UAM Magazine (Summer 2019)

UAM

magazine

THE UNIVERSITY OF ARKANSAS AT MONTICELLO

Frank Wilson Distinguished Alumnus 2019

1966 A&M graduate Frank Wilson, a recognized leader in the timber industry, answers the call to serve his community and alma mater

The Steelman Legacy

Remembering Raylene Steelman and celebrating the $1.5 million gift that will transform the School of Nursing by endowing scholarships

A publication for UAM Alumni & Friends

Alumni Award Winners

Recognizing Ed Waddell, Sr., Dr. Tom Whiting and Steve Woodson for outstanding contributions to their fields and to UAM

Summer 2019

Chancellor's Message

As we celebrate the achievements of graduates and complete another academic year, we look back on the experiences that molded our new alumni.

We attract high quality students, and the support they receive from our faculty and staff ensures they will meet their goals. But, every student faces challenges to completing their program, perhaps especially those students who are the first in their families to attend college. UAM is unique in that roughly half of each freshman class is considered first-generation, aligning perfectly with our mission of offering programs to all Arkansans.

This is one of the many reasons we introduced a first-generation lapel pin at May’s commencement in Monticello, an idea from the Student Government Association. I agree with our SGA officers that the unique challenges of navigating college as a first generation student are worthy of special recognition.

We will award over 500 certificates and degrees this spring and summer on our campuses. Even more graduates of the University of Arkansas System’s eVersity received their honors at our May ceremonies. It is our hope that each of them will continue to feel connected to UAM as they move on.

Soon our new graduates will appreciate how much of their time here was shaped by the generous alumni and friends who came before them. From greatly-needed facilities to more than 700 scholarships, philanthropy has made possible much of UAM’s progress. Giving has enabled hundreds each year to continue their education, and has created an environment that fosters student success.

To our supporters, I thank you for enriching the lives of our students through your contributions. Whether it’s by paying annual alumni dues, giving toward a scholarship fund, or giving toward specific programs that interest you, the culture of giving among our alumni is something we can all be proud of. Our recent Phone-a-thon resulted in pledges of nearly $40,000 through gifts of all sizes. What an impressive collective gift from our body of alumni!

Contact We want to hear from you!

Visit UAMont.edu or contact a member of the Advancement team to update your information or share your good news.

Alumni@UAMont.edu Jeff Weaver Vice Chancellor for Advancement (870) 460-1028 Lisa Jo Ross Alumni & Development Officer (870) 460-1127 Attention Parents: If your child no longer lives at this address, let us know!

Thank you for helping us update our alumni records.

In the last year, we’ve been given two landmark gifts - from the Petersons of Dumas, featured in our last issue, and more recently, from Raylene Steelman, which you’ll read more about on page 33. These donors identified the boundless potential of our institution to continue making a difference, with their help. They recognized the unmatched value of UAM to our students and our community.

As I hope you have heard, our retention numbers are very strong - so much so that we received statewide media attention. Our efforts are resulting in improved graduation rates and increasing the number of educated Arkansans. As we look to what lies ahead for our new graduates, we also look to the future for UAM. Your gifts make it possible to serve our students through scholarships, capital improvements, and investing in the programs and resources that prepare them for success after graduation. We are positioned well to continue enriching lives of students, thanks in large part, to your support.

Gratefully, Karla Hughes, Ph.D. Professor and Chancellor

On the Cover Frank Wilson, the 2019 Distinguished Alumnus, stands at the site of Wilson Brothers Lumber in Rison, Ark., where he serves as CEO. Read more about Wilson on page 2.

Cover photo by Jeff Newton

Table of Contents Distinguished Alumnus* ............................ 2

UAM Magazine is published twice a year by UAM, the UAM Alumni Association, and the UAM Foundation Fund.

Homecoming 2018 .................................... 6

contributors

Fall 2018 Alumni Awards* ................................... 10

Ember Davis Editor (870) 460-1274 DavisEL@UAMont.edu

Oaklawn Alumni Social ...................................... 12 Upcoming Alumni Events ................................. 13

Kristin Cowling Photographer/Designer

Athletics News ...................................... 14

Jeff Newton Photographer

Campus News ...................................... 18

Casey Shaw Student Photographer

Friends We’ll Miss ...................................... 26 Alumni Association Membership ............................28 Class Notes ................................................ 30 Steelman Legacy Gift* ................................... 33

Jim Brewer Photographer Emeritus Additional photo submissions by: Brookshire Photography, Rachel Cooper, Yohei Shimozaki, News & Observer

Foundation .................. 34 *On the Cover

Fresh Look

This issue of UAM Magazine showcases the university’s new style. We will be using similar design elements, typefaces, and colors throughout all university publications to reinforce our brand. This summer, the fresh new visual identity will be reflected in updates to the university website and WeevilConnect. You’ll notice new brand elements throughout this and other official UAM communications. We are also working to include the stories that matter to you in each issue, so let us know what you’d like to see.

On social media, you’ll notice we are using a few hashtags aimed at connecting students and alumni alike.

Make use of these hashtags - you’re representing UAM! #UnitedByUAM #WeevilsUnite #UAMonticello

Connect with UAM Keep up with the university and our Alumni Association on social media

/UAMonticello /UAMonticelloAlumni @UAMonticello_ @UAMalumni @UAMonticello @UAM_Alumni

Summer 2019

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Frank Wilson 57th UAM Distinguished Alumnus

Frank (center) with sons Jeremy and Harrell stand outside the first Wilson Brothers Saw Mill office, which still operates inside Frank’s childhood home in Staves, Arkansas, about 8 miles outside of Rison.

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Growing up outside Rison, Arkansas, Frank Wilson enjoyed a humble upbringing in a wholesome, rural community. He laughs, remembering that he and his siblings had no idea they were what most people would consider “poor.” Frank’s father worked on a tree lot, and following him around as a boy was a fond childhood memory. Tragically, his father passed away when Frank was 10, a void that seems to have inspired Frank to make sure his family remains closeknit.

“I’m a very lucky individual.”

The importance of his family is clear to anyone who may meet him. If you ask Frank about himself, about his business, or even his community, you’ll hear about the Wilson family. He works with several members of the Wilson clan, and those who do not work in the timber industry are close by. The Wilson family bonds are legendary, even known across the state as the folks behind a namesake Rison event - the Wilson Brothers Barbecue. He never loses sight of the fact that this closeness is a rare quality these days and he’s quick to point out how grateful he is that in a modern age, his family remains connected. “I’m a very lucky individual,” he said.

In High School, Frank joined 4-H, which set in motion a successful academic and professional career. Perhaps inspired by his father’s work, getting involved with 4-H forestry events established a lifelong interest in the field and allowed him to develop his leadership skills. Frank gives 4-H the credit for enabling him to attend college, though Frank’s capable participation in its competitions also played a role. He earned statewide and national recognition in 4-H forestry events, a field that would remain his primary professional interest. These awards meant scholarship money, and Frank was able to consider attending college - the first in his family.

Frank pursued a degree in Forestry at UAM, then known as Arkansas A&M. “I didn’t want to be too far from home,” he said. “But also, A&M was one of the premier forestry schools, so that was very opportune.”He considered his decision to attend A&M a “no-brainer.” As an active member of the forestry club, a group still active on the UAM campus today, he was able to make connections that he maintains today. “We became a family; we still have those friendships,” he said. His collegiate training in forestry paved the way for an exceptional career in that field. After he graduated in 1966, Frank worked for an industrial forestry firm but before long, decided his home would always be Rison. He set out to start Wilson Brothers Lumber with his family in 1972, where he still serves as owner and CEO. He says he never imagined the growth it would experience. “I intended that we’d do a little bit of management, a little bit of a sawmill. Didn’t really in-

A favorite company vehicle, the Weevil log truck is a popular sight at the Wilson Brothers sawmill.

