UAFS Bell Tower Alumni Magazine Spring Summer 2018

Bell Tower The

The magazine of the University of Arkansas – Fort Smith

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Right time right place Throw away old notions about education.

Opportunities are everywhere

The Bell Tower

spring | summer 2018

campUS liFe: The Smith-Pendergraft Campus Center is the warm center of the campus, and the food court is its busiest spot.

features

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At 81,000 square feet, the Stubblefield Center is more than a first class basketball arena. It hosts tournaments, graduations, sports camps, and special events. No wonder it earned a spot on NCAA.com’s best Division II arenas.

Completer degrees from UAFS offer A.A.S. degree holders from Poteau to Memphis a path to a bachelor’s degree without starting over.

Marketing research students worked with members of Van Buren Original to provide real-world marketing recommendations to city leaders and merchants.

Students in the ROTC program learn important leadership and critical thinking skills. Those who stick with the program are commissioned as officers.

The Stubb

The Way Up

Livin’ the Dream

cover photograph by rachel rodemann putman

rachel rodemann putman

The Bell Tower spring | summer 2018

Hands On

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UAFS mission

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UAFS prepares students to succeed in an everchanging global world while advancing economic development and quality of place.

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The Bell Tower Spring/Summer 2018 Volume 9, Number 1 The University of Arkansas – Fort Smith CHANCELLOR Paul B. Beran, Ph.D. contributorS Judi Hansen, John Post, Anna Ray, Krystal Summers, Allyssa Alvarado PHOTOGRAPHERS Rachel Rodemann Putman, Anna Ray, Krystal Summers ART DIRECTOR John Sizing, www.jspublicationdesign.com

On Campus

Community

Alumni

2 The Chancellor’s Letter 3 Why We Give

10 Concurrent Credit 11 Family Enterprise Center 11 After School Smilz 12 Accent on Internships 13 In Person: LaTavia Rollinson

28 Alumni Honored at Reunion

Gerdau applauds future leaders 4 5 5 6

American Democracy Project Accelerated BSN Degree School of Ed Certification Rotaract Group

Athletics

Reaching to the community

14 Hoop Team Gives Back

7 Miss UAFS

Elizabeth Spencer

Basketball players prioritize service to youths

8 Crowning Achievement

15 AD Encourages Gratitude

Expressing joy at graduation

AD Curtis Janz builds character

The Bell Tower is published semi-annually by the University of Arkansas – Fort Smith, P.O. Box 3649, Fort Smith, AR 72913, for friends, faculty, and alumni of the university. Tel.: (877) 303-8237.

Email: alumni@uafs.edu. Web: belltower.uafs.edu.

Send address changes, requests to receive The Bell Tower, and requests to be removed from the mailing list to alumni@uafs.edu or UAFS Alumni Association, P.O. Box 3649, Fort Smith, AR 72913.

Marta Loyd, Rebecca Hurst return to campus for awards

LETTERS ARE WELCOME, but the publisher reserves the right to edit letters for length and content.

Space constraints may prevent publication of all letters. Anonymous letters will not be published.

Send letters to belltower@uafs.edu or The Bell Tower, P.O. Box 3649, Fort Smith, AR 72913,

29 Class Notes 29 New Alumni Chapter 31 Chukwukere Ekeh, ’15

24-year-old alum, now banking VP, thanks mentor program

Views and opinions in The Bell Tower do not necessarily reflect those of the magazine staff nor of the University of Arkansas – Fort Smith.

32 Alums Build Coffee Culture

Contents © 2018 by the University of Arkansas – Fort Smith.

Kaity and Gabriel Gould serve up a fresh cup o’ Joe downtown

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from the chancellor Paul B. Beran, Ph.D.

Opportunities Are Waiting Recently, Diligence to Victory award winner Dr. Marta Loyd used the word “opportunity” as one of the themes she believes UAFS exemplifies. It is a word we use often on campus. We speak of the opportunity students have for an affordable education that will change their lives and the opportunity the university has through them to change our community.

In this issue of The Bell Tower, you will read about many opportunities our students, our community, and our university have because we all are at the right time and right place.

You will read about the students of Dr. Elise Riker who had the real-world opportunity to create marketing plans for Van Buren, and the opportunity the merchants of Van Buren had to receive solid marketing recommendations.

The university provides services for businesses on both sides of the river through the Family Enterprise Center, directed by Dave Robertson.

In the safe and discreet confines of the FEC,

business leaders can discuss challenges they face and learn how others have handled them.

Beginning in fall 2018, high school students in Fort Smith will have the opportunity to earn dual high school and college credit for studying robot automation and cyber systems at two of Fort Smith’s foremost employers, ABB and ArcBest.

Because the students will be onsite, they will have increased access to mentors and the opportunity to observe workplace culture firsthand.

UAFS opportunities are not limited to the immediate or even greater Fort Smith region.

Through the degree completer program, adults from Poteau to Memphis with an associate of applied science degree have the chance to complete a bachelor’s degree in as little as 18 months. That degree can mean the chance to advance in their profession or to go to graduate school.

Under the direction of UAFS Athletic Director Curtis Janz and men’s basketball coach Josh Newman, our student athletes have the opportunity to learn about respect, patriotism, and the importance of giving back.

Students from Fort Smith and surrounding communities can participate in ROTC at their hometown college, where they can learn leadership skills. If they stay with the program, they can be commissioned as second lieutenants in the Army National Guard upon graduation.

What is your opportunity story? How has UAFS made an impact on your life? We’re waiting to hear.

By The Numbers Student Activities*

96

Registered Student Organizations

1,564 95 958 280 3 4 Students in RSOs

Events in Next 30 Days

Events Approved This Year

Students in Greek Life**

Sororities

Fraternities

*RSO numbers as of Feb. 22 ** Fall 2017

UAFS will be a national model for preparing students for workforce mobility through education and professional development while serving as the thought leader in the region.

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rachel rodemann putnam

UAFS Vision

Gerdau why We give erdau values our community. We recognize

G

way is through an endowment that awards an-

and value the impact the University of Arkan-

nual scholarships to engineering students. We

sas Fort Smith has within our community. UAFS

also support the BEST Robotics competition that

is helping to develop our community’s future

UAFS hosts each year. For many years, Gerdau has

leaders and is creating a pipeline of talent for our

supported the annual International Fair, which cel-

industry. We are excited about their continued

ebrates the growing diversity of our community.

development and look forward to their growth in the future.

Gerdau supports UAFS in a few ways. One

Gerdau is the leading producer of steel in the Americas and one of the world’s largest suppliers of special bar quality (SBQ) steel.

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UAFS is helping to develop our community’s future leaders and is creating a pipeline of talent for our industry.

CORPORATE GIVING: To learn more about how your business can become involved in activities at UAFS, contact Anne Thomas at 479-788-7033.

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On Campus real news: Students quizzed local media leaders about restoring trust in news reporting at this American Democracy Project event.

Beyond Fake News students and other community members become more engaged in American democracy.

Participating in the panel discussion were Kyle Kellams, news director at KUAF; Colleen Clement, news director for channel 40/29; David Bailey, managing editor of the Arkansas Democrat-Gazette; and Michael Tilley, co-owner and executive editor of Talk Business & Politics.

In reply to student questions, Bailey said fake news is propaganda, news used to push a particular point of view, regardless of the facts. Unfortunately, he said, people often seek out what they want to hear, instead of seeking objective facts.

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“People will often rather believe a lie over the truth,” he said.

Bailey pointed out that sometimes incorrect things are reported by mistake.

As long as the source that made the mistake acknowledges the mistake and corrects it, the source wouldn’t be guilty of promoting fake news.

The panelists agreed that news consumers should pay attention to the sources they seek out. Organizations that have a clear left- or right-wing bias may be more interested in making money or increasing ratings than in educating citizens.

Consumers also should distinguish between news and

entertainment.

