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.
Alisha Curtis
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.