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tend to do much. As it turned out, we did a little bit of all of it,” he said. And, the Wilsons continue to do so. Frank and his family now own and operate three profitable companies in the timber realm: Wilson Brothers Lumber, Tri-W Logging, and Arkansas Forestry Management Services. He is committed to the promotion of the state’s timber industry and is actively involved in sound policy development. He is a member and past president of the Executive Committee of the Arkansas Forestry Association. His extensive professional expertise led Governor Asa Hutchinson to appoint Frank to the Arkansas Forestry Commission, of which he currently serves as chairman. Frank’s connection to the Timberlands region is undeniable.

“Serve God, and always be willing to help.”

Business success has enabled the Wilsons to give back to their community in a number of ways, and that community extends to UAM. “I’ve always felt that if you don’t make this country a better place than you found it, you haven’t accomplished anything. Most graduates will understand, eventually, exactly what they owe to their time at UAM,” he said. “I’ve been privileged to work with the college in several different ways.” Frank has served on the Board of Visitors, the UAM Foundation Fund board, and supports many university projects. He’s also a major supporter of the Rison High School scholarship, which was a way to help both his alma mater and his community’s youth. “You realize when you go to college that your high school education is very important to you as a foundation.”

-Frank Wilson

Frank makes a point to invest in Cleveland County youth, which he does by sponsoring sports teams and helping the schools. He also says that his first priority is supporting his church. He considers himself and his family to be “incredibly blessed,” and believes that his many blessings put him in a position to give back to others. Feeling this call has led Frank to foster a lifestyle of support for his community, which extends beyond Rison to the UAM campus. When pressed for a life philosophy, he did not hesitate to share a conviction that he very clearly embodies: “Serve God, and always be willing to help.”

Left: Delores (Phillips) (BSE ’69) and Frank (BSF ’66) with Judy and Dr. Jack Lassiter at the 2006 Alumni Awards Banquet. Frank received the Alumni Award for Achievement and Merit that year. Right: Delores and Frank’s yearbook photos from the Boll Weevil archives.

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4 (1) Sons Jeremy and Harrell, wife Delores, and daughter Melanie Tilley outside the new Wilson Brothers sawmill building, opened in 2017. (2) As a student, Frank (left) was active in the Forestry Club. (3) In this yearbook snapshot, Frank grins, second from right. (4) Frank and his brothers, Grady and Jewel with Gov. Asa Hutchinson at the 2017 BBQ. (5) Each December the Wilson Brothers BBQ draws hundreds from around the state.

Continuing the Weevil Tradition Frank Wilson was the first in his family to attend college, paving the way for three generations to attend Arkansas A & M and UAM. To date, 12 Wilson family members are alumni. Pictured L to R: Frank with great nephew Tyler and nephew James; son Jeremy in Weevil uniform; and Frank’s children at his son Harrell’s graduation from UAM.

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Reconnecting

HOMECOMING

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2018 Reunion Events 1 - Alumni Tea at the Trotter House

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2 - African American Alumni Reunion breakfast 3 - African-American Alumni Reunion breakfast 4 - UAM Softball Alumni Game 5 - African-American Alumni Reunion breakfast 6 - Alumni & Friends Golf Tournament

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7- Kappa Alpha Order Alumni memorial tree marker dedication 8- African-American Alumni Reunion breakfast 9- Alpha Sigma Alpha Sorority Reunion Breakfast

Start planning an event to reconnect with your group or team this fall. Contact Lisa Jo Ross (see inside front cover).

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UNITED BY UAM

NEVER SHORT ON WEEVIL SPIRIT 8 UAM Magazine

Check out page 13 for a look ahead to Homecoming 2019

Juliana Mendenhall

WEEVILS WIN

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AGAINST OKLAHOMA BAPTIST

HOMECOMING

2018 Homecoming Queen

2018 Alumni Awards

for Achievement and Merit

This award recognizes outstanding alumni who have distinguished themselves with achievement in their careers, contributions to their community or through their continued loyalty and support of the University.

Dr. Tom Whiting Dr. Tom Whiting attended UAM in 1955 and 1956, majoring in pre-med before he graduated from the University of Arkansas at Little Rock’s medical school in 1964. Dr. Whiting returned to his hometown of Gillette, Arkansas to open a family medical practice upon graduation after medical school and eventually moved to Springdale to enter into a practice with seven other doctors. In 2001, Dr. Whiting made the decision to move to Huntsville, AR and now works three days a week in small practice providing medical care to this small, rural northwest Arkansas community. He is a recent recipient of the City of Gillette’s humanitarian award.

Steve Woodson Steve Woodson graduated from UAM in 1978 with a Bachelor of Science in Forestry. He began his career in the industry by working with Price Lumber Company as a procurement forester and later moved to Potlatch. He established Woodson Incorporated in 1980 providing diverse, professional, and contract services to individuals, corporations and government agencies.

The company has offices in three cities and does business in ten states. He is a Registered Forester in Arkansas and Mississippi, a Registered Arborist in Louisiana and holds memberships in forestry and conservation associations. He is recognized in industry publications and is considered a mentor to many forestry professionals.

Woodson also established Strong Hearts, LLC, a non-profit with the mission to provide young children in Plaquemine, LA the support system they need to maximize their potential and become productive adults in their community.

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Continuing the Connection Award This award is presented to a UAM graduate who best keeps alive the connection between Arkansas A&M and UAM.

Ed Waddell Edwin “Ed� Waddell, Sr. graduated from Arkansas A&M in 1953 with a Bachelor of Science in Forestry. Upon his graduation, Waddell was hired as a district forester, averaging 687 fires a year. He started a conservation class where he taught 5th and 8th graders in 37 schools in his district about fire safety. Because of his efforts, by 1971 the average number of wildfires had decreased to 225 annually, a 57% reduction. In 1977 Waddell became the Deputy State Forester in Little Rock and in 1984 he was appointed

by Governor Bill Clinton to be the Arkansas State Forester and Director. He developed training programs, reorganized district boundaries, and streamlined the process of providing services to the districts. By the end of his tenure as director, he ensured there were professional foresters in each district. In 1994 he retired from forestry but he continues to work as a CPR and First Aid Instructor through the National Safety Council, and estimates his CPR students total more than 15,000.

New for fall 2019 - The Alumni Association is introducing the Young Alumni Achievement Award, designed to recognize achievement by recent UAM grads and former students (age 35 and younger). Nominate deserving UAM graduates for any of our alumni awards by contacting Lisa Jo Ross (see inside front cover).

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Races A DAY AT THE

The Alumni Association sponsored the annual Alumni & Friends day at Oaklawn Racetrack in Hot Springs in February, complete with a packed luncheon and plenty of fellowship.

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save the dates

Connect with fellow UAM alumni and friends at these upcoming events:

June 27

Tomatoes at the Trotter House 6:30 p.m.

July 13

UAM Athletics Round-Up (Social hosted by alumnus Don Harris) Kensington Park, Little Rock 3:30 p.m.

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1 - Chaney Raley and Jaci Oxner 2 - Linda and David Morgan 3 - Belinda Harrell and Debby Leppin 4 - Denzil Cox, Susie Pointer, Robert Pointer, Phyllis Cox, Trish Williams, Joe Williams 5 - Jonathan Bean, William Etter, Colby Cathey, Bobbie Adams 6 - A great turnout of UAM alumni and friends 7 - Sandy Funderberg, Ginger Tarver Johnson, Sandy Patrick, Linda Cope, Lynn Daniels 8 - Ann Mosley Neeley, Ramona McKinney

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UAM Alumni @ Arkansas Travelers Game Dickey-Stephens Park Gates open 6:10 p.m.

