Written by Nora Johnson and Jed Myers<\/p>\n
Mat Faulkner, president and chief idea officer of Think Idea Studio, has made great strides in his effort to better the community of Searcy. From his position within his own marketing firm, he has been able to take his ideas to the next level in partnership with others in the Searcy area.<\/p>\n
In addition to starting and running his own business, Faulkner works with several local nonprofits, serves as the chair of the Small Business Committee for the Searcy Regional Chamber of Commerce and is the youngest member of the Searcy Regional Economic Development Corporation, which focuses its work on attracting new businesses to Searcy and improving economic growth in the area. Additionally, Faulkner contributes to the Searcy Beautification and Lights Committee.<\/p>\n
\u201cThis is my way of saying this is home and we want to get our hands into making [Searcy] better using any skills and connections to do so,\u201d Faulkner said. \u201cOf course we want to improve it for our family, but for everyone in the community as well. \u201d<\/p>\n
Faulkner said because of in-house assets at Think, whenever he gets involved with anything in the community, he often utilizes the agency to kick off any efforts for growth. Faulkner cited the Think Art Project, which falls under the Searcy Arts Council, as an example. Faulkner\u2019s role in the project includes coordinating with local artists and facilitating discussions about potential new projects. While murals are a part of the project, Faulkner said sculptures, lighting shows, water features, landscaping and more are also used in the overall theme of \u201cplacemaking,\u201d which uses arts and culture to create spaces for the community to come together.<\/p>\n
\u201cYou make this happen through local talent,\u201d Faulkner said. \u201cLocals who live in the area and have a vested interest in the community are the key ingredient. Through the use of visuals, people easily recognize and are excited about the work that enhances their community.\u201d<\/p>\n
Senior Tiffany Metts has been able to work with Faulkner on several community projects through her internship at Think Idea Studio. Metts attributed the dynamic environment at Think to Faulkner\u2019s leadership and love of Searcy.<\/p>\n
\u201cHe creates a wonderful work environment that is full of optimism and creativity,\u201d Metts said. \u201cHe keeps things fun while still being an incredibly hard worker.\u201d<\/p>\n
Marka Bennett, a self-proclaiming \u201cMat Faulkner fan,\u201d met Faulkner shortly after moving to Searcy two years ago. Like Metts, Bennett said she quickly realized Faulkner is a creative powerhouse who cares deeply about his community.<\/p>\n
\u201cThe name of his company is perfect for him \u2014 he\u2019s a great thinker,\u201d Bennett said. \u201cHe\u2019s very creative. You can almost see the wheels turning as you\u2019re talking to him.\u201d<\/p>\n
Bennett and Faulkner are the co-directors of Beats and Eats, a monthly event in Searcy\u2019s Downtown with live entertainment, artisans and entrepreneurs. While they were brainstorming for the creation of such a large-scale event, Bennett said Faulkner played a vital role in coordinating the many ideas presented.<\/p>\n
\u201cHe brings synergy. He doesn\u2019t just have his own ideas; he\u2019s willing to work with others and create something that combines all thoughts and ideas,\u201d Bennett said. \u201cHe\u2019s inspiring, but he\u2019s also inspired by the people he\u2019s working with.\u201d<\/p>\n
According to Faulkner, beyond Beats and Eats and the Think Art Project, Searcy as a whole has been working to improve the downtown area and overall sense of community. While there are lots of different moving pieces, Faulkner added that they can make a big impression when all put together.<\/p>\n
\u201cSmaller cities often lack in amenities, especially when it comes to dining, entertainment and recreation, but when it comes down to it, satisfaction comes from relationships,\u201d Faulkner said. \u201cThat is the golden nugget with small town living.\u201d<\/p>\n","protected":false},"excerpt":{"rendered":"
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