Profiles in Service - May 13, 2019

Chris Villines

Board Member
Association of Arkansas Counties executive director
NCCAE president

Number of years involved in NACo: 11

Years in public service: 20

Occupation: Executive Director

Education: Bachelor of Science in Business — Finance from the University of Arkansas (Go Hogs!)

The hardest thing I’ve ever done is: Lose my 44-year-old brother unexpectedly last year.

Three people (living or dead) I’d invite to dinner: My wife (Tonya), Robin Williams and Jonathan Winters … we like to laugh.

You’d be surprised to learn: I used to be terrified of public speaking.

The most adventurous thing I’ve ever done is: I probably shouldn’t put it in writing.

My favorite way to relax is to: Cook anything and everything. I especially love outdoor smoking and grilling.

A dream I have is to: Visit all the Major League Baseball stadiums.

I’m most proud of: My children — Trevor, 22, and Ali Grace, 16

Every morning I read: The local newspapers.

My favorite meal is: Breakfast: Eggs, bacon and sausage with strong coffee.

My pet peeve is: Bad grammar, especially when combined with bad spelling.

My motto is: "Don’t let the perfect be the enemy of the good."

The last book I read was: The President Is Missing by Bill Clinton and James Patterson

My favorite movie is: Patton.

My favorite music: I like all kinds but am particularly fond lately of The Avett Brothers, a bluegrass/blues/rock mix.

My favorite U.S. president: Thomas Jefferson

My state association is a NACo member because: I see an incredible amount of value in peer-to-peer exchange and sharing of ideas. NACo does an outstanding job of fostering this network.