2008 Annual Legacy Program

WR:  The Rockefeller Brand on Arkansas Politics
May 10, 2008

This event focused on Gov. Rockefeller’s public life and his political contributions to the state. The panelists provided first-hand accounts of what it was like behind the scenes during Rockefeller’s service as governor of Arkansas. They also highlighted the lasting impact his political life has had on the state.

2008 Panelists:

• Marion Burton, currently co-trustee in charge of the Winthrop Rockefeller Charitable Trust, served in a number of positions for Rockefeller throughout his time in Arkansas, including as a legal and policy advisor as well as chief pilot.
• G. Thomas Eisele, judge of the U.S. District Court for the Eastern District of Arkansas, served as Rockefeller’s personal attorney and policy advisor from 1963-1969.
• John Ward, an author and retired journalist, was first employed in 1964 by Rockefeller as his director of public relations. He went on to serve as campaign manager in Rockefeller’s successful gubernatorial reelection bid in 1968.
• Ernie Dumas (moderator), freelance writer and weekly columnist for the Arkansas Times, was a state government reporter at the Arkansas Gazette for 31 years, 15 of which he spent covering the State Capitol, including the transition from the Orval Faubus to the Rockefeller administrations.

2008 Supporting Materials:

Media

• News Release: "Rockefeller Institute Receives $4,000 Heritage Month Grant"
• News Release: "Influential Governor’s Political Legacy to be Celebrated at Public Event"
• News Release: "W.R. Remembered at Heritage Month Event"
• Arkansas Times Article by Ernie Dumas: "Can voters handle the truth?"

Creative Materials (PDF)

• Flyer
• Program
• Campaign-style Button
• Legacy Gallery Brochure

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