Ashley Davis leads Citizens Bank’s Celebrate America into 28th year at new location

Ashley Davis / An image from the 2024 edition of Celebrate America

Citizens Bank’s Celebrate America will continue its tradition this year under the leadership of a familiar face, Ashley Davis, marking nearly three decades of the event.

Davis, now assistant vice president of community engagement at Citizens Bank, is guiding the community event into its 28th year at a new venue: the Batesville Municipal Golf Course.

Davis has been the driving force behind Celebrate America for more than a decade, organizing the event for 13 of her 24 years at Citizens Bank.

Davis with Citizen Bank Regional President Micah Beard

In a release, the bank said her vision, energy, and deep connection to the community have helped transform the event into one of the largest Independence Day celebrations in the state.

“Ashley brings this event to life year after year,” said Micah Beard, regional president at Citizens Bank. “Her leadership, creativity, and passion for people are what make Celebrate America special.”

Davis at the 2024 Celebrate America

This year’s move from Riverside Park, which is undergoing major renovations, to the Batesville Municipal Golf Course is another example of Davis’ adaptability and commitment to keeping community traditions alive, the bank said. Under her leadership, the event will feature:

• Food and family fun beginning at 3 p.m.
• A live broadcast with White River Now Remote and Chad Whitaker from 5 to 9 p.m.
• Live performances by Garrett Duncan (6 p.m.), Triple Nickle with U.S. Rep. Rick Crawford (7 p.m.) and Mary Beth Byrd (8 p.m.)
• Fireworks at 9:15 p.m.

Everyone is encouraged to bring lawn chairs or blankets, find a spot on the course and enjoy an evening of music, community and celebration.

Beyond Celebrate America, Davis has been an active contributor to the Batesville community for many years. She has served as an ambassador for the Batesville Area Chamber of Commerce for 14 years, sits on the board of Main Street Batesville, and is a dedicated supporter of the Arkansas Sheriffs’ Youth Ranches. Her commitment to community service reflects her deep connection to the people and places she calls home.

“I’m honored to lead this event again,” Davis said. “Celebrate America is more than a show, it’s a reflection of who we are as a community. I’m proud to help carry that tradition forward.”

Images: Citizens Bank, Gena Tate — White River Now