UAPB Magazine Fall/Winter 2018 issue

A Publication for Alumni and Friends of the University of Arkansas at Pine Bluff

FALL / WINTER 2018

PROSPERING PINE BLUFF ALSO IN THIS ISSUE: HOMECOMING INSERT | REMEMBERING RAYE JEAN MONTAGUE ALSO IN THIS ISSUE: HOMECOMING INSERT | REMEMBERING RAYE JEAN MONTAGUE

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GAINING NEW GROUND

Simmons Bank Foundation Director J. Thomas May (seated), Simmons Bank Senior Executive Vice President Marty Casteel, and Pine Bluff Simmons Bank President Daniel Robinson enjoy open house festivities at the newly renovated Simmons Bank Field.

Richard Redus

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Chancellor’s Letter News & Events Recap Alumni Updates Class Notes

Features

50 COVER STORY

PROSPERING PINE BLUFF

by Donna Mooney Photography by Brian Williams Non-profits and government leaders working together to make Pine Bluff a better place

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BY ANY OTHER NAME

by Henri L. Linton, Sr.

Most are aware of two name changes for the University of Arkansas at Pine Bluff, but few know the AM&N era went by another moniker

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FINDING THE RIGHT FIT

by Tisha Arnold

Alumna Markia Herron found her passion for making hats for herself and turned it into a successful online business

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FULL CIRCLE

by Donna Mooney Photography by Brian Williams How alumnus Alex Guynn rose from unpaid law clerk to the become the youngest Judge in Jefferson County

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On the cover: (top row) STEM building and conference center on UAPB's campus, Pine Bluff/Jefferson County Courthouse, UAPB Business Support Incubator. On the second row, Pine Bluff Aquatic center (under construction), Pine Bluff/Jefferson County Library (under construction), and Pine Bluff branch of Simmons Bank.

Nathaniel Baker Brian T. Williams

The first annual Forward Fest: Blues Batter and Brew, sponsored by Go Forward Pine Bluff, drew more than 15,000 spectators who gathered downtown to celebrate the city with live musical performances, food and fun.

HOMECOMING INSERT

Meet the new faces behind Golden Lion Athletics and learn more about the football team

REMEMBERING RAYE JEAN MONTAGUE

Arkansas's Hidden Figure, the life of a distinguished alumna will continue to inspire the next generation

Fall/Winter 2018 3

CHANCELLOR'S LETTER CHANCELLOR'S LETTER Greetings, Golden Lion Supporters: Greetings, Golden Lion Supporters:

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We cannot thank you enough for investing in the University of As always, we Bluff greatly appreciate your efforts inasset, helping grow the Arkansas at Pine ’s (UAPB) most important ourto students.

Pride known as the University of Arkansas at Pine Bluff.

Our alumni, Great things have happened at UAPB since the last publication, and I faculty, staff, students and supporters have continued to be faithful am delighted to share some of the achievements with you. in their loveare foraware, this institution.

Muchis has since our are last As you student success ourhappened top priority!

There publication and we take pride in sharing those things with you. several factors that contribute to the success of our students, and Thisgiving is a “Golden Time of Year!”

Weinare committed our strategic alumni is one of them.

It assists elevating everytoaspect of priorities and keeping it G-O-L-D-E-N. student success at the university. We pride ourselves on some of our Growing Enrollment Student the last accomplishments that weand haveFostering experienced this Success. year thatOver also play a five years, we have increased our 6-year graduate rate by 25% and the role. One of them consists of reaching new highs in our retention rates, first-year, first-timeand in college retention rate our by 27%.

As we continuetheir our 72% for freshmen 78% overall.

Helping students complete journey to success, recruitment, retention, and graduation remain our degree program is a point of pride for our faculty, staff, and alumni.

HIGHEST PRIORITIES! Our athletics department had great achievements this year including Optimizing As previously mentioned, the Scholarship university completing the Efficiency. goal of raising $320,000 for the Football signed a $19.3 million energy performance contract in collaboration Investment Fund, which allows us to recruit a greater number of very with Performance Servicesand to help improveLion our football energy infrastructure qualified student-athletes the Golden team to compete and decrease our energy consumption, which will turn to generate on level playing field with their rival teams. We areinproud say that our savings campus-wide. goal was met at the 2017 UAPB/AM&N National Alumni Association LiftingConference Facilities. The university completed major projects Summer hosted in Pine has Bluff, Arkansas.some In addition, the including upgrades for the football stadium, HPER Complex, the department secured $900,000 in the NCAA Accelerating Academics baseballProgram stadium, grant. as wellThis as renovations to aour fewuniversity academicto buildings.

Success grant enables assist In addition, we are looking forward to future projects such as the new with the development and enhancement of initiatives and programs student union the track soccer facility. that allow us toand comply with and the specific guidelines of the Academic Diversifying and Increasing Revenue Streams. Inrates order foradvance us to Performance Program (APP) to increase graduation and progress, funding in all aspects is very necessary.

We’ve received some the academic success of student-athletes. major funding in research grants within the past year that have totaled We are also committed to improving student life and services. in over $15 million including IIIdormitories funding. Wethis have also We completed renovations in Title several year asreceived well as funding from Governor Asa Hutchinson in the amount of $300,000 for added a new residence hall. The new residence hall is an expansion to the baseball stadium.

In addition, we are grateful for two of the largest the Delta Complex and consists of additional space for 144 students. gifts in thewe institution’s history this yeartofrom Simmons and the This year, also had the opportunity transition to a Bank new dining Windgate Foundation.

Simmons Bank donated $2.5 million towards service, expanding the scope of our food services. Nearly two years football stadium,a Chick-A-Fila which includes a new scoreboard and turf as well ago, we opened and Starbucks on campus.

With the as anew newdining pavilion, Simmons Bank Pavilion at the Torii Hunter Baseball/ services, Aramark, we were able to bring in Pizza Hut and a Softball Complex.

This major in thearenaming the Provisions on Demand Marketgift to has giveresulted our students variety of of eateries football stadium to the Simmons Bank Field.

The Windgate Foundation on campus. To improve our energy infrastructure, the university along donated a total of $2.2 Million to go toward the establishment the with Performance Services signed a wide ranging $19.3 millionofenergy Windgate Scholarship Endowment, the John Miller Howard Exhibition, performance contract through the Arkansas Energy Performance and additional student scholarships.

Contracting (AEPC) Program.

This project will deliver LED lighting, Enhancing Reputation.

WeHVAC, are building relationships along with upgrades in water, and controls.

Oncewith completed, various constituents including the Verizon Foundation, Lakes the project will decrease UAPB’s energy consumption byGreat a sizeable Corporation, Windgate Foundation, and many more.

It is important 32%, making UAPB the first state university to meet the 30% energy to create partnerships that willinto notlaw only beneficial to theEnergy enhancement reduction mandate signed bybe Act 1494 of 2009. savings of our university but will also in turn benefit the growth of our from these improvements are guaranteed by Performance Services to community, state, and nation.on an annual basis over 19 years. cover the costs of installation Nationalizing Our very UAPB Magazine Needless to say,Visibility. we are taking greatown strides at UAPB, and was each one nominated and had the honor of being named Best Alumni Publication contributes to our student success. However, we have many more steps at the HBCU Awards past summer sponsored by nationallyto take2018 on our journey, andthis we need YOUR help! known HBCU Digest. We commend Mrs. Tisha Arnold, Editor of the magazine, and her team, Mrs. Donna Mooney and Mr. Brian Williams, for their hard work and dedication in producing this award-winning UAPB Magazine • University of Arkansas at Pine Bluff publication. Moreover, the magazine has become a tremendous asset in enhancing the institution’s reputation and visibility.

We are well on our way to reaching the overall GOLD standard in higher education. Needless to say, our efforts and YOUR efforts are not going in vain.

UAPB Magazine • University of Arkansas at Pine Bluff

Everything you do for our During Homecoming 2017, we university contributes to us achieving kicked off the ROAR Campaign, an our goal. Though we have had great initiative to raise funds that assist in accomplishments, we still have much recruiting and retaining students. to do. Your assistance is ALWAYS With your help, we can accomplish greatly appreciated and the Pride still our goal of $500,000 by June 30, 2018. needs YOU. As mentioned before, Our ultimate goal is to raise $1.5 we started our ROAR Campaign million in three years. We appreciate last Homecoming with a goal of all of your contributions and efforts in raising $1.5 million in a span of three supporting our institution, and now years for scholarships that will assist we are asking you to take it up a notch recruiting and retaining our students. by increasing your level of giving and As of right now, we have reached telling your friends, family members, approximately $287,000. Although, classmates, and fellow alumni to we did not complete our goal of increase theirs as well. Winston $500,000 in the first year, we still have Churchill once said “we make a living 2 more years to complete the ultimate by what we get but we make a life by goal. I am confident that we can and what we give.” Make it a lifestyle by will do it, but we need ALL hands on continuing to breathe life into “Dear deck, putting in a little more work Mother!” We’re on the golden road to achieve it. Therefore, I am asking to student success so let’s continue you once again to reach out to your the journey with pride. To make a friends, family members, classmates, contribution towards the initiative or associates, and fellow alumni to help for more information, please contact us to the grand finale. I am a firm the Office of Development at (870) believer that “teamwork makes the 575-8701. dream work” and with individuals like you on the team, there is no Sincerely, doubt in my mind that the dream will work! So let’s work together to make sure the Pride continues to thrive Laurence B. Alexander, J.D., Ph.D. and remain GOLDEN. For more Chancellor information about contributing to the ROAR Campaign, please contact the Office of Development at (870) 575-8701.

Sincerely, Laurence B. Alexander, J.D., Ph.D. Chancellor

Volume 4 No. 2 Volume 4 No. 1 Chancellor Chancellor Laurence B. Alexander, J.D., Ph.D. Laurence B. Alexander, J.D., Ph.D. Editor

Tisha Arnold for Institutional Vice D. Chancellor Advancement Lead Writer Marla Mayberry

Donna Mooney

Editor Creative Director

Tisha Arnold Brian T. D. Williams Lead Writer Contributing Writers

Donna Mooney Tisha Arnold Shakari Briggs Creative Director Alicia BrianDorn T. Williams William Hehemann Contributing Henri L. Linton,Writers Sr. Knowles Adkisson Donna Mooney TishaSanders Arnold Carol Shakari Williams Briggs Ahmaree Staphea Campbell Contributing Photographers Siony Flowers Tisha Arnold William Hehemann Nathaniel Baker David Hutter Larry Harris Henri Linton, Sr. Christian Jefferson Donna Mooney Brenton Kirkhart Carol Sanders Brad Mayhugh Contributing Photographers Devorice Pilcher Joe Dempsey Richard Redus BradT.Mayhugh Brian Williams Richard Redus Correspondence and Address Changes Brian T. Williams

University of Arkansas at Pine Bluff Correspondence and Address Changes ATTN: UAPB Magazine University of Arkansas Pine Bluff 1200 N. University Drive,atMail Slot 4789 ATTN: UAPB Magazine Pine Bluff, AR 71601 1200 N. University Drive, Mail Slot 4789 870.575.8946 Pine Bluff, AR 71601 Email 870.575.8946 communications@uapb.edu Email Website communications@uapb.edu www.uapb.edu/magazine Website UAPB Magazine is published two times a year by the www.uapb.edu/magazine University of Arkansas at Pine Bluff, a member of the UAPB Magazine is published University of Arkansas System. two times a year by the University of Arkansas at Pine Bluff, a member of the The University of Arkansas at Pine Bluff is committed University of Arkansas System. to a policy of equal opportunity for all in every aspect The University of Arkansas at has Pinepledged Bluff is committed of its operations. The university not to to a policy of opportunity all in every discriminate onequal the basis of race, for color, sex, age,aspect reliof itsnational operations.

The university has pledged to gion, origin, sexual orientation, maritalnot status on policy the basis of race, color, sex, age, reliordiscriminate disability. This extends to all educational, gion, national origin, sexual orientation, marital status service and employment programs of the university. or disability. This policy extends to all educational, The University of Arkansas programs at Pine Bluff is fully service and employment of the university. accredited by The Higher Learning Commission, 230 The University of Arkansas at Pine Bluff is fully South LaSalle Street, Suite 7-500, Chicago, IL 60604. accredited by The Higher Learning Commission, 230 South LaSalle Street, 7-500, Chicago, IL 60604.

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PURSUING PASSION

HistoryMakers founder Julieanna L. Richardson speaks about why entrepreneurship matters during the Winthrop Rockefeller Distinguished Lecture Series.

See more on page 22

Spring/Summer 2018 5 Richard Redus

Brad Mayhugh

We want to know what you think of this issue of Let Us Know What You Think!

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To share your opinions, email us at We want to know what you think of this issue of communications@uapb.edu.

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FIRM FOUNDATION

A bust was dedicated in the memory of Pearlie S. Reed, Assistant Secretary of Agriculture for the United States Department of Agriculture 2008-2012.

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news and events

Freshman awarded prestigious Gilman Scholarship to study in South Africa

by William Hehemann

Jasmine Alford, a freshman accounting major from Memphis, Tennessee, was one of over 1,000 American undergraduates from 363 colleges and universities across the U.S. selected to receive the prestigious Benjamin A. Gilman International Scholarship, sponsored by the U.S. Department of State’s Bureau of Educational and Cultural Affairs.

The program provides scholarships to U.S. undergraduates from diverse backgrounds to study or intern abroad. Alford was awarded a $3,000 scholarship to study abroad.

Alford’s scholarship afforded her participation in UAPB’s inaugural study abroad program in South Africa. The program focused on South Africa’s history of youth empowerment. Alford, along with four other UAPB student participants, learned about the role of students and young people in the anti-apartheid movement that started in the early 1960s. Cultural tours included the Apartheid Museum and the Nelson Mandela House Museum in the Soweto township of Johannesburg.

“It’s a great achievement for Jasmine to receive a Gilman Scholarship,” Dr. Pamela Moore, associate dean for global engagement, Office of International Programs at UAPB, said. “It enabled her to extend her travel abroad by an additional week to incorporate an internship component. She worked with an organization that provides career services to at-risk youth.”

Alford said the scholarship made possible a unique educational, professional and spiritual experience.

“The Gilman Scholarship helped pay for most of my expenses to study abroad in South Africa,” she said.

“After exploring the different cultures and ongoing movements in South Africa, I feel I expanded my knowledge on where my heritage came from while gaining the experience of a lifetime.”

Alford said the education abroad trip opened doors for her professionally. During the internship portion of the program, she had a chance to become familiar with different aspects of the business sector in South Africa, and she shadowed professionals who work in the business side of non-government organizations.

“While studying abroad, I was able to make very important connections with the people there,” she said. “During the service learning component of our program, I worked for a non-profit organization and helped prepare individuals for job interviews.”

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UAPB Magazine • University of Arkansas at Pine Bluff

Jasmine Alford

Alford said learning new concepts in another country is an engaging and transformative experience. She was challenged by new perspectives that will help her grow in her educational and professional life.

Alford learned about the Gilford Scholarship from Annette Fields, UAPB instructor/counselor for the Office of Basic Academic Services and the organizer of the program in South Africa. She received guidance from Dr. Moore on the application process.

After returning from the study abroad program, Alford plans to promote the Gilman Scholarship and education abroad opportunities in general by hosting informational sessions with low-income students from UAPB and Southeast Arkansas College.

“The study abroad trip turned out to be the experience of a lifetime thanks to all the knowledge I gained,” she said. “I believe this experience is something that will impact my life and my career in a major way for decades to come.”

news and events

Ten technology students receive summer, fall internships from General Electric Ten Industrial Technology Management and Applied Engineering students (ITMAE) began their internships with General Electric this past summer.

The following students began during the summer: Terrae Jenkins (senior), Osaye Maynie (junior) and Rodterion Scott (junior) at the Houston, Texas location at GE Global Operations Division; Oshaonia Hicks (sophomore) will be located in Billerica, Massachusetts; Christian Broughton (sophomore), Horace Jones (sophomore), Alvin Jordan O’Guinn (sophomore), and Daniel Ryles (sophomore) are located in Fort Worth, Texas at the GE Transportation Division.

For the fall semester, the following students began a Cooperative Education experience: Devontae Brown (freshman) will be located at GE Aviation (location to be determined); and Edwin Newton (junior) will be located in Jacksonville, Florida, at Baker Hughes, a GE Company. Baker Hughes is an international industrial service company and one of the world’s largest oil field services companies.

At GE, students from diverse backgrounds work together to solve real-world challenges, sometimes spurring innovations that change the way we they business.

A summer internship or Cooperative Education experience provides an opportunity for students to integrate classroom theory into actual work experience.

Students will also have a chance to compete for permanent careers upon graduation in GE’s prestigious leadership programs and other entry level positions. The company provides opportunities in a number of areas that include: aviation, healthcare, power, renewable energy, digital, additive manufacturing, venture capital and finance, lighting, transportation, and oil and gas.

These students were able to connect with General Electric during on-campus interviews and the National Society of Black Engineers (NSBE) Conference in Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania.

Tracy Knowlton, Assistant Director for Cooperative Education and Internships, attended the conference to represent the Office of Career Services. Knowlton works one-on-one with Science, Technology, Engineering, and Mathematics (STEM) students to assist them with obtaining summer internships and Cooperative Education experiences.

UAPB becomes first four-year college in Arkansas to offer real estate license course The School of Business & Management and Associates Career Education Services (ACES) forged a partnership to offer students an upper-level Real Estate course that earns four (4) Credit Hours towards their degree, while simultaneously fulfilling the requirements to take the Arkansas Real Estate Exam.

This is the first time a four-year college in Arkansas has offered such a course. The course, titled “Real Estate Practice”, will not only provide basic knowledge to pass the Arkansas Real Estate Exam but affords the student a firm foundation to begin a real estate career. Specifically, the course contains the essentials of real estate law, principles, and practices. It will be offered in a format designed to prepare students for numerous career applications, while stressing the practical, rather than theoretical, skills and knowledge of real estate. Qualified UAPB students will find it as Course Number FINA3418 and it will be taught on Tuesdays and Thursdays from 6:00 p.m.-8:00 p.m.

A tangible community-focused approach will be taken, as organizers plan to invite realtors and real estate companies from around Central Arkansas to speak with Principles of Real Estate Students about the real estate industry here in Arkansas.

The students will not only learn more about real estate from a practicing-professional, but garner valuable insight regarding career opportunities in the state.

Scott A. Jones, Attorney and Principle Instructor for ACES stated: “This course presents a great opportunity for UAPB Students. Attending this 60-hour class makes them eligible to sit for the Arkansas Real Estate Exam and provides them with upper level college credit. Student completing the course have the opportunity to obtain a professional license they can use to pursue real estate as their primary career or compliment other professional endeavors. Beyond the educational value, the concepts and information learned here will be invaluable as they buy/sell property later in life.”

“Today’s educators are required to move well beyond traditional “book-knowledge”, so having the ability to strategically align with professionals from the private-sector was very attractive to our Department,” said Dr. Lawrence Awopetu, Interim Dean of the School of Business and Management at UAPB. “I am so very pleased that we will be able to offer a level of practical knowledge that can easily, and some cases instantly, transform into a job, career and income source for our students."

Fall/Winter 2018 7

news and events

Graduate students awarded $11,000 grants to support substance abuse counseling through minority fellowship program

by William Hehemann

Brad Mayhugh

Above: Holly Humphrey and Antoinette Oliver

Antoinette Oliver and Holly Humphrey, graduate students majoring in Addiction Studies were awarded fellowships by the National Board for Certified Counselors and Affiliates (NBCC).

As members of the Minority Fellowship Program, they will each receive a grant of $11,000 to support their continued education and fund their addictions counseling service to underserved minority youth, ages 16 to 25.

“They are both hardworking, humble, motivators for their classmates,” Dr. Cheryl D. Jackson-Golden, assistant professor for the UAPB Addiction Studies Graduate Program, said.

“Their achievement is a testament to their commitment to provide effective, culturally-competent services to underserved populations.”

According to the NBCC, the fellowship program’s goal is to reduce health disparities and improve behavioral health care outcomes for racially and ethnically diverse populations by increasing the number of culturally-competent behavioral health professionals. Eligible applicants had to demonstrate knowledge of and experience with racially and ethnically diverse populations and commit to providing substance abuse and addictions counseling services to transition-age youth.

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UAPB Magazine • University of Arkansas at Pine Bluff

As NBCC fellows, Oliver and Humphrey will be expected to attend various trainings, fulfill documentation requests and participate in mentoring and other professional development experiences throughout the yearlong duration of the fellowship.

Upon graduation, Oliver intends to work with troubled youth in Pine Bluff and surrounding areas. Her goal is to spread awareness on the effects of substance abuse through mentoring, education and prevention programs.

Humphrey plans to work with youth suffering from substance misuse and abuse. She hopes to work with people who are often marginalized, such as ethnic minorities and people living in rural areas.

