Statewide nonprofit Arkansas Single Parent Scholarship Fund (ASPSF) welcomed two new team members on April 7
Leighia Hammond joined ASPSF as its Development Officer, Annual Giving, and Austin King started as the Community Engagement Coordinator. Hammond and King both live in Conway.
Hammond brings a decade of experience in higher education and fundraising, which will serve her well as she leads ASPSF’s development strategy for direct mail, giving societies, digital fundraising, special events, and mid-level donor cultivation. In this key role, she will support the organization’s growth and help steward the generosity of donors across the state.
Most recently, she served as the Director of Annual Giving at Hendrix College. Hammond is also a member of the Association of Fundraising Professionals and supports Conway Kiwanis alongside her husband. She earned a bachelor’s degree in math from the University of Southern Mississippi and a master’s degree in counselor education-student development from Mississippi State University.
“I am passionate about education,” Hammond said. “I want to use my skills and experience in higher education and development to help single parents achieve a college degree or a skilled-trade certificate so they can build a better life for themselves and for their children.”
Meanwhile, King — as ASPSF’s first Community Engagement Coordinator — will oversee volunteer coordination, establish a scholarship alumni network, and lead community service and outreach projects throughout Arkansas.
A longtime advocate for children and families, King previously served as a Court Appointed Special Advocate (CASA) Volunteer Supervisor at the Children’s Advocacy Alliance and was a special education teacher. King is a single father of a 4-year-old son, so he brings personal insight and commitment to ASPSF’s mission.
“I know the struggles single parents face,” he said. “ASPSF gives parents peace of mind while they pursue their education. I’m thrilled to help make our mission more visible through community partnerships and volunteer recruitment. More visibility means more opportunities for single parents.”
King holds a degree in psychology and is actively involved with The CALL and CASA of Central Arkansas.
“We’re excited to welcome Leighia and Austin to the ASPSF family,” ASPSF CEO Jenn Morehead said. “Their combined expertise and passion will allow us to better serve single parents across Arkansas and expand our reach in meaningful ways.”
