18 Feb 2016 Person of the Month: Alicia Gillen

City: Maumelle.

Work: Executive director for the Maumelle Area Chamber of Commerce.

Community activities: Working for the Maumelle Area Chamber of Commerce gives me a wonderful opportunity to volunteer and give back to my community. Over the years, I have been able to serve on many committees and work with non-profits that serve our state.  

Honors: I received the Retta Patrick Award from the Pulaski County Special School District. This award is given to the individual with the most volunteer hours contributed at any high school within the district.  

Family: Daughters Shayla (19), Nicole (9) and Julia (8).

Last book you read: “Furiously Happy: A Funny Book About Horrible Things” by Jenny Lawson.  

Favorite book: “Little Women” by Louisa May Alcott.

Most cherished possession: I have a pottery plate with handprints from all three of my daughters. It is the first Mother’s Day gift I received after the birth of my third daughter.  I see it every morning and it reminds me of how lucky I truly am.

Most enjoyed weekend activity: Adventures with my daughters!

Favorite quote: “You may not always have a comfortable life and you will not always be able to solve all of the world’s problems at once but don’t ever underestimate the importance you can have because history has shown us that courage can be contagious and hope can take on a life of its own.” — Michelle Obama

No. 1 vacation spot: Big Cedar Lodge. My family and I have been vacationing there for almost 10 years.

Favorite place in Arkansas: Maumelle, of course! It has the charm of a small town and the convenience of the big city nearby. The town is filled with amazing parks and trails enjoyed by the residents. It is a great place to get outside, experience the outdoors and socialize. There is no place I have ever been before that has so many people with such giving and generous hearts. 

What do you love about living in the 501: Diversity. Central Arkansas offers everything — incredible outdoor adventures, museums, a symphony, Broadway shows, restaurants, libraries and nightlife. Each weekend is filled with an endless array of choices.