University of Arkansas Press and Bank of Fayetteville to Host Book Signing

FAYETTEVILLE, Ark. - The University of Arkansas Press and the Bank of Fayetteville will host a reception and book signing for John L. Ward, author of "Winthrop Rockefeller, Philanthropist: A Life of Change," from 5:30-7:30 p.m., Friday, June 11. The reception and book signing will be held at the Bank of Fayetteville's main branch on the historic downtown square in Fayetteville.

As grandson of oil tycoon John D. Rockefeller Sr. and son of philanthropist John D., Winthrop Rockefeller was born into one of the most affluent and influential families in the world. However, he was a nonconformist and often felt isolated from the rest of his family. He amazed many when he left the New York elite for a farm in rural Arkansas, where he ultimately served two terms as governor and created a philanthropic legacy all his own.

In this book, Ward draws from his years as Rockefeller's speech writer and campaign advisor to create a readable and comprehensive narrative. Ward provides insight into Rockefeller's complicated relationships with his father and brothers and argues that Rockefeller's innovative approach to philanthropy changed the way Arkansas was viewed by its citizens and by the rest of the world.

"Winthrop Rockefeller, Philanthropist: A Life of Change," with a foreword by

Winthrop Paul Rockefeller ($29.95), was published by the University of Arkansas Press and can be ordered through the Web site at www.uapress.com.