Arkansas250 Commission
Governor Sarah Huckabee Sanders established the Arkansas250 Commission in July of 2024 to coordinate Arkansas’ participation in the U.S. celebration of the 250th anniversary of its independence in 2026. The commission is working with local community leaders to provide direction and assistance in creating their own community semiquincentennial celebrations.
Our mission is to honor the rich history and beauty of the Natural State, inspiring Arkansans to appreciate and protect our state and our nation’s heritage through educational programs and service opportunities.
Below is a list of the Arkansas250 Commission members.
Chair
Secretary Shea Lewis
AR Dept. of Parks, Heritage & Tourism
1 Capitol Mall, Suite 3B Little Rock, AR 72201
shea.lewis@arkansas.govVice-Chair
Marty Ryall
Division of Arkansas Heritage Director
1100 North Street Little Rock, AR 72201
marty.ryall@arkansas.govMember
Col. Travis Gordon Beeson
designee Speaker of the HouseUSAR, Retired
116 Wild Oak Drive Sherwood, AR 72120
beeson0607@gmail.comCathy Boozman
Judge Dale James
designee Associate of Arkansas CountiesVan Buren County Judge
273 Main Street Clinton, AR 72031
vbcjudge@artelco.comTanya Mims
designee Senate President Pro Tempore
3553 N. Steele Blvd. Fayetteville, AR 72703
tanyamims@fnbnwa.comDr. Ken Warden
AR Dept. of Higher Education Commission
101 E. Capitol Ave., Suite 300 Little Rock, AR 72201
ken.warden@adhe.eduDr. David Ware
State Historian AR State Archives,Director Division of AR Heritage
1 Capitol Mall Little Rock, AR 72201
david.ware@arkansas.govArkansas250 Commission Made Official
On March 20, 2025, members of the Arkansas250 Commission visited the State Capitol for the passing of House and Senate resolutions recognizing the efforts of Arkansas250.
