We’re proud to share that Sue Walk Burnett, Founder and President of Burnett Specialists, has been named to the Arkansas Business Hall of Fame Class of 2026, presented by the Sam M. Walton College of Business at the University of Arkansas.
This recognition honors individuals who have demonstrated extraordinary business leadership, vision, and community impact. Since its establishment in 1999, the Arkansas Business Hall of Fame has inducted only 108 individuals—and Sue is just the eighth woman ever honored.
“Each year, the Arkansas Business Hall of Fame reminds us of the power of vision, perseverance, and commitment to community,” said Brent Williams, Dean of the Walton College. “The 2026 inductees exemplify those values. From transforming industries to creating opportunities across Arkansas and beyond, their leadership and integrity continue to inspire our students and strengthen the state’s business legacy.”
A Lifetime of Leadership and Innovation
Sue founded Burnett Personnel Services in 1974 with a $10,000 loan and five employees. Within the first year, the company turned a profit—and today, Burnett Specialists is a Texas-based, 100% employee-owned, nationally certified woman-owned recruiting and staffing firm with offices in Houston, Austin, Dallas, San Antonio, El Paso, and The Woodlands.
Under Sue’s leadership, Burnett Specialists has become one of the most award-winning recruiting firms in Texas, recognized by Forbes.com, the Houston Business Journal, and Staffing Industry Analysts for excellence, integrity, and innovation.
Her induction into the Arkansas Business Hall of Fame comes just weeks after being honored by the American Staffing Association’s Leadership Hall of Fame, marking a milestone month that celebrates both her industry influence and her lifelong commitment to empowering others.
“These honorees represent the best of Arkansas through their remarkable achievements in business and their communities,” said the Hall of Fame committee.
The formal induction ceremony will be held February 20, 2026, at the Statehouse Convention Center in Little Rock, with more than 500 guests expected to attend.
Read the official announcement from the University of Arkansas
Coverage from Talk Business & Politics
Learn more about the Arkansas Business Hall of Fame
About Burnett Specialists
Founded in 1974, Burnett Specialists is a Texas-based, 100% employee-owned, nationally certified Woman-Owned Business Enterprise (WBE) and one of the largest staffing and recruiting firms in Texas. With more than 50 years of success, Burnett connects employers with exceptional talent across Accounting, IT, Legal, HR, Engineering, Marketing, Supply Chain, and Administrative fields.
