Arkadelphia, AR (April 14, 2009) – More than 200 supporters of the Arkansas Sheriffs’ Youth Ranches (the Ranch) gathered in Ouachita Baptist University’s Pat Walker Center Tuesday evening to honor Ross Whipple with the 2009 Profile in Service Award, a recognition given annually to an individual making outstanding contributions to create better opportunities for today’s youth, particularly in South Arkansas.
The event raised more than $70,000 to benefit the Ranch’s DeGray Lake campus in Amity, a site Whipple helped establish in 2003. In addition, he is a founding member of the campus’s Board of Visitors.
After thanking and welcoming all guests, master of ceremonies U.S. Rep. Mike Ross, the 2008 recipient of the profile award, began the evening with comments describing Whipple.
“Ross Whipple understands that our young people are the foundation of this great state and that investing in our children is investing in our future,” said Congressman Ross. “Without Ross’ tireless efforts and enthusiasm, places like the Arkansas Sheriffs’ Youth Ranch would not exist. We are pleased to honor his dedication to our young people and to making Arkansas a better place to call home for everyone.”
Conicia (a minor identified only by her first name), current Rancher at the DeGray Lake campus, shared with the audience how her experiences at the Ranch have changed her life. Remarks from Whipple’s daughter, Mary Elizabeth Eldridge, and long-time friend and business associate Steve DeMott followed. Ranch CEO Mike Cumnock and president of the Ranch Board of Directors Larry Stone then presented Whipple with the profile award, a hand-sketched portrait of the honoree drawn by Hot Springs artist Gary Simmons.
“Tonight is really not about me, but about showing support for this great organization,” said Whipple. “The campus here in Clark County currently provides a home for twelve girls, and with your support we can add twelve boys. I know things are a little tight right now. Tonight I ask you not to give until it hurts; but give until it feels good.”
Founded by a group of concerned sheriffs and individuals in 1976, the Ranch seeks to address, remedy and prevent child abuse and neglect by creating safe, healthy and permanent homes for children. The Ranch began with two cottages in Batesville more than 30 years ago. Since then, it has grown to five campuses in Independence, Sharp, Clark, Crawford and Boone counties and provided more than 900 children with a place to call home.
The Ranch opened the DeGray Lake campus in October 2003. In November 2007, the campus expanded to include two new facilities – the Walter S. Morris Chapel and the Troy D. Tucker Lodge. The new facilities provide educational and recreational opportunities for the more than 80 children who call the Ranch home.
About the honoree
Ross Whipple currently serves as chairman at Summit Bank, managing partner of Whipple Family Limited Partnership, LLLP and Whipple Family Banking Partnership, LLLP and president of Horizon Timber Services, Inc.
A Malvern native, he served as president of the Ross Foundation from 1982 to 1999 and as Chairman from 1999 to present. Under his leadership, the Ross Foundation has funded new programs such as the Cone Foundation, Arkadelphia Early Childhood Program, and the Arkadelphia School System Computer Project; while offering continuing support to Group Living, Henderson State University, Ouachita Baptist University and other established programs.
Whipple presently serves on the Henderson State University Board of Trustees, Henderson State University Foundation Board, the Arkansas Forestry Association Board, the Clark County Industrial Council Board. He is also chairman of the Finance Committee for the Arkansas Children’s Hospital Research Institute.
The following is a list of sponsors that made this year’s dinner possible:
Platinum Sponsors
- Chesley Pruet Foundation
- The Ross Foundation
- Summit Bank
Gold Sponsors
- Morris Foundation
- Stephens Inc.
Silver Sponsors
- Ouachita Baptist University
- Henderson State University