"Art, Heart, and a Whole Lot of Love"
At Easterseals Arkansas, we celebrate the incredible team members who bring our mission to life every day. Today, we are thrilled to spotlight Susan Tillemans, a creative force and a nurturing presence at the Center for Training & Wellness. Susan’s story is one of passion, perseverance, and pure heart — and it’s one you won't want to miss.
A Journey from Volunteer to Vital Leader
Susan Tillemans’ journey with Easterseals began not with a job application, but with a heart full of purpose. After years of success as a Sales Account Executive for Christian Dior at Dillard’s and studying business and art history at Volunteer State Community College, Susan felt a calling to do something even more meaningful with her life.
"I wanted to do something that would truly give back to people," Susan shares. "So in 2009, I started volunteering at Easterseals, spending time in the preschool and CRC, teaching art classes for our clients to create special pieces for our Art and Soul auction."
Her passion and talent quickly stood out. After training under Tim Lefens, founder of the innovative A.R.T. tracking method for non-ambulatory clients, Susan’s role grew. Encouraged by Easterseals leadership — including CEO and CFO Stephanie Smith — Susan officially joined Easterseals as the CTW’s art instructor.
Today, more than 15 years later (including her volunteering!), Susan continues to serve with the same energy and love that first brought her through our doors.
"I've loved my job from the very start," Susan says with a smile. "The program has even grown beyond the CTW walls, and I’m so proud of that."
Making a Difference Through Creativity and Connection
At the Center for Training & Wellness, Susan is known as the "momma" of the group — a title she wears proudly. Her clients know they can come to her with anything because she listens, engages, and genuinely cares about every person she meets.
"They call me Momma because they know I'll listen and help," Susan says warmly.
Professionally, Susan has a unique knack for creating community connections. She designs meaningful projects that allow her clients to engage with the broader community — like helping to craft props and art for local elementary school musicals. Best of all, her clients get to attend the plays, experiencing the joy and pride of seeing their work come to life on stage.
Susan also organizes trips where her clients deliver homemade crafts and holiday goodies to local nursing homes — spreading Easterseals love far and wide.
"Every person has special abilities," she reminds us. "I believe in them, and I don’t give up on people."
Her professional development reflects this dedication, too. Susan jokes about having over 100 hours of Relias training under her belt — "I'm old!" she laughs — but her constant learning shows her commitment to serving our community with skill and compassion.
A Heart That Never Stops Giving
When Susan isn’t busy inspiring creativity and compassion at Easterseals, you’ll likely find her relaxing at home — specifically in her favorite spot: her hammock or swing chair in the yard, soaking up the peacefulness of nature.
Susan grew up just north of Nashville, Tennessee, but has called Little Rock home for the past 26 years. Though Arkansas has her heart for now, she dreams of returning to Tennessee one day.
A true animal lover, Susan’s home is filled with joy from her three pets — two dogs and a cat. They are her companions and bring her endless peace.
And when it comes to what’s impossible to give up? "My faith in people, and my animals," Susan answers without hesitation.
Her passions are art, theater, and — of course — Easterseals Arkansas. She brings these loves together beautifully in everything she does, inspiring those around her to live, laugh, and love with their whole hearts.
Thank You, Susan — And Join Our Family!
"I want to be remembered as the hippie art teacher who lived, laughed, and loved greatly," Susan says.
At Easterseals Arkansas, Susan Tillemans is already leaving that lasting legacy. Through her art, her advocacy, and her endless compassion, she touches lives in ways that words can barely capture.
We are beyond grateful for Susan’s spirit and her service. If her story has moved you and you want to be part of something bigger, visit Easterseals Arkansas Careers to find out how you can join our incredible team.
