SUSAN & DEAN DAVENPORT
The Chinese proverb, “a child’s life is like a piece of paper on which every person leaves a mark” is a testament to the legacy of Susan and Dean Davenport. Ronald McDonald House Charities of Arkansas & North Louisiana Development Director Emily Piechocki elaborates, “Their devotion is evident by the fact they always quickly get promoted to a leadership role. They are individually deserving, but as a couple they are extraordinary.” This leadership includes the organization’s Chocolate Fantasy Ball when “they smashed the record of previous fundraising events”
The Ronald McDonald House boasts 32,000 square feet and features 32 family-suites as well as a spacious kitchen, dining room, playroom and outdoor play spaces. Throughout its tenure of four decades, Ronald McDonald House Charities of Arkansas & North Louisiana has served more than 48,000 families. With a finite focus on keeping families together and near a critically ill child. The house offers these amenities free to families, regardless of ability to pay. In 2025, Shreveport and Bossier City will open a Ronald McDonald House that offers similar amenities.
“The Davenports understand how vital it is to have somewhere safe and accessible to be when your child is in the hospital,” Emily explains. “Susan has shared her enthusiasm, creativity and guidance for growth with us as well as many other nonprofit organizations. Dean offers his expertise and personal contributions to ensure program success in each organization.” As a graduate of the University of Central Arkansas, Susan reflects the institutions four pillars – success, culture, wellness and excellence – as well as the Ronald McDonald House Charities mission to provide every family comfort and care.
It’s the remarkable resilience of the families that come to the Ronald McDonald House that keeps Susan devoted to Ronald McDonald House. “It warms my heart to help keep families together in a time of need when it is so important to help in their child’s healing process and favorably impact outcomes,” Susan explains. “To be able to alleviate the worry of food, shelter and comfort by providing the Ronald McDonald House means so much to me.” Emily adds, “Their legacy will influence the health of families for generations to come.”