For more than three decades, Lisenne Rockefeller has been a visionary for Easterseals Arkansas. She established The Academy at Riverdale with her late husband, former Lt. Governor Winthrop Rockefeller, to provide children with developmental disabilities equal opportunities to thrive. She remains an ardent advocate for these exceptional services that nurture personal potential. Lisenne will be celebrated as Arkansan of Year for this steadfast commitment.
When their son John Alex was born with Down Syndrome, the Rockefellers turned to Easterseals Arkansas for guidance and education. Lisenne remembers, “We knew very little about what to expect. I received not only information, but meaningful emotional support during an uncertain time.” From its inception, The Academy at Riverdale offered a curriculum that cultivates confidence and a sense of belonging. “It created a community for families where parents came to know each other, forming friendships grounded in experiences and understanding.”
Through these shared values, The Academy at Riverdale became an integral component of the Easterseals Arkansas continuum of services in 2017. Recognized as the Easterseals Arkansas Academy, this accredited private school continues to be an invaluable resource for many Arkansas families. Offering additional special education and therapy to nearly 200 students – the most recent expansion on the main campus places The Academy adjacent to the Little Rock Developmental Preschool, Children’s Rehabilitation Center, and Butler Adult Living Center. Accessibility is fundamental to the organization’s mission fulfillment work; now these essential services are available at a singular location. Easterseals Arkansas Director of Marketing Jillian Jacuzzi elaborates, “This school year marked the opening of the new Easterseals Academy, a transformative step forward in serving children with disabilities across Arkansas. This new space opens doors for children to learn, grow, and thrive in an inclusive environment tailored to their unique needs.” She notes remarkable initiatives like the Art Club and the Coffee Cart help students harness individual interests and talents.
Lisenne believes these kinds of extracurricular activities, coupled with a quality education, better prepare students for life’s daily experiences. “The comprehensive and sustained support that Easterseals Arkansas provides enables individuals to participate fully in their communities. Equally important, families feel supported.” Since 1944, Easterseals Arkansas has pioneered these efforts and evolved with time. Proceeds from the Arkansan of Year generate critical funding for this continued mission fulfillment work. Lisenne realizes the organization invests not only in students today, but a brighter future for all Arkansans. “Easterseals improves outcomes and strengthens the social and economic fabric of communities throughout the state by empowering individuals to contribute meaningfully and supporting families in building stable, productive lives.”
Arkansan of the Year
Thursday, May 14 | Little Rock Marriott
