News

SUCCESS SPOTLIGHT: Crystal Calhoun, BBA ’25

Crystal Calhoun

  • Bachelor of Business Administration, fully online
  • Named 2025 Outstanding Online Business Student

Why did you choose your major?

As a non-traditional student, wife, and work-from-home mom of six, I bring over 20 years of experience working as an accountant for small businesses. I’ve always had a passion for numbers and math, but over time, I’ve become increasingly fascinated by business strategies and what drives success. Through my experience working in the back office of various companies, I’ve come to realize just how crucial business planning and strategy are for any organization.

Now that I have graduated, I hope to secure a remote job where I can grow with a company and contribute to its success. I plan to apply the knowledge and experience I’ve gained to make a meaningful impact. Additionally, I am excited to continue brainstorming business ideas and hope to start my own business in the future.

What is your advice for other COB students?

The UCA COB program is an excellent opportunity! My advice to fellow students is to put in 150%, work hard, and take advantage of networking opportunities while in the program. These are lessons I learned in the workforce before returning to school. A strong work ethic and the right connections can make all the difference in your career. The impressions you make and the relationships you build in the COB program could prove invaluable down the road.

Crystal with COB Associate Dean, Dr. Laci Lyons

SUCCESS SPOTLIGHT: Jane Nim, BBA ’25

Jane pictured with Dean Mike Casey receiving her award for College of Business Outstanding Student of the Year

Jane Nim

Why did you choose your field of study?

I chose my major because I was inspired by my dad and my oldest sister, Denise. Growing up, I saw how passionate they were about their work in this field, and they became my role models. Their influence, combined with my own love for working with data and statistics, made this the perfect path for me.

What are your plans post-graduation?

After graduation, I hope to build a career in my field where I can apply my academic knowledge in a professional setting and contribute to meaningful work. I want to work in a company that not only cares about earning profits, but also cares about its shareholders and other ethical concerns within the community.

What is your advice for other students?

I’m deeply grateful to those who supported me throughout this experience. College isn’t easy, especially when we’re juggling full-time studies, part-time jobs, and the challenges of adulting. It’s important to work hard for what you want, but don’t forget to prioritize your emotional well-being. Remember, you’re not alone—reach out for support because we’re all on this journey together.

Jane received the President’s Medallion from President Houston Davis upon graduation

COB Bulletin: June 2025

The COB Bulletin shares news and highlights from the recent success of our students, alumni, faculty, and staff.

COLLEGE NEWS

  • Our new Dean, Dr. Tim Bisping (pictured at right), was selected. He will begin on July 1, 2025, and has more than 30 years of experience in higher education, including as a professor and department Chair at our College of Business years ago; Dr. Bisping comes to us from the Nelson Rusche College of Business at Stephen F. Austin State University, where he has led initiatives to enhance academic excellence, foster faculty and staff development, and support student achievement. We are thrilled to welcome him as our Dean.
  • The UCA College of Business owes a debt of gratitude to Dr. Mike Casey, Professor of Finance, for his service as our Interim Dean during the past year. Serving as Interim Dean for the second time, he took on duties as Dean and continued teaching a full load of finance courses and authoring articles for Pearson. Dr. Casey is ready to return to EFIRM department faculty as Dr. Bisping joins us.
  • UCA’s Beta Alpha Psi competition team (Rebecca Gaither, Carson Griffin, Jane Nim, Helen Sokha) presented at the Beta Alpha Psi Dallas Mid-Year Conference. Their project won the Deloitte Best Practices competition in the Impacting Your Profession category, and they will compete again at the annual meeting in August in San Antonio. The group is supported by faculty sponsors Dr. Connie McKnight and Dr. Ashley Phillips.
  • Our College of Business was ranked #17 in Affordable Degree Guide’s 2024 Online Bachelor’s in Business Administration rankings.
  • Dr. Louisa Moseley was recognized for her use of immersive simulations in Introduction to Business, and she was named UCA Learning Communities Faculty Associate of the Year for her work at BUILD@Carmichael.
  • Arkansas Blue Cross and Blue Shield experts “took over” our College of Business to share their experience with students. They spoke about the jobs they do, the many opportunities available to students, and the skills those opportunities require. The BCBS representatives also spent their lunch networking with COB faculty and students. (Pictured from BCBS – from L to R: Ben McVay, Emily Shadell, David Martin, Trey Hankins, and Logynn Gambles; not pictured: Jason Carter)
  • At its annual Outstanding Student Awards Banquet, the UCA College of Business announced and celebrated the Outstanding Students selected for the 2024-2025 academic year.

ACCOUNTING DEPARTMENT

  • Accounting majors participated in the Volunteer Income Tax (VITA) program at United Way of Central Arkansas under the leadership of Dr. Ashley Phillips. They prepared 414 returns, saving the community over $75,000 in tax preparation fees and returning over $440,000 to community members through federal and state tax refunds.
  • Dr. Bob Fang‘s paper, “Financial distress and stock return: A finite mixture approach” was accepted for publication at the Journal of Corporate Finance.
  • Dr. Bob Fang won the Best Paper Award, 2024 for a paper he co-authored in the Journal of International Accounting Research and won Oustanding Paper in the 2024 Emerald Literati Awards for a paper he co-authored in the China Accounting and Finance Review.
  • Dr. Anthony McMullen, Associate Professor of Business Law, guided student Rebecca Myers in an independent study on vehicular title washing. This spring, Rebecca presented her research to an official from U.S. Representative French Hill’s office.
  • Professor Anthony McMullen was also awarded a Golden Gavel Award by the Arkansas Bar Association in recognition of his longstanding service and continued dedication to the Mock Trial Committee.
  • Dr. Ashley Phillips and Dr. Karen Oxner have a paper entitled Climate-Related Disclosures: Final SEC Rules” forthcoming in the Spring issue of Oil, Gas, and Energy Quarterly.
  • Three Master of Accountancy students – Sidney Mack, Carson Griffin, and Bradley Bulice – presented research papers in March at the American Accounting Researchers and Educators annual Conference in Tulsa, Oklahoma. Sidney Mack presented two papers and won the Best Student Paper Award. These students were mentored by Dr. Karen OxnerDr. Ashley Phillips, and Luke Ferguson, J.D.

