LeadAR Class 20 Member Spotlight: Meagan Davis

by Lisa Davis - January 4, 2024

Let’s meet another member of LeadAR Class 20. Meagan Davis is an attorney for Maddox and Maddox. We asked her to respond to the following questions.

Why did you apply to the LeadAR program? What motivated you?

I recently moved back to my hometown in rural southwest Arkansas. Accordingly, I was drawn to LeadAR's mission, of addressing the gaps between rural and urban communities. I am thrilled to be a member of Class 20 and I am looking forward to learning new skills to positively impact the community I love.

What leadership quality do you admire most in others? Why?

Emotional intelligence. Emotional intelligence is an undervalued skill. Self-awareness and the ability to self-regulate is essential for quality leadership. Leaders with a true grasp of the concept are excellent in communication, able to efficiently problem solve, and can empathize with and effectively motivate their teams.

What is something people would be surprised to learn about you? Why is this surprising?

I own and operate an art company that specializes in live event painting. Lawyers aren't really thought of as the "creative type," so the left-brain right brain mixture typically catches people off guard. I think my creativity positively impacts my legal/business work, and I appreciate having davisdrew, LLC as a creative outlet.

What are your top three ingredients necessary for success?

Dedication. Innovation. Creativity.

What are your top three ingredients necessary for happiness?

Time to create. Time outdoors. Time with loved ones.

Describe your personal leadership style.

I would describe my personal leadership style as adaptable. I find the best results come from adapting my style to the particular needs of the group I'm leading. Different teams and different personalities need different types of leadership and motivation. There's no one size fits all approach to leadership and, in my experience, being adaptable based on the particular circumstances tends to yield the best results.

What is something you hope to gain from your LeadAR experience?

I hope to build a skill set that will empower and enable me to better serve my community.

How can effective leadership help move the state of Arkansas forward?

Working as a lobbyist for two legislative sessions, an attorney for Pulaski County, and as a volunteer for a variety of non-profit organizations, I've seen firsthand the impact effective leadership, at all levels, can have to move the state of Arkansas forward. I've noticed two consistent qualities in leaders who get things accomplished: 1) They don't just complain about problems, they offer thoughtful solutions; and 2) They care more about fixing the problem than getting the credit. These types of people see problems in their communities and work selfishly to solve them. They make a difference and keep our state moving forward.

You are stranded on a desert island. What are your three MUST HAVE items?

Shoes. Matches. Machete.

What is something that was difficult for you six months ago but easy for you now?

Saying no. As a recovering people pleaser, saying no hasn't always been easy. I've often overextended myself with work, school, art, volunteer service, social calendar, etc. Recently, I've become much more confident and comfortable in simply saying no. This has been hugely impactful, managing my schedule in a way that allows me to give full focus and attention to the most important things.

What else do you want others to know about you?

Nearly 15 years after leaving my hometown of 400 people, located 90 miles from the interstate, I made the decision to move home. The reactions I've gotten upon sharing this information have been wildly entertaining, ranging from complete shock and confusion to overwhelming encouragement. I think, for people who didn't grow up in rural Arkansas, there's a lack of understanding of the benefits of small-town life and a general shock I would willingly subject myself to it again. They focus on "what I'm giving up" and can't see what I'm gaining. For others, there's a sense of admiration and envy that I've managed to make the shift to move home. Over the last few months, I've found myself passionately advocating for my decision to move home (my 18-year-old self would be in complete shock). I share this, because this experience has highlighted for me the impact that growing up in rural Arkansas has had on every aspect of my life. The community I grew up in is an integral part of who I am and the leader I am.

LeadAR is a program designed to help Arkansans broaden their understanding of issues and opportunities facing our state and strengthen their ability to make a difference. For more information about LeadAR, visit the website or contact Julie Robinson, jrobinson@uada.edu, or Lisa Davis, ldavis@uada.edu.