Dr. Williams Yamkam, chair of the American Democracy Project at UAFS, said events like the panel discussion help students become better-informed and more engaged.

Other ADP events in the spring semester include a discussion by Paul Chapman about Restore Hope Arkansas; presentations from two state legislators, Charlie Collins, a Republican of Fayetteville, and Sen. Joyce Elliott, a Democrat from Little Rock; and a town hall meeting with the declared candidates for Fort Smith mayor. — Anna Ray

Anna Ray

The term “fake news” has generated a lot of attention in the last year, and it seems to describe the scorn some people feel about the so-called mainstream media, whether in print, online, or in television and radio broadcasts.

Earlier this semester, the American Democracy Project sponsored a panel of local news leaders to discuss the issue with students.

The American Democracy Project started in 2003 as a collaboration between the American Association of State Colleges and Universities and The New York Times. Today more than 230 institutions of higher learning, including UAFS, participate. The goal is to help

School Updates On campus

University Now Offering Accelerated BSN Degree With more people 65 and older than in any time in its history, the United States faces a chronic shortage of nurses that could become a crisis in short order.

To address the issue, which is exacerbated by the graying nursing workforce and the limited capacity of nursing schools, UAFS is joining many schools nationwide by offering an accelerated bachelor of science degree in nursing.

Students with a bachelor’s degree in a non-nursing discipline who maintained a 2.5

grade point average are eligible to apply to the program, which will take 15 months to complete.

UAFS will be able to take 64 students a year in the accelerated program, in addition to the 120 students it takes annually in the traditional program.

Speaking to the Board of Visitors in December, Mosley, dean of the College of Health Sciences, explained that the shortage is apparent both locally and across the country.

An aging population and an increase in chronic condi-

School of Education Aces Accreditation The School of Education at the University of Arkansas – Fort Smith has been granted accredita-

tions like diabetes are taxing health-care resources. At the same time, potential students are being turned away from nursing schools because of a faculty shortage and budget constraints.

Sparks Regional Medical Center and Mercy Fort Smith are onboard with the project, Mosley said, adding that the program would not be possible without their participation.

The first students will enter the accelerated program in fall 2018.

tion for seven years with no areas marked for improvement by the Council for the Accreditation of Educator Preparation.

UAFS is the first public university in the state to go through the process with the new accrediting agency.

“The chair of our on-site CAEP committee told us that he had completed 16 reviews, and we were his first ever to have zero areas for improvement,” said Dr. Shelli Henehan, associate professor of education and coordinator of assessment in the School of Education. “We’ve always known that we deliver these highly qualified graduates, and to have CAEP confirm that we are preparing our teachers well provided strong affirmation for our various programs.”

Reviewers considered five standards: content and pedagogical knowledge; clinical partnerships and practice; candidate quality, recruitment, and selectivity; program impact; and quality assurance and continuous improvement.

After reviewing documentation, which faculty and staff began gathering in 2015, assessors – including the site visit chair, four site visit members, two state consultants from the Arkansas

rachel rodemann putman

Department of Education and a CAEP staff representative – visited the campus, reviewed data, and conducted interviews with multiple stakeholders.

The School of Education has been nationally accredited since NURSING: Students work with a medical simulation mannequin.

2005 through NCATE.

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on campus Student Voices

Students Take Wheelchairs to Mexico because it is my first officer position in college. However, I loved every second of it because of the people I get to work with and meet. Karin (Hickenbotham), my adviser, has helped me grow and learn so much in this club. The trip to Mexico is almost a once-in-a-lifetime opportunity, but I hope to participate in many other projects like it.

MEXICO MISSION: Five students took part in a Rotary International program to provide wheelchairs for children with mobility issues in Aguascalientes.

she warned the students that the event would be life-changing for them.

“I’m glad to see them moving outside their comfort zone,” she said about the trip to an impoverished area.

In honor of their trip, the student organization decided to raise money for wheelchairs that could be used in next year’s mission trip. They started with a goal of raising $1,200 to purchase eight wheelchairs. When they reached that goal, they didn’t want to stop, Hickenbotham said.

As of the middle of February, club members had raised $2,100, enough for 14 chairs.

to see what Rotary was about and how awesome it was. I love the idea of being able to help others and have a great time doing it. Rotary and Rotaract do some amazing community service projects. I love being able to do a service project as a group; as president, I love seeing the members’ faces light up at the first event they attend. It is amazing to see the change in people after the first Red Shield Dinner they serve.

The Wheelchair Mission is important to me because it is an opportunity to make a huge change in someone’s life. A few days to change someone’s life?

A no-brainer.

STUDENT VOICES

Cindy Chen, events director, UAFS Rotaract

Samantha Goble, president and co-founder, UAFS Rotaract I became involved in Rotaract after going to a few Rotary meetings and meeting the amazing Rotarians. I was able

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I became involved in Rotaract because I wanted to be able to give back to the community.

Being the events director was definitely a learning experience

Taylor Wewers, vice president, UAFS Rotaract I became involved in Rotaract because I wanted to invest my time in an organization that invests in our community. As a Fort Smith native, I am proud to be a part of an organization that offers volunteer opportunities to its members and ultimately works to benefit our Fort Smith community. Through Rotaract, I have acquired a great sense of pride in my fellow students who have been willing to donate their time and effort to the community.

The American Wheelchair Mission is important to me because I, and I’m sure some of my peers, have forgotten (that) the luxuries and accommodations we have are not readily available everywhere else. I think the American Wheelchair Mission is a fantastic program that offers accommodations to people that will be life-changing. I hope to return more grateful, compassionate, and inspired to continue serving others.

courtesy

When club sponsor Karin Hickenbotham said the UAFS Rotaract group of 42 students has done an eye-opening number of things in its first year of existence, she wasn’t kidding.

These are just some of the things students in this collegelevel Rotary International-affiliated organization have done: Bought food and cooked and served a meal to 60-80 clients at a Red Shield meal at the Salvation Army several times.

Sponsored children from the Chancellor’s Angel Tree, a Salvation Army project to gather Christmas presents for children who might not otherwise have anything.

Rang bells for the Salvation Army’s kettle collection at Christmas.

Helped with Rotary’s Dragon Boat in the race to benefit the Hamilton House Child and Family Safety Center.

Supported foster families with meals.

Presented a stay-in-school program for at-risk students from Kimmons and Darby Junior High schools.

On campus, students also have participated in activities like the Haunted Union and the Block Party.

Their latest activity is a trip by five members and Hickenbotham to Aguascalientes, Mexico, as part of a Rotary International mission to deliver wheelchairs to a center for physically disabled children.

Hickenbotham, director of student support for the College of Business and a member of the Downtown Rotary Club, said

Award Season On campus

Advisor Recognized for Service Debbie Findlay of Greenwood, advising coordinator in the College of Communication, Languages, Arts and Social Sciences, was the recipient of the 2018 inaugural Staff Appreciation Award in honor of Mark Horn, selected by the University of Arkansas – Fort Smith’s Student Government Association.

The award recognizes an outstanding staff member as chosen by university students.

It is named after Mark Horn, longtime administrator at the university who retired in 2014.

In the nomination letter from a student, which Horn read aloud during the annual staff meeting Feb. 28, Findlay was lauded for her positive and caring attitude toward the students she serves.

“When I first met with Mrs. Findlay, I had two options: Northeastern State University

in Tahlequah and this campus.

She met with me, explained my options, and she’s the reason why I chose UAFS,” the letter read. “She was invested in me, and I never worried about being steered in the wrong direction and had faith in her.”

“Without Mrs. Findlay, I would not be graduating this May, and I most certainly would not have had the experience I’ve had the last two years,” the letter continued. “She is more than just a staff member at UAFS. She is, in my opinion and my experience, part of the beating heart of this campus.”

Findlay first came to UAFS in 2001 as an academic advisor in the Student Advisement Center before becoming a benefits specialist in 2006. She left to work at the Arkansas Tech – Ozark campus in 2006 as a counselor for their Career Pathways program. She returned to UAFS as

PRINCESS: Spencer shines in 2009 pageant.

