Chief Financial Officer

Southerland Partners
Confidential Position Specification
Chief Financial Officer
March 2015
Copyright 2015
Southerland Partners
Southerland Partners
All Rights Reserved
CONFIDENTIAL POSITION SPECIFICATION
Position
Chief Financial Officer
Company
CARTI
Location
Little Rock, AR
General Summary
Reporting Relationship
Chief Executive Officer
Website
http://carti.com
THE OPPORTUNITY
Position Summary
The Chief Financial Officer is responsible for all operational aspects of the financial
management of CARTI—a not-for-profit, free-standing, multi-disciplinary oncology
organization with 475 employees and gross revenue in excess of $486M per year.
They will provide staff support to the Board and Foundation Board in financial matters; and
advise the Chief Executive Officer as to the total operational performance and the impact of
external factors in order to both evaluate the current status of operations and establish
policies for the future.
Scope of Responsibility
Reporting to the CEO, the CFO is responsible for all operational aspects of the financial,
human resources, and compliance of the organization.
Areas of responsibility include:
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AVP, Patient Financial Services, Martha Derocher
o Registration
o Pre-certification/pre-authorization
o Financial Counseling
o Patient Accounts (all divisions)
o RT Audit
o Qualification assistance and drug assistance
o Psychosocial (or just drug assistance and psychosocial under AVP, Clinical
Programs)
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AVP, Controller, Jeff Burton
o Finance
o Accounting
o Human Resources
 Employees Health
o Purchasing
o Accounts Payable
o Medical Records
o Cancer Registry
AVP, Corporate Compliance, Kathy Ross
o Contracting
o Risk management
o Compliance
o HIPAA
o OSHA
o Accreditations
o PQRS & Meaningful Use
o Management Analytics (NEW eventual)
IT currently reports to COO but plan to move that department under CFO in future
Job Responsibilities
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Organizes and adequately staffs the financial management functions and provides staff
support to the board in financial matters.
Maintains an awareness of, and educates the board on, the Institute's economic
environment and operations. Keeps the board apprised of changes in the regulatory and
operating environment and recommends appropriate action.
Identifies and recommends for the board's consideration proposals for financing capital
asset projects.
Provides appropriate comparative financial and statistical information to the board on a
regular, timely basis and alerts the board to trends in Institute operations.
Identifies and presents for board approval the financial aspects of proposals for new
business ventures.
Installs and supervises all accounting records of the Institute.
Prepares and interprets the financial statements and reports of the corporation.
Audits all accounts and records of the Institute continuously.
Provides protection for the assets of the Institute. This function includes establishing and
maintaining internal control and auditing, and assuring proper insurance coverage.
Reports to government and regulatory agencies, as required, and supervises all matters
relating to taxes.
Prepares and interprets statistical records and reports of the Institute. Recommends
financial goals and measurement criteria.
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Prepares, as budget director, in conjunction with other staff, an annual operating, cash
and capital budgets covering all activities of the Institute for submission to the Board of
Directors prior to the beginning of the fiscal year.
Measures and evaluates actual performance against meaningful standards in order to
assist line managers in controlling operations and accomplishing the operational plan.
Maintains adequate records of authorized appropriations and determines that all sums
expended pursuant thereto are properly accounted for.
Negotiates all contracts, major purchases and leases. Maintains adequate records of all
contracts and leases.
Manages the investment portfolio with investment manager. Recommends changes in
investment policies to the board.
Ascertains that financial transactions covered by minutes of the Board of Directors and/or
Finance Committee are properly executed and recorded.
Serves as Treasurer to the Board of Directors and the Foundation Board.
Responsible for all aspects of human resource management. Recommends personnel
policies to the board.
Approves purchase orders and all checks, promissory notes, and other negotiable
instruments of the Institute.
Interview, hires, trains, evaluates, counsels, recommends promotion, salary increases,
discharge and disciplinary action or delegate such responsibilities to supervisors of
finance, and human resources, personnel according to the personnel policies and
procedures.
Oversees physician compensation negotiations and discusses productivity compensation
with individual physicians.
Serves as a member of the senior management team.
Contributes to a positive work climate and the overall team effort of the department and
CARTI.
Maintains confidentiality of all patient information.
Maintains confidentiality of all employee/personnel records.
Performs related responsibilities as required or directed.
Responsible for ensuring adequate insurance coverage for all major areas of risk
exposure, including medical malpractice, Directors & Officers, Plant & Equipment,
Employment Practices and other coverage as deemed appropriate by the Board.
Recommends additional insurance coverage or risk management actions to the CEO and
Board. Oversees all risk management programs and processes.
Serves as CARTI’s Chief Privacy Officer for purposes of HIPAA compliance, and also
serves as CARTI’s Chief Compliance Officer.
Serves as Chief Financial Officer of the CARTI Foundation, and all other subsidiaries and
affiliates, unless the bylaws of such subsidiaries and affiliates specifically provide
otherwise.
Oversees due diligence and valuation functions for all CARTI acquisitions.
Ensures, with the Executive Committee of the Board, compliance with IRS excess benefit
provisions with respect to all compensation paid to excluded parties.
Coordinates legal opinions for the corporation.
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Goals & Objectives
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Gained the trust of the Finance Committee and the Board of Directors.
Oversee the management of the investment portfolio so it continues to provide strong
returns without adding significantly to the risk.
Contribute to the organization achieving a healthy bottom line in order to be able to
achieve strategic goals and ensure there is continued access to capital.
