MEET YOUR OMAF 2024 FESTIVAL HOST
Executive Assistant to the Mayor/Project Manager
Anna McKinney
“The Northwest Arkansas community is simply one of the best in the nation, and as a host of the 13th Annual Ozark Arts Festival, it is an honor to have the opportunity to highlight and showcase the many young, talented, driven individuals who call this place home!”
Anna McKinney serves as the Executive Assistant and Project Manager for the Mayor’s Office in Springdale, Arkansas. Previously, she was the city's Grant Writer, where she played a crucial role in securing over $20 million in CARES Act funds and numerous other grants to benefit Springdale's community.
Anna holds a Bachelor’s degree in Journalism from the University of Arkansas, which has honed her communication and organizational skills. She is dedicated to public service and community development, actively supporting the Mayor's initiatives and managing projects that contribute to the city's growth.
Anna lives in Springdale with her husband, Brandon, their four-year-old son, Eli, and their husky-German shepherd mix, Milo. Outside of work, she enjoys spending time with her family and contributing to her community's well-being.
Sr. Media Relations & Communications Specialist
Nate Kuester
“I’ve always enjoyed working with newcomers passionate about storytelling, which makes this opportunity to share my enthusiasm with the Ozark Media Arts Festival so exciting.”
Nate Kuester leads media relations and communications for Mercy Hospital Northwest Arkansas. His career in media/public relations, TV news and radio are supported by a bachelor’s degree from the Edward R. Murrow College of Communication at Washington State University, though he began his schooling in the Springdale School District.
Nate’s extensive experience includes roles as an anchor, reporter, executive producer, and news director in television, along with DJ and talk show host in radio. From anchoring and reporting across the country, he has a proven track record as a newsroom leader and manager. Nate has been recognized with awards in television news, sports, weather, and sports radio talk shows.
As a working professional voice-over artist, Nate’s voice has been featured in advertisements and presentations both nationally and internationally. He is grateful to have returned to his boyhood home of Northwest Arkansas with his wife and three children.