COMPUTER INFORMATION SYSTEMS & ANALYTICS (CISA) DEPARTMENT

  • Jason Brown (student), Dr. K. Michael Casey, and Dr. Mark McMurtrey worked together on “Fintechs and Banking: A Note on Neobank Risks” for publication in the Journal of Accounting and Finance.
  • Abby Bounds, Senior Information Systems major and Girls Who Code President, along with Susan Shaw, College of Business CISA faculty and club co-sponsor, were invited to attend the WECode (Women Engineers Code) Conference at Harvard University.
  • CISA celebrated with its graduates this semester. Here are pictured the most recent graduates receiving their Master of Science in Applied Data Analytics degrees (pictured: Dr. Ellis, Dr. Nichols, students Jack Griffin (fully online), Kathryn Webb, Parvinder Singh, Brittany Miller, and Dr. McKinzie).
  • Dr. Joe Thomas was nominated as a Most Valuable Professor (MVP) for his work with student athletes.

ECONOMICS, FINANCE, AND INSURANCE & RISK MANAGEMENT (EFIRM) DEPARTMENT

  • Economics major Perla Zapata and Dr. Tom Snyder presented their research paper about Economic Development Incentives at the Arkansas College Teachers of Economics and Business (ACTEB) Conference. Economics Student Veronica Bertolusso and Dr. Mavuto Kalulu also presented their paper about Campaign Financing and Economic Freedom at the ACTEB Conference.
  • UCA’s Center for Insurance Director, Ivan Hudson, accompanied three UCA insurance majors to the Gamma Iota Sigma 2025 Regional Conference Series in Ft. Worth, Texas.
  • Alumni Update: Sam Brown (BA Economics, 2025) will attend law school in the fall, and John Crocker (BA Economics, 2013) is now overseeing 1,200 employees at the biggest pizza manufacturing plant in the world.
  • Dr. Jeremy Horpedahl contributed his economics expertise to several blogs for economistwritingeveryday.com and contributed to news outlets like THV11, CNNArkansas Week, New York Times, and the Arkansas Democrat Gazette.
  • For all of his extensive work, the Cato Institute named Dr. Horpedahl an Adjunct Scholar.
  • Dr. Stephen Haibo Yao shared his expertise with WalletHub about car insurance and credit cards, while Dr. Jacob Bundrick contributed his educated opinions about Name, Image, and Likeness (NIL) issues. Professor Ivan Hudson also shared his expertise with WalletHub about liability insurance.
  • Dr. Mike Casey also invited Drew Gainor to speak to his SMIF students. Drew was one of Arkansas Business’s top 40 under 40 and is a very successful wealth manager.
  • The UCA Risk Manager on Campus program welcomed Mr. Carey Bond, Lloyd’s Head of US Claims, to share his extensive experience with our students, faculty and staff, and community insurance professionals. This event was made possible by a Spencer Educational Foundation grant.
  • Mr. Clint O’Neal, Executive Director of the Arkansas Economic Development Commission, spoke to Dr. Tom Snyder’s Economics Senior Seminar class. Dr. Snyder also invited two economists from the Bureau of Labor Statistics to speak about careers and different types of data that students can use.
  • Dr. Ling He retired after 26 years of service at UCA.
  • Arkansas Center for Research in Economics Undergraduate Research Fellows–Veronica Bertolusso, David Tooley, and Perla Zapata–presented their faculty-mentored papers at the 2025 Society of Business, Industry and Economics (SOBIE) Conference in San Destin, Florida. Perla Zapata earned a student research award (for the second year in a row) and also won the Wesco Student Research award at the conference.
  • Four students, Nathan Cannon, Anna Turgaeva, Jordan Scoggins, and Hunter Brown, wrote op-eds in Dr. Joe McGarrity‘s Modern Political Economy course that were published in newspapers around the state.
  • After receiving encouragement from Dr. Rania Al-Bawwab, student Tyler Lister submitted an essay that earned first prize and was awarded a scholarship from the Money Metals Exchange and Sound Money Defense League.
  • Dr. Collin Hodges and Dr. Jeremy Horpedahl led discussions for a 10-week reading group that explored economic freedom, while Dr. Jacob Held, UCA Professor of Philosophy, led the Watchmen reading group from January to April. The reading groups were sponsored by the Arkansas Center for Research in Economics.
  • Dr. Collin Hodges‘ paper “Prescription opioid spillovers: Retail pharmacy level analysis” was accepted at the Journal of Substance Use and Addiction Treatment.

MARKETING AND MANAGEMENT DEPARTMENT

  • Dr. Tracy Suter, Associate Professor of Marketing, was selected among the first group of 75Strong, a new statewide program designed to train economic developers and community leaders on entrepreneurship and small business development and to provide direct technical support for small businesses throughout Arkansas.
  • Dr. Ron Duggins, Associate Professor of Innovation & Entrepreneurship, led two student teams to the semifinals of the 2025 Arkansas Governor’s Cup: Ally Loter and Zoe McMillion & Clover Quill and Jacob Sanders.
  • