Stepping Up For Ouachita

Crunching leaves while walking through campus on a crisp fall day. Late-night dorm chats with the girls. The history professor who made the past come to life. These are just a few memories from Susie Everett’s time at Ouachita Baptist University that have made lasting impressions. “We were at a special place and a special time in our lives, making friends – some of those turning into lifelong friendships,” she says.

Faith is at the forefront of OBU’s values, along with scholarship, growth, character and community. Another favorite OBU memory of Susie’s was hearing a speaker tell her the importance of simply abiding in Christ. “This message was a pivotal point on my Christian journey.” That journey has led Susie on a successful path as a wife, mother, businesswoman and philanthropist. For her generosity and visibility in the community, Susie, who serves on the OBU Board of Trustees, will be honored at the university’s Stepping Up for Ouachita luncheon.

Her kindness toward so many organizations and loyalty to good works are only a few of the many reasons Susie was nominated for this honor, says Nicole Herndon, OBU development officer in grants & events. “It goes without saying that Susie exemplifies each of Ouachita’s values. Her strong faith in the Lord and compassion for the community are why Susie Everett is a leader.”

The luncheon will take place Friday, Nov. 21 at the Benton Event Center. In previous years, Chenal Country Club in Little Rock has hosted the event. Nikki Chumley, event center executive director, says, “The Benton Event Center is excited to be the site of this year’s Stepping Up for Ouachita and recognize a wonderful woman who does so much for our community. It’s a great opportunity for people outside of the area to see the wonderful things happening in Benton.”

Stepping Up for Ouachita is one of the university’s two signature fundraisers. Together, the FORE Ouachita golf tournament and this luncheon raise more than $100,000 each year for financial aid programs, Nicole says. “Without the support of the community through these events, our students wouldn’t have that extra support.”

Proceeds from Stepping Up strictly benefit female students. OBU serves a diverse student body from 30 states and 36 countries, Nicole notes, adding that each year the university serves an average of 1,500 students, with more than half of those being women. “With over 95 percent of Ouachita students qualifying for financial aid, the continued need for scholarships is great. By investing in Stepping Up for Ouachita, you are investing directly in a student’s life and their collegiate experience.”

Humbled by this honor, Susie’s top priority for the event is to raise more than enough money to further help students. “This fundraiser allows more young women to experience, attend and enjoy the privilege of OBU,” she notes.

At OBU, Susie completed pre-nursing classes and was part of the Baptist Student Union. She was a member of the Chi Delta Social Club and student organization called SELF. Active in the drama department, she was involved in two plays – one with the children’s theater that traveled during spring break to perform at elementary schools. She finished her studies at the University of Arkansas for Medical Sciences College of Nursing with a Bachelors of Science degree in nursing.

Through her family business, Everett Buick GMC, Susie strives to support educational programs. “It is our philosophy in all our dealerships to be involved in our area schools to support their programs and needs,” Susie says. “We give a scholarship each year through the Benton and Bryant chambers of commerce. We promote the Buick National Scholarship and encourage local students to apply – a student from Bryant won the $25,000 Buick National Scholarship a couple of years ago.”

In addition to honoring Susie, the Natural Science Department will be featured during the luncheon. Lori Hensley, professor and JD Patterson Endowed Chair of Biology, and some of her students will showcase strides they’ve made in cancer research. Miss OBU, Abby Lindsey, will sing. A silent auction will be held and many door prizes will be given.

Becoming involved in the event is simple, Susie says. “Contact OBU and buy an individual ticket or you or your business can sponsor an entire table. Donate a door prize. The event always has good food and entertainment. If you have a student attending OBU or considering OBU, this event gives a wonderful taste of the university’s spirit.”

To purchase tickets or for more information, visit www.obu.edu/steppingup or call Nicole Herndon at 870.245.2478.