Education
JODIE MAHONY: CHAMPION OF EDUCATION
MARTHA GAUNT BASS: ARCHITECT BEHIND SUMMER LAUREATE
BLUEPRINTS FOR BIOGRAPHIES
FROM THE TEACHER’S DESK TO THE PRINCIPAL’S CHAIR 4 6 8 10
INSIDE THE PIPELINE: ADVANCED SUMMER PLACEMENT INSTITUTE
THE IMPACT OF THE JODIE MAHONY CENTER
THE CASE FOR A GIFTED EDUCATION CENTER 12 14 15 11
STEM MODELS FOR DEVELOPING TALENT IN ELEMENTARY SCHOOLS
PUBLISHER
UA Little Rock Jodie Mahony Center for Gifted Education
EDITOR Becca Bona
GRAPHIC DESIGNER Katie Hassell
Brooke Wallace, Publisher of Special Publications brookewallace@arktimes.com
PHOTOGRAPHER Benjamin Krain
SPECIAL THANKS TO Katherine Daniels
Talent Development at UA Little Rock
The Jodie Mahony Center for Gifted and Talented Education is a national leader in advancing gifted education. Established in 2001 and housed on the University of Arkansas at Little Rock (UA Little Rock) campus, the Center is one of only 20 of its kind in the country, making it a unique resource for the university, Little Rock and the state. Its flagship programs, Summer Laureate, the Advanced Placement Summer Institute (APSI) and the school-based STEM Starters programs, are essential to its mission of advancing and empowering Arkansas’s talented students, educators and schools.
Summer Laureate, a campus-based enrichment program, offers young scholars an environment where critical thinking and creativity thrive, fostering a love of learning that lasts a lifetime. The summer of 2024 marked the 45th anniversary of Summer Laureate’s successful delivery. The APSI also marked a milestone, celebrating its 30th anniversary, and continues to empower Arkansas educators with the tools and knowledge necessary to enhance their teaching practices and better support advanced students. These programs are more than just educational opportunities; they are life-changing experiences that leave a lasting impact on participants and the broader community, shaping the future of respective school districts and classrooms.
The Mahony Center supports students and educators beyond programming and through research. For instance, the federally funded Blueprints for Biographies continues to be a tool for teachers statewide, nationally and even overseas. Blueprints for Biographies is a curriculum tool designed to guide students through researching and writing biographies. It offers structured lessons that help students develop critical thinking, research skills, and a deeper understanding of historical and contemporary figures.
The Mahony Center’s dedication to excellence is evident in its unwavering commitment to the financial stability, innovation, and continuous improvement of its programs. By collecting and analyzing data, the Center ensures that its offerings evolve to meet the changing needs of students and educators. This focus on innovation strengthens the educational foundation of the entire community, demonstrating the Center’s effectiveness and dedication.
JODIE MAHONY CENTER FOR GIFTED EDUCATION
COLLEGE
Aligned with UA Little Rock’s desire to support the community it serves, the Mahony Center is a vital resource for the city, state and region. Its work extends beyond the classroom, contributing to the university’s mission to engage with the Arkansas community. The success stories of those who have participated in the Center’s programs underscore its profound influence, as many have gone on to achieve significant accomplishments in their fields. This special section honors the Jodie Mahony Center’s enduring legacy and critical role in positioning Arkansas as a leader in gifted and talented education.
JODIE MAHONY: Champion of Education
The Lifelong Dedication of an Arkansas Trailblazer
By Becca Bona
Jodie Mahony was a dedicated public servant whose work left a mark on Arkansas, particularly in education. His life and career exemplify the power of commitment and the lasting impact of visionary leadership.
Mahony was a lifelong Arkansan, born in El Dorado in 1939. His family always emphasized the importance of public service when he was young, and he kept this at the forefront of his mind when he pursued higher education at the University of Arkansas. He earned a bachelor’s degree in business administration in 1961 and a law degree in 1963. His time at the university was marked by a solid academic record and a growing interest in public policy, which would later define his professional life and advocacy for education.
LEGISLATIVE CAREER AND EDUCATIONAL ADVOCACY
Mahony’s legislative career started in 1971 when he was elected to the Arkansas House of Representatives. Over the next three decades, he became a stalwart advocate for education reform, criminal justice and economic development. His colleagues frequently called him a “legislator’s legislator,” a testament to his deep understanding of the legislative process and ability to craft effective laws.
Among his numerous legislative achievements, Mahony’s contributions to education stand out. He played a pivotal role in increasing funding for public schools, improving teacher salaries and enhancing educational standards across Arkansas. His son, Jodie Mahony III said, “I was grateful that education was his passion, especially in Arkansas. Somebody needed to champion it. [...] I’m glad he picked up the baton and ran with it. I’m proud of it – nobody wanted to do it and it was hard.”
His passion for education was notably manifested in the establishment of the Jodie Mahony Center for Gifted Education at the University of Arkansas at Little Rock (UA Little Rock). This center has since become an essential resource, providing programs and services to support gifted students, educators and families. Jodie Mahony III considers this incredibly apt. “Education had been my father’s passion for a long time,” he said. “He was basically behind it from the start.”
Dr. Ann Robinson, the founding director of the center, remembered meeting Mahony in a legislative capacity many years ago. She was impressed with his concern for challenging and demonstrably effective education, and his drive to ensure that it was available to all, including advanced students.
