Katy A. Marino, M.D., is a board-certified thoracic surgeon specializing in minimally invasive chest surgery. As the only female thoracic surgeon in Central Arkansas, she brings a unique perspective to the care of patients with cancers of the lungs, esophagus, thymus, and chest wall. A 2025 Best Dressed honoree, Dr. Marino is deeply passionate about her patients and the innovative solutions minimally invasive surgery can provide. She is committed to delivering safe, personalized care through advanced technologies such as robotic surgery and a collaborative, multidisciplinary approach. Outside of work, Dr. Marino enjoys spending time with her husband, her two dogs—Betty and Maple—and her two cows, Mitch and Kevin.
Support Katy Here
Susanna Watt
Founder and CEO | Anchor Strategies
Support Susanna HereSusanna Watt is the Founder and CEO of Anchor Strategies, where she helps clients navigate Arkansas’s legislative landscape with a hands-on, relationship-first approach. A Navy veteran and experienced lobbyist, she has worked on a wide range of policy issues and is known for getting things done.
Her background includes work with the Arkansas House of Representatives, the Governor’s Office, and multiple lobbying firms before launching her own company. Today, she represents clients across healthcare, energy, business, and nonprofit sectors.
Beyond her professional work, Susanna is passionate about giving back. She is actively involved with Women’s Own Worth, supporting survivors of domestic violence and helping expand long-term housing solutions through the organization’s villa communities.
At her core, Susanna is a connector, an advocate, and a mom of two who believes in showing up, working hard, and making an impact.
Let’s dress to impress — and fight for a future without cancer.
Amy White
REALTOR | Epic
Support Amy HereAmy White was raised in Little Rock and is the oldest of four siblings, born to John and Debbie Rees. She graduated from Pulaski Academy in 1992 before attending the University of Arkansas.
She married fellow Little Rock native David White in 1998. David also graduated from Pulaski Academy and attended the University of Arkansas on a golf scholarship. Together, they have built a full and vibrant life, raising five children—John David (married to Hayden), Zac, Cooper (married to Anna), Walker, and Mollie Kate.
Amy is a proud grandmother to Anna Kate, with a baby boy on the way, and treasures this new season of life.
Professionally, she has spent over 15 years in the online entrepreneurial space, building a successful career in network marketing. In May 2025, she expanded her passion for connecting with people into real estate and is now an agent with EPIC Real Estate.
Amy and her family attend New Life Church, where faith is the main role in their lives. She enjoys exercising, working in the church nursery with all the babies, spending time with family and friends, and cheering on her kids in all they pursue—from sports to ministry. A lifelong Razorback fan, she also proudly supports UCA football, where her son Walker plays quarterback.
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In April 2024, my life changed in an instant. I was diagnosed with breast cancer—two different types—along with a CHEK2 genetic mutation, all in one day. One cancer was ER/PR positive, HER2 negative, and the other was HER2 positive, ER/PR negative, which meant I had to fight two different cancers at the same time.
I began chemotherapy that same month and went through five rounds, losing my hair along the way. I had a double mastectomy, and during recovery, I faced serious complications—ending up in the ICU twice with staph and sepsis. I finished 2024 with 30 rounds of radiation.
In July 2025, I had a hysterectomy, and since then, my focus has been on healing—physically, mentally, and spiritually. The past two years have been filled with doctor appointments, setbacks, and small victories, all while choosing, daily, not to let cancer steal my joy.
This was never a path I expected, but I trust that the Lord allowed it for a reason. I chose to share my journey openly on social media in hopes of encouraging others—to show that even in the hardest moments, you can keep going, and you will be okay.
Now, I receive messages every week from people walking this same road—asking how to support someone newly diagnosed, what helped me, what to expect. Being able to pour into others in that way has become such a gift.
I’m deeply grateful to be here—to experience life, to love my family, and to find purpose even in pain. Being named an honoree for Best Dressed 2026 is incredibly meaningful to me, as cancer has touched my life so personally. It’s an honor to support a cause that plays such a vital role in helping others, and one I will always feel connected to.
Andrea Young
Registered Nurse Injector | Skin Fix Med Spa
Support Andrea HereI am a Registered Nurse Injector at Skin Fix Med Spa, where I blend my clinical expertise with a passion for helping women feel confident, empowered, and beautiful in their own skin. With a diverse professional background spanning women’s health, plastic surgery, and fashion, I bring a unique and compassionate perspective.
