Retirees

“Debbie is a devoted employee who is passionate about serving our students. Her genuine and warm personality helps ease anxious students on the phone and in person,” said Leslie Knox.

In her next chapter, she will be busy making sure her husband does his “honey-do” list, traveling and enjoying their front porch swing.

Nancy K. Earney

When Nancy Earney began her career at UCA in 2004, she worked in Torreyson Library until 2006. She then worked in the financial aid department as a fiscal support specialist.

“Nancy served UCA students and staff with patience and kindness. I am grateful for her contributions to the federal work study program and the financial aid office,” said Leslie Knox.

Nancy plans to relax and take life easy during her next chapter.

Candace “Candy” Fisher

As a computer technician in information technology since 2005, Candace Fisher always did her best to make the UCA faculty and staff feel like they could count on her to fix the issues they were having with their computers. Her efforts earned her employee of the quarter in 2018.

“Candy is one of those employees that every supervisor dreams of. She always goes above and beyond on her work responsibilities helping every member of the UCA campus community with their IT needs,” Paul Dielmann said. “Her energy and smile will truly be missed by her IT team and the entire campus.”

Fisher plans to spend time outdoors, hiking, kayaking, camping, traveling and anticipating new adventures in her next chapter.

James Fowler

Professor James Fowler’s absence will be felt in the English department as well as the College of Arts, Humanities, and Social Sciences. Fowler has written two books, been awarded for being an outstanding faculty member and also served as editor of Slant, UCA’s journal of poetry.

“Dr. Fowler is an unusually gifted and dedicated teacher, who has inspired untold numbers of students to grow into more curious and thoughtful versions of themselves,”

Ty Hawkins said. “He is a generous and insightful colleague, too, respected by all who have worked with him over the years.”

In retirement, Fowler said he will continue reading, writing, listening to music, watching movies and documentaries, walking and occasionally traveling.

John Gale

John Gale has had many jobs within the university since he joined in 2003. Shauna Meador said he is “a tireless advocate for undergraduate education.” The 1977 journalism alumnus came full circle when he arrived at UCA and served as the first director for the School of Communication which was formed in 2016. He served as chief technology officer and retires as an associate professor of film. Meador said John will also be remembered, and missed, for his kindness and cheerful greetings. He and his wife, Holly Ruth, who is also an associate professor at a different university are both retiring this year.

Douglas “Doug” George

Doulgas George, an associate professor of sociology, criminology and anthropology, joined UCA in 2005 and left a great impression on his students and colleagues.

“Beneath his friendly smile, self-effacing humor and midwestern charm, Doug is a rocksolid sociologist and a passionate advocate for social justice. Students will sorely miss Dr. Doug’s engaging style in the classroom, and all of us will miss the positive energy Doug has been bringing to the university every day for almost two decades,” Ed Powers said.

George said he does not yet have plans for retirement and will take it one day at a time.

Jonathan Glenn

Jonathan Glenn’s greatest joy at UCA has been helping his colleagues accomplish their goals. Now serving as associate provost for Institutional Effectiveness, Glenn has had a long list of jobs during his 33-year tenure including, but not limited to, English professor, interim dean, assistant provost, associate provost and chief information officer. He has served on “committees galore” and appreciates the opportunity UCA has given