Jodie Mahony, Official portrait of Arkansas state senator Joseph Kirby “Jodie” Mahony.
“Arkansas had enlightened education policy early on,” Dr. Robinson said. “It was largely because Mr. Mahony was involved in writing the initial policy for Advanced Placement. That’s why the center is named after him. The center was initially established through a federal grant supporting Advanced Placement. Then I realized the center needed to serve students from K through college. We needed a center to support a vibrant research program to ensure our models and services were based on evidence.”
The Jodie Mahony Center offers a range of initiatives to nurture talent and support gifted children’s educational needs. Through its research and service projects, it supports graduate programs for those interested in teaching talented youth and assuming leadership roles in gifted education. The center also serves as a vital community resource for talent development. The center is an ecosystem in and of itself that develops talents at all levels.
LEGACY AND IMPACT: BEYOND THE LEGISLATURE
Mahony’s legacy extends far beyond his legislative achievements in education. His work in criminal justice reform and economic development also had significant, lasting impacts across the state. He was able to successfully navigate complex political landscapes, largely because he was willing to listen to different perspectives with the goal of building and finding common ground.
One of Mahony’s most notable contributions to criminal justice reform was his advocacy for alternative sentencing and rehabilitation programs. He recognized that a one-size-fits-all approach to justice was ineffective and pushed for policies that addressed the root causes of crime, such as poverty and lack of education. His efforts led to the implementation of programs that have helped reduce recidivism rates and provided individuals with the tools they need to reintegrate into society.
In the economic development realm, Mahony was a strong proponent of initiatives that promoted job creation. He considered a robust economy one in which all Arkansans could thrive and improve their quality of life. His efforts included advocating for infrastructure improvements, supporting small businesses and attracting new industries to the state.
Beyond his professional accomplishments, Mahony was known for his dedication to his family and community. He was a loving husband to Bettie Mahony and a devoted father to sons Jodie III and Michael. His personal and professional lives were guided by principles of integrity, compassion and a desire to make a positive impact. Mahony’s commitment to his community extended beyond his legislative work. He was actively involved in various local organizations and initiatives, always looking for ways to give back and support those in need.
Jodie Mahony passed away on December 5, 2009, but his legacy lives on. The Jodie Mahony Center for Gifted Education continues to honor his memory by nurturing young people’s talents and preparing them for future success. “The focus of dad’s legislative career was public education in Arkansas – giving opportunities to excel for all children from preschool through college, including gifted programs in elementary school, AP classes in high school, and access to STEM programs throughout,” said Mahony’s son Michael. “It was his passion and he would love what Ann and everyone at the Mahony Center continue to do, providing these opportunities so vital to the children of Arkansas.” Jodie Mahony III echoed these thoughts: “My dad did a great job and it needed doing. He certainly gained a lot of respect here and nationally for Arkansas. That’s a good thing.”
I was grateful that education was his passion, especially in Arkansas. Somebody needed to champion it. [...] I’m glad he picked up the baton and ran with it. I’m proud of it – nobody wanted to do it and it was hard.”
JODIE MAHONY CENTER FOR GIFTED EDUCATION COLLEGE OF HUMANITIES, ARTS, SOCIAL SCIENCES, AND EDUCATION
Sources: encyclopediaofarkansas.net/entries/joseph-kirby-jodie-mahony-12332
Jodie Mahony III at the Advanced Placement Institute Luncheon.
MARTHA GAUNT BASS: Architect Behind Summer Laureate
I nspiring Generations Through Education and Vision
By Becca Bona
Students form the Summer Laureate program testing out their kills.
Martha Gaunt Bass, born in 1924, was a visionary educator whose enduring legacy continues to shape the lives of countless young minds through the Summer Laureate program housed at UA Little Rock. Her passion for education and commitment to nurturing gifted and talented students laid the foundation for a program that has become a beacon of opportunity, creativity and academic excellence.
She dedicated her life to education, believing deeply in the potential of every child, particularly those whose talents and abilities needed nurturing beyond the traditional classroom. This belief drove her to collaborate with fellow teacher, Marcia Imbeau, and Principal Donna Davis, to design and implement Summer Laureate as their masters capstone project in 1979.
“She was a teacher’s teacher,” Dr. Ann Robinson, director of the Jodie Mahony Center for Gifted Education, said. “She managed to engage the children in interesting ways. They were learning and loving it, even in the program’s early days.”
Bass’ drive to learn started early on, during her teen years and way before she made her way to a graduate classroom. “My mother, Martha Gaunt Bass, was the smartest person I’ve ever known. She graduated as high school valedictorian at age 15 (she skipped two grades) and valedictorian of Little Rock Junior College at age 17,” said her son, Kelley Bass, CEO of Little Rock’s Museum of Discovery. Even when she married at 19, she kept her eyes on her main goal: education. “Three kids later she went back to Little Rock University and completed her bachelor’s degree at age 44 — again as valedictorian. She never made anything but A’s in her academic career,” Kelley added.
Her graduate research focused on creating a summer program to provide advanced learning opportunities for gifted children in grades K-8. Through this initiative, she aimed to challenge students academically and creatively, encouraging them to explore their interests and talents in a supportive and stimulating environment. “It’s amazing that we have gotten to 45 years with marginal tweaking,” Dr. Robinson said. “It’s a very good program and we’ve kept the bones, although we have stepped out and tried new
things. We had to pivot to an online platform during the 2020-21 COVID landscape.”
The Summer Laureate program stands as one of Bass’ most significant accomplishments. Recognizing that gifted children often require a unique educational environment to thrive, she worked to bring her research to life, transforming it into a real-world opportunity for young learners. Her work focused on academic achievement but also on fostering a love of learning, creativity and critical thinking in young people who would go on to become local, state and regional leaders. Many Summer Laureate graduates would make meaningful contributions to society.
“From my perspective, the amount of choice that students have is what sets Summer Laureate apart. They have a main course known as home base and a second course known as discovery. This gives them two scoops of ice cream, so to speak,” Dr. Robinson said. Plus, the on-campus aspect gives students a chance to become a lifelong learner at an early age: “The university has an important role to play by engaging students at a young age. This is an integral broad sweep of talent development,” Dr. Robinson added.
In recognition of her remarkable contributions, an endowed fund in Bass’ name was established at UA Little Rock in 2000. This endowment ensures that her legacy continues, offering financial assistance to students who wish to participate in the Summer Laureate program but might otherwise be unable to attend. The fund reflects Bass’ lifelong dedication to education and her belief in providing opportunities for all students, regardless of their financial background, to pursue their academic passions.
“From within the classroom to her time as a state administrator of gifted and talented education, she believed in the transformative power of knowledge,” Kelley Bass said. Generations of educators have been inspired by Bass’ work, which continues to serve as a model for supporting and nurturing the unique talents of gifted children. The scholarship that bears Bass’ name is a testament to her enduring impact, ensuring that her commitment to education and the development of young minds will continue to inspire and empower future generations. Her legacy provides reassurance and confidence in the future of education.
ON BEING AN ATTENDEE, VOLUNTEER, AND UA LITTLE ROCK ALUM:
She was always proud of the program and her connection with the University. Her children and grandchildren feel the same pride." Judge Ellen Brantley.
Scan here to donate to the Martha Gaunt Bass Scholarship Fund.
“I was a rising 5th grader with Asperger’s. The staff at Summer Laureate saw me as “twice gifted” and I felt I really belonged for the first time in my life. It has been a ray of sunshine every year. I grew so much at Summer Laureate that I attended every summer since then for the last 21 years. My volunteer work led to becoming a Mahony Center student assistant while I earned my Bachelor's degree at UA Little Rock. From a rising 5th grader to a rising businesswoman (and business owner), the staff and programs of the Mahony Center have guided and encouraged me in my journey to serve and give back to the community that has given so much to me.” Emily Brown, occupational therapist, owner and clinical director of Joyous OT.
BLUEPRINTS FOR BIOGRAPHIES: Inspiring Young Minds through Life Stories
Educational Innovation from the Jodie Mahony Center for Gifted Education
By Becca Bona
The Jodie Mahony Center for Gifted Education is one of 20 centers across the U.S. striving to advance gifted education and the development of talents. It’s a prestigious entity that is able to support programming and other efforts to complement the university’s graduate programs in Gifted, Creative, and Talented Education. One of the most original initiatives includes Blueprints for Biographies. Designed to make biographies engaging and educational, the Blueprints for Biographies curriculum is the brainchild of Dr. Ann Robinson, a distinguished educator and founding director of the center.
The blueprints are instructional guides accompanying children’s biographies, turning them into comprehensive learning experiences. These guides provide a structured yet flexible plan that educators can use to inspire their students, ultimately fostering a love for reading, an appreciation for history and a framework for critical thinking. They can also take on a life of their own. Since their inception, the guides have received notable acclaim far beyond Arkansas, gained traction across the U.S., and even entered international classrooms.
THE ORIGIN OF BLUEPRINTS FOR BIOGRAPHIES
Dr. Ann Robinson, who has dedicated her career to the development of academic talent, conceived Blueprints for Biographies out of her deep love for reading biographies, a pastime she picked up during her graduate studies at Purdue University. According to Dr. Robinson, a good biography combines compelling storytelling with an analytic stance. “You enjoy biography–some biographies are very exciting, but they also make you think and reflect in a powerful way whether you are similar to the person about whom you are reading or very different from the person in the biography. You get the best of both worlds.” Around the time she came up with the idea for the guides, Dr. Robinson noticed a shift in biographies written for children — they were more diverse, engaging and realistic. This evolution in the genre made them ideal for classroom use, but Dr. Robinson recognized that teachers needed more than just good books — they needed creative and supportive instructional materials linked to a specific trade book biography found in a library or a bookstore.
Thus, Blueprints for Biographies was born. Dr. Robinson envisioned a blueprint as a two-dimensional plan for a three-dimensional object rich in visual and textual elements. These blueprints include a wealth of supplementary materials such as portraits, artifacts, maps and primary source documents. These materials make the guides three-dimensional and provide a richer, more immersive learning experience. Students connect with the historical figures they are reading about on a deeper level, fostering empathy and understanding. The process of identifying a biography and a subject to become a full-fledged guide is rigorous. Dr. Robinson and her team constantly browse bookstores, libraries and online platforms to find biographies that meet her criteria. She looks for books with literary merit, compelling stories, rich information and cultural sustainability. The field of study is also essential. Notable figures are often chosen from the STEM and the Arts fields, as technical details can enhance the learning experience. Additionally, the biographies should maintain a high level of accuracy. Researching each notable figure and developing a new guide is a challenging task made possible by federal funding and her team, including Dr. Christine Deitz.
Top: Example cover and pages form Blueprints for Biographies, Raye Montague. Bottom: Teacher teaching using the FACE portrait analysis tool with students.
The Girl with a Mind for Math: TheStory of Raye Montague
Blueprint developed by: Christine Deitz Kristy Kidd Ann Robinson
BLUEPRINTS FOR BIOGRAPHY
RESEARCHING THE STORYTELLER: DR. CHRISTINE DEITZ’S CONTRIBUTIONS TO BLUEPRINTS
Dr. Christine Dietz, associate director of the Center, has been a driving force behind the success of the Blueprints for Biographies curriculum at the Jodie Mahony Center for Gifted Education up until her retirement in 2024. Her dedication stems from her passion for education and her belief in the power of biographies to inspire and educate young minds.
“The purpose of the blueprints is to make the book come alive,” Dr. Deitz said. “A good blueprint will make the person come alive for the young reader.” As detailed above, the blueprint transforms the learning experience beyond reading a text. Each blueprint includes various activities, such as portrait analysis and writing prompts that encourage students to think critically and creatively about the innovative people they are studying.
One of the critical aspects of the blueprints is their ability to offer young students the ability to see what it can look like to work through a challenge. “A well-written biography shows the struggles and successes in a notable figure’s life,” she explained. “Young, brilliant minds need to know what to do when they bump up against an obstacle, or if they have a particular passion about something as a child, what it might look like when they’re an adult.” This approach teaches students about history and provides them with valuable life lessons that they can apply to their own experiences in the present and the future.
The impact of the Blueprints for Biographies program has been significant from both an educator and student perspective. “The teachers will tell you it has become a fan favorite,” Dr. Dietz said. “They can’t wait to teach their Blueprints yearly because the kids love it. They love teaching it, and the kids love learning it.”
Creating a Blueprint takes time, effort, and endless research, and in its entirety, it takes six to nine months to complete. “My written contribution includes the basic Blueprints guide to the selected children’s biography, covering the following elements: background on the subject, an overview of the book, questions to consider before and during reading (Before the Book and By the Book questions), reflective questions for exploring talent development (Beyond the Book questions), persuasive and point-of-view writing prompts, a portrait study, and a document study,” Dr. Deitz said.
To gain a comprehensive picture of the notable figure in the biography, Dr. Dietz strives to find primary sources and even works to conduct personal interviews when she can. For example, when working on the Blueprint for the Biography of Raye Montague, Dr. Dietz interviewed Montague’s son and even examined family photographs and personal papers. “There’s a lot of extra information piled into those Blueprints,” she explained, emphasizing the depth and richness of the resources provided to teachers.
After her part is complete, Dr. Deitz hands off her portion of the work to Dr. Monica Meadows, who then writes the engineering challenge section and the computer science section. The challenge/hands-on section completes the Blueprint for the STEM series. Funding for the Blueprints for Biographies program is supported by federal grants, specifically a series of three Jacob K. Javits grants, which were awarded for innovative research on gifted programs and services in schools. During the grant period, the Blueprints are distributed to teachers involved in the project for field-testing and feedback. Once the grant ends, the blueprints are made available for purchase at a modest price, and Dr. Deitz noted that many teachers are quick to purchase them.
“We want them available and in the classrooms,” Dr. Dietz said, reflecting the center’s commitment to the guide’s accessibility for as many interested parties — educators and students alike — as possible. The funds generated from these sales help sustain the curriculum development and field-testing and ensure that the Blueprints continue to be a valuable resource for educators.
The Mahony Center team receiving a professional learning award from the National Association for Gifted Children. Left to right: Dr. Christine Deitz, Dr. Monica Meadows, Chair, Professional Learning Network, National Association for Gifted Children, and Dr. Kimberly Stephenson, Chair, Professional Learning Network, National Association for Gifted Children.
Example cover and pages form Blueprints for Biographies, Hedy Lamarr.
INSIDE THE PIPELINE: Advanced Summer Placement Institute
Celebrating 30 Years of Leadership and Impact
By Becca Bona
The Advanced Placement (AP) Summer Institute (APSI) at UA Little Rock, a beacon of educational development in Arkansas, has firmly established the university as a leader in fostering academic excellence and retaining talent within the state. The APSI offers professional development for AP teachers, equipping them with strategies and resources to enhance student success in AP courses.
“Our collaboration with the Mahony Center, particularly through Summer Laureate and APSI, underscores UA Little Rock’s commitment to impactful education,” said Dr. Sarah Beth Estes, Dean of the College of Humanities, Art, Social Sciences and Education at UA Little Rock. “By working together, we’ve not only strengthened these programs, but also provided invaluable opportunities for students and educators across Arkansas to engage in innovative learning experiences that extend far beyond the classroom.”
Lori Delk, Advanced Placement Professional Development Associate at UA Little Rock’s Jodie Mahony Center, brings her 27 years of experience as an AP teacher to overseeing the UA Little Rock APSI. Her background allows her to understand firsthand what educators need from these sessions, making her an invaluable asset in ensuring the program’s continued success. “The overall goal is to increase
the rigor in Arkansas classrooms by helping teachers understand how to help their students be successful on AP Exams,” Delk said. This focus on rigor is not just about passing exams; it’s about equipping educators to teach students critical thinking and writing skills that will serve them throughout their academic and professional careers.