Oliver and Humphrey both received undergraduate degrees at UAPB and are former university employees. Oliver, who received a bachelor’s degree in human sciences, works as a teacher at the UAPB Child Development Center. Humphrey received bachelor’s degrees in criminal justice and sociology, and worked as an administrative support supervisor for the UAPB School of Education Graduate Programs. In July 2018, she will start a new job as a life/recovery coach at Harbor House, a behavioral health treatment center in Fort Smith, Arkansas.

news and events

Biology pre-med student finishes internship at Nationwide Children’s Hospital in Ohio Antonia Bannister, a senior biology pre-medicine major, completed a summer internship program at Nationwide Children’s Hospital in Ohio. Known as S.E.A.R.C.H (Summer Education and Research in Clinical Healthcare Internship), the program was founded by the Nationwide Children’s Hospital Heart Center and was designed for undergraduate students who are interested in exploring a career in scientific research and medicine. The program offered participants an opportunity to accompany Nationwide Children’s Hospital physicians and researchers for limited clinical experiences. Participants also get to discuss medicine, observe patients and surgeries, and conduct research. Each student is also assigned a mentor who provides advice on applying to medical school and preparing for the MCAT exam.

A native of Melbourne, Florida, Bannister says the program was an experience she would never forget. “It taught me that my problems are so minute compared to those who truly have more persistent [issues],” she said. “It made me realize how we sometimes, knowingly and unknowingly, take life for granted.”

While working at Nationwide Children’s Hospital, Bannister learned that everyone in the group is an intricate piece to a puzzle to help solve problems that the patient has regarding his or her body. From her observations, Bannister concluded that it is imperative that every doctor, nurse, dietitian etc. is on the same page when it comes down to the patient – in order for that to occur, there has to be a strong link of communication between each and every person involved.

Throughout her duration at Nationwide Children’s Hospital, Bannister was paired with two mentors: Dr. Timothy Feltes (Chief of Pediatric Cardiology), MD, FACC and Dr. Deipanjan Nandi, MD. As she shadowed Dr. Nandi during clinicals, she was able to learn about cardiomyopathies, heart murmurs, and single ventricle heart defects. Under the direction of additional physicians, Bannister was able to witness heart surgery on a patient with a single heart valve, placement of a Ventricular Assist Device on another patient who had end-stage heart failure, and observe cardiac catheterization procedure to treat a patient who had a heart attack.

The program also offered several enrichment activities such as volunteering at the Ronald McDonald house to cook food for families, having dinner and open questions and answer sessions with current medical students, visiting a morgue and watching an autopsy be performed and attending social events and seminars on how to improve and revitalize the area around the hospital to support the health and well-being of children and families.

Antonia Bannister

Bannister obtained the internship through the Office of Career Services at UAPB and says the experience has affected her career outlook by providing her with the opportunity to work hands-on in a clinical setting and the ability to network with people in high positions. Bannister, the daughter of Dr. Pamela Luckett and Tony Bannister, is a member of the Carolyn F. Blakely Honors College, Walmart Foundation First-Generation Scholars Mentorship Program, Essence of a Woman, and an ambassador for the Student Involvement and Leadership Office. Upon graduation, Bannister aspires to become an Obstetrician Gynecologist who specializes in Maternal Fetal Medicine. She also wishes to open her own practice in an area with a medically underserved population.

“This internship helped provide me with the building blocks for my future and an idea of what it would somewhat be like to be involved in the life of medicine,” Bannister said.

“Ultimately, this internship gave me further confirmation that becoming a doctor and helping those around me is something I truly have a passion for.”

Fall/Winter 2018 9

news and events

Biology student receives academic and career experiences at health professions program Riana Robinson completed the Summer Health Professions Education Program (SHPEP) at the University of Alabama at Birmingham (UAB). SHPEP is a free summer enrichment program focused on improving access to information and resources for college students interested in the health professions. The goal of the program is to strengthen the academic proficiency and career development of students underrepresented in the health professions and prepare them for a successful application and matriculation to health professions schools.

Participants include, but are not limited to, individuals who identify as African American/ Black, American Indian and Alaska Native and Hispanic/Latino, and who are from communities of socioeconomic and educational disadvantage.

SHPEP, formerly known as the Summer Medical and Dental Education Program (SMDEP), expanded in 2016 to include a broader array of health professions.

Majoring in biology with an emphasis in medicine and a minor in chemistry, Robinson was immersed in a variety of academic and career experiences such as academic enrichment in the basic sciences and quantitative topics, and learning and study skills development, including methods of individual and group learning. She was also exposed to clinical exposure through small-group rotations in health care settings, simulation experiences, and seminars. Career development sessions were also available that directed toward exploration of health professions, the admissions process, and the development of an individualized education plan.

The Pine Bluff, Arkansas native is the daughter of Jeanetta (Chad) Terrell and Roderick Robinson.

She is a member of the UAPB pom squad, Carolyn F. Blakely Honors College, STEM (Science, Technology, Engineering and Mathematics) Scholars, and volunteers as a mentor for TOPPS Inc. (Targeting our Peoples Priorities with Service), holding over 200 community service hours.

Robinson said she received the proper information on how to correctly apply for medical school and prepare for the MCAT as a result of the program.

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UAPB Magazine • University of Arkansas at Pine Bluff

Riana Robinson

She also had the chance to experience three different shadowing opportunities, which helped her realize how the medical field can offer a variety of jobs. While shadowing Dr. Duraid Younan, M.D at UAB Hospital in the Trauma department, she was able to observe a splenectomy surgery and see how organized the operating room was so the procedure could be as safe as possible. She also had the chance to shadow Orthopedic Surgeon, Dr. Jimmy Hick, M.D at UAB Hospital who showed her different x-rays and made sure she understood the ABC (Adequacy, Alignment, Bones, Cartilage, and Soft Tissue) approach. Her last shadow experience was with Dr. Kathy Monroe M.D at UAB Hospital in the Pediatrics department. During this experience, Robinson recalls a 9-month-old patient that experienced seizures, fever, vomiting and red rashes. Dr. Monroe’s first diagnosis was meningitis, which she proceeded to confirm with a lumbar puncture. When the test results came back positive, they continued with next steps. With the patient being so young, they kept him overnight and provided him with the proper care that he needed.

“My experience at SHPEP was a once in a lifetime opportunity,” Robinson said. “It taught me much more about the medical field and other Pre-Health fields. Through this experience, I came to appreciate the medical profession even more.”

SHPEP is a national program funded by the Robert Wood Johnson Foundation with direction and technical assistance provided by the Association of American Medical Colleges (AAMC) and the American Dental Education Association (ADEA).

news and events

Drs. Ghetmiri, Mortazavi receive $735,000 grant from Air Force to research middleinfrared integrated microwave photonics

Dr. Seyed Ghetmiri

Dr. Mansour Mortazavi

Dr. Mansour Mortazavi, Vice Chancellor for Research, Innovation and Economic Development and Assistant Professor Dr. Seyed Amir Ghetmiri received a $735,000.00 grant from the U.S. Air Force Office of Scientific Research (AFOSR) to pursue research in middle-infrared integrated microwave photonics. The UAPB team will collaborate with Professor Fisher Yu from the electrical engineering department at the University of Arkansas to design, fabricate, and characterize an integrated photonic chip for

high-speed data measurement and communication.

Photonics refers to a field of research that aims to replace electron and electronic circuits with light and photonic circuits to increase the data transfer rate and data processing speed. Future applications of photonics includes integration of photonic devices on a chip like integrated circuits (ICs). Developing this technology demands dramatic improvements in performance and efficiency of photonic devices such as light emitting diodes (LEDs), waveguides, modulators, photodetectors, and lasers by reducing the size, weight, and power consumption.

The objective of this project is to develop a photonic chip that meets these demands. Dr. Ghetmiri’s approach to this project is through design, fabrication, and characterization of micro/ nano photonic devices such as Lasers, waveguides, modulators, and photodetectors. These devices are made of newly developed semiconductor, GeSn that operates at middle infrared region which is the best choice for telecommunication purposes. This project has significant applications in defense systems, such as radar signal processing, and civilian applications such as cell phone technology, sensing, and Datacom. The funded proposal will open new opportunities to extend UAPB research capabilities and benefit students to participate in nanoscience and engineering related research.

Career Services receives $200,000 grant for local paid internship opportunities through Great Lakes Corporation The Office of Career Services was awarded a $200,000 grant as part of a new Paid Internship Program. Funded by Great Lakes Higher Education Guaranty Corporation, the grant will create new paid internship opportunities and convert previously unpaid internships into paid opportunities for students.

“This is a double win for university students and local businesses,” said UAPB Chancellor Laurence B. Alexander.

“Students are getting paid while obtaining valuable work experience and the local employers are getting a temporary workforce funded through a grant to the university.”

During the summer, the Office of Career Services hosted a luncheon to collaborate with approximately 15 businesses in Pine Bluff and Little Rock to develop paid internship opportunities. After the luncheon, resumes were submitted

to employers and students were interviewed for Cooperative Education experiences. The students are working 20 hours per week in positions that are relative to their field of study. In addition, they will receive up to 6 hours of academic credit for the experience.

“This is a great opportunity for students to position themselves to be marketable upon graduation,” said Shirley Cherry, Director of Career Services. “Employees seek new hires that have obtained at least two internships or Cooperative Education experiences in their field of study.”

Career Services is financially supported in part by a grant from the U. S. Department of Education, Office of Postsecondary Education, Strengthening Institutions, Title III, Part B, Historically Black Colleges and Universities Program.

Fall/Winter 2018 11

news and events

Agreement with University of Arkansas makes dual degree in Agriculture possible

by Ahmaree Williams | Courtesy of the Pine Bluff Commercial

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UAPB Magazine • University of Arkansas at Pine Bluff

Brad Mayhugh

University of Arkansas at Fayetteville Chancellor Joseph Steinmetz and a busload of the university’s faculty arrived at the University of Arkansas at Pine Bluff ’s STEM Building May 16 as part of a major stop on their tour through the state.

Steinmetz said he wanted to add UAPB to the travel itinerary and make the third annual bus tour the first to visit another institution of the University of Arkansas system. The stop also marked an important milestone for students studying agriculture in that now they will be able to receive concurrent bachelor’s degrees in agriculture from both institutions.

The university’s bus tour is designed to introduce new and existing faculty to the state of Arkansas, according to UA officials. Being that most of UA’s faculty resides in the northern area of Arkansas, many rarely see the southern parts — something Steinmetz hoped would expose them to the cities where a majority of students come from.

Another goal of the bus tour is to showcase the school’s obligation to service in the state, Steinmetz said.

The school has partnered with the Pine Bluff Chamber of Commerce and businesses to talk expertise and find out what areas are in need of help.

UAPB Chancellor Laurence B. Alexander welcomed Steinmetz and visiting faculty with a few opening remarks expressing gratitude and the hope for future collaborations between the two universities.

“We not only share a bond in the University of Arkansas system,” Alexander said, “but we share a strong long-term bond as the state of Arkansas’s first two public higher education institutions and the only two land grants in the state.”

Alexander voiced that the door is always open for collaboration with UAF for joint programs, research, contracts and grants.

“A great example of one of these collaboration projects is the 3 + 1 Graduate Program in animal science that was signed five years ago,” Alexander said.

This program enabled UAPB agriculture majors to complete their final year of studies at Fayetteville with a certificate upon graduation from UAF. Revisions, brought to completion by UAF’s Dale Bumpers College of Agricultural, Food and Life Sciences and UAPB’s School of Agriculture, Fisheries & Human Sciences, have recently been made to take the program one step further and allow students to receive concurrent bachelor’s degrees in agriculture from both universities.

Seated at left, University of Arkansas Chancellor Joseph E. Steinmetz and University of Arkansas at Pine Bluff Chancellor Laurence B. Alexander, seated at right, sign documents noting that students can now receive concurrent bachelor’s degrees in agriculture from both institutions.

Students will receive a Bachelor of Science in Animal Science from UAPB, and a Bachelor of Science in Poultry Science from UAF. According to Muthusamy Manoharan, interim dean of UAPB’s School of Agriculture, Fisheries & Human Sciences, the poultry industry is growing in the state of Arkansas but there is a lack of qualified students to work in the field.

The question Manoharan wanted to answer with the implementation of these new revisions was: “How can we train our students in poultry?”

Manoharan said he believes that these changes will give students more opportunities and internships to help their careers.

Alexander added that the program’s new revisions would add incentive for those who are serious about agriculture.

The two chancellors, Steinmetz and Alexander, joined each other at a table during the ceremony to sign the joint 3 + 1 Certificate of Excellence Program revisions, which officially set the program in motion.

Among the audience were members of the senior administration at UAPB, including Elbert Bennett, vice chancellor of student affairs, Robert Carr, vice chancellor of academic affairs, Carla Martin, vice chancellor of finance & administration, along with select department deans.

Michael T. Kidd, director of the Center of Excellence for Poultry Science at UAF, closed the ceremony by acknowledging that this program will help address one of the biggest global issues in the poultry industry: A lack of qualified workers. According to Kidd, the poultry accounts for 50 percent of jobs in the state of Arkansas.

BECOME A PART OF THE

PRIDE At the UniversitY of ArkAnsAs At Pine BlUff, YoU Are A PArt of A PlAce where A legAcY of excellence hAs Been forged.

You are a part of a place where our students are as diverse as the world in which they are preparing to thrive.

You are a part of a place where world-renowned academic programs are led by stellar faculty who provide one-on-one instruction.

You are a part of a place that prepares you to go on to impact the world — as a proud representative of the pride.

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news and events

Physics professor’s research garners award Dr. Miah Adel, physics professor at the University of Arkansas at Pine Bluff, was named Directorate of Environmental Sciences Fellow for his article entitled, “Lightning generation correlation with widespread irrigation and means of protection.”

He garnered the award during a competition held by World Championship, an organization that is a platform for the world’s latest breakthrough research. The organization has a goal of identifying the most influential scientists who are changing the world for a better tomorrow.

“I feel very excited and honored for the recognition of my environmental research work,” Dr. Adel said. “It is a great honor for my institution also for hosting quality research. I feel proud knowing that I helped increase worldwide visibility for UAPB.” His article will be published in the ISABB (International Society Of African Biotechnologists And Bioscientists) Journal of Health and Environmental Sciences, Vol. 5(2), pp. 9-27, February 2018; DOI: 10.5897/ISAAB-JHE2017.0037.

Dr. Adel says he knew that he reported some very new

and important results for the first time that explained the relationship between widespread out-of-season and in-season irrigation, lightning proliferation, and the means of salvation for working people in the field. He found that the result would be stunning to the nations that use irrigation for food grain production and consequently become very prone to lightning strike.

Dr. Adel has been doing research on transboundary water issues for over 30 years. According to Adel, upstream riparian countries neglect their commitments to world agencies and deprive the downstream riparian countries of their due share of water, causing an ecocide effect. They in turn use the pirated water for production of more foods and electricity for exporting downstream. Widespread irrigation turns localized water bodies into distributed ones letting more evaporation-caused vapor into the atmosphere. This water vapor forms thunder clouds causing lightning generation. Dr. Adel hopes that his research will help change this trend.

UAPB Magazine wins national recognition for Best HBCU Alumni Publication Christian Jefferson

UAPB Magazine Editor Tisha D. Arnold, center, is pictured with Creative Director and Photographer Brian T. Williams, and Lead Writer Donna M. Mooney.

The University of Arkansas at Pine Bluff brought home the top award for its alumni publication, UAPB Magazine, at the HBCU Awards Gala June 22. Hosted by HBCU Digest, the annual event recognizes the best in show across a litany of categories including student activities, publications, academic excellence, alumni activity, athletic excellence, individual achievement and highest honors.

“I am so appreciative of the honor,” said Tisha D. Arnold, UAPB Public Information Officer and Editor of the magazine.

“It is a testament to the teamwork from colleagues across campus and support from administration to continue to tell UAPB’s story.”

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The core team that works to produce the publication include Creative Director and Lead Photographer Brian T. Williams and Lead Writer Donna M. Mooney. Contributors also come from different areas on and off campus including the Pine Bluff Commercial, communications staff from the School of Agriculture, Fisheries and Human Sciences, and the UAPB/ AM&N Alumni Association.

"This is a great achievement for our university,” UAPB Chancellor Dr. Laurence B. Alexander said. “We are honored to have the UAPB Magazine recognized by the 2018 HBCU Digest's Best Alumni Publication award. We commend editor Tisha Arnold and the entire staff on the great job they do in producing a quality publication that serves as a vital outlet for communicating news and information about the university and that is a robust vehicle for keeping alumni connected.”

Founded in 2010, the HBCU Digest is among the world’s most widely-read blogs for coverage and commentary on historically black colleges and universities. It seeks to provide critical insight on the intersections of race, culture, politics and finance and their impact on America’s 100+ HBCUs. The HBCU Digest is the presenting organization of the original HBCU Awards, which annually recognizes the best in leadership, athletics, academics and student achievement from black colleges throughout the country. This program has helped several winning institutions to increase media visibility, private giving and branding. The HBCU Digest was founded by Jarrett Carter Sr., a 2003 graduate of Morgan State University.

news and events

UAPB founder Joseph C. Corbin to be posthumously inducted into Ohio Civil Rights Hall of Fame Dr. Joseph Carter Corbin, principal of Branch Normal College (now the University of Arkansas at Pine Bluff) is among the 2018 list of inductees into the Ohio Civil Rights Hall of Fame. The posthumous honor will be received on Corbin’s behalf by nominator and AM&N alumna Dr. Gladys Turner Finney.

“Professor Corbin used his education to change the world by making higher education available to former slaves and their descendants,” Finney said. “His unselfish devotion to educating others still remain, is immortal, and magnifies his birthplace, native state and alma mater.”

Corbin was born March 26, 1833 in Chillicothe, Ohio and was the son of former slaves, William and Susan Corbin, from Virginia. In 1850, he entered Ohio University at Athens as a sophomore and graduated in 1853, the third African American to attend Ohio University and the second to complete a bachelor’s degree. He would use his college degree to empower and establish a pathway for other African Americans to achieve higher education. In the years following his graduation from Ohio University, he served two terms as an elected trustee of the Cincinnati Colored School Board. Corbin was editor and copublisher of the Colored Citizen Newspaper of Cincinnati from 1863-1869, when exercise of free speech by African Americans was difficult and dangerous.

During Reconstruction of the South following the Civil War, Corbin migrated to Little Rock, Arkansas to make his mark and spread higher education.

Shortly after arriving in Arkansas, he was elected State Superintendent of Public Education. As Superintendent, he served as President of the Board of Trustees of the Arkansas Industrial University (now the University of Arkansas at Fayetteville). In this role, he helped lay the foundation for a branch of the University at Pine Bluff for the education of African American teachers.

Corbin opened Branch Normal College on September 27, 1875 and served the next 27 years as its principal. Under Dr. Corbin’s leadership, Branch Normal College produced the first college educated African American in Arkansas.

Corbin died January 9, 1911 in Pine Bluff and is buried in Forest Park, Illinois.

Joseph Carter Corbin is known as the “father of higher education for African Americans in Arkansas,” but his work had national impact. His advancement of education as a civil right for freed slaves and their descendants was not without personal sacrifice, political opposition, discrimination, and racism. Dr. Corbin was honored recently in his native Ohio with a historical marker at Ohio University – Chillicothe.

Dr. Gladys Turner Finney was born in Tamo (Jefferson County, Arkansas), and was a member of the last graduating class of J. C. Corbin High School in Pine Bluff. She holds a Master of Social Work degree from the Atlanta University School of Social Work. Her distinguished career as a clinician, teacher, and administrator in the field of social work spanned nearly four decades. In 2012, Finney’s undergraduate alma mater, the University of Arkansas at Pine Bluff, conferred on her the Honorary Doctorate of Laws degree for her long commitment to social work and for her efforts in empowering others through advocacy and philanthropy. Author of the book, Joseph Carter Corbin: Educator Extraordinaire and Founder of the University of Arkansas at Pine Bluff, she currently resides in Dayton, Ohio.

Corbin

The Ohio Civil Rights Hall of Fame was created in 2009 through the collaborative efforts of the Ohio Civil Rights Commission, Honda of America Mfg., Inc., Wright State University, the National Underground Railroad Freedom Center and PNC.* The Civil Rights Hall of Fame seeks to acknowledge outstanding Ohioans who are recognized as pioneers in human and civil rights and who have advanced the goals of equality and inclusion.

Inductees of the Ohio Civil Rights Hall of Fame are individuals who have made significant contributions in support of civil rights, cultural awareness and understanding in furtherance of a more just society.

Fall/Winter 2018 15

RECAP

Fall 2017 Commencement

Little Rock Nine member Dr. Terrence Roberts tells grads to use degrees for a better life and remember the ones who paved the way

by Alicia Dorn | Courtesy of the Pine Bluff Commercial

Find your why? That was the charge given to University of Arkansas at Pine Bluff graduates December 16, 2017 during fall commencement. Commencement speaker Terrence Roberts, one of the Little Rock Nine, asked students to figure out their role in life and what mark they planned to leave behind.