See p. 32 for more details!

August 15

UAM Athletics Fundraiser McGehee Men’s Club 5 p.m.

October 5

BBQ Cookoff & Tailgate

October 17

UAM Sports Hall of Fame

October 18

Homecoming Alumni Dinner & Awards

October 19

Reunions and Homecoming Game v. Southern Nazarene

Contact Lisa Jo Ross in Alumni Affairs for more information about these and other alumni events (see inside front cover).

Full Home Football schedule on p. 16

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ATHLETICS NEWS Introducing Athletic Director

Padraic McMeel

Padraic McMeel hit the ground running when he joined UAM as the new director of athletics. Before even arriving on campus, McMeel attended NCAA meetings on behalf of the university. Just days later, he joined the football team for their first bowl game in decades. “It was quite the introduction,” he said, “I started at an exciting time.”

He started out his college career as a student athlete but after transferring closer to home, he was encouraged to pursue athletic administration, a field he’s enjoyed ever since. Most recently, he served as deputy athletic director at Oakland University in Rochester, Michigan, where he also took on the role of interim AD. With more than 20 years in college athletics administration, mostly in NCAA Division I schools, McMeel approaches his eighth institution with new energy. “I have been interested in Division II for some time,” McMeel said. “Each campus culture is unique, and UAM has a great atmosphere, both for staff and for developing student athletes. I’m looking forward to building on our existing traditions and also making some changes to move us forward,” he said. Perhaps the most visible first step in implementing McMeel’s vision for athletics is ramping up excitement that surrounds home football games. He plans to highlight positive university activities, athletic or not, during halftime and is identifying ways to attract more visitors to campus during games.

As a student athlete, McMeel had a few encounters that made him feel less than welcome as a student, even a low priority, and that experience motivates him in the AD role. “Anytime someone comes on our campus, I hope they are almost shocked by how welcoming we are,” he told a room full of UAM staff. He sees football season as just the first of many opportunities UAM has each year to make connections to the community, which ultimately recruits students and supporters. Many alumni may not realize how many sporting events are held each year that can serve as a reason to return to campus with their families. He hopes to increase attendance for each sport.

At UAM, McMeel has found university values that directly align with his own, in particular with regard to student success, which he considers a multifaceted approach. He says it’s important to focus on the journey, not just the destination, or graduating students. He looks forward to encouraging servant leadership and enhancing the student athlete experience on campus. Padraic, his wife Ashley, daughter Logan and son Casen are happy to be back in the South and are enjoying getting settled into the Monticello community.

Supporter Spotlight: Tommy Maxwell

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Tommy Maxwell has been a vocal supporter of UAM and its athletic teams since his days as Student Government Association president. As an alumnus, he has found a number of areas on campus that are of special interest to him. A major gift from Maxwell enabled faculty and staff to establish a student success fund in 2017, which offers urgent financial assistance to students facing unanticipated burdens like a medical expense or vehicle trouble. The idea appealed to him because he knows that the fund will help prevent students from having to drop out, maybe even permanently, because of a temporary challenge. More recently, Maxwell was inspired to pledge a large gift to the UAM Sports Association after the excitement surrounding the Weevil football team’s invitation to the Corsicana Bowl.

What makes you excited about the future of UAM? Contact Jeff Weaver (inside cover) to find opportunities for involvement in areas that match your interests.

ATHLETICS

Harvey Hits 400 during Weevils Winning Streak John Harvey became head baseball coach for the Weevils in 2011, and wasted no time in building a quality program. His career as a collegiate head coach began at Henderson State, where he served six years before joining UAM. His 400th coaching career win was celebrated as the Weevils beat Oklahoma Baptist April 5. The win also came during what would ultimately be a record 18-game winning streak for the team, a definite season highlight, according to Harvey.

“It says a lot about our program that we have been able to sustain this kind of success,” he said of the ’18-’19 season. “We didn’t know what this year had in store for us because we graduated 17 players last year,” which included all but one starter. Considering the roster changes, Harvey was prepared for a rebuilding year. After some shuffling early on, the Weevils went into the regional tournament ranked 5th. They finished the season with a 34-16 record, their second consecutive regular season title, and their fourth consecutive conference championship. “Even before we knew what kind of season this would be, we talked about how much fun this team was to coach,” he said. Harvey and assistant coach Mark Jelks, who joined the staff in 2015, knew the team was full of hard workers who would be motivated to make progress. The season record makes it clear that they were right. “There’s a lot of buy-in by our players.

That’s really the key to how successful the program has been,” he said.

The team culture is one of commitment, with players taking a lot of extra effort onto themselves. Weevils earned the GAC Freshman of the Year Award for the past two years, so the word is out - these athletes are high achievers. Each of the award winners, Cade Thompson and Jordan Johnson, red-shirted for the Weevils, which Harvey sees as an indicator of effective player development. And, the team maintains balance with their academics, evidenced by a team GPA above 3.0. The quality of student the program attracts is evident. “I can’t say enough about Mark. He handles the recruiting, and obviously he’s doing a stellar job, as you can see with our athletes.” Harvey is especially excited to build on this year’s foundation, because nearly all of the starters will be returning.

Looking ahead, Harvey said, “Our expectations are high, as they should be. “We’re positioned to have the best year yet.”

Above left: John Harvey is named the Great American Conference Baseball Coach of the Year.

Above: The team celebrates at the first round of the GAC tournament.

Left: New signage at Alvy Early Softball Field was revealed Saturday, April 27, as part of Senior Day. Early coached at UAM for 39 years until his death in 2018. He still holds the state record for the most wins by any coach of college athletics. The field was dedicated Homecoming weekend 2018.

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ATHLETICS

Judy and Jack Lassiter

Indoor Practice Facility At their January meeting, the University of Arkansas Board of Trustees unanimously approved a motion by trustee Cliff Gibson to name the indoor practice facility for former chancellor Dr. Jack Lassiter and his wife Judy. Trustees approve the naming of any building in the U of A System. The building opened in 2009 during Dr. Lassiter’s tenure as UAM Chancellor (2004-2014). “I couldn’t imagine a more fitting way to recognize their contributions,” Chancellor Karla Hughes said. “UAM stands on the shoulders of people like the Lassiters who still give their time and talent to making the university the best it can be.”

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September 5 (Thursday game) - vs. Arkansas Tech - Community Night - BLACKOUT September 14 @ Harding University, Searcy, Ark. September 21 - vs. SW Oklahoma State - Parents & Families Appreciation Day September 28 @ NW Oklahoma State October 5 - vs. East Central October 12 @ SE Oklahoma State October 19 - vs. Southern Nazarene - Homecoming & Hall of Fame Recognition October 26 @ Oklahoma Baptist November 2 - vs. Henderson State - Senior Day November 9 @ Ouachita Baptist November 16 @ Southern Arkansas*

*Travel to Magnolia to cheer on the Weevils as they defend their Battle of the Timberlands title and tailgate with the Alumni Association!

Bowl Weevils On December 1 the UAM football team made their first appearance in a postseason game in 25 years. Alumni and friends joined a caravan to Corsicana, Texas to cheer on the Weevils at the Corsicana Bowl. Coach Hud Jackson and the team enjoyed greeting local elementary students on “high five Friday� before an evening pep rally. UAM fell to Emporia State 22-30, and finished the year with a record of 6-6.

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CAMPUS NEWS Coach Rusty Jones (center) was named Coach of the Year in the Ozark Region of the National Intercollegiate Rodeo Association. Jones has seen his athletes qualify for the College National Finals Rodeo in seven of his nine years at UAM, and this year is no exception.

Seniors Slayton Taylor and Whitney DeSalvo are the Ozark Region champions for team roping header and heeler, respectively. Both are ranked fourth in the nation. DeSalvo was also named the region’s Women’s All-Around Champion. Taylor and DeSalvo will compete in Casper, Wyoming this June. Events will air on ESPN 3.

AmeriCorps VISTA begins its first summer at UAM. Four AmeriCorps members, based on campus, will assist high school students in the surrounding area as they navigate the college and trade school admissions process. UAM received the VISTA grant because the southeast Arkansas region sees rates of degree-earners much lower than the national average. While the main goal is to increase the number of students in the region who pursue an education beyond high school, this is not exclusive to attending UAM. Corps members who assist students and their families will help identify any barriers that exist to applying to and attending college, in particular for first-generation college students. Their findings will help inform future UAM plans to make its own application process transparent and easy to navigate.

Senior Gabriel Lee Bass of Hot Springs Village won first place in the Jeannie Dolan Carter Collegiate Poetry Contest. Judges of the annual competition, sponsored by the Poets’ Round-table of Arkansas selected Bass for his poem “The Dove Hunt.” The contest is open to all Arkansas college students between the ages of 18-25.

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Spotlighting Success Chancellor Karla Hughes introduced two awards in 2016 as a way to recognize the efforts of faculty and staff who go above and beyond. In particular, the awards serve as a “thank you” for fostering student success and showcasing pride for the institution, respectively. Since last summer’s issue, many high-achieving individuals and teams have shown themselves worthy of the accolades.

Student Success Award

UAM Pride Award

March 2018 College Algebra Review Team

March 2018 Becky Ryburn

April 2018 Seungyeon Lee

April 2018 Mary Foster

September 2018 The Reading and Writing Reflectively Work Team

September 2018 The New Student Orientation Committee

October 2018 Tyler Harrison

October 2018 Jaime Macklin

November 2018 Marsha Clayton

November 2018 Renee Clark

January 2019 Sarah Haughenbury

January 2019 Financial Aid Office

February 2019 Shellye Byrd

February 2019 Kathy Anderson

March 2019 Melissa Wilson

March 2019 Wellness Committee

April 2019 Jennifer Miller

April 2019 Rachel Cooper

#1 LPN Program The practical nursing program at UAM College of Technology - McGehee was ranked first in the state by PracticalNursing.org. The McGehee LPN program is the only one in the state that has achieved six consecutive years of a 100% pass rate for students taking the NCLEX licensing exam.

According to PracticalNursing.org, annual program rankings are released with the intention of providing students with transparency when selecting practical and vocational nursing programs. Methodology for the program rankings involves a formula that compares current and historical pass rates for the NCLEX-PN exam at each school in Arkansas. PracticalNursing.org gives the UAM McGehee campus program a perfect rating.

Faculty Achievements Karen Hyatt, assistant professor of nursing, has been selected to serve a two-year term as a state consultant on the board of directors of the Arkansas Nursing Students’ Association.

Dr. Robert Ficklin has been named the Sturgis Professor in Forest Biology, a professorship endowed by the Roy and Christine Sturgis Charitable and Educational Trust.

Dr. Jennifer Miller, assistant professor of criminal justice, recently published her book Inside Voices, a collection of narratives from incarcerated Arkansans.

Andrew Nelson, instructor of English, was promoted to managing editor of the International Journal of Linguistics, Literature and Culture.

Dr. Matthew Olson, assistant professor of forestry, received the Arkansas Division of the Society of American Foresters Tim Ku Young Forester Award.

Jamie Palmer, Assistant Professor of Nursing, was named to the Arkansas Center for Nursing annual list of 40 Nurse Leaders Under 40 Dr. Matthew Pelkki, the George H. Clippert Endowed Chair and professor of forestry, received the Ouachita Society of American Foresters Forestry Educator Award.

Tom Richard, professor of art, was recognized as the 2018 Higher Education Educator of the Year by the Arkansas Art Educators Association.

Dr. Kate Stewart, professor of English, has authored Parchman Farm: Mississippi’s State Penitentiary in the 1930s, released this spring.

Dr. Clinton D. Young, associate professor of history, received the Robert M. Stevenson Award by the American Musicological Society for his book, Music Theater and Popular Nationalism in Spain, 1880-1930.

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CAMPUS NEWS

Change on the Horizon

Horsfall Hall Renovation Phase 2 Underway: Opened in the 1930s, the all-female residence hall recently saw a major redesign of the restrooms and laundry facilities. Now 36 bedrooms have been taken down to the studs. This fall, students will come home to a fresh, modern interior that incorporates the building’s original charm and character.

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At the annual Scholars’ Day event held April 15, Chancellor Hughes announced to high-achieving incoming freshmen and their families that another familiar brand would soon be part of the UAM campus.

Food service vendor Aramark won the latest bid to provide catering and dining services, and a major piece of that contract was continuing to enhance dining options for students. “We are extremely proud to continue our partnership with Aramark. Their team was instrumental in bringing one of the first Chick-fil-A locations of its kind to our campus last fall,” said Hughes. “We are thrilled that this year, we will build on that momentum by adding Starbucks We Proudly Serve(WPS) and a grab-and-go convenience store to a fully renovated space.”

Plans to bring a Starbucks WPS to campus initiated from student feedback. “We survey our students often, and this is one of their top requests- major brands right on campus,” Hughes said.

The two new dining options will replace the “Java City” and “Sandwich Shack” facilities located inside Taylor Library. A rendering provided by Aramark (above)

Student Feedback Brings Another Major Brand to Campus shows a cafe space that will remove a wall in the lobby of Taylor Library and add completely new finishes. The Starbucks “We Proudly Serve” location, according to Thomas Bedward, director of campus dining, means that while it is not a fully licensed franchise, its products and overall customer experience will be almost indistinguishable from a Starbucks Coffee location. The convenience store, P.O.D. (Provisions on Demand) Express will be located next to Starbucks WPS and will offer light grab-and-go meal options, snacks, and beverages.

campus, because we’re a good investment. And with Aramark, we can continue to invest in our students.” Bedward says they plan to have both new dining options open for the fall semester.

While the Starbucks WPS and P.O.D. Express will not be adjacent to a parking lot like Chick-fil-A, it will be open to the public. The excitement from the Monticello community comes close to matching that of the student body.

Hours are expected to be extended during home football game weekends for family and alumni based on interest.

“Prospective students expect to see a number of dining options, including familiar brands,” Hughes said. “When premium brands like Starbucks and Chickfil-A open on our campus, it comes with a lot of planning on their end.

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CAMPUS NEWS

Scenes from Spring Semester

The UAM Theatre Workshop presented scenes from Mozart’s comic opera “Cosi fan tutte.”

49 local, state and national employers attended the Career Fair this March, all hoping to hire recent graduates of all three UAM campuses.

Chancellor Karla Hughes swears in newly-elected Student Government Association executive officers who begin serving in their roles this summer.

Beautiful weather at the annual MBSF Crawfish Boil drew a huge crowd of students, faculty and staff.

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UAM Celebrated its renewed “Tree Campus USA” status this spring in conjunction with an Arbor Day observance. The Arbor Day Foundation named UAM the first university in Arkansas with the designation in 2010 - a fitting title for the only college of forestry in the state.

A second hammock hive has graced the Monticello campus. The Centennial Clock Tower Quad is now home to special posts that allow for quick and easy hanging. Students can check out hammocks or bring their own.

Institute of Management Accountants students hosted an Easter Egg Hunt at the Arkansas Baptist Children’s Home.

