First-Ever Arkansas AI Business Conference Set for August 15 in Little Rock
LITTLE ROCK, Ark. (July 17, 2025) – The Arkansas Chapter of the Public Relations Society of America (Arkansas PRSA) and Arkansas Business Publishing Group (ABPG) are co-hosting the first-ever Arkansas AI Conference on Friday, Aug. 15, 2025, at the Clinton Presidential Center in Little Rock. Doors will open at 8:30 a.m., and the conference will conclude at 3:30 p.m. Tickets are $200 with lunch included. Registration is open now through Friday, Aug. 8.
This one-day, high-impact event is designed for Arkansas business leaders, communications professionals and decision-makers seeking to understand how to responsibly and effectively leverage artificial intelligence. The event will equip attendees with practical strategies and insights on how to ethically use AI to boost productivity and reduce costs without sacrificing quality, human judgment or oversight.
The conference will feature a keynote address and workshops led by Elizabeth Edwards, founder and president of Volume PR, Engagement Science Lab and The Affect Institute. A nationally recognized expert in behavior-based communication and ethical technology adoption, Edwards will discuss how AI can streamline operations, enhance communication and amplify team performance. She will also provide guidance on “responsible AI,” urging professionals to “drive AI like a sports car — not ride it like a passenger subway,” empowering leaders to keep control while harnessing AI’s potential.
Additional sessions include a fireside chat with Shannon Lynn, principal consultant at Trinity Consultants, a global environmental, health and safety firm. He will discuss AI’s environmental impact and its intersection with environmental policy as well as the importance of public accountability and ethical oversight. A panel on the state of AI in Arkansas, moderated by Arkansas Business Editor Hunter Field, will bring together local leaders from the tech, public and private sectors, including those advising the state on AI policy.
“As business professionals, no matter the industry, we can all benefit from education on responsible AI,” said Arkansas PRSA President Stella Prather, APR. “We’re proud to partner with Arkansas Business on this impactful event that our state’s business leaders have been waiting for.”
Highlights of the agenda include:
Keynote Speaker: Elizabeth Edwards, founder and president of Volume PR, Engagement Science Lab and The Affect Institute
The State of AI in Arkansas Panel Discussion, moderated by Arkansas Business Editor Hunter Field: Featuring industry leaders sharing real-world applications
Allyson Lewis, Founder and CEO of 7 Minute AI and member of Governor Sarah Sanders’ AI Taskforce
Devin Bates, Attorney at Mitchell Williams Law Firm and member of the Arkansas Bar Association Task Force on Artificial Intelligence
Audrey P. Willis, Co-founder of CodeCrew and radio host of “(AI) Actual Intelligence with Audrey”
Interactive Workshop: Tips, Tricks, and Tools for Boosting Productivity with AI, led by Elizabeth Edwards
Fireside Chat: “AI & The Environment” with Shannon Lynn, Environmental Consultant at Trinity Consultants
Q&A Session: “AI: Your Questions Answered,” led by Elizabeth Edwards
“Business leaders are under more pressure than ever to increase efficiency, reduce costs and stay competitive in a rapidly changing market,” said ABPG President and CEO Mitch Bettis. “This event is designed to help companies across the state harness AI to solve real problems and seize new opportunities.”
To view the full conference agenda and to purchase tickets, visit arkprsa.org. Registration will close on Friday, Aug. 8.
About Arkansas PRSA
Based in Little Rock, the Arkansas Chapter of the Public Relations Society of America (PRSA) connects, supports, and champions communications professionals across the state. As part of the nation’s leading organization for PR and communications, Arkansas PRSA provides local practitioners with access to professional development, ethical guidance, and a network of peers. From hands-on workshops and speaker events to recognition programs and student outreach, the chapter is committed to advancing the profession and empowering members at every stage of their careers. Visit arkprsa.org to learn more.
About Arkansas Business Publishing Group
Arkansas Business Publishing Group is the leading niche publisher in the region publishing the Arkansas Business, the state’s business magazine, and 30 additional magazines across Arkansas and the Fort Worth regions. It also owns Flex360 digital marketing and web design agency serving clients nationwide.