“For what purpose are you alive?” said Roberts. “For what reason did you leave the womb and join this drama we call life?”

On Sept. 23, 1957, Roberts along with eight other black students were the first to attend classes at Little Rock Central High School located in Little Rock, Arkansas. They were met with a mob of people who were against the idea of desegregation thus causing Dwight D. Eisenhower, president at the time, to send U.S. Army Troops to accompany them for protection. Despite the troops’ presence on-campus, the Little Rock Nine still experienced threats and violence from students and outsiders. For their heroism and bravery, members of the Little Rock Nine were awarded the Congressional Gold Medal—the highest civilian award in the United States—in 1999 by former president Bill Clinton.

“You never know what you’re getting into and I certainly didn’t know what I was stepping into in Little Rock,” said Roberts. “I quickly found out. I was shocked and amazed that things were established the way they were established and I didn’t understand how those who had preceded me in life allowed it to happen. It was immoral, unreasonable, illegal, (and) unnatural.”

During his speech, Roberts also urged graduates to know their history by remembering those who paved a way for them noting Pine Bluff ’s very own, Wiley Branton Sr. as one of them. According to Roberts, Branton offered legal counsel to the Little Rock Nine, which is how the two came to know one another.

“You stand on the shoulders of those who came before you,” Roberts said. “I, too, stand on the shoulders of those who came before me (and) included among that group is Wiley Branton Sr. and others like him. And it’s important to recognize that historical pathway.”

Offering student reflections, Mark Robinson, an industrial technology graduate shared his story including adversities he faced while on the road to obtain his degree. We all want the same thing in life and that’s to be successful in our own respect,” he said.

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UAPB Magazine • University of Arkansas at Pine Bluff

“To my fellow graduates, I say to you from my own personal experience that for you to be successful you must always remain motivated and you must always know that you can beat the odds.”

Robinson’s parents, Shenell and Kevin Hill traveled from St. Louis, Missouri to see their son graduate. Kevin, who was mentioned in his speech, said Mark’s milestone of graduating sets a positive example for his three younger brothers.

“He’s a good role model for his brothers,” said Kevin Hill.

Robinson was one of 176 graduates who received their diploma, according to the event’s program. UAPB Chancellor Laurence Alexander encouraged students to seize the day as it was now their time to leave the university and as he calls it make the nation roar. He also insisted that they cherish the day.

“You made it,” said Alexander. “To get here, you had to overcome some obstacles (and) some challenges that you may have faced, but you kept on going. As you are aware, the race is not given to the swift nor the strong, but to those who endure until the end and you have made it until the end and this is your testimony.”

Graduating with the highest honors of her graduating class, Makayla Cowles says she plans to pursue graduate school in an effort to get a degree in applied math.

She graduated with a 3.97 grade point average in mathematics. While studying hard, she also spent her time at the university as a student athlete in soccer.

“I’ve been here for four and a half years and it’s exciting because all of the hard work—- crying over classes and just the stress involved to,” she said. “It’s just really relieving knowing that I finally made it to this point. Now, I can work to the next step in my life (after) completing this first step.”

A mass communication graduate, Jason Matthews plans to stay around locally with the hopes of getting a job in sports broadcasting. Looking back on his time as a student, Matthews says UAPB has prepared him for the future.

“I feel overly excited and thankful...” said Matthews about obtaining his degree. “It’s just amazing that I had the opportunity to come to college and have welcome arms, welcome me here.”

“You stand on the shoulders of those who came before you...I, too, stand on the shoulders of those who came before me (and) included among that group is Wiley Branton, Sr. and others like him. And it’s important to recognize that historical pathway.”

At left: Fall 2017 commencement speaker Dr. Terrence Roberts delivers the keynote address to the audience as graduates (above), look on.

Fall/Winter 2018 17

news and events

Rural Life Conference

Working to improve state’s quality of life through education, collaboration

by Alicia Dorn | Courtesy of the Pine Bluff Commercial

An annual conference geared toward helping Arkansans improve the quality of their lives through education and collaboration drew a large crowd March 9 at the Pine Bluff Convention Center.

“Innovations for farms, families, and communities in changing times” was the theme or the 62nd Annual Rural Life Conference hosted by the School of Agriculture, Fisheries and Human Sciences of the University of Arkansas at Pine Bluff.

Since its inception in 1950, the Rural Life Conference has offered farmers, UAPB faculty and students, representatives from public and private agencies, and others the opportunity to discuss, document and develop solutions to challenges facing rural Arkansas.

“Agriculture is such a diverse segment that we’re all engaged in different ways and different capacities,” said Pamela Moore with UAPB’s School of Agriculture, Fisheries and Human Sciences.

The Rural Life Conference featured guest speaker Walter A. Hill, Dean of the College of Agriculture, Environment and Nutrition Sciences and Vice Provost of Land Grant, Community Engagement, Integrative and Sustainability Affairs at Tuskegee University in Tuskegee, Alabama.

Brad Mayhugh

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UAPB Magazine • University of Arkansas at Pine Bluff

“This conference provides an opportunity for us all to assemble under one roof and get the big picture while learning from each other.”

The first guest speaker for the conference was Walter A. Hill, dean of the College of Agriculture, Environment and Nutrition Sciences and Vice Provost of Land Grant, Community Engagement, Integrative and Sustainability Affairs at Tuskegee University in Tuskegee, Alabama.

Hill discussed the challenges and opportunities of landgrant institutions, using lessons he’s learned from his 30 years as dean of one.

A land-grant college or university is an institution that has been designated by its state legislature or Congress to receive the benefits of the Morrill Acts of 1862, 1890 and 1994.

His lessons were: It takes a team, stay connected to the community, give God the glory, the wise build bridges and the foolish build barriers.

Hill also emphasized giving and working together.

“Team innovation can drive you to more resources,” Hill said.

He went on to discuss the importance of partnerships amongst SOFSEC (Southern Food Systems Education Consortium) Universities and the impacts of it. The universities include UAPB, Alabama A&M, Alcorn State, Florida A&M, Fort Valley State, North Carolina A&T, Southern University A&M College, South Carolina State, and Tuskegee.

“It (SOFSEC partnership) was a great success,” Hill said.

“We had those meetings where we brought the community together.”

Hill discussed the production risk factors and possible solutions.

“We all know the issues that don’t allow optimization for small farmers to consistently make a profit,” Hill said.

Unsafe food, loss of customers, weather, loss of yield and quality due to pests, low prices, transportation, and processing were among the risk factors highlighted during Hill’s speech.

Hill ended his speech by encouraging the university to be innovative, and he offered to help with the betterment of the agriculture program while emphasizing the importance of the community.

“If you are creating new graduate programs, make them innovative,” he said. “Don’t do what’s already done. I will find someone at Tuskegee that will connect with someone at UAPB to do a grant or something that we’re not already doing.”

Brad Mayhugh

Hill told the audience, “Don’t underestimate your connection to the community.”

He said the community should be respected and helped because they will be the ones to help the university leap forward.

After Hill’s speech, the Rural Life Conference was dedicated to Kenneth J. Lee Sr., who served as the Natural Resources Conservation Service’s (NRCS) liaison with UAPB and Arkansas Land and Farm Development Corporation (ALFDC).

He was honored for his contributions to the School of Agriculture, Fisheries, and Human Sciences at the University of Arkansas at Pine Bluff.

He recruited students, monitored projects, conducted and attended workshops, and updated UAPB and ALFDC on Farm Bill and agency changes. He also developed and managed agency programs and policies.

“This is a major honor,” Lee said. He went on thank God and his family, saying that “I couldn’t do it without them.”

He thanked UAPB for honoring him with the award and providing him with the education needed to accomplish great things. He thanked the USDA and NRCS for putting him in a position to accomplish great things for the university.

Following the dedication, conference attendees participated in a variety of workshops pertaining to soybean and rice production, vegetable production, food safety, business and marketing resources, etc.

Attendees gathered for a luncheon, followed by the second guest speaker Alton Thompson, Executive Director of the Association of 1890 Research Directors.

Thompson emphasized the importance of innovation and creativity during changing times.

“In order for farmers, families, and people in the rural communities to adapt to changing times, creativity and innovation will be our only sustainable, competitive advantage in the future,” Thompson said.

He explained the Country Life Commission, created by President Theodore Roosevelt, and how it still has an impact on rural life.

The commission was the first major effort to improve the well-being of rural people and to make recommendations on what the federal government should be doing.

“The Country Life Commission viewed education as very important,” Thompson said, adding that the commission viewed education as the heart of the problems and the solutions in country life.

He used a quote from the commission to express the views on education: “All difficulties resolve themselves in the end to the question of education.

Above: Alton Thompson, Executive Director of the Association of 1890 Research Directors speaks to the audience during the Rural Life Conference luncheon. The event is the longest running university sponsored conference in UAPB's history.

The commission judge rural schools to be in a state of arrested development, making it largely responsible for ineffective farming.”

Thompson said that since farming is dependent upon education, if the education is in arrested development and inadequate, the farming will be in that same condition. He offered the resolution of improving the education to improve the rural quality of life.

Thompson encouraged the idea of the creative, innovative people at UAPB connecting with the creative, innovative people of the rural community. He made the audience aware of the changes that could be implemented if people worked together as a team.

He ended his speech by encouraging attendees to take some time each day to think things through for themselves, and to think of ways to make life better for themselves and others. “We cannot solve our problems with the same thinking we used to create them,” Thompson said. “Take some time to think about the future, and do not let the noise of other people’s opinion drown out your inner voice.”

“Roosevelt knew that there were rural/urban differentials,” Thompson said.

“The rural quality of life is behind the urban quality of life, and we need to focus scientifically on the rural quality of life and the rural prosperity.”

He said that the government has tried to improve the quality of life in rural areas with electricity, roads, and water sewage systems being very successful.

Problems such as unemployment, inadequate housing, poor healthcare, poverty, broadband, and other electronic technologies have seen little progress despite the money and effort.

Fall/Winter 2018 19

news and events

Youth Motivation Task Force

Valeisha Butterfield-Jones inspires students to never give up

by Alicia Dorn | Courtesy of the Pine Bluff Commercial

Valeisha Butterfield-Jones, a former member of President Barack Obama’s executive team told her audience at that she understands the challenges they will face in life and stressed the importance of following through with commitments.

Currently the Global Head of Women and Black Engagement for technology giant Google, Butterfield-Jones was the keynote speaker for the Youth Motivation Task Force Assembly February 28.

The Youth Motivation Task Force, sponsored by the Office of Career Services, is a program to help motivate students and give them guidance on how to succeed in their careers after college. Guest speakers are part of the program.

Butterfield-Jones highlighted moments of her journey to success while giving “major keys” for reaching success to the audience at the assembly.

“We have to be impeccable with our word,” ButterfiedJones said. “When you say something; when you make a commitment, I don’t care what the sacrifice is, you do have to make it happen.”

Butterfield-Jones assured the audience that success is obtainable, but it doesn’t come easy.

“I know very real, the challenges that young people are facing and are going to face as you take on all that you want to accomplish in your life,” she said. “I can’t stand here today in any type of glory and make it seem like the journey ahead of you will be easy because it won’t be.”

Born in North Carolina, Butterfield-Jones studied Political Science at Clark Atlanta University. Feeling unable to accomplish her big dreams in a small town, she chose Atlanta, being that it was the hub of the music business at the time she attended the university. “Proximity is the first key,” Butterfield-Jones said.

Butterfield-Jones said that while attending college, she walked five hours to the hip-hop music group Wu-Tang Clan’s office in downtown Atlanta. “I felt stupid for thinking I actually had what it would take to get into the door and I wanted to give up,” she said.

As she waited due to not having anywhere to go, someone opened the door to the closed office, listened to her, and hired her on the spot as a paid employee.

“When you feel like you’re breaking down, it’s just a test to prepare you for your breakthrough,” she said.

Butterfield-Jones went on to explain her hardships while trying to get established in her career. She described her experiences and how sometimes she worked for free, but she never gave up.

“Do the work when you think no one is watching. It is your responsibility to go from being a liability to an asset,” Butterfield-Jones said.

Early in her career, she served as the executive assistant to the president of HBO Sports after graduating from Clark Atlanta University in 2000. She also worked her way up from an intern for Russell Simmons to the executive director of his media firm, Rush Communications.

In 2009, she was appointed deputy director of public affairs at the U.S. Department of Commerce under Obama.

From 2011 to 2012, she served as the National Youth Vote Director for the ‘Obama for America’ campaign.

Butterfield-Jones is a mother and the wife of NBA champ Dahntay Jones, and she has served as the CEO of Women in Entertainment Empowerment Network (WEEN) — a nonprofit that uplifts and mentors women working in entertainment while striving to promote positive images of women in society — for the last 10 years.

In her current position as the Global Head of Women and Black Community Engagement for Google, she is responsible for driving systemic and measurable change to create an even more inclusive culture at the tech giant. She will also lead a worldwide effort to enhance equal opportunities for women and African Americans at the company through recruitment and retention.

“I encourage you to think about your foundation and set it on a structure where you’re thinking economically about your future,” Butterfield-Jones said. “Make smart and wise decisions to put yourself in a position of power to make your own decisions, know where your income is coming from, and be responsible for your own growth.”

At right: Valeisha Butterfield-Jones, Global Head of Women and Black Engagement for Google, speaks to attendees at the Youth Motivation Task Force (YMTF) assembly.

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UAPB Magazine • University of Arkansas at Pine Bluff

“When you feel like you’re breaking down, it’s just a test to prepare you for your breakthrough."

Richard Redus

Fall/Winter 2018 21

“With people who have a vision and a passion, I say that passion, plan and purpose makes a perfect combination and there will be no stopping you.”

Richard Redus

Winthrop Rockefeller Distinguished Lecture Series

HistoryMakers founder Julieanna L. Richardson urges entrepreneurs to pursue passion in her speech, "Why Entrepreneurship Now"

by Shakari Briggs | Courtesy of the Pine Bluff Commercial

An idea conceived on the dining room table, The HistoryMakers, focuses on the stories of untold and wellknown African Americans. It was that same idea founder and executive director Julieanna Richardson spoke to University of Arkansas at Pine Bluff students, faculty and community members September 22 as a part of the Winthrop Rockefeller Distinguished Lecture Series on “Why Entrepreneurship Now” at the Hathaway-Howard Fine Arts Building.

“I think it’s very important and very valuable to African Americans and actually to everyone here -- those on the campus and those in the community to hear from renowned speakers like Miss Julieanna Richardson,” UAPB Chancellor Laurence Alexander of her visit to the campus as a part of the series. “She has done a remarkable job of recording history.

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UAPB Magazine • University of Arkansas at Pine Bluff

She’s put together more than 5, 000 hours of oral histories of African Americans and that is significant in and of itself.”

According to the University of Arkansas System’s website, it’s the official home for the administration of the Winthrop Rockefeller Distinguished Lecture Series. The series cycles through five campuses including the University of Arkansas, University of Arkansas at Little Rock, University of Arkansas for Medical Sciences, University of Arkansas at Monticello and the University of Arkansas at Pine Bluff with lectures that are free and open to the public. Established in 1972, the Winthrop Rockefeller Distinguished Lectures Program was created to help faculty at those five universities with gathering visiting lecturers to communicate ideas that essentially stimulate public discussion, intellectual debate and cultural advancement.

news and events At left: Rockefeller Distinguished Lecture Series speaker Julieanna Richardson speaks to the audience about the impact of entrepreneurship.

“It’s significant to all people to understand the significant contributions that African Americans have made to the history of the city, the state and this nation and to appreciate it for its richness,its depth and appreciate it not just one month of the year but all year long,” said Alexander.“When you get that on the campus of an HBCU, it enriches the learning that takes place on-campus and it brings to the forefront what we’re all about in terms of our educational mission and that is enhancing their education with things they wouldn’t ordinarily get in their daily walk in life. So, if we can bring that kind of value to this community, I think the Winthrop Rockefeller Distinguished Lecture Series has done a great work.”

Richardson, who has a diverse background that includes law and television, brought the idea of The HistoryMakers to her mother and family who she says at the time didn’t believe it was a market for what she was trying to do -- capture the stories of African Americans and make them accessible to all. A national 501© (3), The HistoryMakers, was founded in 1999 with the purpose to educate, show, highlight, showcase and preserve African American history. Richardson saw a need for the collection especially with the last known record being the WPA Slave Narratives, she says.

“I think we’re just at the beginning stages, but we’re just one of the entities that’s in the history preservation and so all we need to do is work together and this will lift a lot of people up,” said Richardson. “More importantly, we’re not creating anything.

We’re just documenting what people already did.”

Senior mass communication student Gabriel McDonald was one of many students in the crowd who listened to Richardson share her business insight and love for history.

“She’s a very distinguished, young woman and I just wanted to come out and see what she had to say about her organization, The HistoryMakers,” said McDonald. “Our teachers have told us a lot about it and her as well and I just wanted to learn more about her and everything she does. Tonight, I basically learned her history and what she wants to do with her brand and her organization and where she wants to go with it and everything.”

With several students in attendance, UAPB Public Information Officer Tisha Arnold said Richardson’s insight on history and business was valuable not only entrepreneurs, but also everyone.

“I think it was groundbreaking,” she said of the lecture. “She brought a facet to understanding history that most people don’t think about. People think about the old... stuff that they grew up learning in school and I don’t know if the school districts really understood the impact that we’re seeing--- that people didn’t understand how very interesting history can be. So, I like that she brought that out. History is interesting and is fascinating when you look at it from the right perspective.”

Despite her family’s uncertainty, she pushed through to fulfill her dream in creating The HistoryMakers, which is now the largest national collection of African American video oral histories on record.

But, it wasn’t without hard work, consistency, and even hard times. Richardson shared her story of breaking down one night

after having to lay off her entire staff due to financial constraints.

However, she managed to push through and continue on with her business goals.

“I think at one point that I did not know that I would see success in my lifetime,” Richardson said. “But, I felt this was so important even if people did not know the importance during the time that I would walk this earth. But, the fact is right now, when I see it and see people responding to it, its’ brought tears to my eyes.”

One of Richardson’s goals when creating the business model for her company was to complete a total of 5, 000 interviews 2,000 of which she says still need to be done. Additionally, she has hopes for the future of The HistoryMakers as a platform where others can share their historical information.

“My dream is that we use this platform, but create another version of it that people can add their own content to our content,” she said. “And that would be pretty powerful if we have the ability to do that.”

Knowing all too well the impact of naysayers and doubters, Richardson encouraged everyone in the crowd to never let anyone stop them from following through with their plan as she is living proof of defying the odds.

“I think that for entrepreneurs or people that have a vision or they can see things, pay attention to the numbers,” Richardson said. “But, follow your passion and your gut instinct. You follow it. People will come along in time. There are people now who say to me, ‘are you surprised?’ or they say, ‘did you ever think it would be like this?’

Richardson, who created her own lane when she didn’t see one, provided a three point system for those hoping to step out and follow their dreams.

“My vision for what will we be is further than what I am right now,” she said. “With people who have a vision and a passion, I say that passion, plan and purpose makes a perfect combination and there will be no stopping you.”

Richard Redus

Above: During her visit to the University of Arkansas at Pine Bluff, Richardson spent time at the University Museum and Cultural Center with Henri Linton, Sr., Director of the Museum.

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news and events

145TH FOUNDERS CELEBRATION Theme: History, Heritage, Honor: Fueled for the Future

It was 1873, and newly freed slaves in Arkansas were eager to learn to read. Joseph Carter Corbin, a black man from the north, endured a series of ironic and prophetic twists and turns involving several white men with ties to the Confederacy. He received approval from the Legislature to establish Branch Normal College at Second and Oak Streets in Pine Bluff.

“When we look at his credentials, Corbin could have easily walked away from all the madness,” Pine Bluff historian, Lori Walker explained during a ceremony celebrating Branch Normal College, the forerunner of the University of Arkansas at Pine Bluff. Walker expressed wonder at Corbin’s commitment, marveling that a man who “spoke nine languages could have the patience and wherewithal to teach those who could barely speak.”

With seven students on the roster, Joseph Corbin opened the school in a military barracks leased for a few hundred dollars. In the 145 years since Corbin enrolled the first students at Branch Normal, the school has evolved into one of the nation’s enduring Historically Black Colleges and Universities. And, UAPB is the second oldest university in the state of Arkansas. The week-long celebration included events for alumni, students, and the community at large.

Founders and Honors Awards Convocation Alumnus Gralon A. Johnson, University Innovation Alliance Fellow and former Golden Lion, showed students during his speech at the Founders and Honors Awards Convocation that they don’t have to be perfect to be successful.

He encouraged young adults to not allow this connection to interfere with their paths to success.

