http://www.acrc.uams.edu

Inviting Arkansas - Index

Inviting Arkansas - invitingarkansas - Index

10
Inviting Arkansas
On the Cover The Hickingbothams Take the Helm
Makeup and Hair by Kakki Jones
Carmen Marc Valvo gown/B. Barnett
All jewelry designed by Doris Panos and
available at Kenneth Edwards Fine Jewelers
Special thanks to Jones Harley-Davidson
Since word hit the street that the 70s music sensation the Commodores
will headline the entertainment for Gala for Life, we’ve been
dancing and reliving the era in preparation for an evening of fun and
fundraising. Whether your favorite Commodores tune has an upbeat
or slow tempo, the debut social event of the season will ensure you’ll
be quick on your feet in dancing the night away. Undoubtedly, we
think that Co-chairs Susan and Herren Hickingbotham should have
the honor of first dance, as they have brought the event for the
Winthrop P. Rockefeller Cancer Institute to a whole new level of
enjoyment.
As previous co-chairs of some of the successful events in the nonprofit
world, the couple was methodical in making the decision to
preside over such a responsibility. They comprise a team that is varied
in strengths. The couple works closely with staff and volunteers to
ensure all bases are covered. They’re hands-on from start to finish, as
the Hickingbothams waste no time “learning the ropes”; they already
know them.
It is always thrilling to hear the creative aesthetics of a major party
and, of course, we’ll get to that. But first know that Herren and
Susan get serious when discussing the fundraising aspects of the gala.
“We have a one-time opportunity to maximize donations, as 100% of
proceeds will be matched dollar-for-dollar by the state of Arkansas,”
Herren says. The Winthrop P. Rockefeller Cancer Institute at the University
of Arkansas for Medical Sciences has more going on than ever
before. Herren credits the new executive director Peter Emanuel and
the construction of a 12-story expansion- over 300,000 square feet for
much needed cancer treatment and research- for the renewed energy.
“People come from all over the globe to be treated at this world-class
cancer center. The money we raise on September 5th will further enable
the renown physicians to increase research and treatment,” he noted.
“For folks to realize that our state -our city- is home to a top- tiered
cancer research and treatment center is unbelievably vital.”
As expected, Gala for Life will be an exquisite evening from beginning
to end. The Hickingbothams have enlisted the grand dame of
New Orleans’ old-line restaurants, Galatoire’s, to produce a feast for
gala goers savory delight. “We were introduced to Galatoire’s by Cindy
and Chip Murphy several years ago when they brought Galatoire’s to
town for the Opus Symphony Ball,” says Herren. “We followed suit
when we co-chaired Opus, and I am thrilled that executive chef Brian
Landry and Chief Operating Officer Melvin Rodrigue will join me and
Susan for the Gala for Life.” The evening’s culinary experience will
feature authentic French Creole cuisine coupled with impeccable
presentation.
Susan and Herren procured the talent and expertise of Tipton Hurst’s