02 Jun 2024 Men of the Moment 2024: Terry Hartwick

Great cities require great leadership, especially in times of crisis. When a tornado destroyed part of the city last year, Terry C. Hartwick, Mayor of North Little Rock, led the city through recovery, making the most of even some of the worst moments.

“My first thought was the safety of everyone in NLR,” he said, then his attention turned immediately to work. “Our team assembled, cleared the streets for emergency vehicles and began to ‘work the problem.’” 

Every part of a team must work together and communicate, and Hartwick’s leadership of his administration did just that. “Our team is strong. We communicated, delegated assignments and they all followed through,” he said. “Our team worked with FEMA, Arkansas Department of Emergency Management, local volunteers and those from other states, as well as electric workers from other cities and states.”

Leadership requires commitment and service, and Hartwick is no stranger to either. He served the U.S. Air Force for four years during the Vietnam War, has held various leadership roles in the city and is committed to serving. “NLR is my home! I am fortunate to have the opportunity to make a great impact in the lives of 70,000 people,” he said.

Among a long list of professional accomplishments, Hartwick feels significant satisfaction in his role in creating the Arkansas Women’s Hall of Fame and building One Heart Playground in Burns Park, the city’s first all-inclusive park. Personally, he is most proud of his family and his ability to make a difference.

Hartwick is grateful for the difference Ray Fureigh made in his life. “He was my boss for 20 years at Haverty’s, my best friend and a father figure. I’ve known him for 50 years. He positively impacted the trajectory of my life. Ray made me better than I wanted to be,” he said.

Mayor Terry C. Hartwick can be reached at North Little Rock City Hall, 501.975.8601, [email protected], or the city’s website, nlr.ar.gov.