As a UIA Fellow at Iowa State University, Johnson designs and implements comprehensive student success initiatives to support persistence and completion outcomes for low-income and first-generation students. These initiatives are used to support persistence and completion outcomes in these underrepresented student populations who may not recognize the tools they have to be successful.

Johnson, growing up in a rough area of St. Louis, Missouri, is no stranger to adversity himself. Being homeless most of his life, he reminisced about a time when he shared a one-bedroom hotel room with his mother and 12 siblings. Despite his struggles at home, he continued his education, oftentimes suppressing his love for books because of the stigma placed on education and young black males in his community at the time.

After spending numerous years of trying to maneuver through what he describes as “a broken education system,” Johnson was left with the feeling that he was less than a man.

“I believed I was nobody,” Johnson said when reflecting on his school days in the second most dangerous city, according to Forbes in 2017. “I thought I had no place in higher education.”

It was a trip to the Amtrak station that would force him to ultimately put his past behind him and alter his connection with the past and future for the better.

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UAPB Magazine • University of Arkansas at Pine Bluff

Teary-eyed, his mother sent her son on his way to UAPB in order to pursue a Bachelor of Science degree in human development and family studies. Although he was sheltering the belief that he didn’t belong in a higher learning institution, the mission that UAPB’s founders had left behind would serve to prove him wrong and motivate him to reach goals he had never dreamed of.

“UAPB didn’t just teach books,” Johnson said. “They teach life.”

Aside from the educational lessons, Johnson endured on a daily basis, UAPB was succeeding in teaching him how to piece together his life, which failed to improve whenever he returned home during breaks. During his undergraduate studies at the university, Johnson found a mentor that didn’t just put his abilities on display but taught him how to reveal his own. It was this mentor that fueled Johnson’s determination to receive his Ph.D. at the age of 27 from Kansas State University. Before ending his speech, Johnson left the audience with his final key to success: pick a path. He described that there is a “sitting” path and a “thinking” path.

“Success depends on which one,” Johnson added.

From a one-bedroom hotel room in St. Louis, Missouri, to an award-winning doctoral dissertation, Johnson wants people to understand that the dreams and visions of UAPB’s founders helped him realize his potential and build a new connection from his past to his new beginnings.

Johnson said that it is because UAPB not only cared for and housed him, but because they loved him that he learned to believe in himself and overcome his hardships.

He said he wishes for students to do the same.

Below: (L-R) Henri Linton, Jr., Director of the University Museum and Cultural Center, Lori Walker, Assistant Director of the Economic & Community Development Department for the City of Pine Bluff, Juanita Grant, owner of the Branch Normal site, UAPB Chancellor Laurence B. Alexander, and Pine Bluff Mayor Shirley Washington were present to commemorate Branch Normal Day. A restored marker for the site was unveiled and a proclamation was issued naming April 25 Branch Normal Day. “It is with utmost respect that we show respect and gratitude to those who laid the foundation,” Chancellor Laurence B. Alexander said. “We’ve come a mighty long way.” Walker pointed to the mutually beneficial relationship the University and city of Pine Bluff have shared over the years.

Above: Alumnus Rev. Lorenzo Jones, IV gives a stirring speech at the annual Sunrise Service in Cross-Phipps auditorium in Caldwell Hall. The title of his speech was, "Don't Forget How You Got Here."

At left: Alumnus Gralon Johnson delivers the keynote address at the Founders and Honors Awards Convocation.

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news and events

-HONOREELJ RANDLE

-HONOREEDR. JOEL ANDERSON

-HONOREESCALVIN AND J A N E T TA B O O K E R

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UAPB Magazine • University of Arkansas at Pine Bluff

-SPECIAL RECOGNITIONHENRY “HANK” WILKINS, III

31ST ANNUAL

CHANCELLOR’S BENEFIT

by Alicia Dorn | Courtesy of the Pine Bluff Commercial

Five individuals were honored at the University of Arkansas at Pine Bluff ’s Chancellor’s Benefit on April 28 at the Pine Bluff Convention Center, including the late father of former Jefferson County Judge Henry “Hank” Wilkins IV. The Chancellor’s Benefit, formerly known as the Benefit for the Arts, is now an all-inclusive event that uses its profits to help meet the financial needs of students, no matter the area of study, attending the University of Arkansas at Pine Bluff. Sponsored by Waste Management and hosted by pastor, author and television personality Matt Mosler, the event included live music and dance performances.

“For the past 30 years, the institution has recognized outstanding individuals who have made a significant contribution to advancing positive change at UAPB, in Pine Bluff/Jefferson County and surrounding communities, in the state of Arkansas and in the nation,” according to a news release. “Their contributions may have been philanthropic, civic, social, and political.”

The 2018 honorees were presented awards by UAPB Chancellor Laurence B. Alexander and Miss 88th University of Arkansas at Pine Bluff Salonica Hunter.

Henry “Hank” Wilkins III was honored posthumously for his legacy of dedication, courage, and commitment as an educator, a civic leader, and as a state representative that are documented in the annals and records of the State of Arkansas, Jefferson County, and the University of Arkansas at Pine Bluff. His family was present to accept the honor on his behalf.

Wilkins III was the only African-American member of the 1969-70 Arkansas Constitutional Convention, and later in 1972, he was elected to the Arkansas General Assembly.

He was a delegate to the Democratic National Convention in 1968, 1972, 1984, and 1988. He was a leader in the State Democratic Party of Arkansas, and he was the founder of the Arkansas Democratic Black Caucus.

“We want to thank you for honoring the many accomplishments of my dad,” said Wilkins IV. “Everywhere I go, people always tell me that my dad taught them.”

Joel Anderson, former Chancellor at the University of Arkansas at Little Rock, was honored for his role in establishing an Institute on Race and Ethnicity and making diversity a defining mark of his administration,

and providing an “information clearinghouse,” collecting research, statistics, and historical materials related to race relations in the state.

Upon his retirement, the University Of Arkansas Board Of Trustees named the Institute on Race and Ethnicity in his honor.

Calvin and Janetta Booker were honored for advancing their alma mater with zeal, perseverance, and wholehearted commitment; long and impressive direct and indirect participation in both leadership and supportive postures with the Atlanta Alumni Chapter, the National Alumni Association, and the UAPB Foundation Fund Board. They were also honored for continually providing a positive element of change for thousands of students who have and who will attend UAPB, and giving tirelessly of their time and energy to promote UAPB, including financial generosity in making leadership gifts and challenging others to follow their stellar example.

Calvin and Janetta have both served in the capacity of President and Vice President of the UAPB Metropolitan Atlanta Alumni Chapter for varying years. Calvin has also served as the president of the UAPB National Alumni Association and in September 2014, he was honored by the National Black College Hall of Fame Foundation with the National Alumni President of the Year Award.

L. J. Randle was honored for his unwavering support to the University of Arkansas at Pine Bluff and its athletic program, as well as his selfless investment in the community through construction activities that improved the quality of life for Pine Bluff citizenry. He founded L.J. Randle Construction Company with his wife of 47 years, Gloria Warren Randle. They have built and financed over 200 homes, many of which could not have been afforded by homeowners under traditional circumstances. 43 churches in Pine Bluff and surrounding areas have been financed by them.

As Randle accepted his award, he encouraged others to give back to their Alma Mater. “Wouldn’t it be nice if the school would never have to want or hurt for anything because we all are supporting it?” Randle rhetorically asked.

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news and events

Chancellor's Spring Convocation Former RNC chair Michael Steele implores students to take ownership of themselves and the world around them

by Alicia Dorn | Courtesy of the Pine Bluff Commercial

“It is time to stand for something different, it is time to do something different, it’s time to be about something different” said Michael Steele, Political Analyst for MSNBC, former lieutenant governor of Maryland (2003), and former Chairman of the Republican National Committee (2009), as he stood before an audience at the Chancellor’s Convocation.

The event was presented April 19 in collaboration with the Males of Color Initiative, an initiative to increase the retention, graduation and career and post-baccalaureate placements of African-American male students by engaging them in the types of co-curricular and leadership activities.

Steele reminisced about the day he was inaugurated as the first African-American to a statewide office as lieutenant governor of Maryland in 2003, which he credits as one of the favorite moments of his life behind getting married and having his sons.

“The day of my inauguration, I stood on those State Capitol steps and I realized in that historic moment that 157 yards behind me, from where I stood being sworn into office as the first African-American elected to a statewide office, Kunta Kinte was sold into slavery, at the Annapolis Harbor in Annapolis, Maryland. That is history meeting present,” Steele said.

Instead of doing what everyone expected — being overly political — Steele said he focused on the African-American youth and informed students of the opportunities that are available to them only because of the struggles, fighting and sacrifices made by those who have come before them.

“Your generation of black talent, politically, economically and socially, are leaders among dreamers,” he said. “You are risk takers among managers and owners. What you decide together, what you say in unison, what you demand of our politics, your successes and failures demonstrate what it means to be a black man and a black woman in America. You are defining the American Dream.”

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UAPB Magazine • University of Arkansas at Pine Bluff

Steele ended his speech by reminding students that they are the future. He asked them: “What will your agenda be?”

He also asked everyone to place their faith in each other and engage.

“It is time to take ownership of your dream; it is time to take ownership of yourself. You have to use your voice at all times, in all circumstances,” he said. “You can be polite about it, or you can be a little Malcolm X about it, but you have to use your voice because your generation will cement to the foundation of this nation the unalienable rights of life, liberty, and the pursuit of happiness otherwise, we will lose it.”

As chairman of the RNC, Steele said he was charged with revitalizing the Republican Party. Under Steele’s leadership, the RNC broke fundraising records (over $198 million raised during the 2010 Congressional cycle) and Republicans won 63 House seats, the biggest pickup since 1938. According to Steele, his commitment to grassroots organization and party building at the state and local levels produced 12 governorships and the greatest share of state legislative seats since 1928 (over 600 seats).

According to information provided by Steele, as lieutenant governor of Maryland, his priorities included reforming the state’s Minority Business Enterprise program, improving the quality of Maryland’s public education system (he championed the State’s historic Charter School law), expanding economic development in the state and fostering cooperation between government and faith-based organizations to help those in need.

Having appeared as a contributor on several TV shows, Steele also writes on politics for The Grio and his writings on law, business and politics have appeared in The Root.com, BET.com, The Wall Street Journal, The Washington Times, Politico.com, Townhall.com, and The Journal of International Security Affairs and Catholic University Law Review, among others.

"You have to use your voice at all times, in all circumstances...you have to use your voice because your generation will cement to the foundation of this nation the unalienable rights of life, liberty, and the pursuit of happiness otherwise, we will lose it."

Fall/Winter 2018 29

news and events

Women's History Month

Judge Faith Jenkins shares life lessons, experiences with UAPB students

by Alicia Dorn | Courtesy of the Pine Bluff Commercial

From Louisiana beauty queen to first runner-up Miss America 2001 to a Wall Street Attorney to a New York City prosecutor, Judge Faith Jenkins has traveled many walks of life while fighting adversity.

The University of Arkansas at Pine Bluff held an annual Women’s History Month Celebration with Jenkins as the keynote speaker. Presented by the Office of Student Involvement and Leadership, the event was held March 6 in the J.M. Ross Auditorium of the Hathaway-Howard Fine Arts Building.

Jenkins graduated with a Bachelor’s Degree in Political Science from Louisiana Tech University and a J.D. from Southern University’s law school in Baton Rouge, Louisiana, ranking number one in her law class.

She is currently in her fourth season of “Judge Faith,” which is a nationally syndicated, arbitration based court show that debuted Sept. 22, 2014. She is now the judge in her own courtroom, ruling on small claims cases from landlord-tenant disputes to social media scuffles.

She is also a preeminent legal analyst for the cable news channel MSNBC. During her speech, Jenkins touched on many topics, including her first time facing disappointment.

It came while working as an assistant in the dorms of Louisiana Tech when an opportunity was presented for her to apply for a promotion that would resolve some of her financial issues.

She was highly qualified for the promotion and knew without a doubt she would get it, but it was given to someone less qualified than Jenkins. Out of frustration and disappointment, she quit her job, soon landing an opportunity to compete in the Miss Louisiana Tech Pageant. She had never competed in a pageant, and many believed there was no way she could win.

“There is something special about making the choice to believe in yourself when no one else does,” Jenkins said.

Despite all odds, she won the pageant, becoming the first African-American to hold the title of Miss Louisiana Tech University, which led to bigger opportunities, including Miss Louisiana 2000 and Miss America 2001.

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UAPB Magazine • University of Arkansas at Pine Bluff

She also gained what she needed to resolve her financial issues and more.

Jenkins contributed the experience to not getting the promotion at her previous job.

“When you’re going through this journey in life, you have to know and understand that not every closed door is a bad thing,” Jenkins said. “Some of your greatest successes will come after your greatest disappointments.”

After expressing her love for traveling the world to talk to students, Jenkins used a quote from civil rights activist, poet, and author Maya Angelou to describe her experience at her first job after college at Sidley Austin in New York City, one of the most prestigious law firms in the country.

“No matter where you come from, no matter what circumstances you face, no matter how difficult life seems, no matter how alone you may feel sometimes on your journey, I want to remind you of one thing that I have carried with me throughout my life. You may come as one, but you stand on the shoulders of thousands,” Jenkins said, quoting from Angelou’s poem titled “Our Grandmothers.”

Jenkins described how she was the only AfricanAmerican in a law firm of over 500 attorneys in New York City and the adversities she overcame during her tenure there. Being a former beauty queen, she felt confident and unbothered by the things she faced.

Jenkins told UAPB students about the sacrifices that many have made so that they can receive an education and go out into the world to make it a better place.

“We need you to work hard, get your education, be smart, and make great decisions, because we need you to make this world a better place,” she said.

news and events

“When you’re going through this journey in life, you have to know and understand that not every closed door is a bad thing. Some of your greatest successes will come after your greatest disappointments.”

The Honorable Faith Jenkins speaks to faculty, staff and students at UAPB as the keynote speaker for the National Women's History Month assembly. She is currently the presiding judge for “Judge Faith,” a nationally syndicated and arbitration-based reality court show. The show is now in its fourth season on the CW Network.

Throughout her speech, Jenkins quoted many women of yesterday and today who have paved the way for women to be great. She also encouraged students to step out of their comfort zone.

“Sometimes we pray for God to change our situations not knowing he put us in those situations to change us, to shape us, to grow us, to force us out of our comfort zones,” Jenkins said.

“Get comfortable being uncomfortable, because that’s what your journey should really be like.”

Jenkins closed her speech by encouraging students to continue to learn and grow and also reminding them that, “no matter where you go, they’re going to have to put some respect on your name, not because of who you are, but because of whose you are.”

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news and events

Noted artist Ed Dwight, Jr. commemorates Pearlie Reed bust with signature “He’s like a walking artifact,” said Marcus Dennis, an incoming freshman looking to major in art. “It’s surreal to actually meet someone that created such beautiful things with his mind and his hands.” Dennis has met several artists – none of them were minorities. He was understandably excited to get to meet this particular artist.

Dennis was among onlookers with cellphone in hand to watch and capture the moment renowned artist Edward Dwight, Jr. officially marked the bust he sculpted of the late Pearlie S. Reed.

Reed was an AM&N College (now UAPB) alumnus and Assistant Secretary of Agriculture for the United States Department of Agriculture (2008-2012). Reed was one of only two persons nationally who started their career as a student trainee with the U.S. Department of Agriculture’s Soil Conservation Service (now the Natural Resources Conservations Service) and rose to the position of chief of NRCS. Reed was also the founder of the National Organization of Professional Black Natural Resources Conservation Service Employees (NOPBNRCSE).

Before signing the bust, Dwight interacted with guests and was overwhelmed by the reception. He recounted many stories, one of them being about how he become the first African American trained to be an astronaut. As the crowd of students, faculty, staff, and administrators followed him into University Museum and Cultural Center, he reflected on the turning point that would permanently alter the course of his life. Dwight said he had only attended Caucasian schools and until he was 42, thought he was Caucasian.

“I just thought I had a tan,” quips Dwight. “I lived in this white world, went to all white schools, and entered the Air Force, which was all white at the time.”

When he left the military, Dwight moved to Denver and made a living running his five companies that included an interior decorating firm, construction company, and executive aviation company among others. He was doing well and spending time with affluent individuals. When George Brown, the first Black Lieutenant Governor of Denver was elected in 1974, Dwight was approached by him to do a bust for display at the state capitol.

Dwight had been welding pieces of found items from his construction company together, however, he did not consider himself an artist.

In spite of that, Lieutenant Governor Brown admonished Dwight to teach himself to model and sculpt.

“He [Lt. Gov. Brown] said you’re going to do this,” recalls Dwight, who says he responded in disbelief. “You’re going to stop all of this other stuff you’re doing. I have to reorient your purpose in life.”

Brown also urged Dwight to fly across the country in search of black representation in art. Noting that African Americans had been in the country 350 years by then, there was a huge lack of presence in sculpture.

UAPB Magazine • University of Arkansas at Pine Bluff

Artist Ed Dwight, Jr. officially signed the bust he sculpted in memory of AM&N alumnus Pearlie S. Reed, Assistant Secretary of Agriculture for the U.S. Department of Agriculture.

The bust is on display in the atrium of R.C. Childress Hall on UAPB's campus.

Tisha D. Arnold

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Because he had not been taught black history, Dwight was unaware of slavery and the contributions of African Americans – something he admits angered him. He was admonished by Brown to create sculptures that represented everything African Africans had done since arriving in the United States. Over 100 sculptures later, Dwight continues to work toward that goal.

“Once I did [my] first sculpture, I never looked back,” Dwight said. “It just all started coming to me as I needed it, which means me that I was meant to do it.”

Taking about six months to complete, the Pearlie Reed bust was dedicated in 2017 during a special event to honor Reed and his contribution to Agriculture. Paid for by the National Organization of Professional Black Natural Resources Conservation Service Employees, he sculpture is made of cast bronze and sits atop a wooden stand in the foyer of R.C. Childress Hall. Dwight has sculpted numerous great works of celebratory African American art, including International Monuments to the Underground Railroad in Detroit, Michigan and Windsor, Ontario; and a Dr. Martin Luther King Memorial in Denver’s City Park.

news and events

Cooking, gardening among skills shared at summer enrichment camp for local youth

by William Hehemann

Brad Mayhugh

Shaun Francis, Extension horticulture specialist, teaches participants about planting vegetables.

Brad Mayhugh

The Expanded Food and Nutrition Education Program hosted a youth enrichment summer camp to encourage local children, ages 6 to 11, to eat healthier meals and snacks through hands-on cooking experiences. The camp focused on basic cooking skills, good nutrition, food safety and ways to be active.

Twenty-five children participants learned about topics including kitchen safety, basic cooking measurements, the nutritional content of different foods and beverages and 4-H yoga for children. They also participated in ice-breaker exercises to get to know each other and were able to prepare foods such as pizza, chicken quesadillas, tacos, pudding, shakes and breakfast treats.

Participants also toured the UAPB Aquaculture/Fisheries Center, where they visited the fish ponds and learned about the production of catfish. Later, they learned about vegetable production and planted their own flower or tomato plants, which they could take home.

Teresa Henson, Extension specialist II – nutrition outreach coordinator for the University of Arkansas at Pine Bluff ’s 1890 Cooperative Extension Program, said the idea for the camp grew out of the desire to support children and youth in the housing complexes near UAPB campus.

“It is very important for children to learn about cooking and nutrition,” she said. “This camp provided local children the opportunity to try new and healthy foods. They were able to learn basic life skills related to cooking, as well as social skills by working as a group and communicating with each other in the kitchen.”

Henson said the obesity rate for children ages 10 to 17 in Arkansas is over 33 percent. To combat the high childhood obesity rate, it is important that children incorporate physical activity into their daily routines at an early age.

“We wanted to teach the children that they can be active and have fun,” Henson said. “Whether through yoga or dancing, physical activity has a profoundly positive effect on children and youth. We hope the children take what they learned in the camp and inspire other family members or friends to be active as well.”

Henson said the UAPB Cooperative Extension Program aims to provide local children the knowledge, skills and attitudes necessary for them to live healthy lives.

“We want local children and their parents to see UAPB as a community resource and source of support,” she said. “We hope the same children we worked with at the camp someday become students of UAPB.”

Lisa Collins, EFNEP aide, assists Lyric Landers and Jaylia Kenball as they prepare chicken quesadillas.

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news and events

Welcome Back Week

Former U.S. Attorney General Loretta Lynch encourages students to get involved in their communities and become politically active

by Ahmaree Williams | Courtesy of the Pine Bluff Commercial

Loretta Lynch, 83rd United States Attorney General, addresses the capacity crowd at the Welcome Week assembly.

Former U.S. Attorney General Loretta Lynch paid the University of Arkansas at Pine Bluff a visit on Thursday as a part of the school’s Welcome Week festivities and was the first of many to address students during the school’s annual lecture series.