The APSI’s impact extends beyond the teachers and students who participate. The institute is instrumental in creating a pipeline of well-prepared educators who can deliver challenging and engaging coursework by providing high-quality professional learning. This ultimately helps to keep talented individuals in Arkansas, contributing to the state’s educational and economic vitality. “The teachers’ confidence, in turn, leads to the students’ confidence and willingness to push themselves beyond the basics,” Delk said, underscoring the ripple effect that welltrained educators can have on their students.
Participants of the APSI benefit from the expertise of College Board-endorsed consultants who bring a wealth of experience to the program. These consultants often grade AP Exams, giving them unique insights into what students need to succeed. Delk shared a recent participant’s feedback: “The workshop was so much fun and so beneficial. I learned a lot to use this year!” This kind of feedback is com-
mon, with many teachers finding the institute to be a transformative experience that improves their teaching and boosts their confidence in delivering AP content and coursework.
The APSI’s importance is particularly significant in a state like Arkansas, where access to high-quality education is crucial for both individual and statewide success. By supporting teachers in offering a broader range of AP courses, from the more traditional subjects like AP U.S. History and AP Calculus to less common but equally impactful ones like AP Environmental Science and AP Human Geography, the institute helps to ensure that students across Arkansas have access to challenging, college-level coursework.
Looking to the future, Deborah Cook, Assistant Director of APSI envisions continued growth for the APSI, with a focus on increasing the number of Arkansas teachers who attend each year. The program is already seeing a return to pre-pandemic participation levels and has expanded its course offerings, which bodes well for its ongoing impact on the state’s education system. “The best thing for students is for them to have more choices of AP courses to take,” Delk said.
The APSI at UA Little Rock is more than just a teacher professional learning program; it is a critical component of the state’s educational ecosystem, fostering a culture of excellence that benefits students, teachers and the broader community. As the institute continues to grow and evolve, it will undoubtedly remain a vital resource for Arkansas educators, helping to shape the future of education in the state.
For more information about the APSI and to explore opportunities for participation, educators are encouraged to visit the UA Little Rock website: ualr.edu/apsi.
Celebrating 30 years of Advanced Placement Summer Institutes.
Back row left to right: Monica Meadows (UA Little Rock), Lupe Pena de Martinez (ADE), Amanda Peebles (ADE), Theda Mahony, Rachel Eells (UA Little Rock), Lori Delk (UA Little Rock), Prince Beasley (UA Little Rock). Front ow left to right: Deborah Cook (UA Little Rock), Former Speaker Bill Stovall, Jodie Mahony III, Krystal Nail (ADE), Ann Robinson (UA Little Rock), Lisa Meadows (Jacksonville North Pulaski School graduate).
Scan here to visit the Advanced Placement Summer Institute page.
THE IMPACT OF THE JODIE MAHONY CENTER on Local School District Cabot: A Case Study
By Becca Bona
The Jodie Mahony Center for Gifted Education is integral to the university, but also to the local and regional community as a whole. “The most significant impact of the Mahony Center on our university and community is its unwavering dedication to cultivating talent and fostering leadership,” said Dr. Ann Bain, the Executive Vice Chancellor for Academic Affairs and Provost and chief academic officer. “Through its programs, the Center has not only enriched the lives of countless students and educators, but has also positioned UA Little Rock as a leader in gifted education. The Center's influence extends far beyond the classroom, contributing to the cultural and intellectual vibrancy of our community.”
The Cabot School District has seen the impact of the Mahony Center firsthand, making an apt case study. Its federally funded STEM programs, a unique feature of the Center, have been instrumental in this transformation. These programs, made possible through the Mahony Center’s involvement in the Javits grant, have extended its influence and left a lasting impact.
According to Cabot School District Assistant Superintendent Aaron Randolph, “The participation in the current Javits grant has allowed the Mahony Center to expand beyond supporting gifted education and Advanced Placement programs in our state. The grant-funded programs placed Dr. Ann Robinson and her colleagues in contact with far more general education teachers in our state. This allowed people from all over Arkansas to know more about and benefit from the Mahony Center, its work and its legacy.”
These engineering science-focused units, Engineering is Elementary and Youth Engineering Solutions, have introduced hands-on STEM activities integrated with literacy, providing students with a comprehensive educational experience. Teachers in the Cabot School District now feel more confident in implementing project-based learning, a testament to the Mahony Center’s commitment to enhancing educational practices. “Our students have really enjoyed getting to participate in the hands-on activities, which are part of these units,” Randolph said. “In addition, our staff have loved the Professional Learning offered by this program. Mrs. Kristy Kidd is a name still spoken with great love and appreciation by the participating teachers in our district. The literacy side of these interdisciplinary units has also allowed our students to learn more about historical figures and their work in the STEM fields.”
The combination of hands-on learning and professional learning offered by the Mahony Center has created a lasting impact on both students and educators in Cabot. These programs have fostered critical thinking, problem-solving skills and a deeper understanding of the contributions of historical figures in STEM. This long-term impact justifies the continued investment in the Mahony Center’s programs.
