The ViPS Board of Directors hosted their annual LRSD volunteer appreciation event, “An Evening for the Stars” at the CALS Ron Robinson Theater in April. Eighty award nominees were highlighted for their extraordinary service contributions to the Little Rock School District.

The evening opened with lively bluegrass music performance by the Chicot Cheetah String Band.  Will Trice, Executive Director of The Rep and Central High School alumnus, served as emcee, leading the program and engaging all attendees throughout the celebration.

ViPS Board President Lori Diffey proudly presented Superintendent Jermall Wright with a representative check for $20.5 million, symbolizing the economic impact of 590,000+ volunteer hours reported by LRSD volunteers since March 1, 2025.

Nancy Rousseau was the recipient of The Jane Mendel Award – the district’s highest volunteer distinction - in recognition of her years of dedicated volunteer service to the school district and Little Rock community.

Be sure to check out the Arkansas Times June Issue for a complete list of 2026 ViPS Award nominees and winners.