Jessica Hughes Ford
Chief Communications Officer
Hometown: Redfield, Arkansas
Briefly describe your role:
A: I lead the communications department at Arkansas Community Foundation, responsible for a quarterly ENGAGE Magazine along with other Foundation publications. I manage all owned media including the website, social, AspireArkansas.org. As a member of the leadership team, I handle all media relations, crisis communications, public relations, internal communications and telling the Foundation’s stories of impact. The Foundation also has a 29-affiliate network statewide that my department supports for all of their marketing and communication needs. Most recently, I facilitated the philanthropic response for the mass shooting that took place in Fordyce in June of 2024, coordinating a steering committee, convening partners and distributing funds to victims of the event.
Q: Is what you’re doing now what you always pictured you would do?
A: No, I still don't know what I want to be when I grow up. But I've always been drawn to roles that help people and that's kept me in the nonprofit sector. Having been told I was bossy and a talker all my life, it makes sense that I'm in communications and play a leadership role for Arkansas Community Foundation.
Q: Who has inspired you in your life/career?
A: I work for Heather Larkin, the president and CEO of Arkansas Community Foundation and she is the best boss I've ever had. She leads with reason, purpose and calm. I have learned much from watching her the last five years.
Q: What advice would you give to an aspiring professional?
A: Listen more than talk; when you leave a job, maintain the relationships you've built along the way and try not to burn bridges; and assume that everyone you meet-no matter their background or status-has a lesson to teach you.
Q: What's been the secret to success?
A: The four agreements: don't take things personally, be impeccable with your word, don't make assumptions and always do your best.