UAM participated in Save AR Students-a statewide effort to spread awareness about substance abuse among college students. The Student Activities board marked observance with a week of events, including a mental health round table, panel, seminar, and wellness fair (pictured).

Summer 2019

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CELEBRATING OUR NEWEST Alumni Here are a few of our favorite photos from May’s commencement ceremonies in Monticello.

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7 Being connected to UAM is a tradition for many families. This year, several graduates followed in the footsteps of their proud parents, siblings, and grandparents as they earned degrees from our university. Others forged a new path as the first in their families to graduate college.

1- Christian Jefferson 2 - Morgan Stroud and Sydney Nash 3 - Graduate Charlee Carter is joined by her father Mark Carter, UAM maintenance supervisor.

4 - Malik DuHart 5 - Mark Spencer, dean of the school of arts and humanities, beams after presenting his 16-year-old son Jacob his Associates Degree. Full-time faculty and staff can choose to participate in the presentation of degrees to their immediate family members.

6- Dr. Mary Stewart is named the 2019 Horanday Outstanding Faculty Member 7 - A sampling of creative mortarboards.

Did you know?

The Alumni Association funds an Alumni Legacy Scholarship, selected each year from eligible children and grandchildren of UAM alumni who apply. Preference is given to children or grandchildren of active alumni association members.

Summer 2019

25

Friends We'll Miss

Mr. C. R. Bowen (former student) of Sheridan, September 14, 2018

Mr. John C. Lowry (BS ’74) of Warren, January 25, 2019

Dr. Robert L. Prosser III (former student) of McGehee, October 19, 2018

Mr. James E. Brown (BSE ’55 ) of Monticello, April 21, 2019

Mr. Edouard Marc Oudin Sr. (BS ’48) of Pine Bluff, January 15, 2019

Mr. Gary A. Sharpe, Sr. (former staff) of Brunswick, GA, January 24, 2019.

Mr. Gail Mac Campbell (former faculty) of Houston, TX, April 1, 2019

Mr. Richard A. McKinstry, Jr. (former student) of Hoschton, GA, January 12, 2019

Mr. David Shue (former student) of Sheridan, March 24, 2019

Ms. Mary Cantrell (former student) of Pine Bluff, January 5, 2019

Mr. Brody Nosal (AAS ’19, awarded

Mrs. Raylene Steelman (former staff) of Monticello, April 12, 2019

Dr. Richard Corby (former faculty) of Benton, April 15, 2019

posthumously) of North Little Rock, May 3, 2018

Mr. Thomas Strode (BS ’65) of Pine Bluff, December 4, 2018

Mr. Robert W Crain (former student) of Albuquerque, NM, December 23, 2018

Mr. D. John Nichols (BSIE ’60) of Greenville, MS, September 24, 2018

Mr. David Treat (BSF ’65) of Marshall,

John G. Crain of Hamburg, AR, May 13, 2019

Mr. Derrel D. Ozment (TC ’78) of Sumpter, February 13, 2019

Ms. Vera Cranford (former faculty) of Madison, MS, January 14, 2019

Mr. Robert F. Poe III (BS ’73) of Gould, January 18, 2019

Mrs. Jacque Walker (BS ’58) of Pine Bluff, December 29, 2018

Mr. Doyle J. Currington, Jr. (BS ’73) of White Hall, March 24, 2019

Mr. Drexel Dwane Powell (former student) of Raleigh, NC, April 14, 2019

February 27, 2019

Ms. Rose Marie Willis (former student) of North Little Rock, January 30, 2019

Bobby Don Doss of Pine Bluff, May 8, 2019 Mr. James “Doc” George (former student) of Pine Bluff, March 1, 2019 Mrs. Iciephine Green (University Police) of Pine Bluff, March 13, 2019 Mr. Terry G. Hawkins (BA ’74) of Dumas, February 24, 2019 Dr. Cecil Clyde Haywood (former faculty) of Monticello, October 27, 2018 Mrs. Virginia N Johnston (BSE ’51) of Monticello, February 15, 2019 Mr. Don E. Knight (BS ’54) of Little Rock, March 6, 2019

26 UAM Magazine

In March, Officer Iciephene Green of Pine Bluff died from injuries she sustained in a collision on Highway I-530. A part of the UAM police force, Green had served for more than 12 years as an officer on several university campuses in the state. A student-led vigil honoring Green was held at Weevil Pond and drew a large crowd mourning the loss of a valued colleague and friend.

Gary Allen Sharpe Sr. (center, holding son Allen) led an accomplished life as a successful college basketball coach and administrator. Sharpe coached the Weevils for six seasons, served as athletic director for a time, and still holds the UAM basketball record for most regular season wins (26). His 1985-1986 team beat out UCA and Scottie Pippen to win the district 17 championship, and it continued on to become the NAIA national runner-up.

Dwane Powell, originally from McGehee, attended A & M in the 1960s and played football for the Weevils. While a student, Powell was inspired to pursue what would become a lifelong career. He tried his hand at political commentary by creating cartoons at the Advance-Monticellonian and realized he was an effective illustrator when his work was picked up by larger publications. Not long after, he landed a job at the News & Observer in Raleigh, North Carolina where he served as an editorial cartoonist for more than three decades. Recognized in his industry, Powell continued contributing his wit and artistic talent to the paper until his death this spring.

Photo and cartoon credit: The News & Observer.

ALUMNI ASSOCIATION Dues received January 1, 2019 through May 3, 2019

Lifetime Members Ms. Martha Mae Baskett Mr. William David Brooks Dr. Barrett L. Brown Ms. Grayce F. Choate Mr. Chuck Dearman Dr. Audrey Brown Edwards Mr. Aaron Flemister Dr. Moses V. Goldmon Mr. James P. Henley Mr. Frank D. Hickingbotham Mr. Dennis L. Hudgens Mr. Stephen W. Huselton Mr. Franklin D. Jackson Dr. Charlotte A. Jones Mr. and Mrs. Don. E. King Mr. and Mrs. W. Brad Koen Ms. Katie E. Koen Mr. and Mrs. David S. Leech Mr. Landon L. Lively Dr. James L. Lowry Mr. Thomas V. Maxwell Hon and Mrs. Eugene Mazzanti Mr. and Mrs. James E. McClain, Jr. Mr. E. Wesley McCoy Mr. and Mrs. Eddie L. Mitchell Mr. Lamar G. Moore Mr. Tommy F. Morrison Mr. Jerry Don New Mr. William D. Newsam Mr. Mark Owen Ms. Matti J. Palluconi Mr. Donald S. Pearson Mr. David O. Rauls Mr. Benny A. Rinke, Jr. Mr. Randall S. Risher Mr. Don Rodgers, Sr. Ms. Carolyn Poole Schnepel Mr. G. Warren Stephenson Mr. Arthur R. Stoker Dr. Kay J. Walter Ms. Sandra D. West Mr. William Mark Winstead