Continue to integrate the acquired physician practices such that there are significant
economies and the organization functions as a system rather than a confederation.
Has taken the lead and made significant progress in cost control and revenue
enhancement.
Assess the financial operations and work to streamline and improve those
operations. Assess the current infrastructure, make changes as needed and ensure
resources are most appropriately allocated to meet the overall goals and objectives of the
organization.
o Analyze and make recommendations for any operating entities that are off-budget.
Earned the trust and respect of employees in the departments. Developed a strong
working relationship with all senior leadership, department heads and AVPs, physician
leadership and other key stakeholders.
Establish a solid rapport with the auditing firm and see that the audit process is clean,
adjustment free with little or no management letter comments
Lead discussion with Fitch for annual bond review. Respond to inquiries from Fitch or
bond holders.
Advance a culture of fiscal discipline and accountability across the organization that
incorporates solid, consistent policies and practices. Increase sophistication in cost
accounting.
Develop accounting colleagues to use good judgment to identify and communicate nonconforming transactions and practices.
Work closely with the medical staff and build strong relationships with the medical staff,
be viewed as responsive, and as someone that will help solve problems; someone they can
go to.
General Ledger/Accounting Software overhaul
o Analyze and Identify reporting needs (…by physician, by site, by specialty…) from
senior management and Advisory Committee.
o Purchase and implement new accounting software that best fit the needs of the
organization.
Insurance contracting
With assistance and input from AVP - Compliance
o Analyze and document processes for management of payer contracts
o Develop best practices for insurance contract management
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o Work with AVP – Revenue cycle to funnel fee schedule information to Patient
Financial system for payment posting and remittance adjudication
Purchasing and contracting-Develop centralized purchaser
With assistance and input from AVP - Finance
o Analyze and identifying organizational needs for purchasing/receiving/inventory
o Develop best practices for procurement area
o Based on above, hire purchasing coordinator to develop program
Candidate Qualifications
The section below outlines the qualifications and selection criteria for the ideal candidate for
the Chief Financial Officer.
Education/Certification
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A Master’s in Business Administration or related master’s degree is required.
A CPA would be considered a plus.
Experience
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Proficiency in accounting principles, concepts and techniques as normally acquired
through five or more years of healthcare accounting experience in positions of increasing
responsibility.
A thorough knowledge of the revenue cycle, registration, physician billing and HIM,
including experience managing patient accounting, is required.
Experience in physician compensation models and theory are highly desirable.
o Must have the ability to pull and analyze market data on physician comp
o Must have the ability to work toward alignment of physician comp and
organizational financial success
Experience dealing with the bond markets is highly desirable.
Must have significant experience providing executive-level leadership of both employed
and contracted physicians.
Five to seven years of experience working with oncologists highly desirable. Must have
the ability to assess employment and service contracts and have a proven track record of
positively impacting financial and operational performance through coordination and
collaboration with senior management.
A working knowledge of Stark, Anti-kickback and relevant IRS statutes and regulations is
required.
A minimum of three to five years as a CFO/VP Finance for a large complex physician
driven organization or as a CFO or VP of Finance in a complex integrated hospital system
preferred.
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Significant experience working with a board.
Exposure to and experience with 340B pricing is desired.
A demonstrated track record as an effective leader with a participatory style; should be a
mentor, coordinator, delegator, developer and coach.
Significant skill in communicating with and relating to physicians, including the ability to
establish productive and cohesive partnerships with physicians.
Must possess technical and professional financial and accounting skills and a thorough
knowledge of generally accepted accounting principles, internal control, as well as, a
general knowledge of financial analysis, planning and IT systems.
Must be able to work closely with department directors and establish an environment of
trust and service with them.
Timeliness, accuracy and strength in communicating and interpreting financial
information and reports.
Solid analytical and interpretive skills.
Must be comfortable in leading the relationship with the auditing agency and the annual
audit process. Ideally, this person will have a history of few or no audit adjustments with
regard to past audit processes.
Insurance contracting
o Experience in value-based reimbursement desirable.
o Experience in conversion to and analysis of the impact of bundled payments,
desirable
Proven experience in IT desirable
o Either direct reporting or heavy involvement and input in IT area
o Must be active participant in IT Steering Committee
o Must be willing to take over direct report of this area within 12 months
Personal Characteristics
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Excellent speaking and presentation skills; is comfortable making presentations and
interacting with formidable and influential board members.
Superior interpersonal qualities and the demeanor and style which will quickly establish
credibility in the organization.
Political astuteness, good judgment, tough-minded, analytical, self-motivated, energetic
and able to prioritize and focus in seizing opportunities, making decisions and solving
problems.
Goal-oriented, highly motivated, and enjoys change and challenge.
The highest level of honesty and integrity with a high level of energy and intensity; an
action-oriented individual who knows how to achieve results without alienating others.
The ability to gain the respect of others while being respectful of others.
Tenacious problem-solving, outstanding follow-through, attention to detail with an
inability to accept mediocrity from him/herself or subordinates.
A quick study who is decisive and results-oriented. Must possess a strategic mind-set and
be able to function autonomously as well as collaboratively.
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A positive, upbeat, people-oriented management style. Must be a coach and mentor. Good
at building, developing and retaining a top performing team.
This individual must have extremely high standards for the accuracy and integrity of the
information that comes from his/her areas. Must be willing and able to roll-up their
sleeves at times to ensure that information is accurate.
Willingness to address tough issues, one who possesses good judgment and common
sense, and the ability to act decisively at the right time. Ability to persuade others,
develop consensus, influence outcome and stay the course.