STAFF APPRECIATION: Debbie Findlay stands with SGA president Austin Lloyd, left, and Mark Horn.

an academic advisor in 2008 and moved to her current role as advising coordinator in 2010.

Findlay was instrumental in transitioning to a new faculty advising model in the College of CLASS and coordinates the college’s advising, registration, retention, and graduation

process for seven arts and social sciences programs.

“What an amazing honor to have received this award from our students,” Findlay said. “It’s an incredible feeling knowing that the work I do has a positive influence and does impact the lives of others for the better.”

Miss UAFS Before and After Elizabeth Spencer clearly is no stranger to the spotlight, as these two shots demonstrate. In the photo on the left, Spencer appears in 2009 as a princess at The UAFS Princess/Prince Program, a non-competitive program allowing children 5-10 years old to participate in pageant festivities. The photo on

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the right shows Spencer on Feb. 24 when she was crowned Miss UAFS 2018. Spencer will receive a two-year scholarship to UAFS valuing $7,000, a cash scholarship valuing $2,500, and a necklace from The Jewelry Store worth an estimated $2,500. She also received the the $500 Logan and Zane More Nursing Scholarship given during the awards ceremony. spring | summer 2018 The Bell Tower 7

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Mortarboards have become the latest place for students to express their exuberance at graduation

crowning ac 8 The Bell Tower spring | summer 2018

hats off

Once, the sober black mortarboard, worn flat atop the head, was the solemn signal of the completion of a course of study, and the only levity in it came when it was tossed high into the air after degrees had been conferred.

Education today is more about learning and teaching oneself, and the mortarboard, perched rakishly askew, is often the site for a final burst of creativity for students and the signal of an amazing new beginning.

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community CONCURRENT CREDIT: In the fall, high school students will be able to study robot automation at ABB and cyber systems at ArcBest

On-site classes increase opportunities for students automation program can move through a certificate of proficiency in industrial electronics maintenance to a bachelor’s degree in electrical engineering technology.

Next year students from both high schools will be able to enroll in either program, with the cyber systems courses being taught at ArcBest and the robot automation taught at ABB (formerly Baldor Electric Company).

Amanda Seidenzahl, director of regional workforce grants

at UAFS, said students would benefit from an increased connection to mentors and an understanding of real-world working conditions.

Dr. Ginni McDonald, director of secondary education with Fort Smith Public Schools, echoed Seidenzahl.

“I hope this program will increase the opportunity and frequency of mentoring interactions,” McDonald said. “This will enable those relationships to start sooner and continue longer.”

“I hope this program will increase the opportunity and frequency of mentoring interactions.” —Dr. Ginni McDonald 10 The Bell Tower spring | summer 2018

Rachel Rodemann Putman

Fort Smith high school students who enroll in dual credit technology programs offered through a regional workforce grant at UAFS will find themselves commuting to class next year.

Students who enroll in the cyber systems and robot automation programs will be taking their classes at two local corporations. Currently, Northside students in cyber systems are on a path to a bachelor’s degree in information technology.

Southside students in the robot

Luke Stouffer, a Northside 10th-grader, said he signed up for the cyber systems class because he thought he wanted to do something with computers.

Now that he’s in the class, his ideas are solidifying.

“Now I think I really like the programming route, maybe something to do with artificial intelligence or cybersecurity,” he said.

Exposing students to the variety of technology-related careers is an important part of the program, said Rich Krutsch, vice president of people services at ArcBest, which also is involved in the grant program in several other school districts.

“We have a shortage of technology workers in the state, and this program gives us a chance to show these students the possible routes they can take toward fulfilling work in this field,” he said. “We try to expose them to as many different career paths as possible.”

Jason Green, vice president of human resources at ABB, emphasized the real-world benefits learning on-site would have for students.

“The students will have the opportunity to learn robotics automation in a real-world, hightech manufacturing environment and be exposed to equipment, technology, and processes they wouldn’t normally see in a traditional classroom,” he said. “However, whether they learn the skill on a school campus or on our campus, the main thing is they are developing a skill set, doing it safely and working to develop a career plan that will prepare them for life beyond high school.”

Enterprise community

rachel rodemann putman

Family Businesses Thrive with FEC For Dave Robertson, there’s two ways of looking at economic development.

“One is bringing in new business, but the other aspect of it is supporting existing businesses,” Robertson said. “Eighty to 90 percent of all U.S. businesses are considered a family business. When you realize how significant that number is, and you look at the challenges that they face that are kind of unique, you can see where there’s an opportunity to support them and keep them strong.”

Helping local family businesses address those challenges was a major reason nine years ago Robertson took over as director of the Family Enterprise Center at the University of Arkansas – Fort Smith, a program that grows the economy of the greater Fort Smith region by helping local family businesses.

“Family businesses tend to operate in a bit of a vacuum because they want to keep their privacy, so they don’t realize that every family business faces the same types of challenges,” Robertson said. “I like to say we’ve taken the discussion away from the dinner table of the family, where it be can delicate or problematic, and bring it into an open and supportive environment where we can talk about those challenges very objectively.”

The FEC supports more than 35 local businesses through quarterly meetings featuring guest speakers presenting on topics such as succession planning, leadership development, communication and conflict,

and best practices for family businesses. Ten additional businesses serve as associate members, professionals that are key players in family business succession planning such as banks and trusts, attorneys, accountants and wealth advisors. Family business members can also participate in small peer groups that meet monthly for confidential discussions of common issues and solutions.

“Family businesses are so integral to this area. They hire our graduates, provide internships, and give back philanthropically,” Robertson said. “They just do so much and I don’t think people realize that. You’re supporting yourself when you support a local family business because so much of that comes back. And they’re not going to

out, other companies fold up their tent and were facing a lot of leave for greener the same issues. pastures when And even though times get tough. we don’t have the They’re not going same issues now anywhere.” that we did 12 years One of those robertson ago at Hanna Oil & family businesses is Gas, we still have issues Hanna Oil & Gas, helmed that we need to talk through by chief executive officer Bill in a setting like the one the FEC Hanna. The company made a provides.” significant gift to help start the Hanna said the members of FEC more than a decade ago his peer group have become like after Hanna saw the need to “his brothers.” establish a community for local “They help me understand family business owners. others’ points of views and help “I was looking for help and get through some of the chaldidn’t know where to go to get lenges my business is facing,” it,” Hanna said. “It’s kind of Hanna said. “The relationships hard to get in a setting and air have been incredible. I’ve only your dirty laundry and feel that missed a handful of FEC meetyou’re not going to be judged ings in the 12 years I’ve been a or some way not accepted part of it.” — John Post because of it. But as it turns

AFTER SCHOOL SMILZ: A $30,295 grant from the Blue & You Foundation for a Healthier Arkansas enabled dental hygiene students to provide a dental cleaning, X-rays, fluoride treatment, and dental care education to students in area elementary schools.

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community Internships

UAFS Student Gains Insight from Internship A prestigious internship helped UAFS student Hilda Flores realize many things about herself; some of them surprised her.

First, she discovered a work ethic that allowed her to work efficiently, despite a distant deadline and no direct supervision. Next, she learned that she likes controlling a project “from concept to reality.”

Finally, Flores, an animation technology major with a studio art minor, learned that what she really wants to do is work in live action film, maybe making music videos.

“I want to work with people,” Flores said. “I don’t want to work all the time in the booth.”

Last year, Flores applied for the J. Pruet Internship, at the advice of her mentor, Dr. Mary Shepard, associate professor of art history and humanities at the University of Arkansas –

ANNIMATION MAJOR: UAFS student Hilda Flores stands with Kitty Rubenstein at a reception in Flores’ honor in October at Windgate Art and Design. Flores received the J. Pruit Internship, awarded by the Arkansas State Committee of the National Museum of Women in the Arts, and Rubenstein was her liaison with the committee.

