Arkansas Hospice, a hospice care provider dedicated to providing comfort and care for those who are facing serious illness and loss, has announced two significant additions to leadership to the Arkansas Hospice Foundation: Kim Kirkman, new Vice President and Chief Philanthropy Officer, and Laura Grimes, new Communications and Events Coordinator.
Kim Kirkman
Kirkman recently completed an educational doctorate in educational leadership from Harding University in Searcy, where she also earned a master’s of education reading specialist and bachelor of arts in elementary education degrees. In her new position, she will lead the Arkansas Hospice Foundation’s team and fundraising efforts like planned giving, capital campaigns, memorials and grants.
Her previous experience includes a tenure as the Regional Director of Development for Taylor University of Upland, Indiana, which coincided with a record year of fundraising, serving as Executive Director of the American Studies Institute of Harding University and 12 years of teaching experience at college, high school, junior high and elementary school levels. Beyond education, she has also been a successful business owner in the fields of retail children’s clothing and residential construction.
“As an educator, fundraiser, business owner, but most importantly a caregiver who has experienced the impact Arkansas Hospice has on families, I have a passion for the mission of this incredible organization,” Kirkman said. “It is truly an honor to be in a role where I can lead the Arkansas Hospice Foundation and educate donors about the incredible ways their gifts improve the lives of Arkansans facing life-limiting illness.”
Grimes graduated Cum Laude with a Bachelor of Arts degree in Theater Arts from Hendrix College in Conway, as well as a graduate of The Neighborhood Playhouse School of Theater in New York City. She has experience in retail branding, merchandising and marketing, having worked as a Brand Manager and Media & Event Stylist for P. Allen Smith Companies.
Laura Grimes
Previously, Grimes was the Executive Director for Argenta Community Theater in North Little Rock. Her new role will make use of her background in media and event planning as she provides media support for activities and fundraising campaigns like “Party at the Plaza,” Arkansas Hospice’s signature annual fundraising event.
Arkansas Hospice President and CEO Judy Wooten said, “We are thrilled to have Kimberlee and Laura as a part of our organization. Their passion for our mission, coupled with their talents and experience will help take our philanthropic activities to the next level, and, in turn, help our fellow Arkansans with serious illnesses live better.”
READ ALSO: RICELAND FOODS DONATES TO MUSEUM OF THE ARKANSAS GRAND PRAIRIE