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COMPANY BACKGROUND/ CULTURE
ABOUT CARTI
For more than 35 years, CARTI has been bringing the fight to cancer with leading edge
technology and compassionate hearts. CARTI offers comprehensive cancer treatments such
as chemotherapy, radiation therapy, diagnostic radiology and surgical oncology to patients
throughout Arkansas. CARTI physicians treat all cancers, including breast, lung, prostate,
head and neck, and more, plus blood disorders, such as leukemia. All CARTI physicians are
board certified, including the American Board of Radiology, the American Board of Internal
Medicine, the American Board of Medical Oncology and the American Board of Diagnostic
Radiology.
As the largest private cancer clinic in Arkansas, CARTI provides a wide range of services that
treat more than just cancer. They believe very strongly in caring for the patient as a whole,
including the physical, emotional and financial well-being of each patient.
An independent, not-for-profit cancer care provider, CARTI offers state-of-the-art cancer
treatment for more than 22,000 patients each year from throughout Arkansas. CARTI offers
hematology/ oncology services in Little Rock, North Little Rock, Benton, Clinton, Conway, El
Dorado, Heber Springs, Monticello, Stuttgart and Russellville. Radiation therapy is provided
at centers in Little Rock, North Little Rock, Conway, Searcy and Mountain Home; diagnostic
radiology is also offered in Little Rock.
CARTI operates seven radiation therapy centers, two diagnostic radiology centers, thirteen
hematology/oncology centers and one surgical oncology location. CARTI’s medical staff
includes nine radiation oncologists, 11 medical oncologists, 4 diagnostic radiologists and one
head and neck surgeon.
Targeted to open in the fall of 2015, the CARTI
Cancer Center, a 170,000 square foot multispecialty, patient-focused cancer treatment
center. The CARTI Cancer Center will offer
medical, surgical and radiation oncology and
diagnostic radiology, as well as hematology
services. It also will feature clinics dedicated to
imaging, infusion, research, pharmacy and
support programs. Upon opening, the new
CARTI Cancer Center will serve as the hub of a
statewide network of satellite clinics that sees an estimated 20,000 cancer patients per year.
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Mission and History
CARTI’s mission is to promote the finest quality cancer treatment and compassionate care
and to improve their knowledge through education and research.
They began fulfilling that mission in 1976, when they opened their doors to what was then
known as Central Arkansas Radiation Therapy Institute. As a single, centrally located
treatment facility solely devoted to one modality of cancer treatment, namely radiation
therapy, the cancer treatment institution grew quickly as convenient radiation therapy
treatment facilities were opened throughout the state, adding facilities in Little Rock, North
Little Rock, Conway, Searcy and Mountain Home.
In August 2011, CARTI announced it was joining forces with Little Rock Hematology and
Oncology (LRHO), now a division of CARTI. In January 2013, Hematology Oncology
Services of Arkansas also joined CARTI, providing Central Arkansas with a comprehensive
cancer care network that is second to none. The not-for-profit multi-specialty cancer
organization now offers patients a full range of treatment options within a single network of
coordinated care, including the most advanced forms of diagnostic radiology, surgical
oncology, oncology/hematology, as well as leading-edge radiation therapy.
Today, CARTI has treated approximately 220,000 cancer patients to date. CARTI remains on
the cutting edge of cancer treatment by maintaining state-of-the-art equipment and
nationally renowned physicians and staff.
The CARTI Foundation, which was founded in 1983, helps fund the Ray of Hope Patient
Assistance Program, offering offer housing, transportation and financial assistance,
emotional and nutritional counseling and cancer survivor retreats for qualifying patients.
With plans in the future to construct an all-inclusive cancer care center in the Little Rock
area, CARTI is continuing in its mission to bring the fight to cancer.
CARTI takes great pride in making comprehensive cancer care convenient for their patients
and their families. Delivering cancer treatment in 17 locations throughout Arkansas, CARTI
provides patients with world-class cancer care, close to home.
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LITTLE ROCK, ARKANSAS
OPPORTUNITY OVERVIEW
About Little Rock
Little Rock is the capital of Arkansas
and is the largest city in the state. A
dynamic state capital, Little Rock offers
exciting nightlife, a vibrant downtown
entertainment district, a wealth of
unique sightseeing, day trip and tour
opportunities, excellent restaurants and
shopping, museums, and one-of-a-kind
attractions. The region also offers a
low cost of living, a variety of available
and affordable housing, low commute
times, and a beautiful natural
environment.
Little Rock is located in the center of
the country and in the second fastestgrowing region of the United States, with 40% of the nation’s population and buying power within a
550-mile radius. Little Rock, known as where ‘America Comes Together’, is located at the crossroads of
Interstate 30 and the most heavily traveled Interstate in the nation, Interstate 40.
Not only is Little Rock the geographical center of the
state, it is the hub of business, the arts, government
and healthcare in Arkansas. With international
destinations like the Clinton Presidential Center,
Central High School National Historic Site, Heifer
International and the longest originally constructed
pedestrian/bicycle bridge in the world (Big Dam
Bridge), Little Rock offers over 550 restaurants, and
communities rich and diverse in culture, attractions,
recreation, shopping and entertainment.
Diverse climate and topography earn Arkansas the
name The Natural State. The region divides the lush
flat lands to the east and the rolling hills and mountains of the Ozarks and Ouachitas to the west. Outdoor
enthusiasts love Little Rock's public parks, the Little Rock Zoo and public and private golf courses. State
and national parks and wilderness areas are just
minutes from residential and commercial communities
offers hiking, biking, mountain climbing, canoeing and
camping for nature lovers.