I graduated from the University of Central Arkansas with a Bachelors of Science and a minor in fashion merchandising before continuing my education to become a Registered Nurse. My early career in fashion, followed by years in OBGYN and plastic surgery, allowed me to work closely with women in all stages of life. During my time in plastic surgery, I cared for many patients undergoing breast reconstruction surgery following breast cancer—an experience that deeply shaped my connection to and compassion for those impacted by cancer.
Cancer has also touched my life personally. My husband was diagnosed with thyroid cancer while we were dating, and through exceptional medical care, faith, and perseverance, he has now been cancer-free for six years. This journey further strengthened my appreciation for early detection, quality care, and the importance of hope.
I am a proud Bryant, Arkansas native and a 2000 graduate of Bryant High School. I’m a devoted wife, mother of four, and dog mom to two. Outside of work, I enjoy traveling, Disney vacations, reading my Kindle, online shopping, live music, and art. You can catch me spending my weekends at a dance competition supporting my daughter or home with my family. I love a good night out but am a big homebody. I am also an active member of Midtowne Church in Benton, Arkansas.
I am honored and humbled to be nominated for this year’s Best Dressed event and am passionate about supporting the mission to make a meaningful impact in the fight against cancer here in Arkansas and beyond.
Cat Sims
Philanthropist
Support Cat HereBorn and raised in Camden, Arkansas, Cat Sims obtained a Bachelor of Arts in Communications from Ouachita Baptist University. Cat had a career as the Arkansas Healthcare Coordinator for the Muscular Dystrophy Association before moving to Rochester Minnesota as her husband John worked on completing his medical training at The Mayo Clinic. She then worked in medical and real estate sales before moving once again to Manhattan to round out John’s training as a Head and Neck Oncologic and Reconstructive Microvascular Surgeon. Cat has been volunteering since Jr. High but in her time since moving back to Arkansas, she has switched her career once again to full time mom and philanthropist.
Over the past 6 years Cat has been an honoree for the Cystic Fibrosis Foundation, where she won the Todd miles Award for raising over $40,000 for the foundation, setting a record for the most money raised by a single honoree. She has chaired Blue Jeans and Bubbles for for the Ronald McDonald Foundation, also setting a record but this time for having enough in-kind donations that the Foundation spent less of their own money than previous years. In addition Cat was also one of the Stars for The Children’s Tumor Foundation Dancing With Our Stars fundraising event, and was Chair of the Cystic Fibrosis Breath of Life gala as well as being the Emcee for the Women’s International Gala.
Cat lives on the river in North Little Rock with her husband of 14 years, John, as well as their five-year-old daughter Aspen. John happily serves our local cancer community as a Surgeon at CARTI Cancer Center.
Cat’s goal as an honoree for Best Dressed is, first and foremost, to raise as much money as possible for the foundation and second to that, hoping to break her previous fundraising records as well! She’s very competitive when it comes to raising funds for a good cause and looks forward to helping this be a record breaking year for this event and for the American Cancer Society’s local chapter!
Courtney Probst
Regional Director of Sales & Marketing | Makan Hospitality Management
Support Courtney HereCourtney serves as the Regional Director of Sales & Marketing at Makan Hospitality Management, where her leadership is defined not only by results, but by the genuine relationships she builds and the people she lifts along the way.
Deeply people-oriented, Courtney has a natural ability to connect, uplift, and inspire those around her. She leads with empathy, authenticity, and a sincere commitment to making others feel seen, valued, and supported, qualities that shape both her professional success and personal impact.
Outside of her professional life, Courtney is a lifelong competitive dancer who danced in her college years as the Captain of the UCA Dance Team while earning her degree in Public Relations & Speech Communication. In her free time, she pours her heart into serving others as the volunteer Assistant Dance Coach at Pulaski Academy, where she mentors and inspires the next generation of dancers, a passion so close to her heart.
At home, Courtney is a devoted girl mom to two beautiful daughters and is married to her high school sweetheart, Nathan, a family physician at UAMS. Her life is centered around her family, giving back, and creating a meaningful impact in every space she enters.
Courtney is passionate about raising money for the American Cancer Society because cancer has touched nearly every corner of her life within the last few years.
Four years ago, she lost a coworker to this disease, a loss that continues to stay with her. In March, her aunt received a diagnosis. In April 2026, her father was also diagnosed. At the same time, her best friend’s father is courageously fighting his own battle. The weight of these moments is immeasurable—and deeply personal.
