The National Association of Workforce Development Professionals (NAWDP) today announced Rodriquress “Reese” Broadnax as the 2026 recipient of the H.G. Weisman Award. Broadnax, a Workforce Project Manager & WIOA Equal Opportunity Officer for Southwest Arkansas Planning and Development District, Inc., will be recognized at an award ceremony during NAWDP’s 42nd Annual Conference in Phoenix, Arizona on May 18, 2026.
The H.G. Weisman Award is granted, at the discretion of the NAWDP Board Chair, for exceptional services to NAWDP and the field of workforce development.
With more than 25 years of experience in Workforce Development, Rodriquress Broadnax, known to most as “Reese”, has become a trusted voice in advancing equity, opportunity, and community growth. A Certified Workforce Development Professional® (CWDP) and Professional Community & Economic Developer, Broadnax partners with businesses, faith-based organizations, and individuals to design workforce training and professional development opportunities that create pathways to sustainable success.
“To receive the H.G. Weisman Award is to follow in the footsteps of an extraordinary servant‑leader whose impact continues to guide and inspire our field,” said Broadnax. “For me, a recipient from a small town in South Arkansas, it is profoundly humbling. I have always viewed my work in workforce development as being ‘ordained’ — a calling to support the customers I encounter and every practitioner I meet, whether through personal relationships, partnerships, or the sessions and talks I’m blessed to deliver. Long ago, I was volunteering in another role, helping people gain workplace skills without even realizing I was doing workforce development or that such an industry existed.”
With a career that spans national, regional, and local workforce programs, she has championed initiatives that uplift marginalized communities and at-risk youth, while striving to see frontline workers empowered to improve the lives of their clients and customers.
“This field has allowed me to learn, to grow, and to serve, not only my colleagues, but also the customers entrusted to me. Empowering them to stand taller, believe in themselves, and pursue self‑sufficiency has been one of the greatest joys of my life,” Broadnax said. “I started this journey earning $9 an hour as a WIA Case Manager, unsure of what I was stepping into, yet certain that every smile, every breakthrough, and every step forward mattered.”
Broadnax refers to herself as a ‘lifestyle enhancer’. Her dynamic speaking style, infused with humor, genuine concern, transparency, and heartfelt life lessons has made her a sought-after national trainer and keynote speaker. Audiences consistently describe her sessions as invigorating, empowering, and transformative, leaving them equipped with practical tools and renewed confidence to serve their respective communities and customers.
“To now be selected by Board Chair Dana Keller from among so many extraordinary workforce developers affirms that I am walking in my purpose to uplift, invest in, and inspire others. NAWDP has expanded my platform to be a true servant‑leader, and I am grateful for the opportunity to continue championing its vision,” Broadnax said.
Broadnax, known for her dedication to the workforce development field and furthering NAWDP’s mission, continued to encourage workforce development professionals: “I dedicate this award to every colleague who may feel unseen or unheard. You matter. You are the answer to someone’s needs. You are the heartbeat of workforce development. My hope is that this recognition reminds all of us to keep elevating, keep connecting, and keep serving with passion.”
Beyond her professional achievements, Broadnax holds a degree from Wichita State University, serves on the Board of Directors for Golden Triangle Economic Development Corporation, as Advisor to Saving our Sons and Daughters of South Arkansas, and as a mentor in various capacities. She brings joy and promotes healthier lifestyles to communities through teaching soul line dance classes. A graduate of the Community Development Institute (CDI) at UCA with advanced training, she has further sharpened her ability to strengthen both the human and physical resources of communities.
At her core, Broadnax is committed to enhancing quality of life for all, especially those who have been historically overlooked, by blending expertise, compassion, and cultural awareness into every initiative she leads.
“I am so excited to award this recognition to Reese,” said NAWDP Board Chair Dana Keller, “She is always willing to go the extra mile for NAWDP, whether it is volunteering to help with registration, emceeing a reception at our events, or even leading line dancing classes for event attendees. She is passionate about workforce development and elevating others to reach their fullest potential.”
The H.G. Weisman award is presented in honor of the late Hank Weisman, who was among a group of workforce leaders who were instrumental in the founding of the National Job Training Partnership, an “organization of organizations” which later was called the Partnership for Training and Employment Careers before developing into the membership professional development organization we now know as NAWDP.