With the capital city of Little Rock at its heart, the
region is made up of smaller cities with unique
lifestyles and offerings. Hot Springs, the home of the
nation's first resort, offers hot baths, lakeside living, the
excitement of the Oaklawn Park horse racing season
and shopping for everything from antiques to crystals.
Deep in timber country, Pine Bluff is a thriving
industrial community with both a university and a
technical college.
Distance to Nearby Cities
Hot Springs, AR
Memphis, TN
Shreveport, LA
Springfield, MO
Jackson, MS
Tulsa, OK
Dallas, TX
Oklahoma City, OK
Nashville, TN
55 miles
137 miles
213 miles
215 miles
264 miles
274 miles
317 miles
339 miles
350 miles
Population (2011)
Little Rock
Pulaski County
Little Rock MSA
190,848
379,317
688,192
Climate
Little Rock weather is generally moderate, with
four distinct seasons each year. The average minimum temperature for the region is in the low 50s, and
the average maximum is in the low 70s. Historically, the region has had nearly 200 days of sunshine per
year.
Area Attractions
Arkansas State Capitol: Constructed between 1899
and 1915 on the former site of the state penitentiary,
the Arkansas State Capitol is the vital heart of the
state's government. Rich in history, craftsmanship and
architectural distinction, the Neo-Classical structure
won general praise for its elegant proportions. Today,
elected officials, legislators, committees and
delegations carry on "the people's business" while
thousands of visitors enjoy the Capitol's warm welcome.
Permanent exhibits chart the history of the Capitol,
while changing displays in the first-floor galleries
highlight aspects of Arkansas history, art and popular
culture. Portraits of past governors, Supreme Court Justices and legislators bring visitors "face to face"
with the men and women who have shaped Arkansas.
William J. Clinton Presidential Center: The William J.
Clinton Presidential Center includes America’s newest
Presidential Library housing the largest archival
collection in American presidential history. Located on
the banks of the Arkansas River in the heart of Little
Rock’s River Market District, the Clinton Library provides
an exciting and educational experience for visitors of all
ages. Featuring 20,000 square feet of exhibit space, the
Clinton Library chronicles American history at the turn of
the 21st century. Interactive exhibits, including a White
House Cabinet Room reconstruction and a full-scale
replica of the Oval Office, give visitors a first-hand look
into the life and work of the 42nd president.
Arkansas Inland Maritime Museum: The Arkansas
Inland Maritime Museum is home to the USS
Razorback, the longest-serving submarine in the
world. Launched in 1944 from the Portsmouth Naval
Shipyard in Maine, the USS Razorback entered
Tokyo Harbor in 1945 with 11 other submarines to
take part in the formal surrender of Japan. After
being awarded five battle stars in the Pacific Theater
during World War II and four stars during the
Vietnam War, the USS Razorback was sold to the
Turkish Navy in 1970 and was recommissioned as
the TCG Muratreis, conducting missions in the Black
Sea and along the Marmara Sea coast until 2001.
Arkansas Sports Hall of Fame: Located in the Alltel Arena, the Arkansas Sports Hall of Fame is a
Museum of recollections of more than four decades of highly successful induction ceremonies honoring
the athletic greats of Arkansas, through recognition, and acknowledgement of those persons who,
through outstanding achievement and accomplishments in any form of endeavor, have brought honor,
prestige, and fame to the state. Included in the museum, is an 88-seat-theatre where a video presentation
of Arkansas sports memories is shown and Arkansas sports legends provide lectures on special
occasions, an interactive broadcast booth where visitors can record their own play-by-play broadcast of a
sporting event, and a gift shop where Arkansas sports novelties can be purchased.
Big Dam Bridge: Experience the longest pedestrian
bridge in the world. The Big Dam Bridge connects
approximately 15 miles of scenic riverside trails in the
cities of Little Rock and North Little Rock, and assists
in the connection of 70,000 acres of various city,
county, state and federal park land. Elevated up to 90
feet above the Arkansas River, the bridge links 25
miles of bike-hike trails as well as connecting Murray
Park and Cooks Landing.
Historic Arkansas Museum: Historic Arkansas
Museum celebrates Arkansas' cultural and material
heritage with six galleries of Arkansas art and artifacts, an interactive children's gallery, orientation
theater, museum store with Arkansas products and more. Take time to tour the state's oldest
neighborhood, where medicine came from the herb garden and the newspaper was printed on a handoperated press. Four original Little Rock dwellings on the museum's grounds provide the setting as expert
tour guides describe life on the Arkansas frontier and costumed Living History actors portray early
Arkansans.
Little Rock Central High School National Historic
Site: The new Little Rock Central High School
National Historic Site Visitor Center opened in
September 2007 to mark the 50th anniversary of the
high school's desegregation, when nine AfricanAmerican students entered the school under federal
troop protection. In 1957 the school became a
crucial battleground in the struggle for civil rights.
The nation watched as the "Little Rock Nine"
attempted to enter the previously all-white school.
With the help of television news, then in its infancy,
the events commanded worldwide attention.
Little Rock Zoo: Discover the world year-round at
the Little Rock Zoo. It all began in 1926 with a circus
bear and timber wolf. Today, the Little Rock Zoo is
home to over 725 of the world's most exotic animals.