Fort Smith.

The internship is awarded by the Arkansas State Committee of the National Museum of Women in the Arts annually to a woman attending an Arkansas

university or college whose program of study is applicable to the advancement of Arkansas fine arts or art history. Flores was the only student selected from an applicant pool of nine women statewide.

Flores’ project, creating two video marketing pieces for the Center for Art and Education in Van Buren, combined her animation technology knowhow, studio art chops, and computer expertise.

Working with the art center’s executive director, Jane Owen, Flores developed four ideas and created storyboards for each, before producing a sevenminute history of the center and a 10-second spot highlighting the center’s theme.The longer piece debuted at the Center for Art and Education’s annual fundraiser, the 5X5 Gala, where it was well received.

Working through the summer, thanks to the internship’s stipend, Flores went to campus daily, put on her headphones, and worked until 4 or 5 p.m. It was a solitary venture, but she enjoyed learning computer programs she hadn’t used before and re-teaching herself some she had.

Flores is grateful for the opportunity and proud to have produced something that might benefit the center.

“Everything I did so far (before the internship) was a school project, shown to a teacher for a grade. But this was daunting; this was to benefit an actual organization. I hope this will bring them some attention and more people will want to come to the center. They do so many things there!”

She is also grateful to Shepard and to the Arkansas State Committee of the National Museum of Women in the Arts.

“I don’t know where I will go next,” the senior said. “But I know I will be prepared for whatever arises.”

Website Touts Legal Studies Degree

T

he UAFS legal studies program has been named the best program in the state for preparing paralegals by ParalegalEDU.org.

In a list identifying the best program in each state, the UAFS program, which is part of the College of Applied Science, is touted for its ABA approval and its “dynamic learning environment.

The legal studies program earns praise for its internship program,

ed through approval from the American Bar Association.

The associate of applied science degree in legal studies prepares students to work with attorneys in the preparation of documents, research, and investigation.

Degree holders can work as paralegals, corporate compliance assistants, title examiners, and other related professionals. Completing the

which, the site notes, has placed students with the U.S. attorney’s office,

A.A.S. degree then pursuing a bachelor’s degree can be good preparation

the Sebastian County Prosecuting Attorney’s Office, and the Crawford

for law school.

County Public Defender’s Office.

Other pluses include “outstanding career assistance and student

Dr. Lisa Norris, director of the legal studies degree, said the listing on ParalegalEDU.org validates her pride in the program. “We prepare

support services” and help to facilitate National Association of Legal As-

students for a wide variety of careers and further education. Our degree

sistants Certified Paralegal status.

is versatile, and our ability to place graduates in local law firms, corporate

Among the criteria considered by ParalegalEDU.org are the experience and dedication of the faculty, the connection between the program and the professional community, and the program’s rigor as demonstrat12 The Bell Tower spring | summer 2018

offices, and government agencies demonstrates that.”

ParalegalEDU.org is an information resource for those interested in becoming paralegals.

LaTavia Rollinson in person

College Is Just One Part of Dancer’s Life

LaTavia Rollinson is a student who likes to keep busy.

The University of Arkansas – Fort Smith sophomore works as a manager at a Taco Bell

restaurant, and she works at a local daycare center. She’s a fulltime student, secretary of the Black Student Association on campus, a member of the Pom Squad, and a choreographer for local children’s dance teams.

Consider her average day.

“With Pom Squad we have all morning practices,” Rollinson said. “On Tuesday, Wednesday, Thursday we’re up for 5:30 practices. We get out at 7:30, and I have class at 8. … When I have a break between classes or before going to work, I can get some schoolwork done. Then, I’ll have a break, then go to work at 3. I usually work until 8, but

sometimes I stay until 9.”

Not only does Rollinson make time for school, work, and cheerleading, she enjoys the chance she gets to mentor younger dancers.

“I have a little girls’ group that ranges from kindergarten to sixth grade at Jeffrey’s Boys & Girls Club, and I also choreograph for Kimmons Junior High for their dance and cheer teams,” she said.

It’s no wonder the words that sum up her life right now are, “Time management is crazy!”

As an elementary education major, she is hoping that as a

senior she will have a chance to intern at Spradling Elementary School, the school she attended.

She said her dance coach from junior high wants her to return to Kimmons to teach.

She’d like to stay in Fort Smith when she graduates – for a while.

“I do want to stay in Fort Smith after I graduate so I can give back to the community I came from. … (However) I will eventually leave Fort Smith because I know there are other children in other places. But I will always come back because this is my hometown.”

— Allyssa Alvarado

GIVING may be easier than you think. rachel rodemann putnam

There are ways you can support the university today while still providing for your family and preserving your assets for retirement.

Office of Planned Giving

For more information on how to create a lasting legacy, please visit uafslegacy.org or contact us at 479-788-7033.

Request your free guide to planning your will and trust.

athletics

we can be heroes: The annual Toy Toss is just one way basketball players work to give back to the community.

Players Prioritize Service dents have a chance to ask the older students questions about college life. College athletes can be heroes to youngsters, and this interaction gives them a chance to see the “student” in student athletes. Both groups benefit from the informal mentoring that grows out of these reading days.

Although the coach handles the logistics, the players are happy to dedicate some time to the community, and they are proud they make it a priority in spite of all the other demands on their time.

14 The Bell Tower spring | summer 2018

“Being in the community is huge for us because those are the people who come and support us every game; it’s only right we give back,” senior guard DaVaunta Thomas said.

“I think it’s a great use of our time,” said Seth Hawley, a sophomore who is a graduate of Southside High School. “It shows that we care for our community. Just as our community shows us their support by coming to our games, we too have an opportunity to go serve and give back to those around us.”

One of the best known and

rachel rodemann putman

The UAFS men’s basketball team is known for the points they score against their opponents in games, but the team also scores with volunteer activities in the community, part of Coach Josh Newman’s philosophy that student athletes should give back in their community.

Many elementary school students know the basketball players from Books and Basketball. Twice a month the players go out to read with the kids. It gives the two groups a chance to interact and the younger stu-

loved examples of the basketball Lions’ support for the community is the Annual Toy Toss, which was held for the eighth time in December. Fans are encouraged to bring a soft toy to the Toy Toss game, and when the Lions score for the first time, fans throw the toys on the court in celebration.

Newman came up with the idea and implemented it in the 2010 season. Since then more than 38,000 toys have been collected.

Today many high schools, colleges, and universities host their own toy tosses. The UAFS Toy Toss has received notice from the Heartland Conference and NCAA Division II, as well

Lion Pride in person

Did you know?

ROLE MODELS: Basketball players interact with elementary school students.

Through the end of February, the UAFS men’s basketball team clocked more than 160 volunteer

as from CBS Sports, ESPN, and Fox Sports. In Fort Smith, the toys are given to the Salvation Army to distribute.

This year, the team also participated in Students against Drunk Driving Week at Trinity Junior High School, with one of the players stalking the halls costumed as the Grim Reaper.

Players also participate in pep rallies at the elementary schools, and they work with younger athletes during camps and tournaments on campus.

“It’s a big deal to the kids that these players would go to

hours in Fort Smith.

The men also won their conference championship for the fourth time in six years in 2018.

They participated in their

their school and see them and play games with them at their pep rally or read to them,” Newman said.

“We want our guys to make a difference in the world. I tell them all the time that basketball is a tool that allows us the opportunity to make a difference. I want each and every young man that puts on a UAFS uniform to leave our program a

third straight NCAA Division II

better man, a man that will ultimately become a future employee, future employer, future husband, and a future father. More important than any number of wins on the floor, if our program can help make a difference in their lives and the lives of others, we’ve won.” —

Tournament, their fourth trip total.

Anna Ray

Gratitude Curtis Janz, athletic director for the University of Arkansas – Fort Smith, wants student athletes to understand who they are, where they live, and the price paid by others for their freedom. Janz asks Lions to emphasize service and gratitude.