Students, faculty, local officials and community members filled every seat of UAPB’s Hathaway-Howard Fine Arts Center when Lynch arrived to speak.

Graduating from Harvard Law School and practicing law for a number of years, Lynch was eventually appointed to serve as the first black female U.S. attorney general under the Barack Obama presidential administration.

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UAPB Magazine • University of Arkansas at Pine Bluff

As a strong advocate for equality and civil rights for people of all races, Lynch took a moment to remind students of UAPB’s history.

During a time when education was a luxury for most southern African-Americans, according to Lynch, it was and still is imperative that youths treat their education as a tool to get ahead.

“I hope students don’t treat education as memorization,” Lynch said.

“Back then, it was a way of life, a way to command your destiny and control your own life.”

news and events

Switching to a more nationally-recognized topic — civil rights — Lynch said that a major driving force behind events like the civil rights movement and, more recently, the #MeToo movement, was the coming forth of many youths who weren’t afraid to fight for what was right.

According to Lynch, it is as simple as youths around the nation raising their voices in instances of injustice. They can get involved in organizations to begin rallying around their various causes, she said.

Speaking on recent happenings in pop culture, such as former San Francisco 49ers quarterback Colin Kaepernick and his controversial decision to kneel during the national anthem, Lynch said it is a matter of history repeating itself.

Years ago when the country was in a battle for equal rights, there were claims that minorities were taking available jobs by providing cheap labor. For minorities, getting proper voter IDs was a difficult task, and their safety was also in jeopardy — prevailing problems that Lynch said are making their way back into the limelight today.

According to Lynch, the suppressing of the once-viral image of Kaepernick kneeling in protest to police brutality is a way to remove the public from the images of victims like Eric Garner, who was choked to death during an a police run-in in Staten Island, New York.

“The strength of the backlash is directly proportionate to the

power it is trying to take down,” Lynch said. “We’re not going anywhere.”

Despite the many forms of oppression faced by minorities, Lynch emphasized that this should not hinder one’s fight.

“African-Americans have seen this before ... the history of trying to close doors that have been forced open,” Lynch said. “We built it. We made it. We inspire it. We provide the soundtrack for it. We dress it. This is our house.”

Challenging students to get involved with politics in order to reverse the effects of oppression, Lynch provided a three-step formula for locals to implement in their own communities.

Actions such as writing letters to Congress, listening, being tolerant of other people’s voices and being politically present on ballots or in voting booths are vital to improving the quality of life for many, Lynch said.

“The life you’re building is your life to build,” she said. “Sometimes the race itself is the victory.”

Lynch said that it takes all hands to keep the nation’s democracy steady and true, and she encouraged the community of Pine Bluff to come together for support, inspiration and resources.

Lynch left the crowd with a parting quote by Martin Luther King Jr.: “Only when it is dark enough can we see the stars.”

“The life you’re building is your life to build.

Sometimes the race itself is the victory.”

Under the guidance of interim director Jerron Liddell, the UAPB Vesper Choir renders a stirring performance of the Star Spangled Banner. This was the ensemble's first performance of the semester.

A question and answer period with the capacity audience followed Attorney General Lynch's address.

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recap

MAKE IT COUNT

Former Thurgood Marshall President Johnny C. Taylor urges graduates to use tools they've acquired for success to impact their legacy

by Deborah Horn | Courtesy of the Pine Bluff Commercial

For one final time Saturday, the University of Arkansas at Pine Bluff ’s Class of 2018 gathered at the Pine Bluff Convention Center for the commencement ceremony May 12 recognizing and celebrating their hard-earned entrance into the world as university graduates.

Keynote speaker Johnny C. Taylor Jr., president and chief executive officer of the Society for Human Resource Management, encouraged graduates to enjoy their day, to revel and celebrate it, while at the same time realizing that “your parents are the reason you’re here,” and that their professors “poured over everything they had into you.”

Taylor is the immediate past president and chief executive officer of the Thurgood Marshall College Fund, which represents nearly 300,000 students attending public Historically Black Colleges and Universities. In this role, he became a prolific fundraiser, amassing more than $100 million in grants and gifts. As an influencer in his field and community, he was named one of the Ebony Magazine “Power 100” in 2011.

Before introducing Taylor, UAPB Chancellor Laurence B. Alexander said that, collectively, the graduates “have laid the foundation for better life...I wish this class success.”

Alexander is UAPB’s ninth chancellor, and before joining UAPB, he served as the associate dean of the University of Florida (UF) Graduate School; as the UF’s Director of the Office of Graduate Minority Programs; as a UF Distinguished Teaching Scholar; and a UF Department of Journalism professor.

Morril Harriman, Jr., UAPB Board of Trustee member and secretary of the UA System, talked about UAPB’s rich history. Since its inception, the school has gone by several names, including Branch Normal College; Arkansas Agricultural, Mechanical & Normal (AM&N) College; and in 1972, it rejoined the UA System and became UAPB. "It’s the oldest African American institution of higher education in the state and is the second-oldest public university; it’s affectionately known by past and future graduates as the “Flagship of the Delta,” Harriman said.

“You are a succession in a long line of successes.”

The Arkansas Legislative established the University of Arkansas at Pine Bluff 145 years ago, but it would be another nine years before the first class — of one — would graduate.

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UAPB Magazine • University of Arkansas at Pine Bluff

UAPB was founded just a few years after slavery was outlawed, but before Jim Crow took hold, and these historic events would shape its role and students. But there was more to follow: two World Wars, a Great Depression, the Little Rock Nine, Rosa Parks, the Black Panthers, Martin Luther, Jr. and Malcolm X, along with their later assassinations, unrest and riots, and the signing the Civil Rights Acts in 1964.

During his speech, Taylor said he is often asked, “Are black colleges still relevant in the post Civil Right era?”

He answered with a resounding, “Yes.” Black college and university graduates serve as judges, teaching the next generations and more, he said.

It’s a good investment, and “I see the promise of the future,” Taylor said.

Then to the graduating class, Taylor said, “The pressure is on you.”

As graduates, Taylor said, “You’ve worked too hard to allow some bigot to squash your success. You stand on the shoulders of others who dealt with much worse.”

Proud and happy, 2018 UAPB graduate Robyne Watley said, “I feel prepared to face the future.”

Lance Rock, UAPB senior class president and graduate, told the audience during his speech, “Take action,” but he also congratulated his fellow class members, saying, “We made it.”

Taylor said that those graduating today “will build on that foundation laid so long ago.”

DeMarco Jackson was one of more than 250 students, from undergraduates to Ph.Ds, who graduated Saturday.

He said he understands the historical significance of UAPB and was awarded an academic scholarship that was funded by alumni.

He said, “It’s my time to give back.”

Retired Naval officer and master’s degree graduate Roscoe T. Sanders said before disappearing into the convention center’s arena, “I’ve always wanted to go to UAPB. It’s my time.”

The UAPB Wind Symphony provided a musical prelude before commencement began.

“This institution is more than brick and mortar, my friends...It is a living legacy, and now you are a part of it..."

Spring 2018 commencement speaker Johnny C. Taylor addresses faculty, staff, family and graduates.

Brian T. Williams

The graduating class enters the Convention Center arena.

UAPB Chancellor Laurence B. Alexander joins the Chancellor's Medallion Recipients during commencement exercises.

UAPB graduates Terry Montgomery and Michael Collins receive promotion to the rank of Second Lieutenant in the United States Army during the Commissioning Ceremony.

Raye Jean Montague, at left, receives an honorary Doctorate Degree from UAPB. She is pictured with UA System Board of Trustee member Morril Harriman and UAPB Chancellor Laurence B. Alexander.

Fall/Winter 2018 37

then and now

BY ANY OTHER NAME

Most are aware of two name changes for the University of Arkansas at Pine Bluff, but few know the AM&N era went by another moniker

by Henri L. Linton, Sr.

As University of Arkansas at Pine Bluff alumni, former students, faculty, staff and friends gather for another homecoming celebration to visit their dear Alma Mater, some may remember her by various other names. Through its long and illustrious history, the university has meant many things to many people at different times. Since its founding in 1873 as Branch Normal College, UAPB has had three name changes and the school’s campus has been relocated on two different occasions.

More recently, during the Arkansas Agricultural, Mechanical and Normal College (AM&N) era, 1929-1972, the college was affectionately referred to as “Arkansas State College,” by almost everyone associated with her, although this was not a given name. The primary reason for everyone referring to the school as “A State,” during this period may be attributed to a legend (plaque) that had been placed in the entrance to Caldwell Hall (then the administration building) in 1929. The plaque designated the college as the “Arkansas State College for Negroes.” Interestingly, the writer hasn't found any documented evidence that the name of the institution was ever officially changed to Arkansas State College for Negroes as it appears on the building dedication plaque.

Other reasons given for the popularity of this name may include the singing of the college hymn, which begins with “State College,” and the college’s athletic teams playing under the banner of “Arkansas State Lions,” from 1929 to the late 1960s. The homecoming queen (now Miss UAPB) was titled “Miss A State,” as late as 1972. When a young man was asked where he was in school, it was much easier for him to say “A State,” than the much longer,polysyllabic Arkansas Agricultural, Mechanical, and Normal College. The usage of “A State,” was discontinued with the changing of the college name to UAPB and another state college using the name, Arkansas State.

Chartered as Branch Normal College of the Arkansas Industrial University by the legislative Act of April 25, 1873, the school opened on September 27, 1875 at Lindsey and Sevier streets, now Second and Oak, near downtown Pine Bluff. For more than forty five years, Branch Normal served to educate students from elementary and grammar school to

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college, since there weren't any public school systems during this time period for African Americans in Arkansas. In 1882, under the leadership of Joseph Corbin, the school moved to Cedar Street (now University Drive), and Second Avenue, just two miles south of the University’s present location.

During this period (1882-1897), twelve bachelor degrees were awarded; no other baccalaureate degrees were awarded until 1930. Students desiring a career in teaching would receive the License to Teach degree. The college was designated as a land-grant college in 1890, however, it was not until 1921 that the name of the institution was changed from Branch Normal College of Arkansas Industrial University, to Arkansas Agricultural, Mechanical and Normal School by Act 568 of the state legislature. The school remained under the control of the University of Arkansas Board of Trustees and continued to serve all grades and one year of college level courses that led to a license to teach, since a four-year bachelor’s degree as not required.

In the 1925-26 school year during the administration of Robert Malone, the college was given junior college status (two years of college level courses).

A year later in 1927, the school was separated from the University of Arkansas, and given its own Board of Trustees and the name was changed to Arkansas Agricultural, Mechanical and Normal College. In 1928, during the administration of President John Brown Watson, the college was elevated to the level of a four-year multi-purpose college.

On December 15, 1929, Watson and his students moved to its present location. The elementary and high school programs were separated from the college and would serve only as training for the teacher education program.

In the eighty-nine years since moving to its current location on North University Drive, the institution has experienced tremendous growth in its enrollment, physical facilities and educational programs. UAPB is now truly a multi-purpose University, offering competitive degree programs and out-of-class experiences. Although it was known by a different name in the 1920s, UAPB is now known as the Pride.

Vintage homecoming booklets reflect the popular moniker of Arkansas State for Arkansas Agricultural, Mechanical, and Normal (AM&N) College. The institution became the University of Arkansas at Pine Bluff in 1972 when it merged with the University of Arkansas System.

Photos courtesy of the University Museum and Cultural Center

Fall/Winter 2018 39

alumni updates

UAPB/AM&N National Alumni Association Greetings, As President and Chairman of the Board of Directors of the University of Arkansas at Pine Bluff, I have the privilege of working with some of the most committed Alumni who are as compassionate about their University as can be found anywhere. They are always ready to give back to the University of Arkansas at Pine Bluff.

Timothy Pighee The Mission of the National Alumni Association has always been to support the University and its program. With the support of the Alumni, the National Alumni Association has been able to answer the call from “Dear Mother” by providing scholarships for students, encouraging alumni attendance to activities that promote school spirit, pride and a sense of community, responding to the call to assist in increasing athletic scholarships, etc., and by providing support to the administration, especially during times of critical decision making. The Alumni Association is the one source, outside the University, that brings Alumni together to propel the University into the next 146 years.

At this juncture in its history, the National Alumni Association faces a new challenge in the way that we conduct business with the University due to new requirements of the University of Arkansas System. We have finished renovating the Alumni House and the plan to build an Alumni Center has been approved. However, our Mission will remain the same. We will continue to support the University and its program by focusing on recruitment and retention of students and increasing membership of the National Alumni Association.

As President, my goal for the Association is to continue supporting the University with the same zeal and enthusiasm we have in the past and to continue to answer “the call”. “We come when thou call’st us to battle, dear mother…” I look forward to working with you, alumni and friends, as we move forward with the Mission of supporting UAPB. I challenge you to ask yourself, what can I do to help support the Mission, and to help with the recruitment and retention of students at UAPB? Will you answer “the call”?

Timothy Pighee, '78 President and Chairman of the Board UAPB/AM&N National Alumni Association

2018 Alumni Hall of Fame Inductees The UAPB/AM&N National Alumni Hall of Fame highlights and honors deserving person(s) for their distinguished service to AM&N/ University of Arkansas at Pine Bluff and excellence in their field of endeavor. Since 2008, the Hall of Fame has celebrated inductees in the following categories: Arts/Visual; Entertainment/Media; Athletics; Business/Industry; Community Service; Education; Faith/ Theology; Government/Law; Military Service; Medicine/Medical; Science/Technology; Agriculture/Fisheries/Human Sciences; and Lifetime Achievement/Posthumous. Sponsored by the UAPB/AM&N National Alumni Association, the following were inducted for 2018.

Ollie M. Barron ‘50 (Posthumous) Lifetime Achievement

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Bunia Skinner Baxter ‘48 Community Service

UAPB Magazine • University of Arkansas at Pine Bluff

Stephen A. Broughton, M.D. ‘79 Medicine

Roger Swift ‘62 Community Service

JoAnn Courtney Weaver ‘69 Education

Tashombia

and over 2,600 other students need your help to ROAR! Your on-going investment makes a positive difference!

Tashombia Lindsey Accounting Greenville, MS Sophomore

Please help us to

ROAR. REACHING OPTIMAL ACADEMIC READINESS University of Arkansas at Pine Bluff Office of Development • UAPB Foundation Fund 1200 North University Drive, Mail Slot 4981 • Pine Bluff, AR 71601 Phone: 870-575-8701 • Fax: 870-575-4605

alumni profiles

Finding the Right Fit ALUMNA MARKIA HERRON FOUND HER PASSION FOR MAKING HATS FOR HERSELF AND TURNED IT INTO A SUCCESSFUL ONLINE BUSINESS

by Tisha Arnold

“

When wearing a hat, I believe it's the first thing you tend to notice; therefore, leaving your outfit to complement it.”

Around 2012, Markia Herron started wearing hats often. Whenever she shopped, it usually included purchasing a hat. Over time, she started to notice that most of them only lasted a few months. After researching, she found out she wasn't buying quality hats. Due to the simplicity of her style, she says she wanted to make sure her accessories stood out.

“That led to my interest in the hat business,” Herron said. “I learned so much about the trade from the entire hat making process to different felts and pricing. After a few months, I began to hunt for equipment and the best quality materials. From there, things took off.”

Known as millinery, it is defined as the manufacture and craft of making hats and headwear. A milliner historically would also produce everything from shirts, cloaks and shifts, to caps and neckerchiefs for both men and women, as well as designing and trimming their headgear. The term dates to the Middle Ages, when a Milliner referred to someone from Milan — the home of fashion and textiles trade.

Armed with a degree in Industrial Technology, Management, and Applied Engineering (ITMAE) from the University of Arkansas at Pine Bluff, the techie-turnedmilliner began her hat journey while working her first postcollege job in a small town in Kansas. At that time, Herron estimates there were around 30 hat stores in the United States but only one in Kansas. While traveling for work in Manhattan, she visited a hat store there and purchased her first high quality hat. Her technical background took over when she dismantled, and reverse engineered the hat she bought from the Manhattan store.

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UAPB Magazine • University of Arkansas at Pine Bluff

According to Herron, millinery isn’t a trade that offers a multitude of apprenticeships. The lack of opportunities to shadow someone didn’t stop her. Fueled by the desire to do more with her newly found passion, Herron said she couldn’t sleep at night for months. She read all she could find about hat making and studied it like it was for a final exam in the demanding Quality Control course she took when attending UAPB. “Hat making has been a dying trade for many years, so when I decided to go full force with it, I knew I had to be great. What did I do? I set my sail and continued on.”

Herron said she failed at times but succeed from correcting the errors. Most importantly, she never gave up. In those moments, she knew millinery was for her. She estimates having constructed 100 hats before she felt she had a firm grasp on the craft and could create a product that would be competitive in the market.

Her perseverance paid off. Herron Hats was launched online May 2017 and has since garnered a worldwide customer base that includes celebrities such as R&B singer Anthony Hamilton, who has purchased several of them.

“My style is very unorthodox,” she said. “I try to put a spin on the traditional, classical hat. I love to distress and add extra stitching details while staying true to the traditions of hat making.”

Herron said her designs are created for the fashion forward who dare to think beyond the brim. In her own words, she seeks to blur the lines of professionalism and creativity to bring timeless pieces that can be worn for work or play. With each handcrafted piece, she looks to present a novel twist to an ageless design.

“Hat making has been a dying trade for many years, so when I decided to go full force with it, I knew I had to be great. What did I do? I set my sail and continued on.�

Markia Herron is photographed in one of the hats she Fall/Winter created. 2018 43 Larry Harris

Distressing, contrasting stitching, and details like feathers, fabric patterns and, in this case, pennies go into making a truly memorable hat.

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UAPB Magazine • University of Arkansas at Pine Bluff

Brenton Kirkhart

Brenton Kirkhart

Brenton Kirkhart

Jasmine Ryland

From sizing to shaping and detailing, the hatmaking process takes about two days according to Herron.

alumni profiles

“Attending UAPB brought out my character, my style, and my persona.

Most importantly, the university made me understand that if I wanted to do something, it started with me first. No matter what, they'd be there to guide me.”

Larry Harris

When in design mode, Herron said there isn’t a strategic approach. She usually picks a color, blocks the hat and lets it sit on her workbench for a day or so. She tends to find inspiration in daily activities, especially when seeing things that pop with color mixes.

For her, seeing the raw hat body go through so many processes and designing a hat without sketching is the most fascinating part of the craft. When you view the collection at her online store (herronhats. com), you can quickly see the intricate details she invests in each piece. The color combinations delight the senses with juxta positioned patterns and accents that are sure to draw attention. Her latest designs were recently shown at Northwest Arkansas Fashion Week.

“I want my clients to experience a revolution...a metamorphosis,” she said. “I want my hats to start a halo effect. My hope is that when a client puts on one of my hats, the style and confidence that they exude becomes infectious. I want the impression they make to influence style and passion in the next person...and the next...and the next and so on.”

When reflecting on her UAPB experience, Herron said the institution afforded her a sound education that highly reflects on her life. She said any ITMAE student can attest to Dr. Charles Colen pushing then to pursue their goals. Herron said it was refreshing knowing she had a place where she connected with people, whether it was through Sigma Gamma Rho Sorority, Inc., with her softball teammates, or randomly meeting people on campus.

“Attending UAPB brought out my character, my style, and my persona. Most importantly, the university made me understand that if I wanted to do something, it started with me first. No matter what, they'd be there to guide me.”

With that resolve in mind, Markia said she plans to open a few Herron Hat Co. boutiques around the state. Being a custom handmade hatter, she is only able to produce 5 – 10 pieces per boutique. As the business continues to grow, she’d like to build a small team, ultimately producing a larger volume of hats.

“Trends are ever changing, but through the centuries, the classic dress hat has withstood the test of time. With this business, I wanted to create something unique that I loved, so I did.”

At top: A model shows one of Herron's recent designs on the runway at Northwest Arkansas Fashion Week.

Larry Harris

Center: A model wears a custom piece made by Herron.

While her current line shows premade designs, any hat can be customized upon request.

At left: A model is shown wearing the Nina II hat.

Fall/Winter 2018 45

alumni profiles

Judge Guynn is pictured inside the Law Library of the Pine Bluff/ Jefferson County Courthouse

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UAPB Magazine • University of Arkansas at Pine Bluff

alumni profiles

FULL CIRCLE

ALUMNUS ALEX GUYNN ROSE FROM UNPAID LAW CLERK TO BECOME THE YOUNGEST JUDGE IN JEFFERSON COUNTY

by Donna Mooney

I

n 1998, Alex Guynn was a first-semester student attending Arkansas State University on a football scholarship; however, after one semester, Guynn walked away from his Red Wolves status to experience the “University with a personal touch.”

