HIM    Kevin Wish

Native of: Clarksville (Johnson County).

Education: University of Arkansas, bachelor of science degree in financial management.

Job: Community president and senior lender, First Service Bank, Conway.

Why did you choose your vocation: I had a summer job working as a teller at a small bank in Clarksville during college. After graduation, I had considered a career as a financial advisor selling stocks and bonds. I soon realized the real satisfaction in seeing clients achieve success, helping with their personal and business banking needs, and being a small part of that process. After 25 years in this business, I still enjoy helping small businesses succeed and grow.

Parents: Freeman and Janet Wish of Clarksville.

Community activities: Member of the Kiwanis Club of Conway, Toad Suck Daze 10K/5K Run Committee, Conway Airport Advisory Committee and an Arkansas Aviation Historical Society board member.

Hobbies/special interests: Hiking, camping or just being in the outdoors. 

How would you describe yourself: I’m typically fairly quiet and reserved. I tend to do much more listening than talking.

What is one thing people don’t know about you: About 10 years ago, I was once the subject of a brief search and rescue effort. I had taken a flight to Clarksville, picked up my father and went for a quick trip around Johnson County, only to land and find a couple of policemen waiting for us at the airport. It’s a funny story to tell now, but I was extremely embarrassed at the time.

What is your motto: Do the right thing, and treat people the way you want to be treated.

What do you enjoy most about living in the 501: Central Arkansas is a great place to raise a family. Conway has been a great city for our family over the last 20 years. 

HER    Alison Wish

Native of: Knoxville (Johnson County).

Education: Lamar High School; Arkansas Tech University – bachelor’s degree in computer and information science.

Job: Senior manager of delivery at Acxiom. 

Why did you choose your vocation? I’ve always been a bit of an introvert and grew up loving computers. Computer science was the ideal place to start! As a college graduate with a young daughter, Acxiom presented me with the perfect work scenario with on-site childcare and the ability to work from home. Kevin transferred to the Regions Bank in town, and I began my career as a software engineer. We immediately fell in love with Conway and our work families. Today I lead a group of 30 data architects who are the most intelligent, hard-working people I know.

Parents: Rick and Sherry Elam of Knoxville.

Community activities: HAVEN (Help for Abuse Victims in Emergency Need) board member.

Hobbies/special interests: I am such a homebody! My favorite times are when we have all our girls at home – baking, playing games, watching movies – just laughing and being together is the best! 

How would you describe yourself: I am an introvert, a bit of a workaholic, and I love my family!

Most enjoyed weekend activity: We love road trips! Nashville and Northwest Arkansas are some our favorite places for weekend getaways.

What do you enjoy most about living in the 501? Conway has been such a blessing to us. It’s been a great place to live, work and raise our family, but we’re also within an hour of our hometowns. I can’t imagine living anywhere but here at this stage in our lives!