Retirees

Cynthia L. “Cindi” Burleson

Cynthia Burleson can be proud of connecting students to an industry that provides opportunity for meaningful employment and growth throughout their career. As director of the Center for Insurance and Risk Management, Burleson has had the opportunity to get students excited about this field through class presentations and external speakers.

“With a tireless work ethic, Cindi renovated the insurance and risk management program at UCA,” Thomas Snyder said. “She provided a top-notch education to numerous students, and she connected them with employers.”

Burleson has accepted a position with K2 Insurance Services.

Della Burrow

Della Burrow has been a senior payroll specialist in human resources at UCA since 2001 and said she is grateful for the work family and great benefits UCA has allowed her. She made lifelong friends and enjoyed her children as they grew up because of UCA’s flexibility.

“Della has served in a critical role at UCA, and has helped many employees,” said Britni Rush. “We wish her the best in retirement!”

Burrow plans to spend time updating her home, taking care of her mother who recently moved in with her, garden, travel and not set an alarm.

Phyllis Campbell

Since joining the UCA Physical Plant in 2008, Phyllis Campbell has kept the office running smoothly by ordering supplies, scheduling events and keeping everyone’s time straight all while keeping a smile on her face. Donna Murphy said she was a joy to work with. “She was very dedicated to her work and always helpful! We will truly miss her,” Murphy said.

Robert Carter

Robert Carter’s love for the building trades landed him here at UCA in 1980 as an electrician.

Leslie Grooms said he has dedicated 42 years of time, loyalty and expertise to UCA.

“Robert started the Environmental Controls shop that still operates today. Under the guidance of what was then UCA’s engineer, he worked diligently to apply HVAC controls to all buildings. Robert was pivotal in laying the foundation of controls across campus, and he was patient in educating others who came to work in the shop on the intricacies of building controls,” Grooms said.

In retirement, he looks forward to riding his motorcycle, traveling and spending time with family and friends.

Jerry Coleman

Jerry Coleman said it has been a blessing to both attend the university as a student and to work for the institution where he earned his degree.

“Jerry has been such a valuable and dedicated employee during his years in the Procurement Office,” said Meghan Cowan. “He has been such a joy to work with. His outstanding personality and laughter will be missed!”

In retirement, Coleman said he plans to seek opportunities that reflect the will and image of God.

Jerry Compton

Jerry Compton has worked as an electrician in the Physical Plant for nearly 13 years. His hard work earned him an employee of the quarter recognition in fiscal year 2022. Compton said he enjoyed his time as a UCA employee.

“Jerry helped the campus with our electrical needs and provided support for events on campus. We appreciate the hard work and wish him the best in his future endeavors,” said Nelson Landers.

In retirement, Compton plans to spend more time golfing and fishing.

Tom Courtway

Former UCA President Tom Courtway loves students and teaching and said it keeps a spring in his step. Courtway ends his 21year career as a lecturer but has served as general counsel, interim president and president. He said he respects and admires the leadership and work of President Houston Davis and the Board of Trustees.

“Tom Courtway speaks to a group like he is