30 Jun 2024 Couple of the Month: Grant and Jessica Clawson
HIS STORY:
I have a great sense of humor that keeps everyone laughing and down to earth. I’m a lover of live music, always eager to discover new bands and attend concerts. As a peacekeeper, I bring a calming presence to any situation, effortlessly diffusing tensions and fostering harmony.
Native of: Conway (Faulkner County).
Education: I earned a Bachelor of Arts in Public Relations and Political Science from UCA.
Place of employment: Johnson & Johnson.
Honors: I take great pride in my 17-year career at Johnson & Johnson, where I’ve served in various leadership capacities. One of my most significant accomplishments was earning the President’s Circle award, the highest recognition for sales excellence. It reflects my dedication, strategic leadership and the ability to inspire teams to deliver exceptional results.
Community activities: I’ve had the privilege of serving as a Deacon and volunteering in the children’s ministry at Conway’s First Baptist Church. Additionally, I contribute to our community by coaching youth sports here in Conway.
What do you love about Central Arkansas? It’s a great place to raise a family. I have had the privilege of traveling the country for a Fortune 500 company, and there is no other place I would choose to raise our family. We have a beautiful backdrop here in Central Arkansas and some of the best people I know.
HER STORY:
I’m always on the go, thriving on a packed calendar! I am fiercely protective of my people, and I bring intense passion and energy to everything I care about.
Native of: Texarkana (Miller County).
our Children: Emory (11), Pate (9) and Carter (7).
Education: I earned a Bachelor of Business Administration from the University of Central Arkansas (UCA).
Place of employment: As the Executive Director of United Way of Central Arkansas, I oversee efforts to strengthen our community through funding essential programs, supporting nonprofits and engaging volunteers in impactful projects. Our focus on education, financial stability and health aims to empower every individual to thrive. What I find most fulfilling about my role is the opportunity to provide financial support and direct programs that benefit numerous organizations in our area. Central Arkansas boasts a vibrant nonprofit community that collaborates effectively to uplift one another and serve our community with dedication and compassion.
Community activities: I have spent the last 15+ years serving in leadership roles at organizations like Junior Auxiliary of Conway, Deliver Hope, UCA Greek Alumni Advisory Board and Sigma Kappa Sorority as a nationally appointed supervisor and leadership facilitator. I attended the Conway Area Leadership Institute in 2018. I also served 10 years in the preschool ministry volunteer program at Conway’s First Baptist Church.
Special interests: I’m passionate about tennis, whipping up gourmet meals for my loved ones, exploring new foodie destinations through travel, attending live concerts, riding horses and cherishing quality time with my family and friends.
Their story:
We crossed paths at UCA through Greek life, sparking our journey with a memorable toga party as our first date. Among our treasured memories, he surprised me with a singing gram on Valentine’s Day, and I convinced him to join in a mischievous late-night house “rolling” adventure. After four years of dating, Grant proposed at the picturesque ‘Studio’ at Winthrop Rockefeller Institute, overlooking the River Valley. Our wedding, on Nov. 7, 2009, took place at Conway’s Second Baptist Church, followed by a reception at Conway Country Club. We have since been blessed with three wonderful children. He keeps me humble, and I keep him on his toes. Exploring new adventures together is our passion, whether it’s discovering new music at concerts, exploring different corners of the world through travel or embracing the beauty of nature and outdoor activities. We deeply value spending time with our family and friends.