Jefferson County Judge Alex Guynn of the 11th Division Circuit Court graduated cum laude from UAPB with a political science degree. Then he attended and graduated from the University Arkansas School of Law in Fayetteville with a juris doctorate. Guynn is a former Pine Bluff Assistant City Attorney, public defender and former member of the Wal-Mart Corporate Legal Department. Prior to running for the Circuit Judge office, Guynn was the Managing Partner for his successful Pine Bluff law firm, Neely & Guynn.

He and his wife, Lynn, have three daughters.

His parents are Alex Guynn Sr., and Katherine Guynn.

The 15th Judge to hold this position in Jefferson County, Guynn has completed his first year in office, in his hometown and near his alma mater. He said his decision years ago to leave ASU and attend UAPB was easy.

“ASU just didn’t feel like home for me, and although the campus was big, the classes were too big,” he said. Another push towards UAPB came when Guynn realized professors were not interested in knowing his name, but his student identification number. The final straw was receiving a “B” grade in Badminton Class. “I figured that if I got a ‘B’ in badminton, I didn’t have a chance in biology,” he joked.

“UAPB was like coming home,” Guynn said.

“My Dad used to work at the Physical Plant, and if I messed up in class, I’d get pulled aside from

concerned faculty with a warning to tell him. I loved every bit of my college experience. I met students from Chicago, St. Louis, and Texas, but we all just gelled together. I didn’t have to fit in.”

Where Guynn didn’t quite fit in was with the UAPB football team. When that didn’t work out, he remained at the University and joined the employee team at FedEx – as he called it, “throwing boxes.”

“I had to have a job because I lived in my own three bedroom house while I was in college.”

A Pine Bluff native, Guynn graduated from Watson Chapel in 1998, with full plans of furthering his education. Mowing lawns one summer sealed his fate. “My Dad loved working outside and with his hands,” Guynn said. “But that just wasn’t for me. I was 16 that summer, and my Dad made me cut the grass near the Reserves building by MLK (Martin Luther King, Jr.) Park for $10. I told my Dad I quit because it didn’t pay enough. He let me go, but he told me I had to go to school and learn how to do something to make a living. I went straight to Bonanza (steakhouse) and got a job.”

The Law and the Lawyer

The view from Guynn’s secured office in the Courthouse is a perfect sight of tranquil Lake Pine Bluff and Lake Saracen Landing.

Seated behind a desk that once belonged to his predecessor Judge Berlin Jones, Guynn, the youngest Jefferson County judge to date, feels he was well prepared for this position.

“I was prepared for the job based on my education, past work experience as public defender, criminal defense attorney and connection with the community,” Guynn said.

Brian Williams

Fall/Winter 2018 47

alumni profiles

“Those people I can help, I will. I do that because people helped me. My goal is to live life and to help some folks.

My intention is to be patient and caring, but stern.”

Although Guynn’s first semester at UAPB was like coming to his second home, he still needed help reaching his destiny.

Oddly enough, a speeding ticket placed him one step closer.

College student Guynn was waiting in Jefferson County Traffic Court for a speeding ticket when he saw a young black man walking around the waiting area wearing sweat pants, a t-shirt and flip flops. Thinking the guy was an offender like him, Guynn asked what the man’s offense was, only to discover that this casually dressed stranger was a lawyer. In dismay, Guynn challenged the man to prove this unbelievable statement by giving him a job. His new-found lawyer friend, Don Moore, promised him a job, conditionally – first, he had to work for free.

“Attorney Don Moore was very intelligent, very smart and confident. He had people skills, and I learned a lot from him about how to be professional,” Guynn said. “He was my first law job and my first defender in a car accident case. We won.

I watched him progress and move from public service to his own private practice. Then one day, he told me it was time to go. He said Judge Berlin Jones needed help in his office, and I could have the job, but first I had to work as an intern – for free.”

Fifteen years after he was a volunteer and then a paid clerk for Judge Berlin Jones, Guynn has the position he was told by some that he was too young to receive.

Preparation Time at UAPB

For the majority of his time at UAPB, Guynn worked part-time at Fed Ex, interned in the Circuit Judge’s office, and remained in good academic standing while majoring in political science. Plus, Guynn was a Ronald McNair Scholar, a demanding program that prepares upper level college students for graduate school research. He credits his mentors and motivators with keeping him on track.

First mentioned was Dr. Cortez Henderson, previous director of the former *TRIO Ronald D. McNair Program at UAPB. Guynn says the program and Henderson prepared him to attend law school. “We learned research and writing through this program, and I am sure that what we learned when making presentations equipped us to compete with the best.”

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UAPB Magazine • University of Arkansas at Pine Bluff

Dr. Carolyn F. Blakely and the Honors College Program also contributed to his success. “I didn’t really join Honors College for the right reasons. I was just following the females, but once I got in the program, I was glad I did,” he said. “Dr. Blakely and Mrs. Knight stayed on me to do right and keep my grades up.”

Guynn learned life lessons at UAPB that helped him work with others and work in the right circles. “I learned how to adapt and be around people and get what I needed. I also learned how to do more with less.”

“My parents have been my biggest motivation – my Mom is a school teacher and she stressed education. My Dad is retired from the Army, and he stressed hard work. After high school, Dad made it clear that I would either get an education, get a job, or go to the Army.”

On the Job Training

The first year of any new position has challenges. Guynn has over ridden the challenge of stereotypes about his age and about being under prepared. “I have overcome the stereotypes of my age by treating every case as though I’m in the position of the defendant, victim and prosecution - ensuring that all parties are afforded a fair trial. The most rewarding part of my job is Friday Drug Court. On Friday, I see people trying to regain themselves,” Guynn said. “Additionally, I use my past experience not as a way to expedite matters, but as a way to add value to the judicial process.”

Guynn has learned that he can’t help everyone. “Those people I can help, I will,” he said. “I do that because people helped me. My goal is to live life and to help some folks. My intention is to be patient and caring, but stern.” *(The Ronald E. McNair Post-Baccalaureate Achievement Program is a federal program created by the U.S. Department of Education initiative with a goal of increasing “attainment of PhD degrees” by students from underrepresented segments of society.”)

Brian Williams

Fall/Winter 2018 49

COVER STORY

PROSPERING

PINE BLUFF NON-PROFITS AND GOVERNMENT LEADERS WORKING TOGETHER TO MOVE THE CITY FORWARD

by Donna Mooney

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UAPB Magazine • University of Arkansas at Pine Bluff

T

hree years ago, the citizens of Pine Bluff, Arkansas began a successful venture to reposition the city for another economic boom. With the right structure, education, and economic system in place, coupled with plans for a revived downtown, Pine Bluff will prosper.

Through a series of productive town hall meetings and open forums, local residents met and addressed major concerns that were stagnating the city’s progress. As a result, this like-minded group determined that Pine Bluff ’s image, businesses, school districts and downtown could be restored. A prospering Pine Bluff means more jobs, followed by a stable economic system and a strong infrastructure.

Chancellor Laurence B. Alexander of the University of Arkansas Pine Bluff supports Pine Bluff prospering not only because of the progression of the area, but also because a better Pine Bluff could increase campus enrollment, and possibly, encourage more graduates to remain (live) in the area, increasing the applicant pool for technical and specialty jobs. A better Pine Bluff means everyone working together.

Pine Bluff Mayor Shirley Washington has reinforced the idea of Pine Bluff returning to its former glory since she was sworn into office in 2017. Washington, a UAPB alumna and retired school superintendent new to politics, accepted the reigns of mayoral duties and this massive undertaking with a can-do attitude and immediately began working with the City Council to strategize what this city needs for a vibrant future.

“In order for our city to prosper, it will require everyone to contribute and be committed to reaching a common goal,” said Washington. “Collaboration is imperative to fully develop a course of action that will reap the most benefit for our citizenry. Coming together is a beginning. Keeping together is progress. Working together is success.”

Washington added that the ultimate goal is to position Pine Bluff for growth and prosperity. “We want to see this great city rise and flourish, and in order to accomplish this, we must embrace a common vision and come to the table in a spirit of collaboration,” she said.

“I believe we will find that the more we come together, the more information we will have at our disposal to make progress. Each success should reinforce our commitment to continue to work together.”

BARRAQUE STREET LANDMARK

Fall/Winter 2018 51

cover story

“Our city has great potential, and I appreciate and support the efforts to get the city to flourish,” UAPB Chancellor Laurence B. Alexander said. “This is the home of the Golden Lions. As Pine Bluff progresses, it attracts more students and graduates who will take their places as entrepreneurs, lawyers, city officials, doctors and teachers.”

Alexander said he hopes those individuals will in turn invest in the community by creating business opportunities that will make a strong economic impact.

Accomplishing a goal of this magnitude demanded having people with a vested interest in the health and well-being of this little corner of Southeast Arkansas, working together. Separate in duties, but equal in importance, is a cluster of organizations (one long-standing, the rest new) striving for a better Pine Bluff.

OUT OF MANY, ONE The movement which started in 2015 to rebuild Pine Bluff resulted in Go Forward Pine Bluff, an entity created to spearhead the improvement and major overhaul of the city’s negative image. Ryan Watley, Ph.D., a UAPB alumnus and former chemistry professor turned community activist, is the Director of the organization.

Following hard on the heels of Go Forward Pine Bluff is Pine Bluff Rising.

This 501(c) (3) non-profit organization is composed of three board members – Tom Reilley of New Hampshire and owner of Highland Pellets located in Jefferson Industrial Park, Stuart Hee of Brooklyn, New York, and Caleb McMahon of Pine Bluff, the Director of Economic Development for Jefferson County.

Pine Bluff Rising is the current owner of Hotel Pines, which is located at the corner of Fifth Avenue and Main Street. Plans for the hotel involve a major preservation and restoration project. According to Reilley, the Pines project is part of the organization’s strategy to revitalize the city’s workforce development by using mentorship to increase building capacity for future business ventures.

One block south of Hotel Pines on Main Street, Pine Bluff Economic Development Alliance of Jefferson County has contributed to the business success of Pine Bluff since 1994. Lou Ann Nisbett, CEcD (Certified Economic Developer), is the President and Chief Executive Officer.

The Alliance is dedicated to expanding the industrial and economic base of Pine Bluff and Jefferson County.

Every city has major highways leading to and through the industrial district that function as the transportation veins to keep business lifelines flowing. The State of Arkansas recently renamed a portion of the Delta’s regional highways to acknowledge the area’s rich music heritage. In July 2017, Act 451 went into effect, making the Arkansas Delta portion of Highway 65 designated as the Delta Rhythm & Bayous Highway.

State Representative Vivian Flowers was the lead sponsor along with cosponsors in the House of Representatives and the Senate. Flowers said Jimmy Cunningham of Pine Bluff provided the idea to address the deep rooted history and talent of Pine Bluff as it relates to music, theater, television and production.

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UAPB Magazine • University of Arkansas at Pine Bluff

GO FORWARD PINE BLUFF Ryan Watley, PhD, is the Director of Go Forward Pine Bluff. He took the helm of this newly created city organization in February 2016. Prior to accepting this position, Watley was an assistant professor of chemistry at the University of Arkansas at Pine Bluff. He received a doctorate of chemistry degree from the University of Oklahoma in 2015 and returned to Pine Bluff for employment.

“I decided to come home and bring what I’ve learned here,” he said.

How does one go from being a professor at the University of Arkansas at Pine Bluff to being a community activist?

Watley said academic research and problem solving subconsciously prepared him for the task at hand. “I was fascinated with finding unique approaches to different problems the city had,” he said.

“One potential solution was to be a part of the move.”

“My motivation to do this job was that it just felt right, and I believed in my heart it was the right thing to do. This (Go Forward) was the type of investment the city [needed] for a long time, and now is the time for us to move.”

With every new adventure comes challenges. One challenge Watley foresees is the need for everyone to work together. “Building a trust factor is one of the largest challenges to overcome, and we will do this by being transparent, communicating plans and executing what the city voted for,” Watley explained.

Mayor Washington has been an active hands-on supporter.

“Mayor Washington has been wonderful in helping to execute the plans because she was a volunteer before she was voted into office as mayor.”

Shirley WASHINGTON mayor of pine bluff

“I believe we will find that the more we come together, the more information we will have at our disposal to make progress. Each success should reinforce our commitment to continue to work together.�

Fall/Winter 2018 53

cover story

Ryan WATLEY go forward pine bluff

"My motivation to do this job was that it just felt right, and I believed in my heart it was the right thing to do. This (Go Forward) was the type of investment the city [needed] for a long time, and now is the time for us to move."

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UAPB Magazine • University of Arkansas at Pine Bluff

The public and private partnerships are growing within Go Forward with a $1.3 million grant from the Delta Regional Authority. Other initiatives include the Government Institute Workshop for those interested in public service. The Chamber of Commerce partnered with Go Forward Pine Bluff to train future candidates in the process for running a campaign for office.

Go Forward also is working with the Community Design Center of the University of Arkansas, an urban design group responsible for the downtown masterplan and vision to remodel and repurpose downtown Pine Bluff. One of the first projects, the Sculptor Project is currently in progress, and the Streetscape Project, sponsored by Community and Economic Development Office received a grant to assist with the project from Delta Regional Authority. Both projects are scheduled to begin January 1, 2019.

The Urban Renewal Agency created by Pine Bluff City Council deals with the housing blight from Hazel to Ohio Streets and from Harding Avenue to Barraque Street, an expansive area. The purpose of the agency is to demolish, repurpose, or refurbish houses.

Watley said Go Forward was not created to replace any entity, but as a tool to bring the resources and ideas together to achieve a goal. Because he is community minded, Watley is a former board member of Pine Bluff Rising. He said Go Forward will continue to work with Pine Bluff Rising given that both organizations have an emphasis on downtown Pine Bluff.

PINE BLUFF RISING Following a year of research and community assessment, Pine Bluff Rising is moving forward with the revitalization of the Pines Hotel, making it the hub of downtown activity once more.

The renovated hotel will house a restaurant, coffee shop, meeting rooms, 144 livable rooms, and business offices. This massive undertaking began in 2017 and has a cost of $35 million with a projected completion date of fall 2020, pending capital sponsorship.

Reilley said he became interested in the well-being of the city by following city concerns through Pine Bluff Economic Development. He and the other partners decided to become a part of the solution.

“Pine Bluff Rising has done a year’s worth of assessment in the community about what role it can help play,” Reilley said. "CatalyticPB LLC, an investment holding company created by Reilley, will be the major drive for economic investment in the city."

“This company will own a number of restaurants, hotels, blues venues and real estate developments,” Reilley said. “A $60 million investment plan is under development.

What is different about CatalyticPB is that it will be an inclusive community member that believes in equitable development.”

Pine Bluff Rising has contracted with Velocity Group from Bentonville, Arkansas, on intentional and sustainable development. “We will work closely and transparently with the Delta Rhythm and Blues Alliance, Go Forward Pine Bluff, the City and Community stakeholders to align our investments with the long term benefits of all.”

Challenges facing Pine Bluff Rising must be addressed in order for effective collaboration to succeed. Reilley said economic inequality and the low level of social trust in Pine Bluff has been a hindrance. He also said the biggest challenge to overcome is a lack of citizen engagement and the lack of alignment in municipal and education system governance.

JEFFERSON COUNTY ALLIANCE Jefferson County Alliance is a non-profit organization created to help community and economic development priorities through business retention and expansion, workforce development and prospect development. Lou Ann Nisbett came to work for the Economic Development Alliance in 2006.

One on-going prospect is working to increase the international market for workforce developers and site selection. “There are others who would like to have a footprint in the U.S. and Pine Bluff is in a good location,” Nisbett said.

One of the challenges in Pine Bluff is the workforce.

“We have retiring baby boomers on one hand and on the other hand millennials with work skills that are not what they should be,” Nisbett said. “We’re working with Go Forward Pine Bluff to develop a plan for employability training. We need to teach soft skills to address personal, transportation and child care issues. People don’t want to fail, they just don’t know what they should know.”

The Alliance also is responsible for Jefferson County’s work toward receiving certification as an ACT Work Ready Community (CWRD), a two-year process. ACT Certified Work Ready Communities empower counties and states with tools for workforce development.

Alliance assistance to industries includes monitoring industry productivity and providing incentives when necessary. Pine Bluff has 55 industries in the County.

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cover story

Lou Ann NISBETT JEFFERSON COUNTY ALLIANCE

“I think there is nowhere to go but up in Pine Bluff. It’s exciting to sit back and watch. We should all be moving in the same direction...”

“We try to help industries merge and work together,” Nisbett said. “Our mission is to create good jobs so families can take care of themselves.”

“I think there is nowhere to go but up in Pine Bluff. It’s exciting to sit back and watch. We should all be moving in the same direction. It’s not just enough to move to Pine Bluff, but we must all help to move Pine Bluff forward.”

DELTA RHYTHM AND BAYOUS HIGHWAY The idea of the Delta Rhythm and Bayous Highway developed from the Delta Rhythm and Bayous Alliance, a non-profit organization created for tourism-based economic development in the Delta Lowlands. The area begins at Bayou Bartholomew and U.S. Highway 65 (Pine Bluff) and extends east to include the western portion of Mississippi.

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UAPB Magazine • University of Arkansas at Pine Bluff

Jimmy Cunningham, CEO of the Delta Rhythm and Bayous Alliance, said the foundation is laying the groundwork for entrepreneurs to pursue tourism-based dollars. The vision is to base tourism on the heritage of Bayou Bartholomew as well as the art and music that was born from this region.

In March 2017, the Delta Alliance approached Arkansas state legislators with the proposed designation of U.S. Highway 65 with its current name change starting with the new fiscal year in July 2017. One advantage of the highway name change allows the creation of art and cultural districts in the state (with funding). Another advantage from this movement allows for the U.S. National Park Service to designate this entire area as a National Heritage Corridor.

Rep. Flowers and Ferguson presented this initiative to the State supported by other Representatives - LeAnne Burch of Monticello, Mike Holcomb of Pine Bluff, Mark McElroy of Tillar, Arkansas and Chris Richey of West Helena. The lead sponsor in the Senate was Eddie Cheatham of Crossett; co-sponsors were Senators Stephanie Flowers of Pine Bluff and Trent Garner of El Dorado.

“The best kind of legislation you can pass is when you have a citizen and a native contact you with an idea of this magnitude,” Flowers said. “Jimmy Cunningham was well-spoken and articulate in presenting his thoughts about the deep rooted history and explaining the talent of Pine Bluff as it pertained to music, theater and art production.”

According to Flowers, the Highway name was meant to draw in other leaders in the region, generating foundation funds and prosperity for the area.

In addition to working with the Highway project, Cunningham also worked with the Pine Bluff City Council to pass a resolution to create an art district in downtown Pine Bluff.

A WORK IN PROGRESS Working separately but together, each organization mentioned above has determined plans and processes to make Pine Bluff a thriving and prospering place. Three years ago, the citizens of Pine Bluff began a successful venture to reposition Pine Bluff for another economic boom. With the right structure, education and economic system in place, coupled with plans for a revived downtown, Pine Bluff has the potential to prosper.

“Pine Bluff Rising has done a year’s worth of assessment in the community about what role it can help play... we will work closely and transparently with the Delta Rhythm and Blues Alliance, Go Forward Pine Bluff, the City and Community stakeholders to align our investments with the long term benefits of all.”

Tom REILLEY pine bluff rising

“The best kind of legislation you can pass is when you have a citizen and a native contact you with an idea of this magnitude... [Pine Bluff Native] Jimmy Cunningham was well-spoken and articulate in presenting his thoughts about the deep rooted history and explaining the talent of Pine Bluff as it pertained to music, theater and art production.”

Representative Vivian FLOWERS delta rhythm and bayous highway

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golden lions athletics

ROARING AHEAD

Ground broken for new pavilion at Torii Hunter Baseball Stadium

Construction begins on Simmons Bank Pavilion

Located in the Torii J. Hunter Baseball and Softball complex, the pavilion will consist of a press box and concession stand. The $800,000 project is scheduled to be completed in time for the first home game of the 2019 baseball season.

At right: Representatives from Simmons Bank, Moser Construction, University of Arkansas at Pine Bluff, and Torii Hunter commemorate the construction of a pavilion at Torii Hunter Baseball/Softball Complex.

Melvin J. Hines, II named Director of Athletics after completion of national search

Hines has experience in intercollegiate sports at seven Division I institutions, including Auburn University, the University of Louisville, Alabama A&M University, Troy University, the University of Minnesota, and the University of Mississippi. Before coming to UAPB, Hines was Athletics Director at Alabama State University.

While at Alabama State, Hines guided the athletics program through its most successful seasons, with four straight SWAC Commissioner’s Cup awards, and the women’s teams combined to win their fifth straight all-sports award in 2017. Alabama State teams also combined to win 10 SWAC divisional, league or tournament crowns during the 2016-2017 season. Hines also oversaw improvements to and the construction of multiple facilities at Alabama State, including a new football stadium, and football, baseball and softball complexes.