28 UAM Magazine

Single & Couple Memberships Ms. Gloria R. Adkisson Mr. J. Roland Anderson Ms. Nancy J. Astin Dr. and Mrs. Calvin D. Austin Ms. Relda G. Aylett Mr. Pervis J. Ballew Dr. Robert L. Barker Ms. Barbara A. Barnes Ms. Julie A. Barnes Dr. and Mrs. William B. Barrett Ms. Pamela E. Barry Mr. and Mrs. James L. Barton Mr. Donald E. Beavers Mrs. Sally M. Beebe Ms. Fonda C. Bell Mr. Brandon J. Belvedresi Mr. G. Mark Binns Mr. and Mrs. Rodney B. Block Mr. and Mrs. Keith Blount Dr. Rickey L. Booker, Jr. Ms. Debra L. Borgognoni Mr. and Mrs. Nick F. Bowman Mr. and Mrs. Robert M. Boyd Mr. Roy M. Boyd Ms. Linda T. Boyter Ms. Mildred F. Brazeel Ms. Velma D. Brock Mr. and Mrs. Anthony A. Brown Mr. Joseph M. Brown Mr. James C. Buchanan Mr. Jonathan L. Budde Mr. William C. Bulloch Mr. David R. Burns Mr. Johnny H. Burns Mrs. Sharon Rhena Burks Ms. Mary L. Caine Mr. L. Ray Camp Ms. Ann C. Cash Mr. F. David Chambers Ms. Patricia A. Chandler Mr. and Mrs. Raymond D. Clary Mr. Jonathan A. Clemons Mr. and Mrs. Ralph A. Coston Mr. and Mrs. Denzil Cox

Ms. Glenda Crossley Drs. Lloyd H. and Peggy Crossley Mr. Edgar L. Culpepper Mr. and Mrs. Michael G. Dawson Ms. Patricia Phillips Dillard Mr. Ben R. Dunlap Dr. and Mrs. Richard W. Dunn Ms. Marilyn T. Dvoracek Mr. Kenneth G. Ellis Mr. Barry Glen Fletcher Mr. Kevin A. Ford Mr. and Mrs. Ray H. Foster Mr. Thomas E. Gray Mr. C. Barry Hall Mr. and Mrs. Pat Hammons Mr. and Mrs. Robert D. Hargis Mr. Walter Fred Harrah Mr. Tyler Harrison Ms. Shirley E. Henry Mr. Walter D. Holt Mr. James O. Howard Mr. and Mrs. Wayne Hudgens Mr. and Mrs. Jay L. Hughes Mr. and Mrs. Timothy C. Humphries Mr. John Doug Irvin, Jr. Mrs. Trudy G. Jackson Mr. Gerald L. Jones Dr. and Mrs. B.J. Jordan Mr. and Mrs. Jack F. Jordan Mr. Curtis R. Kea Mr. and Mrs. Thomas M. Keith Mr. S. Lee Kindle Ms. Cynthia Snow Kopack Mr. Curtis Kyle, Jr. Mr. Malcolm Lane Mr. Ricky L. Lawhon Mr. and Mrs. Robert H. Lee, Jr. Mr. Herbert Lewis Dr. Rocky K. Lindsey Mr. and Mrs. Jessie Linsy Mr. Kenneth D. Mann Mr. Jeffrey C. Martin Ms. Patricia A. Matthews Mr. and Mrs. Thomas V. Maxwell Mr. John B. McClendon, Jr. Mr. Gary McGhee Mrs. Regina G. McGinn Dr. Thomas B. McGinnis

Mr. Josh E. McHughes Ms. Cynthia K. McKinstry Mr. Kent L. McRae Mr. Payton Miller Mr. and Mrs. David L. Morgan Mr. and Mrs. Caroll W. Mosley Dr. Steven C. Moss Ms. Susan E. Musick Ms. Patricia A. Nicholson Ms. Juanita D. Nowlen Dr. and Mrs. W. M. O’Fallon Ms. Joyce O’Neal Mr. and Mrs. Jeffrey L. Owyoung Mr. and Mrs. Paul Pace, Jr. Mr. and Mrs. Keith Phillips Mr. Gene C. Pierce, Sr. Mr. Thomas Pierce, Jr. Mr. Michael L. Pomeroy Mr. Francis J. Porto III Mr. Robert W. Prestridge Mrs. Margie L. Puckett Mrs. Christina W. Rainey Mr. and Mrs. R. Larry Reaves Ms. Julie S. Rial Mr. and Mrs. Paul. C. Roberts Ms. Wendy Roberts Ms. Jennifer Ann Rochner Dr. Tommy G. Roebuck Mr. George A. Rogers Mr. Don H. Ross Mr. and Mrs. James A. Ross, Jr. Dr. and Mrs. Jason Ross Mrs. Carol Cleo Rudder Ms. Brenda G. Rump Mr. Kenneth Z. Saffold Mr. and Mrs. Scott Saffold Ms. Patricia M. Scavo Ms. Charlotte Schexnayder Mr. and Mrs. Trent L. Scogin Mr. Danny M. Shedd Mr. Danny L. Simmons Mr. and Mrs. Coy B. Smith Mr. Harold W. Smith Mr. and Mrs. Timothy H. Smith Mr. Thomas Spigner Mr. and Mrs. Thomas C. Spurlock, Jr. Mr. William C. Stephens Mr. Michael G. Stewart Ms. Nancy Holdren Stockdale Mr. James R. Stueart Mr. Dickie C. Thomasson Mr. Charles Luke Thornton Mr. and Mrs. Mark Tiner

Mr. and Mrs. Robert C. Toombs Mrs. Renee Treadwell Ms. Kathy L. Trites Ms. Amber L. Waite Dr. Tom T. Walker Dr. Robert G. Wallace Ms. Mary Sue Watson Mr. and Mrs. Jerome F. Wayman Mr. Jeffrey C. Weaver Ms. Destiny Weekly Mr. and Mrs. C. Roy Whitaker Dr. and Mrs. Tom D. Whiting Mr. Fred J. Williams Ms. Tammy Williams Mr. Robert G. Willett Mr. and Mrs. Jimmy B. Wilson Ms. Wendy Young-Gardner

More than 18,500 Alumni worldwide are

UNITED by

UAM

Summer 2019

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Class Notes 1950s Jim Lancaster (BS ’59) was recently awarded the Larry Frier Community Service Award by the Grant County (Ark.) Chamber of Commerce.

1970s Mark C. Deal (BS ’78) has been named the Regional Executive of UAMS Regional Programs. He will direct the activities of all UAMS Regional Campuses and AHEC programs in South Arkansas, including those in Helena, Pine Bluff, Texarkana and Magnolia.

1980s Tom Farmer (BS ’81) was elected and installed as mayor of the city of Benton, Ark. this year.

Milton Williams (BS ’82), a UAM All-American track athlete, has been named the new head track coach at Lyon College. Williams will bring back a track program that has been dormant since the 1990s.

1990s LaDonna Spain (BA ’91) was recently named the new Woodlawn Elemen-

tary principal by their school board.

Lorne Green (BS ’95) received the George H. Dunklin Jr. Arkansas Waterfowl and Wetland Management Award for his forest management work with the Arkansas Game and Fish Commission.

2000s Jeremy Sparks (BA ’01) was promoted to Commander of the 153rd Force Support Squadron in the Air National Guard.

Trey Wyatt (Ba ’01) recently launched a paleontology-themed board game called “Fossil Find.”

Dr. Otha Belcher Jr. (BA ’02) begins duties as the next superintendent of the Cleveland, MS School District this summer.

Stacey McAdoo (MAT ’03), a teacher at Little Rock Central High School was selected as the 2019 Arkansas Teacher of the Year Tasha Wilson (BA ’03), a second grade teacher in Kingsland, Ark.,

was named the recipient of the Milken Educator Award for 2018. Known as the “Oscars for Educators,” the Milken Award includes a $25,000 prize.

Candrice Jones (BA ’04, MAT ’07) was awarded an Individual Artist Fellowship Award by the Arkansas Arts Council for her achievements in playwriting.

Matt Cross (BA ’05) was hired as the head men’s basketball coach for Western New Mexico University in Silver City.

Gina (Bezares) Richard (BA ’05, MED ’10) was named the Arkansas Middle School Principal of the Year for 2019.

She is the principal at Star City Middle School.

2010s Abby Pollart (MPEC ’15) was named head volleyball coach at Central Community College in Columbus, Nebraska.

