Introducing the Inductees for the Arkansas Business Hall of Fame Class of 2024

The Sam M. Walton College of Business at the University of Arkansas and the Arkansas Business Hall of Fame Board have recently announced the class of inductees for the Arkansas Business Hall of Fame in 2024. This prestigious honor recognizes individuals who have made significant contributions to Arkansas business and have had a profound impact on their respective industries.

The class of 2024 includes four outstanding individuals: John Conner Jr., Gary George, Eric Jackson, and Dhu Thompson. Each inductee brings a unique set of accomplishments and expertise to the Hall of Fame.

John Conner Jr., based in Newport, has established farming and agribusiness operations across several Arkansas counties. His dedication to the agricultural industry has made him a respected figure in the state.

Gary George serves as the chairman of George’s Inc., a privately held poultry company, and Legacy National Bank, both located in Springdale. George’s leadership in the poultry industry has propelled the company to success and has contributed to the growth of Northwest Arkansas.

Eric Jackson holds the position of senior vice president at Oaklawn Racing Casino Resort in Hot Springs and also serves on the board of directors. His extensive experience in the gaming and hospitality industry has helped position Oaklawn as a premier destination in Arkansas.

Dhu Thompson is the founder, former owner, and past chairman of the board of Delta Plastics, a leading manufacturer of poly irrigation tubing for the agricultural industry. Thompson’s innovative contributions have revolutionized irrigation practices in Arkansas and beyond.

“These four individuals represent the best of Arkansas business, and their contributions have had a profound impact on our state and their own industries,” said Brent D. Williams, interim dean of the Walton College. “They are visionary leaders and dedicated advocates for their communities. I am confident that their stories will inspire current Walton College students and generations of Arkansas business leaders to come.”

The Arkansas Business Hall of Fame induction ceremony is scheduled to take place on February 16, 2024, at the Statehouse Convention Center in Little Rock. The Hall of Fame itself is permanently housed in the atrium of the Donald W. Reynolds Center for Enterprise Development on the University of Arkansas campus in Fayetteville.

The selection committee, composed of 11 business and community leaders, carefully reviewed nominations from across the state to choose the inductees. The criteria for selection encompassed the impact made as a business leader, the concern demonstrated for improving the community, and the display of ethics in all business dealings. In addition, living inductees must be over the age of 60 to be considered.

The addition of the 2024 inductees will bring the total number of Hall of Fame members to 100 since its establishment in 1999, as stated on the Walton College website. A comprehensive list of past inductees can be found on the college’s website.

For those interested in attending the induction ceremony or exploring event sponsorships, they are encouraged to contact the office of external relations at the Walton College by calling 479-575-6146 or sending an email to .

The Arkansas Business Hall of Fame celebration serves as a reminder of the exceptional individuals who have left their mark on the state’s business landscape and serves to inspire future generations of Arkansas business leaders.