During the 2016-17 academic year, Hines oversaw the improvement of the Academic Progress Rate (APR) which led to all athletic programs finishing above the threshold to avoid penalty for the first time in recent history.

At right: Melvin J. Hines, II

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UAPB Magazine • University of Arkansas at Pine Bluff

Simmons Bank Field upgrades unveiled A ribbon-cutting ceremony was held to celebrate the updated home of the Golden Lions. Now named Simmons Bank Field, the venue was officially opened to the public after major renovations over the summer.

Representatives from Simmons Bank, UAPB administration and the city of Pine Bluff were on hand to welcome a new beginning for Golden Lions football. Simmons gifted $2.5 million to the university for the new football stadium along with the completion of the baseball and softball complex.

At left: Representatives from the City of Pine Bluff, University of Arkansas System, UAPB, and Simmons Bank were on hand to welcome supporters to the newly renovated and renamed Simmons Bank Field.

Devorice Pilcher

Above: A drone camera view of Simmons Bank Field. Renovations included new turf and digital scoreboard.

Fall/Winter 2018 59

We have a lot of pride in Pine Bluff.

We’re proud to support the University of Arkansas at Pine Bluff. This has been our home since 1903, and it’s where our headquarters is still located today. Go Golden Lions!

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2018 UAPB FOOTBALL

Melvin Hines, II ATHLETIC DIRECTOR

Melvin Hines, II is in his first year as Director of Athletics at the University of Arkansas at Pine Bluff.

Before coming to UAPB in Sept. 2018, Hines served as the Director of Intercollegiate Athletics at Alabama State.

While at Alabama State, Hines has helped guide the University’s athletics program through their most successful seasons to date, highlighted by four straight Southwestern Athletic Conference (SWAC) Commissioner’s Cup awards in 2013-14, 2014-15, 2015-16 and 2016-17. ASU swept all the league’s all-sports awards in 2014, and the women’s programs combined to win its fifth straight all-sports award in 2017.

Alabama State sports teams combined to win 10 SWAC divisional, league, or tournament crowns this past season and have won 47 titles since 2010.

Hines began his tenure with Alabama State University in August of 2010 when he was hired as Senior Associate Director of Intercollegiate Athletics. In that position, Hines provided senior level management and leadership for directing event operations, facilities and administrative services, as well as providing team/sport oversight, budgeting and personnel management. He was one of the leaders of the strategic and operational planning team for the University, and assisted with public relations and development activities.

In addition to providing direct oversight for 18 sports, Hines served as the Athletics Department liaison for the improvements and construction with of multiple athletics facilities, including the New Hornet Stadium (ASU Football Stadium), the Houston Markham Jr. Football Complex, the 62

UAPB Magazine • University of Arkansas at Pine Bluff

Wheeler-Watkins Baseball Complex and the Barbara Williams Softball Complex.

During the 2016-17 academic year, Hines oversaw the improvement of the Academic Progress rate (APR). For the first time in recent history, all of the athletic programs at Alabama State finished above the threshold needed to avoid penalty, while a pair of programs (women’s cross country and women’s golf) tallied perfect scores. For women’s golf, it marked the second consecutive year of reaching that mark.

Since Hines took over the leadership of the athletic department, he has continued to build and enhance the branding of the athletic department by partnering with Sidearm Sports to provide an easy-access website for alums, fans, parents and student-athletes to follow all the latest news.

In addition to the improvements of the branding, Hines was instrumental in building the platform for Alabama State to stream all home football games.

A former wide receiver at Auburn University, Hines began his coaching career in 1997 as a graduate assistant at the University of Louisville. The Huntsville, Ala. native returned home in 1998 to serve as receivers coach at Alabama A&M, a position he held for next four years. Hines gained additional experience at Troy University as the Director of Student-Athlete Services (2005-06) before moving to the University of Minnesota and serving as liaison to various on-campus departments, while focusing on the developing and implementing of a comprehensive advising program for student-athletes. From 2008 to 2010, Hines was the associate director of Student-Athlete Academic Support Services at the University of Mississippi, where he assisted with the oversight, coordination and daily operations of the Department for Rebel Athletics.

Hines holds a Bachelor of Science degree in Adult Education from Auburn University and a Master of Science in Education with a concentration in Sports Administration from the University of Louisville. Among his professional affiliations, he is a member of the National Association of Collegiate Directors of Athletics (NACDA), National Association of Athletic Development Directors (NAADD), Minority Opportunity Athletic Association (MOAA) and the National Association of Academic Advisors for Athletics (N4A). A member of Kappa Alpha Psi Fraternity, Inc., he is married to Landy Booker Hines and they have one daughter, Madison.

2018 UAPB FOOTBALL

cedric thomas FIRST SEASON

ARKANSAS - PINE BLUFF, ‘99

The new head football coach at the University of Arkansas at Pine Bluff is one who knows how to defy the odds in order to achieve his goals. He’s also one who knows how to win.

Boldly proclaiming that “UAPB saved my life,” Cedric Thomas’ goal of one day becoming a head football coach became a reality on Wednesday, December 27, 2017, when he was introduced as his alma mater’s 20th head coach - the first new mentor of the Golden Lions in a decade. A native of Cleveland, Mississippi, and Eastside High School’s studentof-the-year in 1996, Thomas journeyed from Mississippi Delta Community College to UAPB in 1998, where he excelled as a player in a solid football program. Being a student-athlete inspired him to yearn for even greater levels of success and to one day teach others how to become winners both on and off the field.

Coach Thomas launched his coaching career as a graduate assistant at Alcorn State University in 2001, later becoming running backs coach at the University of Tennessee at Martin in 2002.

Following stints as defensive back at Itawamba Community College (2005-06) and co-defensive coordinator at Mississippi Delta Community College (2006), he got his really big break when he returned to Alcorn State as defensive backs coach in 2012.

To put it mildly, Thomas’ contributions to the Alcorn State football program as defensive backs coach quickly helped to revive a dormant program which once was a thriving force in the SWAC and the nation. His tenacity as one of the key pieces of the defensive unit played an integral role as the ASU Braves won four consecutive SWAC Eastern Division titles between 2014 and 2017. The Braves captured back-to-back SWAC overall championships in 2014 and 2015. In 2014, the team was named Black College National Champions. In 2015, ASU made it to the Celebration Bowl.

His defensive units have ranked among the best in FCS football, including Top 10 rankings in sacks, red zone defense and scoring defense.

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2018 UAPB FOOTBALL

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UAPB Magazine • University of Arkansas at Pine Bluff

2018 UAPB FOOTBALL

OFFENSE Wide Receiver 84- Orion Smith (6-4, 215, R- Fr.) 81 – Dwayne Lindsey (5-11, 185, Sr.) Wide Receiver 5 – Kolby McNeal (6-1, 185, Jr.) 1 – Henri Murphy (6-1, 185, Sr.)

DEFENSE Left End 51- Arius Ofum (6-3, 235, Jr.) 59 – Jaylon Miller (6-3, 250, R-Fr.) Tackle 99- Terrell Alexander (6-0, 255, Sr.) 96 – Joshua Wallace (6-2, 275, Jr.)

Left Tackle 79- Bradley Burrell (6-5, 310, Jr.) 78- Mark Evans II (6-4, 295, Fr.)

Nose Tackle 98 – Kaleb McDonald (6-4, 295, R-Sr.) 90 – Chris Kilpatrick (6-4, 295, R-Fr.)

Left Guard 76- Antondre Smith (6-3, 320, So.) 75- Derek Sanders (6-6, 350, R-Jr.)

Right End 98 – Jalen Steward (6-4, 260, Jr.) 45 – Londale Sanders (6-1, 230, Sr.)

Center Right GuardSt. Jour (6-2, 290, Jr.) 52- Raynald 74Jayden Glover (6-1, 285, Jr.) 66- Eric Jones III (6-3, 325, So.) 77- Noah Hayes (6-5, 305, Fr.)

Will Linebacker Mike Linebacker 8- Je’Kevin Carter (6-2, 221, Sr.)) 16Xaiver Mitchell (6-2, R-Fr.) 33 – A.C. Gillam (6-0, 220,230, R-So.) 8- Je’Kevin Carter (6-2, 221, Sr.)

Right Tackle 70- David Aduo (6-2, 285, R-Sr.) 72- Khaleb Fobish (6-3, 285, Sr.)

Nickle 35 – Paul Reeves (5-10, 195, Jr.) 17 – Marteveus Favors (6-1, 185, Sr.)

Quarterback 10- Shannon Patrick (6-2, 205, Jr.) 11- Skyler Perry (6-3, 197, Fr.)

Strong Safety 30 – Tayvon Littlejohn (6-3, 170, Fr.) 12 – Shawn Steele (6-0, 182, So.)

Tailback 2- Taeyler Porter (5-10, 195, Jr.) 23 – Jamal Gladden (5-9, 185, R-Sr.)

Free Safety 27-Isaiah Johnson (6-1, 185, R-Jr.) 13-Blake Conner (6-1, 195, Jr.)

Wide Receiver 7 – Tyrin Ralph (5-9, 170, R-So.) 81 – Dwayne Lindsey (5-11, 185, Sr.)

Left Cornerback 20- Cory Bell (6-0, 180, So.) 9- Rico Merriweather (6-2, 200, So.)

Wide Receiver 86 – Dejuan Miller (6-2, 184, Fr.) 85 – Chris Robinson II (6-3, 178, R-So.)

Right Cornerback 12- Shawn Steele (6-0, 182, So.) 39- Shufon Alcorn (5-9, 170, Jr)

Punter 42 – Jamie Gillan (6-2, 200, Sr.) 47 – Zack Piwniczka (5-10, 200, Fr.) Kicker 42 – Jamie Gillan (6-2, 200, Sr.) 45- Zack Piwniczka (5-10, 200, Fr.)

Snapper 41 – Jack Ray (6-0, 210, Jr.)

SPECIALIST

Kick Returners 5 – Kolby McNeal (6-1, 185, Jr.) 7- Tyrin Ralph (5-9, 170, Jr.) Punt Returners 7- Tyrin Ralph (5-9, 170, Jr.)

Holder 41 – Jack Ray (6-0, 210, Jr.)

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2018 UAPB FOOTBALL

general information School Name: UNIVERSITY OF ARKANSAS-PINE BLUFF City/Zip: Pine Bluff, Arkansas 71601 Founded: 1873 Enrollment: 2,616 Nickname: Golden Lions UAPB School Colors: Black and Gold (874) Stadium: Simmons Bank Field Field Capacity: 16,000 Surface: Artificial turf Affiliation: NCAA Division I FCS (Formerly Division I- AA) Conference: Southwestern Athletic Conference (SWAC) Chancellor: Dr. Laurence B. Alexander Alma Mater/Year: University of New Orleans, 1981 Athletics Director: Melvin Hines Eva McGhee ◊IIJacquelyn McCray Alma Mater/Year: Auburn University, 1994 Senior Woman Administrator: Brenda Jones (Interim) Athletic Phone: (870) 575-7950 Faculty Athletic Rep: Dr. Brenda Martin

HISTORY

First Year of Football: 1928 All-Time Record: 344- 433-44** All-Time Postseason Record: 1-2 years of Postseason Play: 2012 Last Postseason Appearance: 1966 & 2012 (SWAC Champions) Result of Last Appearance: Won, Defeated Jackson State, 24-21 at Legion Field in Birmingham, Ala. (12-8-12). ** All victories from 2007-2011 seasons were later vacated due to NCAA Sanctions. Actual UAPB win-loss record is 365-424- 44

◊ Carolyn Blakely ◊ Eula Liddell

Welcome AD Melvin Hines From Your Trotter Lincoln Family

3801 Bobo Road Pine Bluff, AR 71603 870.535.4321

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UAPB Magazine • University of Arkansas at Pine Bluff

Ford Trotter

Melvin Hines

Bubba Pettigrew

2018 UAPB FOOTBALL

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2018 UAPB FOOTBALL

numerical roster NUMERICAL ROSTER

68

No.

Name

1 2 3 5 6 7 8 9 10 11 12 13 15 16 17 18 19 20 21 22 23 24 25 26 27 28 29 30 31 33 35 36 37 38 39 40 41 42 43

Henri Murphy Taeyler Porter Josh Wilkes Kolby McNeal Jeremy Brown Tyrin Ralph Je’Kevin Carter Rico Merriweather Shannon Patrick Skyler Perry Shawn Steele Blake Conner Nicholas Stroud Xavier Mitchell Marteveus Favors Jontavis Testa Daryl Carter Corey Bell KeShawn Williams Tychristopher Harris Jamal Gladden Tryvarious Cole Stanleigh Bentley Omar Allen Isaiah Johnson Jaimon Peterson Trae Cherry Tayvon Littlejohn Isaiah Singleton A.C. Gilliam Paul Reeves Ronald Rocket, III Detavion Turner Chris Richardson Shufon Alcorn Diori Barnard Jack Ray Jamie Gillan Kolby Watts

Pos

Ht.

Wt.

Class.

Hometown/Previous School

WR RB WR WR WR Ath. LB DB QB QB DB FS DL LB DB LB TE DB RB LB RB KR DB RB DB RB DB DB LB LB DB SS RB DB CB LB DS K LB

6-1 5-10 6-3 6-1 6-3 5-9 6-2 6-2 6-2 6-3 6-0 6-1 6-3 6-2 6-1 6-1 6-2 6-0 5-10 6-1 5-8 5-7 6-1 5-9 6-1 5-10 5-11 6-3 5-11 6-0 5-10 6-3 5-11 5-9 5-9 6-1 6-0 6-2 6-0

185 19 5 183 185 215 170 221 200 205 197 182 195 235 230 185 225 220 180 195 210 185 180 170 180 185 180 165 170 220 220 195 180 216 160 170 195 205 200 206

Sr. Jr. Jr. Jr. Jr. R-So. Sr. R-Jr. Jr. Fr. So. Jr. Sr. R-Fr. Sr. Jr. R-Fr. So. Sr. Fr. R-Sr. So. Fr. Fr. R-Jr. R-Jr. Fr. Fr. Fr. R-So. Jr. So. Fr. Fr. Jr. Fr. Sr. Sr. So.

Pine Bluff, Ark./Virginia Tech Naples, FL. /ASA Miami Junior College Rockhill, SC./Butler CC Little Rock, Ark. /Parkview HS Ruston, La/Ruston HS New Orleans, La. /Enda Karr HS Ruston, La. /Ruston HS Augusta, Ga./Laney HS West Palm Beach Fla. /Northland College New Orleans, La. /Edna Karr HS Arlington, Texas / Arlington HS Little Rock, Ark. /Maumelle HS Monroe, La. /Neville HS New Orleans, La. / John Curtis HS Atlanta, Ga. / Arkansas Baptist College Miami, Fla. / Coral Gables HS Conyers, GA./Salem HS Shreveport, La. / Woodlawn HS Pine Bluff, Ark. /Dollarway HS Shreveport, La / Woodlawn HS Zanesville, Ohio/Zanesville HS Pine Bluff, Ark. / Watson Chapel HS Yazoo City, MS. /Yazoo, HS Pine Bluff, Ark./Watson Chapel HS Marshall, Texas/Evangel Christian HS Desoto, Texas/Desoto HS Waco, TX./Waco HS Grenville, Ms. /Greenville Weston HS Pine Bluff, Ark. / Pine Bluff HS Shreveport, La. / Evangel Christian HS Lexington, MS. / Lexington HS Pine Bluff, Ark. / Pine Bluff HS Jonesboro, Ark. /Nettleton HS Dallas, TX/ Timberview HS Newport, Ark. /Newport HS South Miami, FL./South Miami HS Discovery Bay, Calif. / Sierra College Inverness, Scotland /Leonardtown HS Desoto, Texas/ Desoto HS

UAPB Magazine • University of Arkansas at Pine Bluff

2018 UAPB FOOTBALL

No. 45 47 48 49 52 53 54 57 58 59 62 66 67 68 70 71 72 74 75 76 77 78 79 80 81 84 85 86 87 88 89 90 91 92 94 95 96 97 98 99

Name Londale Sanders Zack Piwniczka Ja’Kalon Pittman Isaac Peppers Raynald St. Jour Jonah Penalver Jaylen Thomas Fredrick Means Jalen Steward Jaylon Miller Caleib Batiste Eric Jones III Paul Bailey Obadiah Bennett David Aduo Zion Farmer Khaleb Fobish Jayden Glover Derek Sanders Antondre Smith Noah Hayes Mark Evans II Bradley Burrell Cameron Colbert Dwayne Lindsey Jr. Orion Smith Chris Robinson II Dejuan Miller Austin Williams Deshawn Lawrence Tyric Robinson Chris Kilpatrick Jacacari McKinney Bradley Dickson Michael Lockwood Rashaad Clayton Joshua Wallace Ahmad Powell Kaleb McDonald Terrell Alexander

Pos LB K DB LB OL SN OL LB DE DE OL C OL OL OL OL OL OL OL OL OL OL OL WR WR WR WR WR WR Ath WR DL DL DT DT DL DT DL DL DL

Ht. 6-1 5-10 5-11 6-0 6-2 6-4 6-4 6-0 6-4 6-3 6-3 6-3 6-4 6-5 6-2 5-10 6-3 6-1 6-6 6-3 6-5 6-4 6-5 6-1 5-11 6-4 6-3 6-2 5-9 5-11 6-0 6-4 6-3 6-4 6-5 6-1 6-2 6-3 6-4 6-0

Wt. 230 200 195 203 290 184 270 215 260 250 310 325 300 285 285 290 285 285 350 320 305 295 310 210 185 215 178 184 163 176 170 295 265 240 265 290 275 240 295 255

Class.

Sr. Fr. Fr. Fr. Jr. Fr. Fr. R-Fr. Jr. R-So. Fr. So. R-Jr. R-Jr. R-Sr. So. Sr. Jr. R-Jr. So. Fr. Fr. Jr. Sr. Sr. R-Fr. R-So. Fr. Fr. Fr. Fr. R-Fr. Fr. R-Fr. Sr. Fr. Jr. So. R-Sr. Sr.

Hometown/Previous School Southfield, MI. /Southfield HS San Tan Valley, Ca./Poston Butte HS Bryant, Ark./Bryant HS Greenville, MS. /Greenville HS Naples, Fla. /ASE Junior College Fort Myers, Fla./ Riverdale HS Brunswick, Ga./Glynn Academy HS Laplace, La. /Riverside Academy Memphis, Tenn. /Overton HS Maurice, La. / North Vermilion HS Edord, La./West St. John HS Lewisville, Texas/ Lewisville HS Forrest City, Ark. /Forrest City HS Upper Marlboro, Md. /Henry Wise HS Grand Prairie, Texas/Tyler Junior College Winchester, Ark./Dumas HS Port Arthur, Texas/ Arkansas Baptist Key West, Fla./Key West HS Waldorf, Md. / Arkansas Baptist College Desoto, Texas/ Desoto HS Oxon Hill, Md. / Oxon Hill HS St. Louis, Mo. /C.E. King HS Brooklyn, NY/Nassau College Little Rock, Ark. / University of Arkansas Little Rock, Ark. / Little Rock Central HS Dallas, Texas/ Desoto HS Batesville, Ark. /Batesville HS Belle Glade, Fla./ Glades Central HS Gwinnett, Ga./ Mill Creek HS Cincinnati, OH. /Taft HS Little Rock, Ark./Maumelle HS Fairbanks, Alaska/ Ben Eielson HS Moreno Valley, Ca/ Moreno Valley HS Malvern, Ark. / Malvern HS Santa Rosa, Calif. /Santa Rosa JC Memphis, Tn./Memphis Central HS Amite City, La. /Loranger HS Brooklyn, NY./ASA College Arlington, Texas/Sam Houston HS Chicago, IL./ Rich Central HS

Head Coach: Cedric Thomas, 1st Season as Head Coach, UAPB, 1999 Assistant Coach/Quarterbacks Coach: Doc Gamble, 1st Season, University of Tennessee Martin, 1995 Offensive Coordinator/Wide Receivers Coach: Jermaine Gales, 1st Season, Southern Arkansas, 2002 Defensive Coordinator/Defensive Linebackers Coach: Juan Navarro, University of Redlands, 2001 Defensive Backs Coach: Torenzo Quinn, 1st Season, University of Memphis, 2010 Special Teams/Recruiting Coord./Tight End Coach: Thomas C. Sheffield, 2nd Season, Sam Houston State, 2012 Offensive Line Coach: Lonnie Teasley, 1st Season, Winston-Salem, 2008 Defensive Line Coach: Deion Roberson, 1st Season, Alcorn State, 2015 Running Backs Coach: Rahmann Lee, 1st Season, Glenville State College, 2015 Director of Football Equipment Operations: Mitchell Smith, 3rd Season, Tulane University, 2007 Fall/Winter 2018 69

class notes

Dr. Carolyn F. Blakely gives an acceptance speech at the Arkansas Women's Hall of Fame Induction Ceremony.

