31 Dec 2025 Five-Oh-Ones to Watch 2026: Person of the Month: Amy Whitehead
Hometown: I was born and raised in Russellville. I have lived in Conway since 2002. Enrolling at UCA is what brought me to Conway.
Family: My husband is Derek Whitehead, and we have two sons, Luke (12) and Jack (9). We also have two cats, Stormy and Sox.
Education: I have a Bachelor of Science in public administration and a Master of Science in community and economic development, both from UCA. I came to UCA as a student and never left!
Work:I was named chief of staff in the office of the president in 2019. Prior to that, I was assistant vice president for Community and Workforce Development in the Division of Outreach and Community Engagement. I recently celebrated my 17-year work anniversary.
Awards: I was recognized as one of Arkansas Business’s 40 under 40 in 2019. In 2021, I was honored to receive the Bill Miller Award, given by UCA’s Community Development Institute. I was given the Distinguished Alumni Award from UCA’s Department of Government, Public Service, and International Studies in 2022. Most recently, I graduated from The Arkansas State Chamber’s Leadership Arkansas program, Class 19.
Special interests: Since 2023, I have been strength training at Conway Regional Fitness Center, and this has been one of the best decisions I have made for my health. I also love reading, listening to podcasts, walking on Tucker Creek Trail, cooking and watching my boys play sports. Both of my sons play competitive baseball, football and basketball, so this keeps our family on the move!
Community activities:I serve on the Conway Area Chamber of Commerce Board of Directors, Conway Regional Health Foundation Board of Directors, and I am a member of Conway First United Methodist Church.
Who are your mentors? My parents, John and Alene Bynum, have been wonderful mentors into my adulthood, and I can always count on them for sound guidance and advice.
What do you want to be known for?
I want to be recognized for my reliability and follow-through — that my actions match my words.
What do you listen to each morning?
I never miss an episode of the New York Times “The Daily” podcast. It’s how I start each weekday.
What book will you read this year?
I read two to three books a month, so it’s hard to pinpoint just one! I enjoy a mix of fiction and nonfiction that I consume in hard copy and audio. I am currently reading “Einstein: His Life and Universe” by Walter Isaacson.
What is your advice for someone who wants be a leader?Assuming a leadership role can be a thankless task, so be sure you are doing things for the right reasons. Let your core values guide your decisions, and surround yourself with friends and colleagues who will be honest with you.
