Jason Hudnell, director of admissions at the Arkansas School for Mathematics, Sciences, and the Arts, has been selected as a member of Leadership Arkansas Class XX.
Hudnell is one of 53 professionals from across the state who were selected to participate in this year’s cohort. The program is sponsored by the Arkansas State Chamber of Commerce/Associated Industries of Arkansas (State Chamber/AIA).
“I am truly honored to be selected for Leadership Arkansas and grateful for the opportunity to learn alongside so many talented and accomplished leaders from across our state,” Hudnell said. “Being part of this program will not only allow me to grow personally and professionally, but it will also strengthen ASMSA’s ability to build connections, share our mission and expand opportunities for Arkansas students. I am humbled to represent ASMSA in this work and look forward to the impact we can make together.”
Two other members of ASMSA’s leadership team previously participated in the program. Executive Director Corey Alderdice was a member of Class X, and Dr. Rheo Morris, dean of students, participated in Class XVIII.
Leadership Arkansas is a program of the State Chamber/AIA designed to connect and inform emerging and established leaders who are committed to driving progress in their communities and across the state. Over the course of nine sessions held in various locations across Arkansas, participants will gain deeper insight into key issues and industries including economic development, workforce, infrastructure, agriculture, healthcare, education and more. ASMSA will serve as the host site for the program’s March 2026 session in Hot Springs.
“These leaders represent the best of Arkansas—innovative, passionate and committed to building a stronger state,” said Toni Lindsey, director of Leadership Arkansas. “This year’s class brings a dynamic mix of backgrounds and expertise, and I look forward to seeing how their perspectives evolve as they explore the challenges and opportunities that face Arkansas.”
The Underwriting Sponsor for the 2025-2026 Leadership Arkansas program is Simmons Bank. The Presenting Sponsors are ARcare, Nucor, Southwest Power Pool, and Walmart. Statewide Program Sponsors are Arkansas Electric Cooperative Corporation, Entergy Arkansas, Farm Credit Services of Arkansas, and Summit Utilities.
Since its launch in 2005, Leadership Arkansas has graduated more than 1,000 alumni and created a network of professionals who span nearly every county in the state.