The broader impact of these programs on the educational community in Cabot is evident. “I believe this program has helped educators in our district have a better understanding of what defines giftedness in our state,” Randolph said. “Additionally, I think our participating teachers feel much more confident in providing Project Based Learning opportunities for their students.”
This increased confidence among educators has led to a more dynamic and effective learning environment, allowing students to thrive.
Looking ahead, Randolph envisions a continued partnership between the Cabot School District and the Mahony Center, with hopes for sustained federal funding. “So long as the Javits funding continues to be allocated at the federal level, I believe that Dr. Robinson and her team will continue to pursue those funds for the betterment of students and teachers in our state,” Randolph said. “Rightfully so, Dr. Robinson is incredibly well respected in Arkansas and nationwide. I do not doubt that she will continue to advocate for gifted education in whatever way she can.”
Randolph emphasizes the importance of continued investment in these programs, as they are essential for preparing students to meet the demands of a rapidly changing world. The students of today will likely have jobs of tomorrow, and it’s up to educators to stay on top of the trends. “We must have educational programs that train students to think critically and creatively. The ability to solve problems and the tenacity to work hard through adversity are skills which need to be promoted in our schools,” Randolph said. “Programs such as those created by the Mahony Center provide our educators with easily used templates by which they can teach our students those skills. We need to continue investing in programs like these and solid literacy instruction to best prepare our students for the future.”
Randolph concludes with high praise for Robinson, whose leadership has been instrumental in the Mahony Center’s success. “Dr. Ann Robinson is truly a national treasure. We are incredibly blessed in our state to have someone as well respected as Dr. Ann. She has been a mentor of mine and a trusted colleague for well over a decade. I know the impact she directly has had on hundreds, if not thousands, of educators in our state and indirectly on tens of thousands of students. The Mahony Center and its programs have played a huge role in my life and my children’s lives.”
THE NEED FOR A GIFTED EDUCATION CENTER A Vision for Leadership and Enduring Educational Excellence
By Becca Bona
In the heart of Arkansas, at the University of Arkansas at Little Rock, the Jodie Mahony Center for Gifted Education stands as a beacon of innovation and excellence. The establishment of this Center was not merely a response to a need but a visionary move to ensure the sustainability and growth of programs that nurture the brightest minds in the state. Founding Director Dr. Ann Robinson, who has been instrumental in the Center’s development, sheds light on why it was imperative to create such an entity.
The origins of the Mahony Center are deeply intertwined with the history of its individual programs, but a center differs from a collection of programs. Early efforts at UA Little Rock included graduate programs for preparing teachers for specialized roles and then Summer Laureate which provided a well-defined field placement for teachers to hone their craft in a campus environment. These were critical building blocks to a gifted education initiative at the university. Later on, grants from the Rockefeller Foundation and the US Department of Education were secured to develop and field-test innovative services like an after school math program for accelerated mathematics students and STEM talent development programs in elementary schools. UA Little Rock faculty and staff began to partner with the state to provide teacher professional learning through AP Summer Institutes for teachers. How the research studies on talent development and the community outreach programs to children, adolescents and teachers could fit together coherently was a big question.
“We needed a plan, and we needed the support of the university leadership. We got both," Robinson noted. “We continue to receive support and enthusiasm from the university leadership. Across the nation, many of my colleagues in Gifted, Creative, and Talented Education are not so fortunate to have the decades-long administrative support we have at UA Little Rock.” As successful as Summer Laureate was in the early days, it became clear that running such a program on a financial shoestring was not sustainable in the long term. The realization that a more robust organizational structure was necessary led to the creation of the Jodie Mahony Center. “To run any program sustainably, you must have an organizational structure that will ensure longevity and continuity,” Dr. Robinson said. The Center was envisioned as more than a hub for children’s enrichment and acceleration programs; it was a comprehensive entity encompassing students, teachers and schools, guided by clear goals and a shared vision.
The Mahony Center’s establishment allowed for the consolidation of various programs under one roof, providing financial stability and enabling the pursuit of federal funding for rigorous research and evaluation. This move from an office providing campus-based programs for children and adolescents to a center was supported by key figures like former UA Little Rock Chancellor Charles Hathaway, who understood the importance of creating a lasting legacy in gifted education. The Center was named after Jodie Mahony, a prominent figure from El Dorado, Arkansas, whose contributions to education policy at the state level were instrumental in laying the groundwork for the Center’s success.
Dr. Ann Bain is the Executive Vice Chancellor for Academic Affairs and Provost and chief academic officer said of the Center and Summer Laureate University for Youth: “"The Mahony Center has been the driving force behind the sustained success and growth of the Summer Laureate program over the past 45 years. Its commitment to innovation and excellence has allowed the program to evolve while maintaining the core values that make it unique. The Center has provided the resources, leadership, and vision necessary to expand the program’s reach and ensure that it contin-
Dr. Ann Robinson Speaks at the Advanced Placement Summer Institutes. Luncheon.
ues to serve as a model for gifted education both in Arkansas and beyond."
One of the Center’s most significant achievements has been developing original curriculum for students and teachers, particularly in the realm of children’s trade biography. By introducing students to the lives of notable figures — be they inventors, scientists or artists — the Center has fostered a deeper understanding of the impact these individuals have had on society. Dr. Robinson noted the power that biographies have to bring notable figures alive, creating an engaging environment for student learners.
