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Frank Scott, Jr.
Mayor of Little Rock, Arkansas and Past President of the African American Mayors Association
Professional Background
Frank Scott, Jr. made history on December 4, 2018, when he was elected as the 73rd Mayor of Little Rock, becoming the first elected Black chief executive in the city’s rich history. Since taking office on January 1, 2019, Mayor Scott has committed himself to the notion of being Little Rock’s Chief Growth Officer. His vision for the city includes fostering a collaborative environment among its diverse neighborhoods, focusing on economic expansion, enhancing educational opportunities, improving neighborhood safety, and boosting the overall quality of life for residents.
In his proactive role, Mayor Scott has successfully oversaw the creation of over 11,000 jobs, doubling the number of positions created in 2018. This surge in job creation is attributed to significant developments in Little Rock, including notable businesses such as Trader Joe's, HMS Manufacturing, SCA Pharma, Costco, and Amazon.com, which underscore the momentum of the city under his leadership. Mayor Scott has placed a strong emphasis on ensuring that every resident has access to economic opportunities that uplift their families and communities.
In addition to his focus on economic development, Mayor Scott launched the Frankly Reading Series, which aims to enhance literacy skills among children in Little Rock. Recognizing the importance of education, he initiated the Community Schools Model in the 2020-2021 academic year, which provides individualized support services for students and their families, creating a model that operates as a community hub for various educational and training needs.
An advocate for transparency and accountability in law enforcement, Mayor Scott has worked diligently to reform the police department in Little Rock. Under his leadership, ordinances to purchase body cameras were passed, and the establishment of the city's first Citizens Police Review Board was achieved. He has also been a key advocate for crucial police reform measures, calling for the implementation of a duty to intervene policy, a ban on chokeholds, and the creation of a policy and threat matrix to reduce the use of no-knock warrants.
Education and Achievements
Frank Scott, Jr. possesses a robust educational background which enhances his credentials as a leader. He attained a Master of Business Administration (MBA) with a focus on Strategic Management from the University of Arkansas at Little Rock. This advanced degree complements his Bachelor of Business Administration (BBA) in Sales Management from The University of Memphis, sealing his foundation in the business knowledge necessary for effective governance and economic growth.
Furthermore, his commitment to deepening his expertise in finance is demonstrated through his pursuit of a Certificate in Commercial Lending from the American Bankers Association’s National Commercial Lending School. This specialized training equips him with the insights required to facilitate access to financing for small businesses and support local economic development.
Community Involvement and Past Roles
Before his tenure as mayor, Frank Scott's public service is notable. He embarked on his career with Governor Mike Beebe's office, where he served several vital roles, including Deputy Policy Director and Director of Intergovernmental Affairs. His experiences there provided him with a solid grounding in governmental operations and policy-making.
Scott’s professional journey includes notable positions that reflect his commitment to community service and growth. As Vice President at First Security Bank, he gained invaluable experience in banking, further equipping him to understand the challenges small businesses encounter. His dedication to public service was also exhibited through various influential roles, including a member of the Little Rock Port Board and as a Highway Commissioner for the Arkansas State Highway Commission.
In the realm of education, he reached out to youth through his service as an associate pastor and youth mentor, embodying the values instilled in him while growing up in Southwest Little Rock, where he continues to reside today. His roles as a Trustee on the Boards of both Pulaski Technical College and Arkansas Baptist College emphasize his ongoing commitment to educational advancement within the community.
Scott’s organizational leadership also extends to his time as an Adjunct Professor at Arkansas State University-Beebe, where he contributed to developing students' academic and professional skills in higher education.
Finally, as a former National Advisory Council Member at FEMA, his insights into disaster response and emergency management further enhance his skill set as a civic leader.
Achievements
The achievements of Mayor Frank Scott, Jr. are multi-faceted, stemming from his keen understanding of the local economy and his determination to foster a sense of community across Little Rock. His successful job creation initiatives stand as testament to his effective economic policies, creating over 11,000 jobs in a short span of time. His initiatives not only address immediate employment needs but also aim to invest in the long-term future of Little Rock residents.
Moreover, his implementation of the Community Schools Model has been transformative in terms of providing tailored educational approaches to students and their families. These schools not only focus on the academic needs of students but also serve as a base for comprehensive community support, enhancing family engagement and creating pathways for further educational growth.
In law enforcement, his advocacy for reforms signifies a forward-thinking approach, making strides for a police department that prioritizes accountability and community trust. The establishment of the Citizens Police Review Board stands as a pioneering move to empower citizens and promote transparency.
In conclusion, Mayor Frank Scott Jr. exemplifies a dedicated public servant whose career has been marked by a commitment to economic development, educational enhancement, and community safety. His impactful leadership style continues to shape Little Rock's diverse landscape positively, paving the way for future growth and communal success.
