National Park College Deans Dr. Samantha Christian, dean of curriculum and assessment, and Janice Ivers, dean of nursing and health sciences, recently represented the Cooper Anthony Mercy Child Advocacy Center at two key events supporting children affected by abuse.
In September, the deans attended the Patron Party at the Arkansas Governor’s Mansion, an event honoring community partners and donors who support the center’s mission to provide hope and healing to children in crisis. The evening highlighted the vital role of advocacy and philanthropy in protecting vulnerable youth across the region.
Christian and Ivers also participated in “Night at Bella Luna,” a fundraising event in Hot Springs that brought together community members united in their commitment to support children and families in need.
Both deans serve on the board of directors for the Cooper Anthony Mercy Child Advocacy Center and are passionate advocates for creating safe, compassionate environments where children can be assessed and supported following allegations of abuse.
“I cannot describe how important the Cooper Anthony Mercy Child Advocacy Center is to our community,” Christian said. “Their multidisciplinary team model allows them to help abused children in so many ways—from the moment an allegation is made through collaboration with law enforcement, prosecuting attorneys, therapy and recovery. It is the only hospital-based center in the state that allows children to receive medical exams on-site. We have an amazing board of directors that helps support the center and raise awareness through these events, and I am proud to serve as board chair.”
The center is an outreach ministry of the Mercy Health Foundation, a nonprofit healthcare system serving communities in Arkansas, Missouri, Kansas and Oklahoma. It relies on philanthropic support from individuals, organizations and community partners to continue its work.
“As a registered nurse for 42 years, I’ve seen the incredible difference that compassion and advocacy make in the lives of children and families,” Ivers said. “I still remember when Dr. Christian asked if I’d be interested in serving on the board. I said, ‘Absolutely,’ and now here we are, honored to serve together. The center is an invaluable resource for our most vulnerable population, providing hope, safety and healing when it’s needed most right here in Hot Springs.“
Those interested in learning more about the center or contributing to its mission are encouraged to reach out. Christian and Ivers welcome opportunities to share more about this important cause and their ongoing efforts to protect and care for children in the Hot Springs community.