Yet even in the face of heartbreak, Courtney chooses action. She is driven by love for those that she has lost, strength for those still fighting, and hope for a future where fewer families have to hear the words “you have cancer.” Through her fundraising efforts, she is honoring each of them—turning grief into purpose, and using her voice and platform to make a difference in the lives of others!
Dr. Asif Masood
Oncologist and Hematologist | Jefferson Regional Hospital
Support Asif HereDr. Asif Masood is a medical oncologist and hematologist whose personal and professional journey has been deeply shaped by cancer. Originally from Pakistan, he completed his residency training in Chicago and fellowship training in Michigan before making Arkansas his home in 2004.
For more than two decades, Dr. Masood has served communities across Southeast Arkansas, where many patients face significant barriers to healthcare, including poverty, limited access to preventive medicine, and long travel distances for specialized care. Through his work and involvement with the American Cancer Society, he is committed to helping close those gaps and improve access to cancer care and support services.
Dr. Masood’s passion for oncology is also deeply personal. At just 15 years old, he lost his mother to ovarian cancer — an experience that profoundly impacted his life and ultimately guided him toward his calling in medicine. What began as personal loss became a lifelong purpose: serving patients and families facing cancer with compassion, expertise, and hope.
Dr. Sunil Kakadia
Medical Oncologist and Hematologist | Genesis Cancer and Blood Institute in Arkansas
Support Sunil HereSunil Kakadia, MD, MPH, FACP, is a board-certified medical oncologist and hematologist at Genesis Cancer and Blood Institute in Arkansas. He specializes in genitourinary cancers, including prostate, bladder, kidney, and testicular cancers, while also providing compassionate care in hematology and medical oncology.
Dr. Kakadia is truly dedicated to offering personalized, evidence-based treatment with warmth and understanding, ensuring his patients and their families feel supported every step of the way. He brings a thoughtful, multidisciplinary approach to complex cases and is deeply committed to delivering high-quality cancer care right here in Central and Southern Arkansas, close to home where it matters most.
Originally from India, Dr. Kakadia has made Arkansas his home and cherishes spending quality time with his family outside of work.
Dr. Manojna Konda
Medical Oncologist and Hematologist | Bapstist Hospital
Support Manojna HereManojna Konda, M.D. is board-certified in Medical Oncology, Hematology, and Internal Medicine. Originally from India, she has spent the past decade training and practicing in Arkansas, where she chose to build her life and career after meeting her husband during medical training and developing deep appreciation for the people and community of Arkansas. She practices at the UAMS Baptist Cancer Center, where she helps bridge academic innovation with community care, bringing advanced therapies, clinical trials, and cutting-edge cancer care closer to home. She practices general oncology and hematology, with special interests in breast, gastrointestinal, and lung cancers. Dr. Konda is passionate about personalized care, believing that no two cancer journeys are the same. She works closely with a multidisciplinary team to deliver tailored, innovative treatment plans for each patient. Outside of work, she enjoys time with her husband and two children, outdoor activities, and fishing.
How has Cancer Impacted Your Life?
Cancer has deeply impacted my life both professionally and personally. As an oncologist, I walk alongside patients every day through some of the most challenging moments of their lives—helping them navigate difficult diagnoses and complex treatment decisions. I am continually humbled by their resilience, strength, and unwavering spirit in the face of uncertainty. I also see firsthand how cancer can be emotionally and financially draining for patients and their families. When cancer touched my own life more closely, my perspective deepened even further, strengthening my commitment to this work. It is this experience that drives my passion to not only care for my patients but to support them beyond the clinic.
Through this effort, I hope to raise funds to help ease the burden of cancer for patients and their families. Every contribution allows me to make a greater impact and, in some small way, help make their journey a little easier.
Hannah McDonald
Director of Marketing and Business Development | the Matt Black Agency
Support Hannah HereHannah McDonald serves as the Director of Marketing and Business Development at The Matt Black Agency, where she has quickly become a driving force behind the company’s growth and community presence. In just two years, Hannah has tripled the size of her team and played a key role in expanding the agency’s footprint across Central Arkansas through strategic partnerships and a relationship-first approach to marketing. Her philosophy is simple but powerful: meaningful connections build lasting success—for both businesses and the communities they serve.
Hannah’s passion for people extends far beyond her professional work. She has been impacted by cancer in many ways throughout her life—from a childhood friend to close family members and dear friends—experiences that have deeply shaped her perspective and fueled her commitment to making a difference.