Cole Sears (BA ’18), a three-year starting quarterback for the Weevils, was drafted to the British Columbia Lions of the Canadian Football League.

Please report your news to Lisa Jo Ross (see inside front cover for contact information).

Wee Weevils Lillian and Audrey Culwell, born November 19, 2018 to Samantha (Dillard) (BS ’14) and David Blaine Culwell (BS ’13) of Warren

Noble of Star City

Grace Anne Davis, born December 3, 2018 to Ember and John Davis of Monticello

Robert Dayne Rupe, born April 30, 2019 to Rebecca (BS ’13) and Dylan Rupe of Star City

Taylor Maysyn Hankins, born May 13, 2019 to Krystyn (Conner) and Cainon Hankins of Sheridan Kentley June Henley, born January 1, 2019 to Amanda (Stover) and Matthew Henley (BBA ’06) of White Hall Austin Kate Light, born November 27, 2018 to Megan (Jacks) (BS ’18) and Justin Light of Star City Millie Milligan, born July 21, 2018 to Britney and Brad Chase Milligan (BS ’05) of Monticello Aubrey Faye Noble, born October 29, 2018 to Kendal and Brent (BA ’13)

30 UAM Magazine

Kayson Reid Roton, born March 25, 2019 to Cristin Ciarra Fetterly (BA ’19) and Ryan Roton of Rhome, TX

Nova Brooke Sargent, born January 24, 2018 to Brittany (House) and Tyler Sargent of Star City Shaylee Ann Simmons, born March 25, 2018 to Codi Rae-Lyn (Edmonds) (BBA ’11) and Shay Simmons of Star City Rhett Henry Snyder, born April 22, 2019 to Emily (Pearson) and R. Drake Snyder (BS ’15) of Star City Zade Harper Tucker, born February 18, 2019 to Emily (Oliver) (BS ’15) and Eric Tucker of Star City Daxton Ray Wever, born January 9,

Camden Matthew Whiting

2019 to Jessica (Nobles) (BS ’15) and Kyle Wever (BS ’12) of Yazoo City Camden Matthew Whiting, born February 23, 2018 to Johannah (Hendrex) (MAT ’14) and Matt Whiting (BBA ’10) of Conway

WAYS

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students reach their goals and achieve success while in college and enhances their lives once they graduate. Your tax-deductible gift creates opportunites for growth and a sense of loyalty to UAM. Join today!

If you choose a Lifetime Membership, $100 of your donation will go directly into the Alumni Legacy Scholarship

Fund. This scholarship was established speciďŹ cally for children and grandchildren of UAM alumni with preference given to active Alumni Association members. Annual and Lifetime memberships make great gifts!

Mail in this completed form to start or renew your membership.

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Summer 2019

31

UAM NIGHT with the Arkansas Travelers to purchase tickets

On the Phone: (870) 460-1028 Online: Visit UAMont.ed/alumnievents Email: RossLJ@uamont.edu Text: “TRAVS” to 41444 Mail a Check to: UAM Alumni Association c/o Lisa Jo Ross PO Box 3520 Monticello, AR 71656

Thursday, August 1, 2019 Dickey-Stephens Park in North Little Rock Gates Open 6:10 p.m.

First Pitch 7:10 p.m.

Adults $20 Kids 4-10 $10 Kids 3 & Under FREE Ticket price includes gate admission and all-you-can-eat picnic feast in the Tracks Inn Pavilion beginning at 6:10 p.m.

UAM named its basketball arena Herman C. Steelman Fieldhouse in memory of the biology professor who died while on the faculty in 1980. His surviving wife Raylene would give the university the second-largest gift in its history.

The Steelman Legacy Raylene Steelman chose to keep a planned major gift to UAM anonymous until her death. Not one for fanfare, Steelman left UAM the majority of her estate, worth an estimated $1.5 million, to establish nursing scholarships.

Her endowment will enable UAM to give approximately $70,000 in scholarships to nursing students each year, in perpetuity.

Chancellor Karla Hughes announced the gift at the School of Nursing Graduate Recognition Ceremony on May 9. “You will absolutely change lives every day,” she told the BSN and AAS nurse graduates. “One nurse, one patient encounter, can have a profound impact on the entire region,” Hughes said. The state of Arkansas, like the nation, currently struggles with a shortage of nurses, and UAM plays a large part in educating quality nurses throughout the area. UAM BSN graduates have a 100% job placement rate.

The Steelman gift is the second largest in the university’s history, surpassed only by the $6 million Peterson gift announced last fall. Increasing the amount of scholarship dollars available will enable more students to continue their nursing education, according to Dr. Brandy Haley, dean of the school of nursing. “This gift will enhance UAM’s reputation as the premier educator in the health sciences,” she said. “Growing interest in our program means it will get even more competitive, and that adds value to the degrees you have earned,” she told the 2019 graduates. Steelman worked at UAM for 37 years as an assistant librarian, but chose to direct her gift toward the nursing program because of exceptional care she received later in life, in particular by UAM nursing alumni. She was 96.

At left: Herman C. Steelman, Professor of Biology, and wife Raylene Steelman from the Boll Weevil yearbook archives.

Raylene Steelman served as UAM assistant librarian from 1946-1983. Her major estate gift endows unprecedented nursing scholarships. Below: May 2019 BSN and ASN graduates at the School of Nursing Graduate Recognition Ceremony.

33

FOUNDATION The UAM Foundation Fund donors list includes alumni, friends and other contributors whose gifts were received January 1 – May 3, 2019. Please report any corrections to Roxanne Smith at (870) 460-1227 or SmithRR@uamont.edu

Individual Donors Unity & Movement Club $2,500 or more Mr. and Mrs. William C. Bulloch Dr. Robert Graber Col. L.R. and Dr. Karla Hughes Mr. and Mrs. Thomas V. Maxwell Mr. John Nosal Ms. Melanie Nosal Mr. Lester Pinkus Galaxy Club $1,000-$2,499 Mr. and Mrs. David Inmon Mr. and Mrs. Samuel Light Mr. and Mrs. Kent L. McRae Mr. and Mrs. Robert S. Moore, Jr. Mr. Gus Pugh, Jr. Mr. and Mrs. Scotty D. Watkins Mr. Jeffrey C. Weaver Emerald Club $500-$999 Dr. Joseph M. Bramlett Dr. and Mrs. Barrett Brown

Ms. Valerie Cauley Mr. and Mrs. Byron Galloway Ms. Becky R. Hammett Mr. and Mrs. George T. Harris Mr. and Mrs. Jerry D. Hubbard Mr. and Mrs. Tim Humphries Mr. and Mrs. Darren Kleitz Mr. and Mrs. Robert H. Lee, Jr. Ms. Angela J. Marsh Mr. and Mrs. E. Wesley McCoy Mr. Padraic S. McMeel Maj. Roy I. Parker Mr. Donald S. Pearson Mr. and Mrs. Benny A. Rinke, Jr. Mr. and Mrs. Don R. Rodgers, Sr. Mr. and Mrs. Bennie Ryburn III Dr. Christopher Sims Mr. and Mrs. Cedric E. Williams Loyalty Club $200-$499 Mr. Alex D. Becker Dr. Gregory A. Borse Dr. Russell Bulloch Mr. Ben R. Dunlap Mr. Dale Ehmer

Ms. Patricia A. Ewens Dr. J. Shannon Fleming Ms. Monica Friesen Mr. and Mrs. David G. Funderburg Ms. Birdie Grimmett Dr. and Mrs. Dexter E. Gulledge Ms. Billie J. Handly Ms. Christine L. Harris Mr. J. Larry Hopper Ms. Jeanna Hoyt Dr. and Mrs. John L. Hunt Mr. William“ Hud” Jackson Mr. and Mrs. Mark Karnes Mr. Kenneth J. Lambert Dr. and Mrs. Jack Lassiter Mr. and Mrs. Steven R. Lynn Mr. and Mrs. Jay B. McKiever Ms. Leslie McKiever MHS Class of 1965 Mr. and Mrs. Jeffrey L. Owyoung Mr. and Mrs. Larry Patrick Ms. Melissa Peel Ms. Mikie Peel Ms. Chaney L. Raley Ms. Linda F. Rushing Mr. and Mrs. Joe Don Samples Mr. Jerry E. Smith

Answering the Call Phone-A-Thon pledges reach $40,000

Current UAM students connected with more than 2,000 alumni and friends this May during a two-week phone-a-thon. The calls enabled thousands of alumni records to be updated for accuracy and resulted in 438 contributions to the UAM Foundation Fund. Donations continue to arrive daily, many exceeding the pledged amounts. Thank you for answering the call!