Taking student athletes to the National Cemetery in Fort Smith and letting them listen to and speak with veterans is part of educating the whole student.

SCORING WINS: DaVaunta Thomas is proud to return support to the community that supports UAFS teams.

Also in 2018, the Lady Lions headed to the women’s NCAA Division II for the second time in the university’s seven years in Division II. The Lady Lions volleyball team played in its seventh consecutive Rachel Rodemann Putman

Heartland Conference Tournament title match in November. They won the title five of those seven years.

The volleyball team’s 25-6 season in 2017 was their 19th 20-win season in the last 20 years.

Follow the Lions on Facebook: TeamUAFS | UAFS Lions Athletics | UAFS Cheer | UAFS Women’s Basketball | UAFS Men’s Basketball

spring | summer 2018 The Bell Tower 15

“You certainly don’t want to walk into the Lion’s den unprepared for a fight.” That’s how the Stubblefield Center is described on NCAA.com’s list of the best arenas in Division II.

16 The Bell Tower spring | summer 2018

photo essay

spring || summer summer 2018 2018 The The Bell Bell Tower Tower 23 17 spring

T

he Joel R. and Barbara Stubblefield Convocation Center – known more commonly as the Stubblefield Center or just The Stubb – opened on Jan. 12, 2002. The 81,000 square-foot facility was named in honor of the late chancellor and his wife. The arena is home to the Lions and Lady Lions basketball teams and the volleyball team. When the teams aren’t using the floor, the center accommodates the university’s commencement, area high schools graduations, sports camps, and festivities like the annual Lion Legacy Celebration, homecoming events, and Den Day. In 2019 the first graduation of the Arkansas College of Osteopathic Medicine will be at the Stubblefield Center.

18 The Bell Tower spring | summer 2018 photographs by Rachel Rodemann Putman

spring | summer 2018 The Bell Tower 19

the Way Up Completer Degrees Offer AAS Grads a Path to a Bachelor’s Degree

20 The Bell Tower spring | summer 2017

t

ina Goodman knew the value of a good education. After all, she is the administrative assistant to the vice chancellor for academic affairs at the University of Arkansas Community College at Batesville, a job she’s held for many years, albeit through some title changes for her boss and the college.

She had an associate of applied science degree in business services, and she wanted a four-year degree. But as a single mother of a daughter in high school, she knew it was impossible for her to commute to Jonesboro or to pay the tuition at Lyon College.

And then the University of Arkansas – Fort Smith came to town.

As part of its completer degree program, UAFS offers the opportunity for students in far eastern Arkansas with A.A.S. degrees to earn bachelor’s degrees online without starting over in their studies.

“That program meant I could keep my job working 40 hours a week as a single mom, live in my community, and take courses at

night,” Goodman said. “I don’t know to this day that I would have a bachelor’s degree if I didn’t go through that program.”

Dr. Leroy Cox, associate dean and associate professor in the College of Applied Science and Technology, directs the completer degree program. Beginning in 2006, he was responsible for supplying a bachelor’s degree to community colleges in eastern Arkansas starting with Mid-South Community College, now Arkansas State University MidSouth, in West Memphis.

The B.A.S. degree was created to give graduates with the “terminal” A.A.S. degree a pathway to a four-year degree while accepting as many credits as possible from the student’s A.A.S. work, Cox said.

“Instead of accepting just 15 or 18 hours, we wanted to accept the most possible, now up to 75,” Cox said. “That means that students don’t have to repeat two years of school.

“These are mostly non-traditional students who have jobs and families and are place-bound. But they need the degree to advance in their careers. They don’t have time and money to waste.”

Currently UAFS offers completer degrees at schools from Carl Albert State College in Poteau to Southwest Tennessee Community College in Memphis.

Dr. Andrea Thomas coordinates things for students at a half-dozen schools in eastern Arkansas. Her office is located at Mid-South, which she said is central. She has a pretty broad job description; Cox said she performs all the enrollment management functions.

She does some “soft recruiting,” talking to prospective students about how the program would work for them.

Once students enter the program, she examines their transcripts to see what courses they have and what they need. If they lack general education classes, she helps them get signed up for those at their local community college and gets them signed up for the online classes they need for upper-level credits.

The only thing she doesn’t handle is financial aid, but she gets students connected with specialists on the Fort Smith campus.

Thomas said she thinks the program is great because it provides students with chances they otherwise might not have. And she’s proud of the education students receive.

Her dissertation for her doctoral degree from Jackson State University in Mississippi

compared outcomes of community college transfer students and those who went only to a four-year college using UAFS for her comparison. The transfer students do as well academically, take the same amount of time, and earn the same degrees.

Goodman agrees with that assessment.

She says she started the program expecting challenges, and she found them, although not always where she expected them. She worried about the logistics of the online coursework but found that part smooth sailing as she participated in classes, online discussion boards, and group projects.

It was the work that was challenging. One semester she had a three-hour night class four nights a week, after working eight-hour shifts. She just told herself she could do anything for 16 weeks.

She still has the same job she had when she started the program, but she believes she does it better and has assumed more responsibilities as a result of her studies. But she didn’t go to school to get a new job.

“Earning my degree was something I did for me,” she said. “I am a passionate advocate of this program, and I always will be because it changed my life. I want people to see that you can earn a degree if you want to learn and you’re willing to work hard.”

DISTANCE LEARNING: Students in east Arkansas and some bordering communities with associate of applied science degrees can complete a bachelor’s degree from UAFS with credit for up to 75 hours for work already completed.

MARKETING RESEARCH: Students got to know Van Buren before they made recommendations to city leaders and merchants at the King Opera House.

Hands On When Dr. Elise Riker’s senior marketing research students signed up for class last fall, they couldn’t have known what they were getting into. Instead of classroom discussions about case studies, the students found themselves looking at a real-world opportunity to bring change to a local community.

Riker worked with Rusty Myers and Fred Williams, executives in residence with the UAFS College of Business and members of the Dean’s Leadership Council, to develop a project for the students. As members of Van Buren Original, Myers and Williams knew the merchants and city planners in Van Buren were eager to try some new things to attract commerce and visitors to the Crawford County city.

So Riker divided her students into groups; then each group dug in with a topic to research related to a challenge facing the city of about 23,000 residents. For instance, one group worked to develop a marketing plan for the King Opera House; another worked with Main Street merchants to identify target audiences and increase appeal. Two other groups focused on events in downtown Van Buren: One group researched public interest in events currently offered, and the other considered what new events would generate interest.

When the research was done, students made formal presentations and recommendations to their “clients,” who were gath-

ered in the King Opera House.

From the start, the students, many of whom had never been to Van Buren before they started their research, made a positive impression.

Calling the experience “invaluable,” Debbie Foliart, chairman of the Van Buren Advertising and Promotions Commission, praised the students’ attention to detail and their understanding of what VBO was trying to accomplish.

“The ideas that came out of the … large and small group meetings made it clear that they had an interest in the project and making it relevant to not only their class but mostly to the city of Van Buren and our focus on economic development,” said Foliart, who also is owner of the bookstore Chapters on Main and a member of The Old Town Merchants Association.

How did it all turn out? Well, their grades are between Riker and her students, but comments from the Van Buren Original members show that the work was well received on that side of the Arkansas River.

Joe Hurst, director of planning for the city of Van Buren, said the student research into ways to capitalize on the riverfront was “excellent and very timely.

“The city is now in the early stages of rerouting the access into Lee Creek Park, Hurst said. “The current access into the park was determined by the students to be a hindrance to the park’s overall usage. The city will also be discussing this project’s recommendations at future parks commission meetings.”

The director of the Van Buren A&P said she was impressed by the enthusiasm the students displayed. She also appreciated their findings.

