PROFILE
By Glenda Graves | Portrait photo by Keith Branch
Laurice A. Hachem
A Legacy of Philanthropy and Community Impact
Laurice A. Hachem, a dynamic philanthropist and seasoned real estate investor, has firmly established her second home in the vibrant community of Northwest Arkansas. Although she adeptly balances her life between Rogers and the bustling city of Tampa, Florida, her love for Northwest Arkansas remains at the core of her endeavors. Laurice recently made a $1 million gift to Arkansas Children’s Northwest, underscoring her ongoing support for a community that prioritizes advanced health care options and exceptional care for its youngest members.
Born and raised in Southern California, Laurice grew up in a close-knit family of Lebanese immigrants. Her parents, who arrived in the United States in 1951, spoke only French and Arabic, navigating the challenges of a new country with determination. From an early age, Laurice was immersed in the values of hard work that her parents embodied. “My mother reinvested half of their earnings into real estate, which inspired my love for investments,” Laurice recalled.
This early exposure to strategic financial planning and investments laid a foundation for her future success in the real estate sector. Watching her mother, Nouha Ellis, transform modest resources into meaningful opportunities not only instilled in her a passion for real estate but also a deep appreciation for the impact thoughtful investment can have on a community. “She taught me the importance of hard work and investing,” Laurice said, which undoubtedly guided her throughout her career.
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Laurice’s connection to Northwest Arkansas was serendipitous. After her husband Sam’s passing, she sought a peaceful environment to heal and decompress. Her search led her to Rogers, a place she initially intended to call home for just a year. “I thought I’d stay a year, but then I didn’t want to leave,” she said, remembering the sense of peace and belonging she found in the beautiful landscape and the welcoming community.
The natural beauty of Northwest Arkansas, combined with its friendly and supportive residents, quickly captivated Laurice’s heart. Before long, she transitioned from being a visitor to becoming a pivotal figure in the Northwest Arkansas community. Her passion for real estate and community development flourished as she immersed herself in the local landscape. This connection deepened as her daughter, Mechelle Meredith-Ehardt, and son-in-law, Robert W. Ehardt, joined her in Rogers. Together, they became integral to her business operations, blending family ties with professional partnerships to create a robust and thriving enterprise.
Laurice also met Keith Roberts, and they married three years ago, further rooting her presence in the area. Today, Laurice and Keith split their time between Rogers and Tampa, where Laurice owns and manages a diverse portfolio of real estate investments across both states.
Laurice Hachem with her daughter, Mechelle Meredith-Ehardt, at the beam signing for the Arkansas Children’s Northwest expansion Dec. 5, 2024
Mechelle plays a crucial role in carrying forward the family’s vision. Working alongside her mother, Mechelle ensures that their philanthropic efforts provide tangible benefits to those they aim to help. This approach not only strengthens the foundation’s effectiveness but also ensures that the Hachem legacy of giving continues to thrive.
Laurice’s philanthropic journey has been profoundly influenced by personal loss. After losing Sam to Lewy body dementia, she became deeply invested in advancing neuroscience care and improving outcomes for patients facing neurological conditions. Her decision to donate $1 million to Mercy Hospital Northwest Arkansas for the expansion of neuroscience services was driven by a desire to enhance care and support for those battling similar challenges.
Among her notable projects is Rogers’ ONE Uptown. This commercial property, along with several others under her management, not only contributes to the economic growth of the region but also provides valuable spaces for businesses to thrive. Laurice’s strategic investments have played a significant role in shaping the commercial landscape of Northwest Arkansas.
Laurice’s philanthropic focus is deeply intertwined with her personal values and life experiences. An advocate for health- and youth-focused initiatives, she has made transformative contributions across the Northwest Arkansas region, driven by a desire to uplift and support the community. Her recent donation to ACNW is a prime example.
This gift will aid in expanding the hospital’s surgical and clinical capabilities, ensuring that high-quality pediatric care remains accessible for area families. “For me, it’s an honor and privilege to support this expansion,” Laurice said. “ACNW places children front and center, and I want to help ensure it continues to meet the needs of this growing community.”
The Sam and Laurice Hachem Foundation, established with her late husband, embodies Laurice’s passion for empowering future generations. Initially focused on supporting education, the foundation has since expanded its mission to encompass community development and health initiatives. “Our goal has always been to create lasting impacts,” Laurice said, highlighting the foundation’s commitment to making a meaningful difference.
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The foundation’s work spans a variety of sectors, ensuring that its contributions address the diverse needs of the community.
Robert Ehardt and Mechelle Meredith-Ehardt, Laurice Hachem and Keith Roberts, Allen Schmidt, and Salwa and Scott Schmidt with Laurice’s mother, Nouha Ellis, at the Around the World with St. Jude Gala on Nov. 2, 2024, in Tampa, Florida
“I’m passionate about educating others on emerging medical technologies,” Laurice explained.
One such innovation is VasSol Inc.’s advanced 3D brain imaging technology, which holds the potential to save lives by identifying blockages without the risks associated with invasive procedures. Laurice’s commitment to progress in the medical field is further exemplified by her personal sponsorship of a neurosurgeon each year to train with world-renowned Chicago neurosurgeon Dr. Fady Charbel. This initiative fosters professional development and ensures the latest advancements are integrated into patient care, particularly in the realm of neuroscience.
Additionally, Laurice has donated $1.5 million to Arkansas Athletes Outreach in Rogers, recognizing the importance of empowering young athletes and fostering their development both on and off the field. Laurice also provided $1 million toward the completion of the United States Marshals Museum in Fort Smith, supporting the preservation of important historical artifacts and enriching the cultural fabric of the region. Her support extends to organizations such as CASA of Northwest Arkansas, the Northwest Arkansas Food Bank and the Boys & Girls Club of Benton County, each receiving significant backing to help them achieve their missions and serve the community. She provided more than $1 million toward the NWAFB’s expansion.
While Laurice plans to eventually retire in Rogers, at 73 she shows no signs of slowing down. “I love what I do,” she affirmed with enthusiasm. “Real estate is my passion, and giving back is my purpose.”
Her entrepreneurial spirit, coupled with a profound sense of responsibility, continues to drive her forward. Laurice’s real estate ventures are marked by a commitment to creating spaces that benefit both businesses and the broader community. Her ability to identify and develop prime properties has not only bolstered her investment portfolio but has also contributed to the economic vitality of Northwest Arkansas.
The lessons learned from her mother have translated into a career marked by thoughtful ventures and impactful philanthropic gifts. Laurice’s ability to blend business with a genuine desire to uplift others has created a ripple effect that benefits countless individuals and organizations.
As she looks to the future, Laurice’s vision for Northwest Arkansas remains clear and focused: a community where health care services are unparalleled, where youth have access to the resources they need to thrive, and where businesses can flourish in a supportive and dynamic environment.