The Jodie Mahony Center has played a crucial role in ensuring that programs like Summer Laureate are accessible to all students, irrespective of their financial situation. “We never want a child to wonder, ‘Will I get to go to Summer Laureate next year?’” Dr. Robinson said. The establishment of the Mahony Center has secured these opportunities for future generations, ensuring that no child is left behind due to financial constraints.
The Jodie Mahony Center’s role at UA Little Rock is pivotal, not only because of its location in the state capital but also because it embodies the university’s commitment to community engagement and educational excellence. By housing the Center at UA Little Rock, the university plays a vital role in developing young talent, fostering a lifelong love of learning, and positioning itself as a leader in gifted education. The Center’s work is more than just an educational initiative; it is a catalyst for innovation, ensuring that Arkansas’s brightest minds have the opportunities they need to thrive.
Through the Center, UA Little Rock has become a vital force in shaping the future of education, providing a stable foundation for programs that inspire and nurture the state’s most talented students. As Dr. Robinson aptly said, the Center is “a life-changing entity,” creating a legacy that will benefit Arkansas for future generations.
ON VOLUNTEERING:
“I had gone to Summer Laureate from a really young age, it had kind of just been part of my summer plans since I was young so whenever they asked me to volunteer I was fully onboard. Both years I volunteered I worked specifically with the Kindergartners so I got to be a lot more involved and I got to directly interact with the kids. It actually was one of the main factors that contributed to me pursuing an education degree in college. I realized that I really loved helping to teach and being able to help students grow! I think it’s a really good program that takes learning out of the kind of rigid confines of school curriculum and really promotes a love of learning in students!” - Emma Jackson, former Summer Laureate volunteer
Kids dive into a day of hands-on learning and creativity during the Summer Laureate program at UA Little Rock, exploring various activities designed to inspire and challenge young minds. Dr. Sarah Beth Estes, dean of the College of Humanities, Arts, Social Sciences, and Education, shares a joyful moment with students as they celebrate their achievements with a special treat.
FROM THE TEACHER’S DESK TO THE PRINCIPAL’S CHAIR: LEADING SUMMER LAUREATE
Jackson’s Journey Guiding and Shaping Young Minds
By Becca Bona
During her graduate studies, Susan Jackson first signed on with the Summer Laureate program in 1998. Originally from El Dorado, Jackson began her studies in gifted education at the University of Arkansas at Fayetteville before finding her way to the UA Little Rock Mahony Center for Gifted Education, where she deepened her expertise.
What started as a requirement for her degree evolved into a lifelong passion for gifted education. “I started with Summer Laureate the year I was doing my graduate work,” Jackson recalled. “It used to be part of my graduate program.” After completing her teaching unit, she was invited back the following year and compensated for her work, beginning a long and meaningful relationship with the program.
Over the years, Jackson’s involvement with Summer Laureate grew in scope and significance. After taking a brief hiatus following the birth of her daughter in 2002, she returned to Summer Laureate, this time helping to launch and lead the kindergarten side of the program. “When [my daughter] was in pre-K, they called and asked if I could come and help with the new kindergarten program. I said, OK, I can do that,” she said, reflecting on how Summer Laureate allowed her to balance her roles as both a mother and an educator.
Jackson’s dedication to Summer Laureate didn’t stop there. She took on more responsibilities, including leading the charge on interviews — an extra step to ensure that those who signed up were a good fit for the program. “We wanted to make sure it was appropriate for them,” she explained. “We considered reading level and math ability, as well as their social capabilities and whether they would be all right in a fast-paced environment away from their guardians.” Jackson’s role expanded further when she became a program assistant, responsible for ensuring that teachers had everything they needed to create a thriving learning environment. From creating a basic teaching kit to finding particular items for themed classes, Jackson processed and ordered it all. “It’s a total team effort,” she said, “it is not just one person.”
Her leadership qualities and deep understanding of the program were the catalysts for priming her to take on principal duties. She spent a year learning under Dr. Christine Dietz, then the associate director of the Mahony Center for Gifted Education. The following year, during the summer of 2024, she was principal again, but she had to forge ahead mentored by Dr. Monica Meadows in program operations and by Dr. Ann Robinson in leadership strategies as Dr. Dietz retired earlier in the school year.
“I didn’t know what I didn’t know,” she said, reflecting on the past summer. “We sure learned a lot this year.” Regardless of any minor bumps in the road, Jackson successfully managed the program, highlighting the collaborative spirit that is central to Summer Laureate’s success.
One of the most rewarding aspects of Jackson’s involvement with Summer Laureate is her impact on others, both students and fellow teachers. Over the years, she recruited several of her Little Rock School District colleagues to join the program. “I have pulled many of my teacher friends into Summer Laureate,” she said, laughing. “I have sucked them in.”
Her enthusiasm for the program was infectious, and she took pride in explaining the unique opportunities Summer Laureate offered. “It’s a summer program for advanced students — you get to do stuff different than in the regular classroom. You get to pick your unit for whatever you want to teach,” she said. Her passion for the program influenced her peers and inspired her
students. “I try to sell it to the kids, too, just like the adults,” she added, emphasizing the program’s appeal to students eager to explore new subjects in a hands-on, creative environment.
