Ben King
Arkansas Business announced its 2025 New Influentials: 20 in Their Twenties class, which includes Southern Arkansas University graduate student and Arkansas Small Business and Technology Development Center (ASBTDC) business consultant Ben King of Little Rock, AR.
“Ben exemplifies the Mulerider spirit,” said Janell Reeves, ASBTDC’s director. “He gets the job done with professionalism, earns high praise from those he serves, and inspires students by sharing real-world insight—consistently representing our team and the University with excellence. I’m proud to work alongside him and look forward to seeing the continued impact of his efforts.”
Drawn to SAU’s small-town charm and the distinguished David F. Rankin College of Business, King graduated with a BBA in management in May 2024. As a MBA student, King earned an assistantship with the ASBTDC and was quickly hired full-time as the business consultant in February 2025.
The ASBTDC is a higher-education-based economic development program that assists entrepreneurs with every aspect of business startup, management, and operation. Serving 11 counties in the region, the center provides one-to-one confidential consulting and cutting-edge market research at no charge as well as affordable training for those seeking to expand their expertise.
When King is not drafting business plans, conducting market research, or making financial projections, he’s traveling across the region speaking to students and businesses to share the free support the ASBTDC provides.
“I’m very honored and blessed to represent myself, my family, SAU, and the ASBTDC,” said King. “To be recognized for impacting someone positively, doing what I do and helping my community and my organization, is something I’ll never forget.”
According to Arkansas Business, the 20 in Their Twenties distinction is designed to spotlight Arkansas’ young talent in the business and nonprofit community. With more than 300 nominations submitted, King is one of 20 who: “Have made an impact on his or her company or community and show potential to be a leader in business or politics.” The new honorees will be featured in the September issue of Arkansas Business.
“SAU made this possible,” King said of his nomination and selection. “I tip my hat to all the faculty and staff in the business department, especially my director Janell Reeves, who has guided me and become a mentor figure for me.”
For more information about ASBTDC and the notable work King is doing, visit https://web.saumag.edu/business/asbtdc/
About SAU:
SAU, located in Magnolia, Arkansas, provides students with a complete college experience in a caring environment of service, innovation, and community. With more than 100 degrees in four distinct colleges and the School of Graduate Studies, SAU initiates new degree programs to fit the needs of career and professional trends of today. As part of this commitment, SAU proudly offers the Next Step Guarantee program, ensuring that students receive the necessary resources, career guidance, and support to transition successfully from college to their chosen careers or graduate studies. To learn more about SAU, visit www.saumag.edu.