As an honoree for the American Cancer Society’s Best Dressed 2026, Hannah is proud to use her platform to raise awareness and critical funding for cancer research. She believes wholeheartedly in the power of community and is confident that her network of friends, family, and colleagues will rally together in support of a cause that touches so many lives. For Hannah, this opportunity is more than an honor—it’s a mission to help drive progress toward a future free from cancer.
Kaley Achor, Pharm D
Co-Owner | Achor Family Pharmacy
Support Kaley HereKaley Achor, Pharm.D. is a wife, mom, pharmacist, and breast cancer survivor. Alongside her husband and fellow pharmacist Brandon, she serves her home community of Maumelle as a co-owner of Achor Family Pharmacy.
Her life changed drastically in November of 2024 when she was diagnosed with Stage 3 Triple Negative Breast Cancer, one of the most aggressive types of breast cancer with limited treatment options. Following months of chemotherapy, a double mastectomy, radiation and immunotherapy, she was declared cancer free on June 4, 2025. This shocking diagnosis, being only 32 years old, with no family history and no risk factors changed the way she sees the world, her faith, and the word “cancer”.
Cancer is no longer just a word to her, it is what she has lived every single day since November 22, 2024. It is all consuming- physically, mentally, and emotionally. She spent at least one day a week at CARTI Cancer Center for an entire year for treatment, which opened doors to form many relationships with others battling and ignited a fire in her to become a cancer patient and survivor advocate.
She now serves as the American Cancer Society Cancer Action Network Ambassador Constituent Team Lead for Congressional District 2 for the state of Arkansas. In this role, she advocates for cancer patients and survivors with state and federal legislators, as well as supports, celebrates, and remembers those in our community who have been affected by cancer.
She is excited to be an Honoree for Best Dressed Little Rock 2026 because she knows first hand how terrifying a cancer diagnosis is and the hope organizations like the American Cancer Society can provide. Through funds raised, cancer patients will know they are not alone in their journey, and they will be able to focus solely on healing because they know their other physical needs are being met through your generous donations.
Matt Ferrell
REALTOR | Pixel Properties
Support Matt HereMatt is an award-winning agent driven by a passion for real estate and a commitment to his clients’ success. From first-time buyers to experienced investors, Matt has been a trusted partner in navigating Central Arkansas’s competitive market with expertise and care. Matt is also a husband, father, and cancer survivor. After moving to Arkansas in 2017, Matt has spent almost a decade cultivating community relations. As an avid fitness enthusiast, Matt tries to love each day as active as possible. Matt enjoys CrossFit, obstacle course racing, golf, and any outdoor activity with friends. Because of his own battle with cancer, Matt is very passionate about helping to give hope and guidance to others going through their own battles.
Matt Kovak
Executive Director | Winthrop Rockefeller Cancer Institute Clincal Trials Office at UAMS
Support Matt HereMatt Kovak is the Executive Director of the Winthrop P. Rockefeller Cancer Institute Clinical Trials Office at the University of Arkansas for Medical Sciences (UAMS). A native of Pocahontas, Arkansas, he graduated from Pocahontas High School in 2007 before earning a degree in Biology from Lyon College in Batesville. He later obtained his Masters degree in Biochemistry and Molecular Biology from UAMS.
Matt began his career at UAMS in 2010 and has played a key role in expanding the Cancer Institute’s clinical trials infrastructure and capacity. He now oversees a team of more than 90 staff supporting a growing portfolio of over 300 clinical trials across 14 disease areas, with participants enrolled from all 75 counties in Arkansas. He also partners with the Cancer Institute’s Community Outreach and Engagement team, the Arkansas Cancer Coalition, the Arkansas Prostate Cancer Foundation, and the American Cancer Society Cancer Action Network to educate Arkansans on the importance of cancer clinical trials in an ever-evolving healthcare landscape.
Outside of work, Matt enjoys traveling the world with his wife, Mandy, and spending time outdoors with their two St. Bernards, Abby and Wynnie.
How has cancer impacted your life?
Cancer has touched my family, friends, and colleagues, and I have seen firsthand the physical, emotional, and financial toll it can take. Raising awareness about the importance of screening, early detection, and access to clinical trials is central to my commitment to Arkansans. Through my work and collaborations, I hope to advance research and improve outcomes for patients across our state.