Dr. John Kuykendall, III

Dr. Carolyn F. Blakely,'57, was inducted into the Arkansas Women's Hall of Fame. Dr. Blakely is a lifelong educator and chancellor emeritus at the University of Arkansas at Pine Bluff. She developed the Honors College at the university and served as Dean. At the request of students, it was renamed in her honor. Her contributions to the community, education, and civic organizations have impacted countless individuals in Arkansas and beyond.

She was born in Magnolia and raised by her grandmother after her mother’s death. She graduated as valedictorian of her high school. She attended Arkansas AM&N College, later renamed to the University of Arkansas at Pine Bluff, and went on to earn her master’s degree in English at Atlanta University. She became the first African-American woman to earn a doctorate degree in English at Oklahoma State University.

She was part of a group that founded the Pine Bluff Symphony Orchestra, which was formed out of the public school’s String Music Program. Blakely had established an instrument rental program, which encouraged students to participate in the school orchestra class with the end goal of having students who could play with a professional orchestra.

Blakely has also been named one of Arkansas' “Top 100 Women” three times; was elected president of the National Association of African-American Honors Programs, and received the NAACP Education Award. She has also served on the boards of several community and civic organizations, including the Arkansas Schools for the Blind and Deaf, Arkansas Humanities Council, and United Way.

John A. Kuykendall, III, Ph.D., '99, has been appointed Dean of the School of Education at the University of Indianapolis. Dr. Kuykendall most recently served as a tenured associate professor of education and as the director for the School of Education at the University of Arkansas at Little Rock. In his administrative role at Little Rock, he oversaw 27 undergraduate and graduate degree programs in teacher education and educational leadership. Before arriving at Little Rock, he was a faculty member at Marquette University in Milwaukee, where he oversaw the College of Student Affairs Program and taught graduate courses in higher education. His research areas address several of the most pressing concerns in higher education today: achieving college readiness for first-generation students, developing new models for college recruitment and retention, and how social class structures impact children’s abilities to attend and be prepared for higher education.

Tamika Edwards, '00, has been appointed executive director of the Social Justice Institute at Philander Smith College in Little Rock, Arkansas. Edwards has nearly 20 years of experience in public policy and community development. Most recently, she served as director of governmental affairs at Arkansas Advocates for Children and Families (AACF) where she led the development and execution of the organization’s legislative strategy. Prior to AACF, she was director of public policy at Southern Bancorp Community Partners, and previously served as community affairs specialist in the office of former U.S. Senator Blanche Lincoln.

Tamika Edwards

Christopher Shaw, '07, has been named Chief of Police at the University of North Texas at Dallas. One of the founding members of the UNT Dallas Police Department, Shaw has served as interim chief of police since 2016 and is the second appointed chief since the department was established.

A native of Dallas, he has led the directive to increase the UNTD Police Dept. from three to 12

Christopher Shaw

officers since the opening of the first residence hall on campus in 2017. Prior to being named interim chief of police, Shaw served as police sergeant overseeing patrol operations, criminal investigations and training. He has served as a commissioned law enforcement officer for nine years, starting his career at the University of North Texas Police Dept. as a patrol officer and crime prevention liaison before transitioning to UNT Dallas. He received a Certificate of Merit and a Life Saving Award, and earned a Master of Science in Criminal Justice from UNT in 2015.

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Send your accomplishments, milestones and publications to communications@uapb.edu

Laquita R. Stribling, right, with Suzanne Buchanan, executive director of the club.

Dr. T. Elon Dancy, Ii

Laquita R. Stribling, '92, became the first African American installed as 6760 District Governor for Rotary International. She is a past president of the Rotary Club of Nashville (2014-2015), the 3rd largest Rotary Club in the world with nearly 600 members. During her tenure as president of the Rotary Club of Nashville, Laquita led the effort to raise a record $300,000 to fund local community projects.

She also spearheaded the creation of a strategic plan to intentionally and proactively seek and attract more women, people of color, younger people, and individuals from more varied industries. In a time when most clubs’ memberships were declining, the Rotary Club of Nashville’s membership saw net growth, and became a more diverse and inclusive organization. She also established a Rotaract Club at Fisk University to engage students in leadership and service.

T. Elon Dancy, II, '00 has been selected as the third Helen S. Faison Endowed Chair and Director of the Center for Urban Education in the School of Education at the University of Pittsburgh. He comes to this appointment from his role as Professor and Associate Dean for Community Engagement and Academic Inclusion in the Jeannine Rainbolt College of Education at the University of Oklahoma. An education sociologist, Dr. Dancy studies educational settings as sites for social identity development. More specifically, his research focuses on issues of access and equity in the educational pipeline as informed by race, gender, class, and other sociopolitical locations. His journal articles have considered higher education issues, teacher preparation for minoritized students, school-to-prison pipelines, and race and gender hegemony in education. Dr. Dancy is the author/ editor of six books and monographs and author or co-author of more than 70 journal articles, book chapters, and publications related to education and society.

Dr. Gladys Turner-Finney, '57 was given the James E. Stamps Award from the United Negro

College Fund (UNCF). Dr. Finney was a member of the last graduating class of J. C. Corbin High School in Pine Bluff. Her distinguished career as a clinician, teacher, and administrator in the field of social work spanned nearly four decades. In 2012, Finney’s undergraduate alma mater, the University of Arkansas at Pine Bluff, conferred on her the Honorary Doctorate of Laws degree for her long commitment to social work and for her efforts in empowering others through advocacy and philanthropy.

At left: Michael Brown, Vice President & Program Chairperson, Dayton Inter-Alumni Council/ UNCF; Center: Dr. Gladys Turner Finney; Right: Dr. Robert C. Walker, Sr., President, Dayton Inter-Alumni Council/UNCF

Marchello Eans, '14, was awarded the Teacher of the Year honor at DeSoto High School in DeSoto, Texas.

Eans graduated from UAPB with a Bachelor of Science degree in Art Education. Immediately after graduation, Eans began working in the Watson Chapel School District for two and half years. Eans taught art classes for grades 7-9, under the direction of Principal Henry Webb at Watson Chapel Junior High School. After returning to the university after a 14 year hiatus, Eans was advised by his mentor, Henri L. Linton, Sr. to seek a degree in education. While in his new position he incorporated all of these attributes which he believes led to his nomination and selection as Teacher of the Year.

Marchello Eans

Michael D. Mason, '81, was appointed by the State of Arkansas Education Commission to serve on the

Community Advisory Board for the Little Rock School District. The current President of the UAPB/AM&N Pulaski County Alumni Chapter, Mason graduated from UAPB with a Bachelor of Arts degree in Political Science. Recently, the City of Little Rock Board of Director’s appointed Mason to the Rock Region Metro Board of Directors.

Michael Mason

Kimberly Joan Henry, '94, has been a celebrity nanny for the past 16 years working for various artists and entertainers. She is currently employed by one of the youngest self made billionaires who is sole owner and creator of SPANX. As a result, she has modeled in the SPANX catalog and Oprah magazine.

Kimberly Joan Henry

Kent Broughton, '12, has been promoted to the position of Senior Community Relations Manager and Equity Analyst at the University of Arkansas Clinton School of Public Service’s Center on Community Philanthropy.

Kent Broughton

Fall/Winter 2018 71

in memoriam

Earnest James Harris

Ernest James Harris, '51, an

Agricultural Research Service (ARS) Hall of Fame scientist internationally known for finding innovative ways to control fruit flies that threaten crops around the world, died at his home in Kaneohe, Hawaii. He was 89.

His technologies have been key to eradicating foreign fruit flies in California, Florida and other U.S. mainland states, and keeping areas free of these pests that would require costly quarantines and interfere with millions of dollars of agricultural exports.

He played an essential role in devising the raising and release of sterile Mediterranean fruit flies in time to control their first invasion into California in the 1970s. The technique has effectively controlled the pest there ever since.

The technologies he developed are also used in many other countries. His innovative techniques for mass rearing a beneficial wasp have allowed the wasp to be used as a biocontrol for fruit flies in Mexico, Africa, Israel, Brazil and several island nations in the South Pacific. He worked with the U.S. Agency for International Development to control Medflies in Tunisia and Morocco. He also earned a commendation from the Chilean government for his fruit fly eradication efforts that have benefited farmers in Chile and neighboring countries.

Harris was named to the ARS Science Hall of Fame in September for his innovative scientific contributions to agriculture. The ARS Hall of Fame was established in 1986 to honor senior agency researchers for outstanding, lifelong achievements in agricultural science and technology. His background also serves as a testament to his perseverance.

He was the son of an African-American cotton farmer in Arkansas and as a youngster, he started school more than two months late each year because he and his five brothers and sisters needed to help their father pick cotton on a 5-acre family farm near Little Rock. He attended an all-black high school in the South, graduating in 1946 magna cum laude.

Harris was among the first African-Americans to volunteer to serve with the U. S. marines at Montford Point in North Carolina in 1946. He was a member of Montford Point Marines, which were awarded the Congressional Gold Medal for their courage for serving during the 1940s, when the military was segregated and African-Americans faced harsh discrimination while serving.

He was a particularly strong role model for other African-American scientists and was known to his ARS colleagues in Hawaii for his positive attitude, kindness, gentle demeanor and humility. In 1999, Harris was inducted into the Arkansas Black Hall of Fame and in 2012, he earned a lifetime achievement award from the National Association for the Advancement of Colored People (NAACP) for his service to the State of Hawaii.

Harris, who authored hundreds of scientific papers, had been honored as an outstanding alumnus of the University of Hawaii and won an ARS certificate of merit for developing California fruit fly eradication technologies and techniques for mass rearing insects used for biological control.

George Will Richardson, '58, of Lonoke, Arkansas, died

Friday, Sept. 7, 2018, at Hospice Home Care in Little Rock. He was 86.

Richardson was born July 2, 1932, to parents George Washington Richardson and Minnie Bell Richardson in Hempstead County. As the Agriculture Liaison Officer for UAPB, Richardson worked with and provided assistance and support to the University's Office of Career Services, School of Agriculture, Fisheries, and Human Sciences, Youth Enterprise in Agriculture Counselor/Arkansas Land and Farm Development Corporation and youth component of the East Arkansas Enterprise Community, Inc., to increase student enrollment, retention, and enhance a well-educated diverse USDA workforce through recruitment and counseling.

He graduated fifth in his class with a Bachelor of Science degree in agricultural education from AM&N College (now UAPB). His class was the group that had Dr. Martin Luther King, Jr. as their Commencement speaker. Richardson's career in agriculture started with the Farmers Home Administration (FmHA) in 1963 and continued until his health failed. He was a Rural Development Specialist.

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While with FmHA, now USDA Rural Development, Richardson worked as assistant county supervisor, county supervisor, and assistant district director. He was designated as a state appraiser for multi-family housing in 1982 and continued this collateral duty, until becoming the first African American Community and Business Loan Specialist in the nation in 1985. Throughout his career, George W. Richardson George often found ways to reach out and help others.

He is survived by his wife, Joyce Mosley Richardson; children, Kyle and Kirk Richardson, Joyce Trellyce RichardsonLambert of Houston, Texas, Ronald Richardson( Lydia) of North Little Rock and five grandchildren, Ivan LoRon, Iesha Lambert, Isley Lambert, Lisa Lambert and Christian Lu.

Verna Mae Haynes Hartfield, '45, was born on June 29, 1925 in Joiner, Arkansas to Ernest Haynes and Viola Withers Haynes, the third of their four children. Her family eventually moved to Altheimer and then to Lake View, AR. Young Verna journeyed to Pine Bluff at the age of 16 to complete her high school education at J.C. Corbin High School. Subsequently, she received her bachelor's degree from Arkansas AM&N College (now UAPB).

While studying in Pine Bluff, she met her future husband, Dr. Freddie Davis Hartfield of Elaine, AR. They were married on May 18, 1945 and recently celebrated their 73rd Wedding Anniversary. From this union were born three children, Barbara, Fred Jr, and Lynnette.

Hartfield spent 40 years teaching at schools in Lakeview, Warren, and eventually Townsend Park High School in Pine Bluff 's Dollarway School District, from which she retired in 1986. In her career as an accomplished Physical Education Teacher, she combined her love of sports and her desire to help young people develop to their greatest potential.

Having affirmed her belief in Christ at an early age, she began attending Pine Hill Missionary Baptist Church as a 16 year old student. She soon became a faithful member and for more than 70 years, rendered dedicated service in many capacities, including Pine Hill Senior Choir, Sunday School Teacher (Adult Class #8), Mission President (20 years), Vice President Central District Women Auxiliary and Counselor for Pine Hill Youth. Hartfield was active in a number of organizations and was a founding member of the HaynesWashington Family Reunion, whose members revered her as a wise and loving elder and an excellent cook.

She was preceded in death by her brother, Clarence Haynes, and sisters, Doris Gibson and Margaree King.

She leaves to treasure her memory her loving husband and companion, Fred D Hartfield, Sr., her children, Barbara Cooksey, Fred Hartfield, Jr.

Rose Marie Pridgeon Vaughan, of Pine Bluff, AR

passed July 29, 2018. She was born on March 12, 1948, to the late Frank Paul Pridgeon, Sr. and Marie Gooden Pridgeon in Pine Bluff, Arkansas. She was the second oldest child and only daughter with six brothers.

Vaughan affirmed her belief in Christ at an early age and was a member of Pleasant Grove Missionary Baptist Church her entire life. Rose was a

dedicated and active member as director of the drama ministry with a special commitment to original Easter and Christmas pageants and praise dance ministry. She taught Vacation Bible School for over thirty years. She served as a doorkeeper and a member of the Usher Board for over fifty-two years. Vaughan began her 40 year journey as a teacher at Altheimer Elementary School and continued her journey as a phenomenal preschool, kindergarten, and first grade teacher in the Pulaski County Special School District (Warren Dupree Elementary School) and the Pine Bluff School District, having taught at Forrest Park Elementary School, Oak Park Elementary School, Greenville/Carver Elementary School, and Thirty-Fourth Avenue Elementary School. Rose was awarded Who’s Who of American Teachers in 2006. Most recently, she was recognized as a “Woman Breaking Ground in Education” by the Pine Bluff Branch of the National Association of University Women and recognized for her dedication to education at the thirtieth annual Finer Womanhood Observance.

Vaughan was a member of Alpha Kappa Alpha Sorority, Incorporated. She served diligently as Historian of the Delta Omega Omega Chapter. Rose spearheaded the regional

Verna Hartfield

(Bernadette}, and Lynnette Daniels; her grandchildren, Marquis Haltiwanger, Angeria Graves {Melvin}, Brandon Daniels, Christopher Hartfield (Maria-Jose); and four greatgrandchildren, Cameron Barker, Kynnedi Graves, McKenzie Graves, and Brea Daniels; a large extended family; and many friends. award-winning chapter scrapbook.

Vaughan founded Art’s Production, Incorporated which sponsored the Annual Little Gentlemen Esquire Pageant to benefit the David Vaughan Performing Arts Scholarship.

The $1,000 scholarship benefited deserving theater arts majors at the University of Arkansas at Pine Bluff. Rose was also a driving force in the Interested Citizens for Voter Registration Pen and Pencil Project.

Preserving and cherishing the life and legacy of Rose Marie Pridgeon Vaughan are: her loving husband of 50 years, Edward Earl Vaughan; devoted daughter, Kellie Marie Vaughan Noble and son-in-love, Loyd M. Noble; grandson and caregiver, Draymond Noble and Drayton Vaughan Noble; brothers, Frank Paul Pridgeon, Jr. (Martha), Claud Allen Pridgeon (Benita), Jesse Pridgeon, Sr. (Frankie), Derayn Pridgeon, Andrea Pridgeon (Felicia); sisters-in-law, Evelyn Jean Blunt, Joyce “Cookie” Bracy Vaughan, and Jeanett Pridgeon; aunts, Corine Pridgeon Parks and Christine Pridgeon; and goddaughter, London Grace Morehead; and a host of nieces, nephews, cousins, extended family and friends.

Fall/Winter 2018 73 Brad Mayhugh

in memoriam

REMEMBERING RAYE JEAN MONTAGUE Raye Jean Montague,'56, was born on January 21, 1935, in Little Rock, Arkansas and died October 10, 2018. She loved math and science, deciding early on that she wanted to become an engineer. Though public policies like segregation and discriminatory practices against women prevailed at the time, she forged her way to become an internationally registered professional engineer. She earned her undergraduate degree at Arkansas AM&N College (now the University of Arkansas at Pine Bluff) and began a career in Washington, DC with the United States Navy in 1956, retiring in 1990 after more than 33 years of service in the metropolitan Washington DC area.

Montague was recognized with the U.S. Navy's Meritorious Civilian Service Award for revolutionizing the computer design of all U.S. naval ships and submarines using a computer.

Many of her ship designs are still in use today and she was thrilled to meet some of the sailors and marines who have served on them.

Montague served in numerous leadership roles during her naval career rising from a clerk typist, to computer programmer, analyst, and eventually a senior management position as program manager of ships (PMS-309) with naval field activities/work sites spanning the United States.

She was the first woman to ever serve as a program manager of ships in the history of the U.S. Navy and held a civilian equivalent rank of captain.

Montague was the Navy's expert on computer aided design and manufacturing, and often worked with other defense agencies, the private sector, and occasionally lectured on ship hull design at the U.S. Naval Academy, as well as regularly brief the Joint Chiefs of Staff at the Pentagon.

Raye Jean Montague

After returning to Arkansas in 2006, she became active with LifeQuest of Arkansas, The Links Inc., Alpha Kappa Alpha Sorority, the Arkansas Association of University Women, and the American Contract Bridge League. She also mentored prisoners through a community re-entry program administered by the University of Arkansas at Little Rock (UALR) and the Arkansas Department of Correction.

She enjoyed visiting students at schools to encourage them to think beyond any limitations put in front of them, particularly girls and women interested in STEM careers. In recent years, Montague completed an oral history on her career with the Butler Center, was inducted into the Arkansas Black Hall of Fame, the Arkansas Women's Hall of Fame, and the Arkansas Academy of Computing.

In 2018, she was conferred an Honorary Doctor of Laws Degree from the University of Arkansas at Pine Bluff. The two highlights she enjoyed most, were being featured ABC's Good Morning America in New York and being officially recognized by the U.S. Navy as the their ''hidden figure'' during naval events in Washington, D.C. and Dahlgren, Virginia. She is survived by her son, Dr. David Montague, daughter-in-law, Whitney Montague, and beloved granddaughter, Riley Montague; and a host of loving cousins and extended family.

At right: Photo of the first naval ship designed

by Montague. She revolutionized the computer design of all U.S. naval ships using a computer

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UAPB Magazine • University of Arkansas at Pine Bluff

"I carried the weight of minorities and women on my shoulders at times.

Regardless of what happened, I had to try harder...”

Taken from an excerpt for Montague's cover story in the Summer 2014 issue of PRIDE Magazine (now UAPB Magazine).

Montague's impressive career included giving lectures in the U.S. and abroad; membership to the Board of Directors to the CAD CAM Chapter (at top); receiving numerous awards from organizations like the Society of Manufacturing Engineers (above) and breaking barriers during discussions at conferences.

Above:Although Although sheis isaacivilian, Montague hasthe the has the Above: Although she iscivilian, a civilian, Montague Above: she Montague has equivalentrank rankofofa aCaptain andwas wasgiven aflag flag equivalent and equivalent rank ofCaptain a Captain and given wasagiven a flag and pinsupon uponher herretirement. retirement. and andpins pins upon her retirement.

Clockwise from left:

Clockwise from left:

Montague's impressive included giving Above: Although she is career a civilian, Montague has the Montague's impressive career giving lectures in the abroad; receiving numerous equivalent rankU.S. of aand Captain and wasincluded given a flag awards the Society of lectures inorganizations the andlike abroad; receiving numerous and pinsfrom upon herU.S. retirement.

Manufacturing membership the awards fromEngineers; organizations like thetoSociety of Board of Directors to the CAD CAM Chapter; and Clockwise from left:Engineers; Manufacturing membership to the breaking barriers during discussions at conferences.

Board of Directors to the CAD CAM Chapter; and

Montague's impressive careerdiscussions included giving breaking barriers during at conferences. lectures in the U.S. and abroad; receiving numerous awards from organizations like the Society of Manufacturing Engineers; membership to the Board of Directors to the CAD CAM Chapter; and breaking barriers during discussions at conferences.

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PRIDE Magazine • University of Arkansas at Pine Bluff Fall/Winter 2018 75

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PRIDE Magazine • University of Arkansas at Pine Bluff

UAPB MAGAZINE

University of Arkansas at Pine Bluff 1200 North University Drive -Mail Slot 4789 Pine Bluff, AR 71601-2780

Joseph Carter Corbin Principal and Founder of Branch Normal College (now the University of Arkansas at Pine Bluff)

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UAPB Magazine • University of Arkansas at Pine Bluff