Jeff Gardner

Windstream president and chief executive officer Jeff Gardner has been named American Red Cross Clara Barton Distinguished Humanitarian of the Year, according to the American Red Cross of Greater Arkansas.

Gardner will receive his award at the Arkansas Hero luncheon to be held Jan. 18 at the DoubleTree, 424 Markham St., Little Rock.

 “Under Jeff Gardner’s leadership, Windstream Corporation has and continues to provide generous support for Red Cross disaster relief financially, as well as through employee volunteerism, in Arkansas and across the country,” said American Red Cross in Arkansas chief executive officer Candace A. Carey.

In addition to Gardner’s recognition, awards will be presented to select Arkansans for heroic lifesaving actions during emergency events.

Proceeds from the event will fund local disaster relief provided to Arkansans after residential fires, floods and storms and emergency military communication.

For more information on the Arkansas Hero luncheon call (501) 748-1030 or e-mail arkansasheroes@arkansasredcross.org.