29 Apr 2024 501Der Women 2024: Michelle Phillips

Being a 501Der Woman means that sometimes you must fearlessly embrace change to uncover new potential. That’s Michelle Phillips’ story.

After working in public accounting for more than 20 years, including owning her own CPA firm for 12 years, Phillips made the bold decision to sell her firm to become a Commercial Loan Officer at First Security Bank.

It was a leap of faith that has paid off.

“I was looking for a new career that utilized my accounting and financial background while encouraging community involvement, and First Security Bank was the perfect fit for me,” Phillips said. “I have always had deep respect and admiration for First Security Bank and the people who work there.”

Aside from her busy career, she never shies away from the opportunity to give back to her 501 community. She has been a member of the Conway Noon Rotary Club for 15 years, and as Treasurer of Bethlehem House, she takes pride in helping the homeless rebuild their lives.

“Bethlehem House has undergone a major transformation over the last year, and it has been a privilege to witness and be involved,” Phillips said. I love that the program requires residents to be accountable while providing the knowledge and skills needed for life.”

Embracing her servant’s heart, Phillips also works on the board of Arkansas Community Foundation of Faulkner County and as a Subject-Matter Expert with Conductor Connect.

“At Arkansas Community Foundation, we support nonprofit organizations through workshops, grantmaking and philanthropic advice,” Phillips said. Conductor Connect is a no-cost network for small business owners where I provide support related to banking, accounting, tax or business in general.”

Looking back, she recognizes the many Wonder Women in her life who have shaped her into the leader she is today.

“My mama, Rose Ann Naron, my sisters, Donna Cooper and Libby Miller, and my daughters, Shelby and Sydney Phillips, are the biggest Wonder Women in my life,” Phillips said. “I am in awe of them for being resilient, caring, brave and independent. I also have some very dear friends, new and old, who are all significant in my life. These ladies have shown strength and courage in some of the darkest moments of their lives while being humble and kind in their most joyous celebrations.”

Contact Michelle today at 501.450.1821 or email [email protected], or come by 1390 Old Morrilton Highway, Conway.