Emily Kearns (’17) joined the Center on Community Philanthropy at the Clinton School of Public Service as a Community Philanthropy Fellow in May 2024.
Kearns’s professional experience includes a strong foundation in community engagement and strategic partnerships. In her work across nonprofit, government, and political sectors, she has developed a track record of fostering collaborative relationships with various stakeholders.
Before joining the Center on Community Philanthropy, Kearns was a Program Coordinator for the 100 Families initiative for Pulaski County, where she strategically cultivated and strengthened partnerships with key stakeholders, state and local governments, nonprofits, business leaders, and faith-based organizations to enhance community support and program efficacy.
As the Political Director for Arkansas Voters First, Kearns executed a comprehensive field strategy, which included voter outreach and engagement, and resource allocation to maximize campaign impact and reach.
Working with the National Audubon Society, as a Statewide Field Representative and Organizer, Kearns collaborated with national and local community leaders to develop several successful coordinated statewide conservation efforts supporting Audubon’s Climate Initiative.
What do you most enjoy about your role as a Center on Community Philanthropy Fellow?
What excites me most is the chance to step back and dream about what philanthropy could look like if it truly shifted power and centered communities.
The fellowship gives me space to learn alongside inspiring people who care deeply about creating a sense of belonging and possibility for everyone. Together, we get to reimagine philanthropy in ways that honor community wisdom, spark creativity, and move us closer to real solutions.
It’s energizing to be in conversations that don’t just dwell on challenges but push us forward with hope, dignity, and joy.
What does public service mean to you?
To me, public service is about the steady, often unseen work that makes lasting opportunity possible. It’s a commitment rooted in proximity, accountability, and love for community.
It’s not just about working in government or nonprofits — it’s about centering people who have historically been left out of decision-making and ensuring their voices guide the work. Public service means being willing to listen as much as you lead.
What is one thing that most people don’t know about you?
I’m a political junkie — but not in the 24 hour news cycle blaring, headline sense. What fascinates me most about politics are the countless ways ordinary people have shaped American history by working together. I love exploring stories of grassroots movements and local campaigns where everyday citizens organized, spoke up, and created lasting change.
Those stories remind me that democracy was built day by day by people who believed their voices mattered, and they fuel my own commitment to public service when the work feels challenging.
What was your favorite class in your time as a Clinton School student?
My favorite class was the Field Practicum project. Having the chance to work directly with community members on the issue of housing for former felons, here in Little Rock, was incredibly fulfilling. It taught me the importance of teamwork, patience, and learning to look beyond our superficial differences to find commonality.
That experience reminded me that lasting change is built not just in classrooms but in relationships — by showing up, listening, and working together toward a shared goal.
What skills did you learn at the Clinton School that you still put to use in your job or life today?
The Clinton School taught me the art of facilitation — creating space where every voice matters. For example, in my current role as Fellow, I constantly use those skills to guide conversations that help groups find common ground. I also learned that real progress comes from relationships and collaboration.
Those lessons remind me that lasting change is built together, with trust, empathy, and a little creativity.
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