Retirees

“During Ellen’s time in our department, she has helped numerous students obtain their degree. As many students and employees go-to person for assistance, the number of accounts that she has reviewed is close to the number of students in UCA’s history. Her presence and knowledge will be missed as she retires, but we know she will now be able to turn that same dedication to her grandson and family,” said Sandra Ott.

Ellen plans on relishing her time being a full-time grandmother.

Cheryl Christensen Lyons

Cheryl Lyons served UCA as financial aid director in the student financial aid and enrollment management department from 1999-2023. She has helped many students and their parents navigate the path of funding their college dreams during her years as director.

“Cheryl Lyons has provided a legacy of excellence and success with her work and dedication on our campus. She has mentored and guided professionals throughout her time, provided next-level service to students of our campus, and been a collaborative partner to help grow UCA forward. She will be terribly missed throughout UCA,” said Kevin Thomas.

Cheryl is looking forward to spending more time with family and friends and experiencing new adventures during this next season of life.

Twala Maresh

Twala Maresh, a graduate of UCA, was hired in 1996 as a clinical instructor I in the physical therapy department. She served as a clinical instructor II from 2005-2011 and finished her career as a senior clinical instructor.

During her time here, she has served by providing pro bono physical therapy (with student participation) for individuals with spinal cord injury, amputations, etc., faculty advisor to the Physical Therapy Club, as a member of the clinical education advisory committee and made several presentations at national conferences. She said of her time here, “UCA has allowed me to have the opportunity to experience my love of teaching and to continue my passion for clinical practice in the area of neurological physical therapy. I am most proud of providing the DPT students the opportunity to experience hands-on patient care, within the curriculum, through the pro bono clinic in the physical therapy department. This invaluable experience provided a win/win for both the students and the patients.”

“Dr. Maresh has a 40-year history with UCA department of Physical Therapy. She received three degrees from the Department and has served as a faculty member for over 25 years. Her expertise in spinal cord injury rehabilitation is unparalleled in the state of Arkansas,” said Kevin Garrison.

During her next chapter, Twala plans on including family time, lake time, furniture making and travel. She may also contract physical therapy.

George McKee

George McKee began his career at UCA in 1975 as a groundsman in the Physical Plant. He leaves as a master locksmith.

“George has been here at UCA Physical Plant for nearly 50 years. George is a staple to this campus. George started as a young man in the grounds and now is a Master Locksmith. The experience that George has in most areas is insurmountable. It will be very hard to replace George. We will miss his dedication and knowledge as he begins his new adventure,” said Nelson Landers.

Jerry Mimms

Jerry Mimms was hired at UCA as a full-time faculty member in the biology department in 2003. He is known for his enthusiasm for educating students about science.

“Jerry Mimms started his K-12 science teaching career in 1967, and then transitioned to a full-time faculty member in the biology department in 2003. Jerry was passionate about science education and felt it was ‘the most important profession because teachers educate and train the next generation.’ While at UCA, he served as Director of the Arkansas State Science Fair, was the faculty mentor for the Central Arkansas Student Chapter of the National Science Teaching Association (NSTA), and oversaw hundreds of science teacher candidates. His claim to fame with many K-8 grade teachers across the state is likely the life