With a tenure of public service that spans more than two decades, Jonelle Fulmer, an Arkansas native, recalls a childhood filled with God, family and individual responsibility. “I remember a Halloween with my sister, we were kids – there was a United Nations Children’s Fund commercial asking children to trick or treat for UNICEF. We went door-to-door asking for UNICEF donations.” Jonelle still abides by God’s words: “to act justly, to love mercifully and to walk humbly.” She believes it was fate as a volunteer that brought her into politics. Today, her role on the Arkansas Martin Luther King, Jr. Commission reflects a devotion to the Natural State and creating positive change. “I just love grassroots and never thought of doing anything else.”
She was introduced to the Arkansas Martin Luther King, Jr. Commission through a non-violence youth summit hosted in Fort Smith and joined to organization with a commitment that continues. Jonelle recognizes the opportunity to impress the next generation of civic and business leaders with tenants of Dr. King. “Youth are the future of our communities, our state and our nation. The engagement that the Arkansas Martin Luther King, Jr. Commission provides helps students develop leadership skills and a deeper understanding of social issues.” Executive Director DuShun Scarbrough considers Jonelle an invaluable resource. “With Jonelle as a commissioner, we have overcome many obstacles. Through her leadership skills and love of humanity, she is helping build Dr. King’s dream of the ‘Beloved Community’ where all are valued, welcomed, and nonviolence is a way of life.”