“I’ve used their research and ideas in several presentations about the revitalization of our downtown Main Street retail district,” Maryl Purvis said. “Many of their

Marketing Students Take on Van Buren ideas will be incorporated in future plans for our continued revitalization efforts.”

Myers, who is chairman of the board of Van Buren Original, appreciated the students’ insight.

“The student teams provided not only good information but also fresh ideas that will be useful for Van Buren’s downtown vitalization efforts. I was impressed with the students’ enthusiasm, thoughtfulness, and professionalism in doing their research and preparing and present their reports. I commend Dr. Riker and the UAFS College of Business for connecting their students and our community in such a meaningful and positive way.”

Students in the class are enthusiastic about their experiences because they know the practical research will give them the hands-on experience employers want.

Their work also has a kind of satisfaction that’s different from what they get in other classes.

Chasse Daniels, a member of the team looking for ways to market Van Buren to new merchants, explained: “In a lot of classes you see the result of your effort in your grade, but with this class, you are going to see the result of your effort when things come to life. You’re actually going to see what happens.”

spring | summer 2018 The Bell Tower 23

Livin’ the ROTC Cadet Headed for Life of Service

24 The Bell Tower spring | summer 2018

rachel rodemann putman

ROTC: The cadre of officers provides students with leadership opportunities and problem-solving challenges.

Dream Victor Kongphouthakhoun is exactly the kind of student – or friend – you’d like to have: animated, positive, fearless, humble, eager to help out.

“I’m not all that smart,” he says. “I’m not a biologist, I’m not a chemist. I’m just a person who likes to help people. I like going out and volunteering anywhere. It’s just fun.”

That attitude seems perfect for the freshman who says his dream job is to be a police officer and a commissioned Army National Guard officer. Why is that the dream? “I’d get to do two jobs at once.”

Kongphouthakhoun is a member of the UAFS ROTC program. The 2017 graduate of Northside High School said he participated in the JROTC program there, although he admits that he didn’t really understand the program when he started.

“I thought the program was there to make soldiers, but I learned that it was there to make leaders,” he said.

spring | summer 2018 The Bell Tower 25

FIELD TRAINING: Cadets have a chance to sharpen their skills at Fort Chaffee Maneuver Training Center.

The FAQs ROTC (Reserve Officer Training Corps) – What is that?

ROTC is a leadership program. “Students may not stick with us for four years, but if they work with us when they are here, they will learn leadership skills and become more successful and self-sufficient,” said Maj. Jason Hogue, assistant professor of military science.

Students who complete the program and graduate on time will be commissioned as second

Kongphouthakhoun signed a six-year contract with the Army when he was 17, and he started his basic training at Fort Benning in Georgia between his junior and senior years of high school.

He went back to Fort Benning the summer after his senior year for advanced maneuver training, and it cemented his decision to continue in ROTC in college.

“The cadets I worked with and the officers I worked with convinced me that I would rather be an officer,” he said.

That’s not a slam against the enlisted soldiers. “I worked with some awesome cadets and some bad cadets, and it made me think I would love to be an officer.”

A look at Kongphouthakhoun’s day makes it clear that he’s willing to make sacrifices for his dream. He rises at 4 a.m. if he is

lieutenants.

How could I do that? I don’t have the time and I’m not really that … brawny?

Participating in ROTC is a realistic opportunity for many people who might not think so. “The total time commitment we require is one hour three days a week for PT (physical training), three hours for class, three hours for lab, and time for homework. It’s not unmanageable for most. Students don’t need to be physically fit to start with. If they will work with us, we will get them where they need to be said,” Capt. Matthew Liebel said.

Do you take English majors?

Although some financial aid is tied to certain majors, students from any major can enter the program. Graduating on time is a specific goal of the program.

What do I learn in ROTC that I couldn’t learn someplace else?

I thought (ROTC) was there to make soldiers, but I learned that it’s there to make leaders.” — Victor

Kongphouthakhoun

ROTC students learn critical skills through hands-on learning. “Other programs teach students about critical thinking and problem solving. We give them problems to solve. If you can solve problems, you are going to be valuable wherever you go,” Hogue said.

When did UAFS get an ROTC program?

The UAFS ROTC program has been active since 2007, and there are 19 cadets enrolled this semester.

26 The Bell Tower spring | summer 2018

at his uncle’s farm in Spiro or at 5 a.m. if he’s at his parents’ home in Fort Smith. He dons his uniform and heads to campus, arriving at 5:45. He chats with the cadets until Maj. Jason Hogue or another officer in the cadre gives the approval to start physical training.

The training might be stretching, cardio-

vascular work or “anything the cadre thinks we can improve on.” Different officers stress different challenges. “Major Hogue loves his sprints,” he said. The cadets are working on building strength and endurance.

After that, he heads home for a shower and drives his younger brother to school.

Next he needs to think about homework and classes. He’s currently taking 18 credit hours as he works on a degree in criminal justice.

He also has ROTC labs – and he loves those too.

“I especially like land nav (navigation),” he said. “It’s great because to me it’s hiking with a purpose, even when I get lost. Not everybody likes it, but I’d rather be lost in the woods than walking in the city.”

“The people here at UAFS are what makes the program really great,” Kongphouthakhoun said. “With the cadets, even

when we go through hardships, we go together and keep cheering each other on. And the cadre is great too.

They are very direct but also very understanding.

Major Hogue is always throwing us opportunities to increase our leadership skills, and the rest of the cadre, they all have different skills to help us.”

He said loves the infantry and wants to be an exemplary marksman. He’s hoping to be able to attend air assault training this summer to learn to rappel out of helicopters in combat situations.

Kongphouthakhoun currently is a member of the Army National Guard. He said he’s considered a career in active duty, but “I really love my ease,” he said – with no irony at all.

Fort Chaffee affords the ROTC program the ability to do field training in infantry operations, including marksmanship.

“I respect and admire your choice to help others even when you don’t have to. You have helped me more than you know, and I will not let you down.”

– Jonathan Kiger, UAFS Senior

It’s not the amount of your gift that’s important – it’s the power of giving.

To make a gift online: giving.uafs.edu

Office of Annual Giving

alumni

and improvement.

celebration time

Alumni Honored at Reunion Social

“UAFS is a place that represents improvement,” she said. It represents “Individual improvement through the ability to think

Two alumni and a UAFS faculty

on to help found the

critically and independently,

member shared the stage at the

dental hygiene program

community improvement, im-

8th Alumni Reunion Social, held

at UAFS. She became

provement in the opportunity for

Feb. 9 in conjunction with Home-

vice chancellor for

people to earn a living wage doing

coming 2018 at The Blue Lion.

university advancement

something they love.”

More than 50 alumni and guests

and executive director

attended.

of the UAFS Founda-

Speakman Legacy Endowment,

tion in 2002. She led

Dr. Mary Shepard, associate pro-

a $57 million capital

fessor of art, was at the social to

Rebecca Hurst, ’00, was awarded the second Young

The first recipient of the Lucille

announce the endowment’s

Alumni Award, which recognizes professional achievements and

rebecca hurst

second recipient, Dr. Kiyun Han, associate professor

service to the university among

of electronics technology.

Dr. Marta Loyd, who is both

younger graduates. Hurst graduated from the University Center at

a former student and a former

The Speakman Endowment

UAFS with a bachelor’s degree in

vice chancellor, received the

makes grants to faculty

accounting and went on to earn

Diligence to Victory Award, the

members to improve their

a law degree from the University

highest award conferred by the

classroom teaching; the

of Arkansas and a master of laws

Alumni Association. Diligence

fund was formed by Randy

degree in taxation from New York

award recipients are alumni who

Wewers, ‘58, and other

University. She is co-founder and

have distinguished themselves

alumni 1958, who wished

managing partner of the Smith

through service to the university,

to honor the instructor

Hurst law firm in Rogers where

community, state, or nation and

who influenced their lives.

she focuses on businesses, es-

whose outstanding leadership in

tates, and charitable giving. Since

their business or professional lives

telecommunications and

2007 she has been an adjunct

exemplifies the motto of the Fort

information engineering at

professor at the UA School of Law.

