As we celebrate National Volunteer Week, the Clinton School of Public Service is proud to spotlight one of our most dedicated and long-serving champions: Ann Hedges of Little Rock.
A founding volunteer of the Clinton Presidential Center, Hedges has been a volunteer at the Clinton Presidential Center since 2004 and the Clinton School since 2007.
For 22 years, she has helped bridge the gap between our academic mission and the public we serve. From greeting guests at the front desk to ensuring our public lecture series runs smoothly, Hedges embodies the spirit of public service with a smile and a steadfast commitment to excellence.
A Front-Row Seat to History
Hedges’ journey with the Clinton School began on May 4, 2007. According to her journal, the first time she volunteered here was during a film screening of “Taking the Hill” with fellow volunteers Joy Broach and Bob Gee.
During her time as a volunteer, Hedges has witnessed hundreds of world leaders, scholars, and activists pass through our halls, enjoying speakers like Jon Meacham, Pulitzer Prize-winning presidential historian and author, and Amal Kassir, a poet.
“During the years that I volunteered at the public lecture series, I truly felt like I was serving the public,” Hedges says. “I loved greeting our guests, encouraging them to sit in the front row, and passing the microphone during the Q&A sessions. Our guests were so appreciative, and I learned so much from the speakers. I was always proud to represent the school.”
Inspired by the Next Generation
Before retiring in 2013, Hedges balanced her volunteer work with her career, spending Sunday afternoons at the Clinton Presidential Library and Museum and evenings at public lectures. Today, she is often the first face you see when entering the Clinton School.
One of Hedges’ favorite aspects of her role is watching the transformation of students as they complete their Master of Public Service degrees. Over their graduate program, she sees them grow from newcomers into confident leaders.
“I love getting to know the students,” Hedges shares. “I am inspired by their enthusiasm and commitment to public service, both locally and internationally. They enter the program with an interest in service and graduate with the skills and confidence to achieve their goals. I am so proud of them!”
When asked to describe the spirit of the Clinton School volunteers in one word, Hedges chooses “reliable.” She is part of a core group of dedicated volunteers who regularly volunteer at the school every week.
“I have always recognized the importance of giving back to my community,” Hedges said. I hope to continue volunteering at the school as long as they’ll have me.”