Event Chairs

Jennifer A. O’Brien

In her 35+ years in healthcare, Jennifer A. O’Brien has been a practice management consultant to physicians, served as CEO for two large medical practices, and held administrative leadership positions in three academic medical centers.

The art journal she created as a form of selfcare during her late husband’s 22-month illness, was published as, The Hospice Doctor’s Widow, and won four awards including a Nautilus. Now, Jen shares her story, wisdom, and experience to help people live, love, and serve others more fully by recognizing that: at the end of life comes death; family caregiving is both the hardest job and the greatest honor most of us will ever face; and love is greater than death. Her second book, Care Boss: Leadership Strategies & Resources for Family Caregivers was released in November 2024.

Jennifer earned her bachelor’s degree from Boston University and a Master’s in the Science or Organization Development from Loyola University – Chicago. She has spoken to audiences ranging in size from 5 to 1500 and authored 55+ articles in professional publications and peer reviewed journals.  Jennifer lives in Little Rock, Arkansas.

https://jenniferaobrien.com

Vivian Trickey Smith

Vivian Trickey Smith’s remarkable journey of service began in 2004 after her first husband Don’s passing. Seeking purpose, she built a sundial and later a water feature at Baptist Health’s North Little Rock campus, creating sanctuaries for those facing illness. Her efforts sparked a decade-long role on the Bolo Bash committee and led to her joining Runway for a Cause for seven years, alongside her husband Alan.

In 2013, Vivian joined the Arkansas Hospice Foundation Board, serving as Board Chair in 2016 and Secretary for three years, after the organization cared for her father as a patient. She co-chaired Arkansas Hospice’s signature fundraising event A Fair to Remember in 2014, and served on its planning committee in 2016 and 2018.

Vivian supports numerous other causes, including the Wildcat Foundation supporting North Little Rock High School Students, Caring Hearts, a cancer support group hosting 25-30 members, she’s served on Alzheimer’s Arkansas’ board, chairing its Champions of the Year event, and in 2024 she and her late husband Dr. Alan Smith received the Ginny and Bob Shell Champion of the Year award.