Jackson’s involvement with Summer Laureate also had a lasting impact on her own children. They grew up with the program, eventually volunteering as student helpers. “Both of them came and volunteered after,” she said. “We have student helpers in the summer — high school kids. We really want alumni who know how it runs.” The program gave her children valuable experiences and a sense of community beyond the classroom.
The success of Summer Laureate, even during the challenges of the COVID-19 pandemic, was a testament to Jackson’s dedication and adaptability. She played a key role in transitioning the program to a virtual format, ensuring that students continued to receive the supplies they needed for their classes. “We did everything virtual during COVID. I still gathered the supplies, we still needed some administrative support,” she explained.
Jackson’s two-and-a-half-long decades of involvement with Summer Laureate is a testament to her dedication to gifted education and a reflection of the program’s profound impact on the community. Summer Laureate has become a cornerstone of education in Little Rock, providing students with unique opportunities to explore their interests, develop critical thinking skills and engage in creative problem-solving.
Dr. Sarah Beth Estes, Dean of the College of Humanities, Arts, Social Sciences and Education, believes that Summer Laureate is and will continue to be a boon to the community. “The future of Summer Laureate is bright, and its role within our academic community is strong,” she said. “We are committed to supporting the program’s evolution, integrating new ideas and resources to keep it at the forefront of gifted education.”
Jackson couldn’t agree more. “I think it’s a fabulous program. I think it is such a great opportunity for kids to get to meet others and learn how to work with other people — kids, students, and even teachers with much different personalities than they might get in regular classrooms,” she said.
Susan Jackson celebrates the Summer Laureate program's lasting impact on kids and adults involved.
STEM MODELS for Developing Talent in Elementary Schools
For the past 15 years, the Mahony Center has developed innovative STEM models to encourage science, engineering, and computer science in Arkansas elementary schools. Developing an interest in STEM in the primary grades is a critical link in the talent development pathway. Beginning in 2008, Mahony Center researchers designed programs which were successfully funded by the U.S. Department of Education in highly competitive grant initiatives. STEM Starters, STEM Starters+ and the current STEM+C2 projects have impacted multiple schools, hundreds of teachers, and thousands of students. “We feel incredibly fortunate to have been funded to undertake important school intervention research with our school partners,” said Dr. Ann Robinson who serves as the Principal Investigator. “Fewer than 15 projects nationwide are funded in any given year through this particular grant competition. That we have had a decade and a half of successful Jacob K. Javits grant innovation is truly an achievement.” The models link engineering curriculum developed at the Museum of Science, Boston by Dr. Christine Cunningham and Blueprints for Biography curriculum developed at the Mahony Center to give students and teachers handson experiences, real world problems to explore, and a look into the lives of eminent engineers, inventors, and scientists. In rigorously designed research studies, the models resulted in increased student achievement and interest in STEM and biography and increased teacher knowledge in STEM and enthusiasm for using biography in the classroom.
“We have been lucky to have such a wonderful group of partner schools. The teachers and students are excited about the project and have been a joy to work with,” says Dr. Monica Meadows, STEM+C2 Technical Assistance Director. Bayou Meto in the Jacksonville North Pulaski School District is a lively example. Second graders are studying the properties of materials to design and test parachutes as part of the engineering curriculum unit, A Long Way Down. What materials and designs will be most effective? STEM+C2students have the opportunity to find out for themselves. Other engineering projects include designing a magnetic dog door which is a fan favorite with students and teachers alike.
PARTICIPATING SCHOOLS
Anne Watson Elementary - East End School District
Bayou Meto Elementary - Jacksonville North Pulaski School District
Bearden Elementary - Bearden School District
C. B. Partee Elementary - Brinkley Public Schools
Cedarville Elementary - Cedarville Public Schools
Crestwood Elementary - North Little Rock School District
Des Arc Elementary - Des Arc School District
Magness Creek Elementary - Cabot Public Schools
Malvern Elementary - Malvern School District
Otter Creek Elementary - Little Rock School District
Paris Elementary - Paris School District
Pulaski Heights Elementary - Little Rock School District
Sherwood Elementary - Pulaski County Special School District
Sonora Elementary - Springdale Public Schools
Terry Elementary - Little Rock School District
Westbrook Elementary - Harmony Grove School District
Westside Elementary - Cabot Public Schools
MAHONY CENTER IMPACT BY THE NUMBERS
Summer Laureate serves an average of children in Grades K-6 each summer
In 45 years of operation, more than 13,500 children attended Summer Laureate.
In the last 15 years, over 12,000 teachers have been served by the UA Little Rock Advanced Placement Summer Institute (APSI) for teachers.
In 2024, the UA Little Rock Advanced Placement Summer Institute (APSI) served 545 Arkansas teachers and 198 teachers from 33 other states, Puerto Rico and international locations.
In 2024, the UA Little Rock Advanced Placement Summer Institute(APSI) served teachers from US Armed Forces in Europe, Canada, Cambodia, China, Hong Kong, Malta, Pakistan, South Korea, Turkiye, and United Arab Emirates.
25 Blueprints for Biography curriculum guides have been developed.
15 Blueprints for Biography curriculum guides in the STEM Series were developed and field-tested with federal funds.
The STEM Starters model research and demonstration programs in Arkansas schools have been implemented and evaluated through 15 years of federal funding totaling $6,607,570.00.
The current STEM Starters project, STEM+C 2 , serves 20 Arkansas schools across 16 districts.
