30 Nov 2020 Person of the Month: Kara Jones

CITY:  Morrilton.

EDUCATION: Graduate of Morrilton High School; Master of Science in Education, University of Central Arkansas.

WORK: University of Arkansas Community College at Morrilton (UACCM), Education and Early Childhood Development Faculty for 10 years. We also have a small beef cattle farm.

WHY DID YOU CHOOSE YOUR FIELD: Due to the purposeful work and outreach of many, UACCM has increased diversity and inclusion in students, faculty, staff and in programs. So, being a part of the faculty not only fulfills my love of education, but it fulfills my love of people. My hope is that people leave our campus with confidence, perspective and purpose. 

COMMUNITY ACTIVITIES: Main Street Morrilton Board of Directors, Farmers’ Market, Chamber of Commerce Board of Directors.

CHURCH ACTIVITIES: Eucharistic Minister at Sacred Heart Catholic Church.

FAMILY: Husband, Larry, and three children ages 17, 13 and 8. 

MOST CHERISHED POSSESSION:

A collection of plants that I have received from family and friends over the years, especially a red rose bush gifted to me by my grandmother. As she moved from Arkansas, to Texas, to Oklahoma, the rose bush travelled with her. She eventually gave it to me unceremoniously (as was her way) in a black plastic bag. It sits outside my patio and is always in full bloom on May 15, the anniversary of her passing. My cousin, Jamie, took a cutting and started a new rose bush, so we could both have part of it.

Most enjoyed 

weekend activity:  I enjoy trails that end in waterfalls, two lane road trips, camping, helping vegetables and flowers grow, lazy lawn chair conversations and finding a dive food place where the burgers are served in paper boats.

I love living in the 501 because: I love the hearts, the beautiful backdrops, and that with a 30-minute drive, I can either be in a forest where all I can hear are leaves dropping or a fun venue with friends listening to local musicians.

ONE last thing:

During Christmas, remember the importance of supporting local businesses and that time spent making memories is a great gift.