Retirees

Melanie Bradford

Melanie Bradford came to UCA in 2009 as technology projects coordinator, for the dean’s office in the College of Education in 2009.

“Melanie served the state of Arkansas faithfully, having many years of education experience prior to joining UCA in 2009. Her grant-funded position reported to the Arkansas Department of Education directly, and each member of ADE leadership who has funded her work has been complementary and grateful for her without hesitation. We hope that she is as happy in her retirement as she has been every day we have seen her smiling face,” said Dr. Greg Holland

She will be sorely missed, and we wish her well in this next season of her life.

Ron Bramlett

Ron Bramlett joined the Department of Psychology and Counseling in 1991 as an assistant professor.

He has published dozens of articles and received more than $700,000 in grants to research various areas of school psychology. Bramlett is most proud of his students who have gone on to have outstanding careers and continue to make important contributions.

“Ron has been a tireless champion of the school psychology program at UCA for over 30 years,” said Joan Simon. “His dedication to program quality and national accreditation is only second to his commitment to the success of his students. He is an energetic, positive, and collaborative colleague who will be sincerely missed.”

Bramlett’s retirement plans are to stay healthy and have some fun.

Alicia Brown

Alicia Brown, a clinical instructor in the College of Education, started at UCA in 2015 after retiring as a public school teacher. In addition to teaching, Brown implemented a clothes closet for students going into internships that didn’t have professional clothing. She also implemented the Bears for Care Respite Program to support parents of children with disabilities.

“Ms. Brown is the heart and soul of special education,” Janet Filer said. “She not only shared her vast knowledge and experience with our teacher candidates, she also involved them in several service learning projects working with children with disabilities and their families, benefiting our teacher candidates and members of the community. We wish her well in her ‘second’ retirement.”

In this retirement, Brown plans to read, travel and enjoy life.

Carolyn Brown

Since joining the university part time in 1983, music professor Carolyn Brown has enjoyed seeing her students become accomplished professionals. Stephen Plate said Brown’s musical and technical mastery will always be a reminder to him of the power and mystery music has in the hands of a master.

“One night, tired from a long week, I attended a faculty recital. I had planned on leaving at intermission, but I noted Dr. Brown on the program at the very end. I decided, in fairness to her, that I would stay. Her playing was magnificent and the music she produced that evening changed my exhaustion to exhilaration.”

Brown will continue performing with the Arkansas Symphony Orchestra and looks forward to hiking, working in her yard and giving her cats all the playtime they desire.

Susan

Burks

Susan Burks, an assistant professor and government document librarian, came to UCA in 1999. Her colleague Renee LebeauFord said they will miss her kindness.

“Nearly 24 years ago Susan Burks joined the Torreyson Library. Her career began as the night librarian, later transitioning into Interlibrary Loan, Reference, and most recently Government Documents,” Lebeau-Ford said. “Susan has touched the lives of many UCA students, faculty and staff with her thoughtfulness and compassion. We wish Susan a long and happy retirement. Best Wishes!”