Sarah Olds
VP of Product | iProv
Support Sarah HereSarah Olds is the Vice President of Product at iProv, where she is known for her thoughtful leadership, strategic vision, and ability to bring people and ideas together in ways that create lasting impact. Over the course of her career, she has become a respected leader in her field, helping businesses grow while mentoring teams with both clarity and care. Sarah also proudly serves on the Easterseals Guardians Board, reflecting her heart for community involvement and meaningful service. An avid pet lover and proud mother to her daughter, Everleigh, she brings that same sense of purpose and love into every part of her life. Sarah is honored to support Best Dressed Little Rock and the American Cancer Society, as cancer has touched her family personally on more than one occasion, making this mission especially close to her heart.
Joy Dailey
Mortgage Loan Officer | Arvest
Support Joy HereJoy is a mortgage loan officer known for her thoughtful, relationship-driven approach and genuine care for the people she serves. Over the past several years, she has earned and been nominated for multiple local “Best Of” recognitions, reflecting both her dedication to her clients and her reputation within the community.
A proud Little Rock native and 2005 graduate of the University of Arkansas, Joy’s path has always been rooted in helping others. She later returned to school to earn her nursing degree, inspired in part by her nephew’s early health challenges – an experience that shaped her compassion and perspective in a lasting way.
Since transitioning into mortgage lending in 2020, Joy has brought that same heart into her work, guiding clients through one of life’s biggest decisions with clarity and care. Her faith is central to who she is and serves as a guiding light – something she leans on each day.
Cancer has touched Joy’s life in deeply personal ways. She lost her grandfather to metastatic prostate cancer, and her sister has faced both brain stem glioma and breast cancer with incredible strength. She has also supported loved ones through cancer and through loss, including a dear friend who lost her young son. These experiences have deepened her compassion and strengthened her desire to support others facing similar challenges.
Joy loves being an active member of the 20th Century Club and serving on the committee for the Ronald McDonald House.
Beyond her work, Joy enjoys seeing new sights, cooking, crafting, and finding the latest treasures. She loves creating a home she truly enjoys, staying active, being involved in our community, and spending time with family and friends – especially a good girls trip. She is married to her best friend, DJ, a proud bonus mom to two beautiful girls, a devoted aunt, and considers her mom one of her very best friends.
Being selected as an honoree for Little Rock’s Best Dressed is especially meaningful to Joy, to offer support and more awareness of the American Cancer Society and the hope it brings to families and friends like hers.
Because no one is untouched by cancer, every step forward matters.
Steven Berardesca
Creative Lead | Tanarah Luxe Floral
Support Steven HereSteven Berardesca is a career designer and a 19-year cornerstone of Tanarah Luxe Floral, where his work has helped shape elevated environments throughout Little Rock, Arkansas and destinations across the United States and abroad. With a lifetime rooted in design, his experience spans floral design, interior design, wedding design, and environmental styling—each brought together by a thoughtful eye for beauty, balance, and craftsmanship.
Steven is known for his refined approach to merchandising and his appreciation for the finer details that transform a space. His work is grounded in the belief that design is not only about how something looks, but how it makes people feel. Whether creating for celebrations, gatherings, or meaningful moments, he is passionate about helping others experience life beautifully.
That same philosophy extends naturally into his philanthropic work, which is an integrated part of his design career. Through his involvement in fundraising gala committees, auctions, estate sales, and charitable events—including his support of the American Cancer Society—Steven uses his creative voice to help shape environments that inspire generosity, connection, and impact.
A Personal Journey with Cancer
Cancer has touched Steven’s life in profound ways. In 2012, his family lost his father to a battle discovered too late to fight. In contrast, his wife Amy—his greatest love and treasure—triumphed over cancer, a journey that forever deepened their gratitude and perspective. Her experience ultimately closed the chapter on having children biologically, leading them to adoption. Today, they are blessed with four nearly grown children.
These experiences have given Steven a deeply personal passion for supporting those on their cancer journey—advocating for dignity, comfort, and quality of life during what can be one of life’s most difficult seasons.
When he is not designing, Steven enjoys time with his wife and family, as well as drifting through yard sales, auctions, and estate sales—discovering meaningful, pre-loved pieces that add character and story to his thoughtfully curated home.
An Invitation to Give
Steven invites you to join him in supporting the American Cancer Society and other cancer-fighting organizations. As part of the Little Rock Best Dressed 2026 campaign, your support helps create brighter moments, meaningful experiences, and hope for those who are fighting.
Together, we can make a difference—one life, one moment, one beautiful experience at a time.