Experience the majesty of giraffes, elephants, and
rhinos. Marvel at the strength and beauty of lions,
tigers, and jaguars. Take a stroll and catch a glimpse
of chimpanzees, orangutans, and gorillas. Or slither
around to explore the snakes, amphibians and
alligators. Or take a relaxing and scenic ride on the
train. Don't forget to visit the Children's Farm, where
you can get up close to sheep, goats, and more. With
new animal exhibits, special events, and educational
programs, the Zoo provides an ever-changing and recreational experience for children of all ages.
Museum of Discovery: At the Museum of Discovery, Arkansas' museum of science and history, you can
explore the wonders of nature, science, technology and history. Build a robot at the Tech Lab, create
crafts at the Imagination Station, learn about Arkansas' rich Native American history, discover the
principles of light, electricity, and magnetism, explore the major parts of the body in the Health Hall or
learn about forestry through Worlds of the Forest. Electric shows available on weekends. Changing
national traveling exhibits make each visit a new experience.
The Empress of Little Rock: The staff of The Empress invites you to
journey back to 1888 with their Historical Tours and Teas. James H.
Hornibrooks’ vision was made real over 120 years ago. Now, you can
experience this breathtaking Victorian described in the Arkansas
Democrat-Gazette as “Queen Anne on Steroids”. The Hornibrook
Mansion was completed in 1888 at a cost of $20,000 and exclusively
used Arkansas materials.
Old State House Museum: The historic Old State House opened in
1833, serving as Arkansas' first state capitol building until 1911. This
Greek Revival-style structure may be most recognized as the backdrop
for Bill Clinton's bids for the Presidency in 1992 and 1996. Today, the
building houses a museum of Arkansas history. Permanent exhibits
include: Pillars of Power, exploring the history of the Old State House;
Arkansas' First Families, featuring 30 Arkansas First Ladies' gowns;
Grandmother's Cottage, a hands-on children's exhibit; the Arkansas
Wilderness gallery and the 1836 and 1885 House of Representatives
chambers.
Arts and Culture
Arkansas Arts Center: Visit the Arkansas Arts Center
and experience the excitement that the state’s leading
cultural institution has to offer. Located in historic
MacArthur Park, the Arts Center features elegant art
galleries that showcase the Center's acclaimed
collection. The Arkansas Arts Center has been
steadfastly committed to building a collection of unique
works on paper, primarily American and European,
from the Renaissance to the present. Among the most
recognizable works in the collection are sheets by
Cezanne, Van Gogh, Jackson Pollock, Georgia
O'Keeffe, Alison Saar, Rembrandt and Rubens. The
second major area of the collections is contemporary objects in craft media, including teapots by
contemporary artists, contemporary baskets, turned wood objects, studio glass, ceramics, metalwork and
toys designed by artists. Among the highlights are works by Dale Chihuly, Albert Paley, Peter Voulkos
and Dorothy Gill Barnes. The Arkansas Arts Center hosts many prominent special exhibitions and
features Children's Theatre, which presents children's classics for the stage.
Mosaic Templars Cultural Center: The Mosaic
Templars Cultural Center, a museum of the
Department of Arkansas Heritage, is Arkansas's statefunded museum dedicated to the story of African
American life and business in Arkansas. The Cultural
Center offers educational programs, exhibits,
genealogy research files, hundreds of artifacts and
includes the art of Isaac Scott Hathaway. Isaac Scott
Hathaway, an African American artist, studied at the
New England Conservatory of Music and later
established the ceramic department at Branch Normal
College in Pine Bluff (UAPB), and Tuskegee Institute in
Tuskegee, Alabama. Most notably, Hathaway was the
first African American artist commissioned to design a circulating coin for the United States Mint. He
created the Booker T. Washington half dollar in 1946 and the Booker T. Washington/George Washington
Carver half dollar in 1951.
Ballet Arkansas: Ballet Arkansas, the state's only professional ballet company, produces a diverse
arrangement of local and touring shows throughout their 9 month season. The highlight of the year is the
performance of “The Nutcracker”, along with other shows from their repertoire each season.
Performances are held at Robinson Center Music Hall. The Ballet Arkansas School for the Performing
Arts also provides classes for ages 3-adult.
Riverfest Amphitheatre: Riverfest Amphitheatre with
its spectacular backdrop view of the Arkansas River
hosts many of Little Rock's concerts. It was originally
designed and built in 1987, as a multi-use stage and
amphitheatre. It has evolved to include 1,375 reserved
seats and 9,125 lawn seats. The city's River Market,
Museum of Discovery, Library and other shops
surround the Amphitheatre.
Arkansas Symphony Orchestra: The symphony
performs for nine months every year, presenting 12
classical concerts, four Pops Live! programs and a
chamber orchestra series. Many concerts feature
nationally and internationally renowned guest performers. Regular performances are held at the Robinson
Center Music Hall.
Wildwood Park for the Performing Arts: Wildwood Park for the Performing Arts is the largest park
dedicated to the performing arts in the South. The annual Wildwood Festival in June draws from opera,
jazz, cabaret, blues, gospel, big band, dance and literary artists. The $8 million Lucy Lockett Cabe
Festival Theatre opened in 1996 to rave reviews by artists and theater experts throughout the country.
Each year, Wildwood provides traveling performances for more than 40,000 children in schools
throughout Arkansas. Its EPIC program (Every Person Is Creative) is becoming a national model for
integrating performing arts into school curricula. Special events, such as the annual Wildwood Wine &
Food Celebration in March, are held throughout the year.
