Conway Public Schools is proud to announce and welcome three newly elected members to the Conway School Board, following the election held on Tuesday, May 13, 2025. These individuals bring a wide range of experience, leadership, and dedication to education and community service.
Leo Cummings III, a Conway native, is deeply rooted in the community he now serves. He is the Senior Vice President of Development at the Conway Area Chamber of Commerce, where he has worked for the past nine years, helping local professionals and businesses thrive. In addition to his role at the Chamber, Leo is the host of the popular podcast Pull Up a Chair with Leo Cummings III, which highlights inspirational stories and fosters meaningful conversations. A graduate of Conway High School and the University of Central Arkansas, Leo has served on several local and national boards, including the United Way of Central Arkansas, City of Hope Outreach, and the U.S. Chamber of Commerce Foundation’s Institute for Organization Management. He is the proud father of two daughters who attend Conway Public Schools.
Dr. Barrett Petty brings a strong background in education, leadership, and student advocacy. A native of West Helena, Arkansas, Barrett holds multiple degrees, including a Ph.D. in Leadership Studies from the University of Central Arkansas. His career in public education spans 12 years, with experience as a middle school math teacher, school counselor, and district administrator. Barrett is a licensed educator in multiple disciplines and continues to be active in educational organizations such as the National Education Association (NEA) and the Arkansas Education Association (AEA). He is also the owner of Petty Consulting Group, LLC, and an active member of the Conway community, including serving on the board of the Arkansas Community Foundation’s Faulkner County Affiliate.
Leona Walton, a proud alumna of Conway High School, brings a lifelong commitment to service and community empowerment. Her leadership began early, serving in student government and various civic councils. At age 59, she earned her Bachelor's degree in Psychology from Central Baptist College—graduating Magna Cum Laude—demonstrating her belief in lifelong learning. Leona serves as President of the Pine Street CommUnity Museum and co-founded the Pine Street Backpack Program, which has supported students in need for over 17 years. She has received numerous honors for her service, including a Lifetime Achievement Award from the Pine Street Community Development Center and induction into the Conway Public Schools Hall of Honor in 2023. Leona has also served as a substitute teacher in Conway Schools and is committed to strengthening the future of every student through collaborative leadership.
Superintendent Dr. Jeff Collum shared his enthusiasm about the new members, saying, “We are excited to welcome these three outstanding individuals to the Conway School Board. Each of them brings a unique perspective and a deep passion for serving our students, staff, and community. Their leadership will help us continue our mission of providing a world-class education to all students in Conway.”
The Conway School District looks forward to the insight, energy, and dedication these new board members will bring as they help guide the future of education in Conway.