Smith Junior College class of 1928:

This year Hurst completed the

Han earned his BE in

the Korea Aviation UniverDr. kiyun han

Through Diligence to Victory.

sity in Seoul in 1992, and both his master’s degree in

Loyd attended Westark Com-

second of two three-year terms on the Alumni

munity College in

campaign for the Foundation, the

electrical engineering in 1998 and

Advisory Council,

1987 and earned

first of its kind for the institution,

his doctorate in engineering sci-

where her legal

her bachelor’s

and exceeded the campaign goal

ence at Southern Illinois University

expertise was

degree in dental

by $7 million. When she left UAFS

at Carbondale, Illinois.

invaluable as she

hygiene from

in 2014 the total assets of the

chaired the By-

UAMS. She earned

Foundation were at nearly $80

hands-on instruction, has planned

laws Committee.

a master’s degree

million dollars.

a trip that will allow him to learn

In January she

in higher educa-

joined the UAFS

tion leadership

tor of the Winthrop Rockefeller

to Korea to study fifth genera-

Foundation Board

from the University

Foundation, where she is respon-

tion (5G) communication and the

of Directors.

of Arkansas and

sible for fiscal oversight, market-

Internet of Things. He will attend

a doctorate in

ing and fundraising, program

an exhibition of the newest com-

educational lead-

development, and other aspects

munications technology; meet

ership and policy

of the organization. In accepting

with Samsung’s vice president

analysis from the

the award, Loyd explained her

to discuss the technology; meet

belief that UAFS represents

with a communication module

three primary themes: learning

company; and attend an Internet

and opportunity; community;

of Things exhibition.

In her comments, Hurst credited her time

Dr. Marta Loyd

at UAFS with helping her develop goals for her life that include giving back to her community.

University of Missouri.

She started her professional life as a dental hygienist and went

28 The Bell Tower spring | summer 2018

She is now the executive direc-

Han, who is known for his

the same way. He plans to travel

News & Notes alumni

Drop Us a Line Please take a moment to tell

new chapter opening

Alumni Affairs Targets NWA

us and your former classmates what’s been going on since you left UAFS, Westark, or Fort Smith Junior College. Tell us about your job, your family, your hobbies, your adventures, your plans — whatever you want to share with other alumni.

Feel free to include a photo (highres, please). Then make sure we have your full name (if your name has changed, include the name you used when you were here) and the year you graduated or attended classes. Email your class note to alumni@uafs.edu or mail to Alumni Affairs, UAFS, P.O. Box 3649, Fort Smith, AR 72913.

1980s Tim Garret, ’80, is assistant general manager for Fort Smith Radio Group.

1990s Elizabeth Reed, ’92, is business relations consultant for the Arkansas Department of Career Educa-

Alumni Director Rick Goins, Director of Annual Giving Christy Williams, and #RoamingNuma met with 10 alumni in Fayetteville on Feb. 15 to lay the groundwork for a Northwest Arkansas Chapter of the Alumni Association. Each alumnus present promised to bring a fellow alum to an April meeting. Graduation years ranged from 1986 to 2017.

tion and Rehabilitation Services in the Fort Smith office.

2000s Michael Alexander, ’04, was promoted to manager of campus-

assistant for the Upward Bound

senior with Hogan Taylor LLP and

Lions basketball player, is working

he served as a young alumni men-

on his master’s in communica-

programs at UAFS.

tor in the Mentor Connections

tion with a focus on cultural and

Brittany Potts, ’15, was recently

program. He is moving to Tulsa.

interpersonal relationships within

promoted to senior carrier sales

organizations and teaching as a

coordinator at JB Hunt where she

graduate assistant at the Univer-

has worked since January 2016.

based training at ArcBest in Fort

2010s

Smith.

Luis and Harmony Muniz, both

sity of Arkansas at Fayetteville.

Matthew Hutchins, ’08, is the new

class of ’16, welcomed Asher Luis

Josiah Cotner, ’12, has taken a

scholarship coordinator for the

Muniz, their first son, to the world

position as senior valuation

UAFS Foundation office.

on Oct. 8, 2017, at 8 pounds 4

associate at CBRE brokerage

Eric Smithson, ’09, became

ounces and 19 inches.

and real estate management in

engaged to Jessica Green on Dec.

Hannah Meadows, ‘17, has ac-

Fayetteville, AR.

4. He works at ArcBest as a senior

cepted a position as the execu-

Stacy Eckert, ‘15, owner of

manager in financial services,

tive assistant for the Van Buren

Alpha Omega Ink, has accepted

and he is the chair of the UAFS

Advertising & Promotions Com-

a position in materials with Mars

Alumni Advisory Council.

mission.

Petcare US.

Robert Jetton, ’09, is assurance

Dusan Stojanovic, ’16, former

Laura Brown, ’17, is the program spring | summer 2018 The Bell Tower 29

alumni News & Notes

Hunter K. Cabe,’13, has been

Arkansas Walton College of Busi-

appointed to the Fort Smith His-

ness in the spring of 2018.

torical District Commission. The

Curtis B. Adams III, ’14, has

commission conducts research

accepted a position as an ads

and reports on the historical

integrity analyst for BCforward in

significance of buildings and sites

Austin, Texas.

included in any historic district

Rebecca Peters, ’15, accepted

within the city to help maintain

a position as a staff accountant

continuity with the Department of

with SPMI: My HR Professionals in

the Interior’s guidelines.

Van Buren.

Emilee Lewellen,’17, is a logistics

Tony Jones, ’16, is seeking his

and operations analyst with FFO

doctor of jurisprudence degree at

Alumni Advisory Council March 2018

Eric Smithson, ’09, chair Shawn Cozzens, ’90, secretary Conaly Bedell, ’56 Lap Bui, ’93 Christopher Cluck, ’05 Sandy Dixon, ’85

Jennifer Enslow Katie Kratzberg, ’05 Jimmie Lincks, ’68 Jeremy May, ’07 Warren Rapert, ’81 Brock Schulte, ’08, ’14

Home.

the University of Arkansas School

researcher and

Travis Sorensen, ’15, has a new

Roland Henning, ’14, is a talent

of Law with an expected gradu-

video oral history processor with

position as development and

acquisition partner with USA

ation date of 2020. He is also

History Makers in Chicago, Ill.

marketing coordinator at the

Truck.

program coordinator at the Camp

Allyson Peek, ’15, and Kory Reed,

Northwest Arkansas Food Bank in

Charlie Williams, ’16, is in the

War Eagle after school program

‘16, announced their engagement

Bethel Heights.

marketing department with

in Springdale.

on Dec. 1, 2017, and plan to be

Rheem.

Carl Hulsey, ’15, a former graphic

married on the same day in 2018.

Mariah Hamby,’15, is a human

designer in the UAFS market-

Tyler Armstrong, ’16, is River

resources coordinator with Area

ing department, completed his

Valley regional manager for Core

Agency on Aging of Western

Master of Business Administration

in charge of the Fort Smith pub,

Arkansas.

in marketing at the University of

the social media pertaining to

Ashley Klinck, ’11, has left the

Illinois and is now marketing cam-

the region, and regional sales.

Tulsa public defender’s office and

paign manager for Fusion Risk

Danielle Emery, ’17, has accepted

has joined the practice of Misty

Management in Chicago, Ill.

a position as operational sup-

Allie Wilson, ’16, will marry Adam

Fields, Attorney at Law PLLC in

Matthew Farrar,

port technician with the FBI. She

Deacon on May 26, 2018. She is an

Pryor, Okla.

’15, has completed

provides support for agents with

orthopedic medical sales repre-

Cynthia Harrison, ’16, and Cole

his master’s of

duties ranging from surveillance

sentative for Arthrex.