UALR Art Galleries: The University of Arkansas at Little Rock Art Department maintains three art
galleries in the Fine Arts Building that showcase emerging and established artists, as well as traveling,
invitational and student exhibitions. The gallery program highlights contemporary and traditional fine art,
applied designs and crafts, and historical art to provide opportunities for education, inspiration and
experimentation. The University's exhibit series and gallery talks are designed to cultivate a diverse
audience and create dialogue among students, faculty and the community. The gallery program also
maintains the UALR Permanent Collection of more than 600 works that are displayed across campus.
Exhibitions are free and open to the public.
Sports and Outdoor Recreation
Arkansas is known for its remarkable natural
wonders, scenic byways, world-class sporting
adventures and fun family attractions. Fish at a
world-class trout stream or tee off on a
championship course. Over half a dozen
exceptional state parks with RV and camping
facilities are within an hour's drive of Little Rock. In
the nearby Ouachita Mountains you can visit the
popular attractions of Hot Springs National Park
or mine for your own diamond. A fun day trip to the
magnificent River Valley or the Ozark Mountains
lets you enjoy a wealth of outdoor adventures,
breathtaking views, vast underground caverns,
charming arts villages, and crystal clear lakes and rivers.
Lakes and Rivers: The Arkansas River, navigable from just
east of Tulsa to the Mississippi River, flows between the
downtowns of Little Rock and North Little Rock. Several lakes in
the Little Rock area provide excellent fishing, sailing and other
water activities. They include Lake Maumelle, Lake Winona,
Lake Conway, Greers Ferry Lake, Lake Ouachita, Lake
Hamilton, Lake Catherine and DeGray Lake.
Arkansas River Trail: Approximately 24 miles when completed,
the Arkansas River Trail, will serve as an addition that will allow
the sister cities Little Rock and North Little Rock, to connect
people enabling them to walk or cycle. When completed, the
Arkansas River Trail will reach from downtown Little Rock to
Pinnacle Mountain State Park on the southern shore, and from
downtown North Little Rock to Cook's Landing on the northern
shore. A fourteen-mile loop will be created by a pedestrian bridge
across Murray Lock and Dam and a renovated railroad bridge
near the Presidential Library Center and Park.
Audubon Nature Center: Located in East Little Rock, the Audubon Nature Center is an acreage
surrounding both the city-owned Fourche Creek wetlands and the unique soils and plants of Granite
Mountain in adjacent Gillam Park. The 2,000 acres available for use by the Nature Center offer a vast and
richly diverse “lab” for people to learn about conservation, restoration, wildlife and plants.
Peabody Park: Located west of the Junction Bridge and north of the Wellness Walkway in Riverfront
Park, Peabody Park is a unique play environment, designed with help from children, that encourages
imagination, exploration and discovery. Some of its many wondrous features include several outdoor and
underground rooms, large native stones for climbing, a spray pad, and the Ozark Pavilion.
Pinnacle Mountain State Park: Spend the
afternoon at one of Arkansas' prettiest spots. Rising
more than 1,000 feet above the Arkansas River
Valley, the cone-shaped peak of Pinnacle Mountain
is a central Arkansas landmark. Once up top (a
fairly easy hike up the western slope at a slow
pace), the scenery can't be beat. Besides the more
than 40 miles of hiking trails, there are also the
Arkansas Arboretum, a playground and plenty of
picnic tables.
Witt Stephens Jr. Central Arkansas Nature
Center: The center focuses on the wide variety of
outdoor recreational opportunities that our state’s fish and wildlife resources provide. Exhibits highlight the
role of fish and wildlife management and many of the projects conducted throughout the history of the
Arkansas Game and Fish Commission. The location along the Arkansas River allows many watchable
wildlife activities within an urban area. Basking water turtles, butterflies and migrating pelicans are
common sights. A portion of the Arkansas River Trail crosses the site, offering more options for
exploration. The grounds of the center include beds of native plants found throughout the state, while the
main building includes an exhibit hall, aquariums, gift shop, theater and special educational programs.
Wild River Country: Cool off and have a blast
during steamy summers at this sprawling water
park, which includes slides, a wave pool, inner
tube rides, a family raft ride, a roller coaster water
ride and a "splashzone" with water tag and bungee
rope.
Burns Park: Split by I-40 on the west side of
North Little Rock, Burns Park encompasses more
than 1,500 acres and is one of the largest cityowned parks in the country. While most of the area
is still wooded, several sections have been
developed into ballparks, hiking trails, a miniature
golf course, an amusement park, bocce ball courts, a BMX bike track, a disc golf course, a special
playground for handicapped children, soccer fields and an overnight RV campground complete with
showers, grills and electrical outlets. There are also picnic areas with tables and grills, a tennis and
racquetball complex and a golf course.
Arkansas Travelers Baseball: The Arkansas
Travelers enjoy one of the longest running histories of
any minor league franchise, and with its new home in
the state of the art Dickey-Stephens Ballpark, the
history continues. Dickey-Stephens Park has 5,800
fixed seats, but when you add in the 24 luxury suites,
three private dining areas and the grass berms, there is
room for over 7,000.
UALR Collegiate Sports: The UALR Trojans, an
NCAA Division 1 basketball team, play in the new
5,600-seat Jack Stephens Center on the UALR
campus. UALR also has 15 Division-I athletic programs with the soccer team playing at Burns Park in
North Little Rock, and the baseball team playing at Gary Hogan Field. In 2008, UALR and Alltel Arena
hosted two rounds of the NCAA Division I Men’s Basketball Tournament and Alltel Arena hosted the SEC
Women’s Basketball Tournament.
