29 Dec 2023 Outstanding Women in Business Diamond Achievement Award Winner: Karen Garrett

By Rita Halter Thomas and Stefanie Brazile

The annual Sissy’s Log Cabin Women in Business Luncheon honors individuals in the Conway area who have excelled in leadership and community service and have inspired others on both a personal and professional level. The annual awards are overseen by the Conway Area Chamber of Commerce and presented by Baptist Health-Conway and Insight Enterprises. The awards luncheon was hosted Dec. 12 in the auditorium of Conway Christian High School.

Karen Garrett is the Sissy’s Log Cabin Women in Business Diamond Achievement Award winner.

Karen Garrett is a managing partner of HCJ CPAs & Advisors, PLLC. When she was notified about receiving this highest-level award, she was honored and humbled and said it “brings a sense of accomplishment that will continue to empower me to serve this community.”

Garrett is a Certified Public Accountant, a member of the American Institute of Certified Public Accountants, and a member of the Arkansas Society of CPAs. She has been recognized multiple times for her professional accomplishments, including as a recipient of the AGC (Associated General Contractors) Distinguished Service Award for 20+ years of service to the construction industry. She was also named a 40 under 40 Honoree by Arkansas Business.

The mother of two daughters, Megan and Isabelle, credits several people for her successes. “I have lots of people who helped me reach my goals—my husband being the most important person as he not only supported me, but he also kept pushing me to reach higher goals,” Garrett said. “My partners’ group has been instrumental by offering invaluable support, encouragement and collaborative efforts in achieving my goals.”

She serves as a board member of Conway Development Corporation and Home Bancshares, Inc. “I am honored to serve on the boards of both of these organizations as they serve a vital role in the economic development of the Conway Community and beyond,” Garrett said.

If she could give her younger self advice, she would say, “Take more time to smell the roses and enjoy the moments.”

Being honored as the Diamond Achievement Award winner has strengthened her personal resolve and the advice she has for others who want to be successful and leave a legacy in their community and business. “Set goals and commit to those goals—personally and professionally. Commit to your values, follow them and find organizations, businesses, and communities that share the same values.”