Chris Fowler
President (retired)
Fowler Foods
As a second-generation KFC franchisee, Chris Fowler began his career as a cook in the family’s restaurant business, eventually becoming President in 1985. Until the recent sale of the business, Fowler operated 91 restaurants in eight states. He was a strong voice for his fellow KFC franchisees having earned numerous awards and serving in multiple leadership positions.
Fowler credits his family, friends and employees for his success and accomplishments.
To give back, he supports charitable organizations such as the NEA Baptist Charitable Foundation, the American Cancer Society, the UAMS Winthrop P. Rockefeller Cancer Institute and Arkansas Children’s Foundation with his wife, Kim, through donations and fundraising events. He also devotes time serving on the American Cancer Society and UAMS boards. He looks forward to working on new business ventures and spending time with his family, especially his granddaughters, Caroline and Clara.
***
Life begins at 50, the saying goes, to which the incomparable Phyllis Diller once replied, “Maybe it’s true that life begins at 50. But everything else starts to wear out, fall out or spread out.” (The women and men included on the following pages, at least, will find that funny … not to mention, they actually know who Phyllis Diller is.)
Fifty is the new 40, or something like that, but in this Ponce de Leon age of youth worship, we at AMP thought it would be nice to recognize those business leaders in Arkansas who aren’t under 40 or in their 20s. Once one hits the milestone age of 50, life doesn’t stop, after all. For many, it speeds up. Nominated by readers, the leaders recognized in AMP’s inaugural Fifty Over 50 list haven’t slowed down — they have realized more success, achieved new goals and even launched entirely new chapters. And we salute them.
The vigor of youth is a beautiful and necessary thing. But so is the wisdom and discernment of age. Besides, like the saying goes, 50 is nothing more than the new 40, right?
The members of AMP’s inaugural Fifty Over 50 list were nominated by readers. They represent a broad spectrum of Arkansas business, industry and politics. They are former state legislators, business owners, CEOs
and more who represent industries ranging from farming and construction
to restaurants and retail.
Some of them started on an upward trajectory early in their careers and haven’t slowed down. Others began new chapters later in their journeys and achieved success — and made profound impacts on their communities — in new ways.
We’re proud to recognize these women and men-… experienced, seasoned Arkansas leaders whose collective journey is just beginning.
Click here to see the full list of 2022 AMP Fifty Over 50!