Sullivan, ’15, announced their

science degree

to analyzing bank records to

Ryan McMahan, ’11, has been

engagement on Oct. 29, 2017.

in Literature and

sorting evidence. She is currently

promoted to senior account

Colton Clark, ’14, is now an HREE

Modernity: 1900

working in the Fayetteville/Fort

executive with ABF Freight. He

analyst at Tyson Foods. He is

to the Present

Smith area.

has been with ABF since Febru-

expecting to graduate with an

from the University of Edinburgh.

Dale Williams, ‘15, has accepted

ary 2015, and this is his second

Executive MBA from University of

He started a new position as a

a new position as terminal man-

promotion.

Jasmine Hattabaugh, ’12, and Phillip Smith, ’16, were married on Oct. 7, 2017.

30 The Bell Tower spring | summer 2018

ager for Central Transport in Fort

Victoria Emerson, ’16, passed her

Smith as of January 2018.

final CPA exam in February.

Alex Gravelle, ‘13, has accepted a

Kenny Whitehead, ’16, success-

new position as change manage-

fully completed his CPA exam in

ment lead with Best Buy at their

February.

corporate headquarters in Min-

Roger Evans, ’13, started a new

neapolis, Minn.

position as human resources

Allison Cross, ’17, joined the bank

manager at Packers Sanitation

audit team as a staff accountant

Services, Ind. which provides sani-

with Beall Barclay in January

tation for over 450 food process-

2018.

ing plants in the U.S. and Canada.

Nina Vu, ’17, married Matthew

Remington Pate, ’16,

Ray Matlock on Jan. 23, 2018. He

and Kristen Mootry,

is in the military, and she works

who will graduate

as a data analyst at Riverside

in May 2018, got en-

Furniture.

gaged Nov. 4, 2017.

News & Notes alumni

MENTOR CONNECTIONS: Ekeh values time spent with business leaders through the mentoring program.

alumni advisory council

CLC Alum Advances in Banking For many professionals, earning a vice president position at a major bank would signify the culmination of their professional career. For Chukwukere Ekeh, ’15, it’s just the beginning.

At age 24, the University of Arkansas – Fort Smith graduate was recently named vice president of retail marketing at Renasant Bank, where he oversees retail marketing for all of the company’s banks in Georgia and Florida.

The position, located in

Atlanta, is a huge step forward for the North Little Rock native, who previously worked as a marketing officer at Citizens Bank in Van Buren after graduating with a degree in business administration. But when Renasant reached out to him about the position after hearing about Ekeh’s talents, he didn’t shy away from the challenge.

“My parents always told me that I should try to do whatever I think I’m capable of.

No matter the challenge, I’ve

always thought great things are possible and can be the norm as long as you try for it,” Ekeh said.

Ekeh kept that same mindset during his time at UAFS, where he pursued plenty of opportunities. He was a member of the Chancellor’s Leadership Council, a prestigious scholarship program for potential leaders with a three-hour course taught

by Chancellor Paul B. Beran.

He also played on the Lions basketball team and participated in the Mentor Connections

program through the university’s alumni office, which paired him with an executive mentor to provide him professional development. As a student, he was mentored by Bill Hanna of Hanna Oil and Gas; as a young alumni, he was mentored by Steve Clark, Propak Logistics.

“The Mentor Connections program gave me time with big-time business leaders from our area,” Ekeh said. “I got to sit in on company board meetings, network with local area executives, and have the free rein to pick some of the River Valley’s great business minds.”

When Ekeh learned of the vice president position, he saw an opportunity for personal and professional growth in a new area.

“I was excited about the opportunity to go to a bigger market and see a different lifestyle and culture. The opportunity to step up like that was appealing,” he said. “I just felt like I could take that leap.”

The bank felt the same. To his surprise, he was offered the position.

“I was kind of taken aback.

You never think of a vice president being 24 years old,” he said.

It marks the beginning of what Ekeh plans to be a fruitful career in corporate marketing.

“In my senior yearbook, my parents took out an ad for me and used the quote by Winston Churchill: ‘History will be kind to me, for I intend to write it,’” Ekeh said. “That quote means a lot to me, and I actually had it printed on my old business cards because it serves as a reminder that each day I write a page of my legacy. That I alone hold the pen and can write an incredible story.” — John Post

spring | summer 2018 The Bell Tower 31

alumni News and Notes

COFFEE HOUSE: The Goulds offer fresh-roasted beans, handcrafted drinks, and homemade baked goods in a warm atmosphere at 1101 Rogers Ave.

alumni news

Passion into Profit Having learned that “plans don’t always work out,” Kaity and Gabriel Gould are enjoying life one cup of coffee at a time.

The two are proprietors of Fort Smith Coffee Company at 1101 Rogers Ave. in downtown Fort Smith, a coffee bar that boasts of fresh-roasted beans, hand-crafted drinks, and madefrom-scratch snacks.

Kaity and Gabriel started out roasting half cups of beans in a tiny popcorn popper in their home as a hobby. They saw a niche for fresh-roasted coffee in Fort Smith, so they decided to invest in a small commercial roaster that roasted two pounds of coffee at a time.

For a while they sold coffee at the Fort Smith Farmers Market and Brick City Emporium under the company name

of Hawk and Horse Coffee Roasting Company.

Eventually they renovated a shopfront downtown and opened Fort Smith Coffee Company.

The road to the coffee bar was not straight.

The two lived in a variety of locations, including Houston, California, and Australia. They finally settled down in Gabriel’s hometown of Fort Smith and took classes at UAFS. After they started their family, they decided they needed to get to work full time.

Kaity changed her major from early childhood education to psychology to English with teacher licensure. Although she hasn’t put that directly to

32 The Bell Tower spring | summer 2018

use, she said her time at UAFS taught her to juggle life, school, and work at the same time.

Gabriel was a chemistry major during his time at

UAFS. He said that has given him a better understanding of chemical combinations, which has helped him better understands the flavor profiles of the coffee they roast.

He’s also grateful for the mechanical classes he took at UAFS because that education has saved him thousands of dollars. He has been able to buy and fix malfunctioning machines for a fraction of what they could cost new. And if something goes on the fritz, he usually can fix it himself.

They worked for six months to renovate their space. They have taken something old, kept much of it, but added some personal modern flairs. Now the store has a clean rustic feel to it, with fresh flowers on the tables in repurposed, empty Madagascar vanilla bean paste jars, lots of warm wood, and plenty of natural light. The walls are sprinkled with art by local artists.

Kaity and Gabriel say they make a point to not take any shortcuts when it comes to the products they are making for their customers. Baked goods are made from scratch, and even the coffee syrups are made inhouse. Baristas are encouraged to be creative.

Kaity explained: “If we have someone on staff who has kind of taken something and run with it, we try to just encourage them. ‘This is your baby, make whatever you want and let’s see how it goes over.’”

That attitude leads to drinks like the Sweet Potato and Brown Sugar Latte. And, Kaity said, it leads to a diverse clientele that ranges from business people meeting to ladies having tea to students studying to couples on their first date all within the doors of their coffee shop. — Krystal Summers

ALUMNI LEGACY

SCHOLARSHIP Support future Lions with a gift or memorial in honor of a loved one to the Alumni Legacy Scholarship.

admissions.uafs.edu/lionsshare For more information contact Rick Goins, director of Alumni Affairs, 479-788-7026 Prospective students who are the spouse, sibling, or child of an alumnus are eligible to apply.

The Bell Tower

A publication of the University of Arkansas – Fort Smith

UAFS Alumni Association P.O. Box 3649 Fort Smith, AR 72913

Nonprofit org. u.s. postage paid permit no. 479 Fort Smith, ARK

rising up

rachel rodemann putman

come together: On Valentine’s Day, students, faculty, and staff joined Chancellor Paul B. Beran at River Valley Rising to bring attention to domestic violence and offer solutions. 2018 was the third year United Way of Fort Smith and UAFS partnered for this event.