Golf Courses
Rebsamen Park: After a year-long renovation that
cost $2 million, the new Rebsamen opened in
November 1999 and is now a showplace to rival a
country club. The only municipal course to make the
Arkansas Democrat-Gazette survey, Rebsamen Park
places No. 6 and will eventually contend for the top
spot after given proper upkeep and time to mature.
War Memorial Park: One of central Arkansas'
biggest playgrounds, War Memorial Park and
Stadium has something for every sports fan. When
the University of Arkansas Razorbacks football team
hails from Fayetteville, it plays to a packed house at
War Memorial Stadium. Nearby Ray Winder Field hosts the Arkansas Travelers baseball team during
home games in the spring and summer. Golfers can play a full 18 holes or just putt on the park's greens,
and tennis players can hit the courts while kids play on
the playgrounds.
Burns Park Golf Course: This club has two
regulation eighteen hole courses. The Championship
Course is very narrow and challenging for all skill
levels. The Tournament Course has open fairways on
the first few holes, then tightens up as you continue
through your round. There are several par 5's that can
be reached in two shots, so this is a great course for
making birdies or even an eagle. The greens are large,
undulating and fast. Water hazards come into play on
fourteen holes.
Shopping and Dining
In Little Rock, the sky is so close you can almost touch
it, and nature provides picturesque skyview displays
throughout the day. Because they've grown up in the
forested rolling hills and cliffs that rise above the
Arkansas River, their shopping neighborhoods feature
lovely urban forests and a ton of take-a-deep-breath
fresh air. The trade center of Arkansas, Little Rock has
it all: modern malls, specialty gift and sport shops,
exclusive men's and women's boutiques, day spas,
antique stores, art galleries, design centers and a
collection of national and unique one-of-a-kind retailers.
Wherever you shop in Little Rock, you'll find yourself
surrounded by the city's natural beauty.
Whether you like homestyle Southern cooking, prime aged steak, fresh seafood, fusion cuisine, or more
of a heart-healthy fare, Little Rock's chefs offer the state's best selections making Little Rock "the dining
capital of Arkansas." Select an atmosphere or cuisine from around the world or satisfy your palate with a
traditional Arkansas favorite including: Barbecue, Catfish, and Southern Comfort Food.
Education
Arkansas is dedicated to education, with more than 50 Arkansas school districts serving the Little Rock
area alone and hundreds of public schools from elementary through college. The Little Rock area is also
home to a thriving private school scene. The state’s leaders are constantly devoting time, energy and
money to advancing Arkansas institutions of learning and higher education.
Public Schools
The Little Rock area is home to more than 50 prospering
school districts, part of the noticeable gains Arkansas is
making in education on the “Nation’s Report Card,” the
National Assessment of Educational Progress. Arkansas
is recognized as a proven leader in educational
technology, bringing cutting-edge learning tools into the
classroom to enhance the learning experience for its
students. Technology has become the standard for
education in Arkansas, with internet access in 100
percent of Arkansas’s public schools.
Higher Education
The Little Rock area offers a wide variety of options for those seeking a post-secondary education. The
region’s three universities are continually increasing their enrollment and program offerings year after
year.
The University of Arkansas at Little Rock: The
University of Arkansas at Little Rock (UALR) is an
expanding university in the heart of Little Rock.
UALR’s proximity to the state’s center of politics,
business and medicine is a major advantage for its
students.
The University of Central Arkansas: The
University of Central Arkansas is located in Conway
and its Honors College has been recognized both
state-and nation-wide as an innovative and
exemplary program.
Pulaski Technical College: Pulaski Technical
College is the state’s largest two-year college, serving
both traditional students planning to transfer to a fouryear institution and older students seeking a
certificate or associate’s degree in one of more than
50 programs. The college continues to grow with a
new 92,000-square-foot Campus Center and a
15,000-square foot Ottenheimer Library. The college
opened a Business and Technology Center in late
2010 and has a satellite campus in southwest Little
Rock.
Hendrix College: Hendrix College in Conway is a
private liberal arts college that consistently ranks among the top schools in U.S. News & World Report’s
annual “America’s Best Colleges” issue.
Additional Colleges and Universities
Below is a list of additional universities and
colleges in the Little Rock area:
•
•
•
•
•
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University of Arkansas for Medical
Sciences (Little Rock)
Philander Smith College (Little Rock)
Central Baptist College (Conway)
Ouachita Technical College
(Malvern)Southeast Arkansas College
(Pine Bluff)
University of Arkansas - Pine Bluff
Arkansas State University – Beebe
Harding University (Searcy)
Housing and Cost of Living
Residents choose from affordable housing in urban lofts in downtown Little Rock's River Market District;
suburban neighborhoods with greenbelts and riding paths; historic homes in many downtown Little Rock
neighborhoods; and stately homesteads and farms that offer a rural experience at its best. Metro Little
Rock region is enhanced by minimal traffic hassles and short commuting times.
Economy
Home to major corporations Dillard's and Acxiom, as well as companies in the robotics, software
engineering, call center, transportation, wood products, aerospace, electric industries, Little Rock's
accessible highways, railways, waterways and air transport make it an excellent location for business.
Because Little Rock is the state's capital, state government is a major employer in the city. Located near
the state capitol building, Arkansas Children's Hospital is one of the largest pediatric medical centers in
the nation and the University of Arkansas for Medical Science campus is nationally known for its
cancer research and geriatric care. Private nonprofit healthcare systems like Baptist Health and St.
