2023 Anna Beth Gorman

Anna Beth Gorman, President and Chief Executive Officer of the Women’s Foundation of Arkansas, is the 2023 Friend of the HR Profession Award recipient. 

Gorman and her organization recognized ARSHRM as a critical partner in our joint opposition to SB71 on behalf of employers and encouraged us to join her coalition to oppose this bill that would remove affirmative action and prohibit discrimination or preferential treatment by the state of Arkansas and other public entities. Through her leadership and coordination, including hiring a lobbyist and organizing a coalition with other organizations, sent a strong message to the sponsor and legislature, and the bill was ultimately defeated on the House floor. 

The Women’s Foundation of Arkansas collaborates with stakeholders throughout the state to support policies, programs, and initiatives that work to close the gender and racial wealth gap. The WFA’s guiding principles understand the diverse needs and realities facing women and girls and through purposeful action and engaged philanthropy.