A recent ground-breaking for a new bank in Greenbrier took on special meaning as a couple was recognized for their dedication and service to the community.

 First Security Bank honored John and Ola Hawks at the ceremony and announced that a $125,000 gift had been made in their honor to the

Greenbrier School District to help fund artificial turf on the football field. In turn, the district has renamed the school’s stadium in honor of the couple – John and Ola Hawks Field.

“Over the years, John and Ola have not only been an active part but a vital partnership in leadership and giving to many organizations in Faulkner County,” said John Adams, president and CEO of First Security Bank in Conway.

In addition to the special recognition, the bank broke ground on a new 7,000-square-foot banking facility that will expand services available for Greenbrier customers. The new building, which will feature a conference room for community events, is expected to open in the Spring of 2010.

At the ceremony, Greenbrier School District Superintendent Scott Spainhour recognized John and Ola Hawks, and thanked them for their support and contributions to the district. Athletic director Steve Woods echoed appreciation for the couple and updated those in attendance on the transition from grass on the football field to an artificial surface.

John Hawks – born in Conway in February 1935 – worked for Wal-Mart in the early years of the company, first as a store manager and later at the corporate offices in Bentonville. Upon retirement in 1982, the couple moved to Greenbrier.

In 1991, John became a founding board member for First Community Bank of Conway and Greenbrier, which would later become a part of First Security. John, who has retired from the board, was formally recognized at the event by the bank.
“John faithfully served on the First Community and First Security boards for over 18 years,” Adams said. “He was an active and strong supporter of the bank.”

In the 1980s and 90s, the couple co-chaired and supported a millage increase for the Greenbrier School District. “The results led to a beautiful new high school and growth in the district,” Adams said. “Ola also helped plant the beautiful Bradford pear trees that mark the campus each spring.”

In addition, the couple helped start the Boys and Girls Club in Conway and Greenbrier, and served on the organization’s board of directors. They also helped to establish the Greenbrier Chamber of Commerce and the city’s Christmas parade.
John has served on numerous boards, including the Central Baptist College Board of Trustees, the Conway Development Corporation, the 4-H

Foundation and the University of Central Arkansas Foundation. He also has been named the Greenbrier Chamber of Commerce Citizen of the Year and Faulkner County Realtor of the Year.