. I’ll never take that experience for granted. With so many historic moments I witnessed during my tenure, in hindsight I would have written each down in a journal.

Best advice I ever received

Start each day with a sense of purpose and end each day with a sense of accomplishment.

It's all in the details...

Hometown

Benton

First Thing I Do at the Office

Check my email and calendar, then make coffee ASAP

Hobbies

Playing the guitar, traveling, socializing and shopping

Binge Watch

"The Real Housewives" franchise

Last Good Read

"And the Good News Is..." by former White House Press Secretary Dana Perino

Favorite Meal in Town

Chopped salmon salad from Samantha's or Cheers

Best Recent Local Discovery

Rattlesnake Ridge

Latest Splurge

Gucci crossbody bag

Most-Used App

Instagram

Dream Vacation

Amalfi Coast, Italy

Alisha is just one woman to watch in 2020

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women to watch 2020

Alisha Curtis

Chief Communications & Legislative Director

Arkansas Department of Commerce

women to watch 2020

Alisha Curtis

Chief Communications & Legislative Director

Arkansas Department of Commerce

pressing questions