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UAM Magazine

Mr. and Mrs. David Stover Dr. Max Terrell Mr. and Mrs. Mark Tiner Ms. Shela F. Upshaw Mrs. Mary M. Whiting Mr. Freeman Wilson Ms. Wendy Young-Gardner Century Club $100-$199 Ms. Joan Armstrong Ms. Esmeraldo Arellano Dr. James B. Baker Mr. Matthew Baumgarten Mr. Matt N. Bowers Mr. and Mrs. Stephen B. Boyd Mr. and Mrs. Jim Brakka Ms. Angelia K. Clements Mr. Howard Correll Mr. and Mrs. Samie D. Culpepper Mr. and Mrs. Andy Davis Mr. and Mrs. T. Kent Davis Drew Central Class of 1961 Mr. and Mrs. Ron Echols Ms. Patricia Eller Mr. Kenneth and Dr. Betsy Ellis Mr. and Mrs. Jonathan J. Fallon Mr. and Mrs. Roger Farmer Mr. Steven W. Fox Mr. and Mrs. John W. Free Mr. and Mrs. Danny Funderburg Mr. and Mrs. Cliff W. Gibson III Drs. Glen and Mary Jane Gilbert Mrs. Linda D. Goodwin Ms. Debra Gray Mr. and Mrs. Paul K. Griffin Mr. and Mrs. Doug Grimmett Mr. and Mrs. Nat Grubbs Dr. Brandy Haley Mr. C. Barry Hall Mr. and Mrs. Truman J. Hamilton Mr. and Mrs. Werner L. Haney Mr. and Mrs. Bobby Harper Mr. Jimmy T. Harrison Ms. Linda Harville Ms. Heidi L. Hogue Mr. and Mrs. Jay L. Hughes Ms. Michaeleen Jacke Dr. and Mrs. Larry E. Jackson Ms. Janice Judkins Mr. and Mrs. Thomas M. Keith Mr. and Mrs. William Koen Mr. and Mrs. John Landers Mr. and Mrs. Jimmy Lloyd Mr. and Mrs. Dwayne Marrow Mr. and Mrs. James E. McClain, Jr. Mr. Payton Miller

Faculty and staff at any UAM campus can choose to deduct a Foundation Fund contribution from each paycheck. At the time of publication, payroll deductions account for more than

$11,700 per year from generous UAM employees.

Mr. and Mrs. Don Montgomery Mr. and Mrs. Jonathan L. Moore Mr. Quinton L. Morgan Mr. Scott Morris Mr. and Mrs. James O. Nixon Mr. and Mrs. P. Scott Patterson Mr. and Mrs. Jason Penney Mr. and Mrs. Mark Pennington Mr. and Mrs. Wayne Rich Mr. John A. Roach Mr. and Mrs. Andre F. Robinson Ms. Deborah Sternal Mr. Michael G. Stewart Mrs. Mary L. Thomason Ms. Diane Watt Mr. and Mrs. Dana S. Weatherford Mr. and Mrs. Howard Wells Mr. Robert W. Willis Mr. and Mrs. Justin L. Witcher

Business/Corporate Donors American Pie Maumelle Clinton Family Foundation Commercial Bank & Trust Co. Customlink LLC Mainline Health Systems, Inc. Martin Orthopedics McQueen & Co., Ltd. North Houston Trucking Oklahoma United Methodist Foundation Pettit & Pettit Engineers Rawls – Campbell Agency Saf-Holland, Inc. Simmons First Bank State Farm Companies Foundation UAM Institute of Management Accountants Union Bank & Trust Company V & S Foundation, Inc. Wells Fargo Summer 2019

35

FOUNDATION

Newly Endowed Scholarships

Linda Pinkus Scholarship – established in 2011 by Lester, Lee and Ladd Pinkus in honor of their beloved wife and mother. This endowment is for a full-time student in any of the teacher education programs pursuing his/her teaching internship.

Louis Dunlap Mathematics Scholarship – established in 2015 by the UAM African American Alumni Association, family friends and former students of Mr. Louis Dunlap. The scholarship is for an undergraduate mathematics major or be in his/her final semester of undergraduate mathematics leading to graduation.

Scholarship funds are considered fully endowed when their accounts reach $15,000. An endowed scholarship is one that sustains itself. Essentially, the investment income earned from your endowment creates awards given to students each year. Additional gifts to an endowment increase the amount of money that can be awarded to students. A complete list of endowments can be found in your Autumn 2018 UAM Magazine or on the website in the current course catalog. Contact Vice Chancellor for Advancement Jeff Weaver to learn more about endowing a scholarship (see inside front cover).

The Gift of Your Time

Nat Grubbs

36 UAM Magazine

One way Nat Grubbs has been able to serve UAM is through board service. Grubbs was asked to join the UAM Foundation Fund Board in 2011, and his term has just ended. “Giving back to the university as a Foundation board member,” he explains, “allowed me to build a stronger connection to the campus, and to other people who felt as proud as I do to promote the great things happening at UAM.” He suspects that he personally benefited from serving as a board member more than UAM may have gained from his service. “I am actually happy to roll off this term because I know it will give someone else an opportunity to strengthen their connection to UAM and experience the benefits and blessings of serving alongside other outspoken advocates of our fine university.”

I’m not sure I can offer my financial support.

How can I serve UAM?

We are grateful for gifts of any amount, but donations are not the only way you can make a major difference in the success of your alma mater. We have three main areas where UAM needs your support.

STAY IN TOUCH

SPREAD GOOD NEWS

GET INVOLVED

Get connected with the Alumni Association by joining WeevilConnect and keep up with UAM news through our social media channels (Visit p. 1 for a list). Stay informed about the great things happening at UAM. When you know more about our activities, you help us grow our base of alumni, friends, and fans.

You’re proud to be a graduate of UAM, so make it known!

Alumni and friends are some of the biggest drivers of student recruitment. We need your vocal support, wherever you live, just as much as we value your gifts. Tell your friends, tell your kids, and tell your neighbors about our award-winning programs and many success stories.

Prospective students’ perception of UAM begins with how and what they hear from you. Impressions of UAM on prospective students are priceless. Your support will also encourage other alumni to stay involved. (Don’t forget to use those #UAMonticello hashtags from p. 1!)

Attend alumni events (p. 13), nominate your classmates for alumni awards (p. 11), and serve on a board if you’re asked. All of our alumni can play a part in advancing our mission. Look for ways to be involved in each issue of the UAM Magazine!

Summer 2019

37

University of Arkansas at Monticello Alumni Association P.O. Box 3520 Monticello, AR 71656

“BRAND� NEW VIEW

A fresh coat of paint on the north side of campus brings UAM spirit to new heights.