Vincent Health System also are headquartered in Little Rock.
Air Transportation
The Little Rock National Airport, less than three miles from downtown, is Arkansas' largest commercial
service airport, serving approximately 2.1 million passengers annually. The airport attracts passengers
from a large part of Arkansas, as well as a number of surrounding states. There are more than 120 flight
arrivals and departures at Little Rock each day, with non-stop jet service to 13 national and international
gateway cities, making Little Rock truly one stop away from the world. Little Rock National is served by
American Eagle, Continental Express, Delta, Delta Connection, Northwest, Northwest Airlink, Southwest
and US Airways Express.
Nearby City: Hot Springs, AR
Hot Springs is a vibrant, progressive community
located in the Diamond Lakes region of the scenic
Ouachita Mountains in central Arkansas. It is a
beautiful resort community of over 50,000
approximately 45 minutes southwest of Little Rock.
Hot Springs is traditionally best known for the
natural spring water that gives it its name, flowing
out of the ground at a temperature of 147 degrees
Fahrenheit (64 degrees Celsius). Hot Springs
National Park is the oldest Federal Reserve in the
USA, and the tourist trade that the famous springs
bring makes it a very successful spa town. Hot
Springs is also noted as the boyhood home of
former U.S. President Bill Clinton. Actors Alan Ladd and Billy Bob Thornton were born in Hot Springs and
nearby Malvern.
Consistently ranked among the top retirement
destinations, Hot Springs is the best choice for those who
want it all. Not only does the area offer natural beauty
and a host of recreational activities, but it also features
outstanding cultural events and opportunities for
community involvement. Fine art galleries featuring
internationally acclaimed artists and fun art festivals and
performances provide numerous venues to experience
the arts. Opportunities for enjoying Hot Springs’ rich
natural resources comes in all forms including
championship golf courses and tennis courts, hiking,
camping, fishing, boating, and more! Add to Hot Springs’ amenities quality schools and healthcare
facilities, a low cost of living, and a warm community spirit, and you’ll agree that, “Hot Springs is the
perfect place for life.”
Attractions in Hot Springs
Hot Springs National Park: Since the Hot Springs
National Park effectively starts in the city's downtown
area, it is extremely easy to access. While enjoying the
city of Hot Springs, you can add hiking and camping in
Hot Springs National Park to the agenda. Bathing in
the warm spring waters that flow out of Hot Springs
Mountain is understandably one of the more popular
things to do at the park, as newer bathhouses
complement the older ones. Some of the Hot Springs
hotels that offer baths can be found in Hot Springs
National Park, and they include the Austin Hotel and
Convention Center, the Arlington Hotel, and The
Springs Hotel and Spa.
Bathhouse Row: Bathhouse Row, consisting of eight
turn-of-the century structures, lies within the National
Park and is supervised by the Park Service. Only one of
the bathhouses, The Buckstaff, remains in operation.
However, another bathhouse, the Fordyce, has been
converted into a museum to give tourists a glimpse into
the fascinating past of the city. The federally supervised
natural thermal waters are also used for thermal bathing
at several downtown hotels, health spas and the
Arkansas Rehabilitation Center. The water is available
free for drinking at several fountains in the downtown
area.
Oaklawn Park: Hot Springs is also home to Oaklawn
Park, a thoroughbred racetrack which has been in
operation since 1904. The meet which is annually held
from January through mid April each year is sometimes
referred to as the "Fifth Season" and features the
"Racing Festival of the South" during the last week of the
racing season each April. Many Triple Crown contenders
compete in the Arkansas Derby which is the big finale
each year of the meet. Former U.S. President Bill
Clinton, his brother Roger, and actor Billy Bob Thornton,
all Hot Springs natives have been known to frequent
Oaklawn Park in the past. Dining can be done at the
Carousel Terrace which features an authentic antique collection of carousel horses. There are television
monitors and music boxes on all of the tables to allow patrons to remain informed about the races.
Magic Springs and Crystal Falls: Magic Springs and Crystal Falls is a combination water park and
amusement park located in Hot Springs that offers attractions and rides to appeal to all members of the
family, from the daredevil to the most sedate mouse. One of its major attractions is the recently opened
ride The Gauntlet, a steel roller coaster that reaches speeds of 60 miles per hour and features 5 inverted
loops to keep the heart-stopping thrills high. In addition to the thrill rides, Magic Springs features family
rides that include a vintage carousel and a beginner roller coaster for "future thrill seekers''.
The water park features the Crystal Cove Wave Pool
and the Crystal Lagoon Wading Pool. For thrillseekers, Crystal Falls offers the Rapid Falls Raceway
and the High Sierra Tower, two very different water
thrill rides. Other popular features at the water park
include the Bear Cub Bend kiddie pool and the Kodiak
River Adventure Ride.
Crater of Diamonds State Park: You might find it
quite surprising to learn there are diamond mines in
Arkansas, let alone ones where you can keep anything
you find. Prospecting visitors pay a small daily fee to
search the eroded surface of an ancient gem-bearing
volcanic "pipe" that is now a 37-acre field and is periodically plowed. Until 2002, there was a commercial
diamond mine on the borders of Colorado and Wyoming. Today there is only one diamond mine in the
United States, and that is in Crater of Diamonds State Park near Murfreesboro. Of all the state
attractions, this is the only place where you can combine diamonds with trout fishing. This is the region
known as the Diamond Lakes Region, with all the outdoor activities you might expect of lake tourism.