ALLISON MCELROY
President, The McElroy Group
Native Arkansan Allison McElroy was born and raised in Jonesboro and moved to Rogers in 1994. Allison and her husband, Duane McElroy, have two sons, Cooper and Barret. Through her consulting firm, she is a nonprofit consultant who is passionate about helping nonprofits with fundraising strategies, best practices, board training and more. When not working, you might find her singing in her church choir, performing in local theater productions, or even belting out the National Anthem at a sporting event!
Education:
B.S. Radio/TV Communications, Arkansas State University
When did you know what you wanted to do?
When my first nonprofit opportunity arose, I was drawn to it. I did not know what I wanted to do, and the chance to help people really spoke to me. I knew I wanted to be there for them and make a difference.
First big break:
When I got my job as Development Coordinator at Adult Development Center of Benton County, now called Open Avenues.
Have you stayed on a straight path to your career goal?
I worked for almost 21 years in a career that I loved and then shifted my path a bit in 2016. I am still trying to figure out my career goal!
If you won the lottery, what cause/organization would you support?
This comes up a lot in my conversations with Duane. Let’s just say … I need to win the BIG one to support ALL of my favorite nonprofits! I know my church, First Christian Church Rogers, and my alma mater, Arkansas State University, would be on the list for sure! But that is only two … there would be many, many more.
Best advice you’ve ever received:
“You should be a consultant. You have already been helping all of us for so long. Make that be the next thing you do.” – All of my close Association of Fundraising Professionals friends
Do you still seek out mentors or mentees?
YES! I seek out both. I feel like I still want to learn SO MUCH more, and I am passionate and committed to sharing what I learn with others.
Thing you’re most proud of:
My health accomplishment. In 2019, I weighed 340 pounds, and I knew I had to make changes or I was going to miss my life. As of today, I have lost 158 pounds.
How would you describe yourself in three words?
Enthusiastic. Encouraging. Understanding.
Do you have a hidden talent?
To the dismay of my friends, I share ALL of my crazy talents! Hahaha!
Do you have any superstitions?
Yes. I’m convinced 7 is my lucky number and use it for everything. If I’m at Sonic, I’m in stall 7. When I set my alarm, I end it in a 7, such as 6:37.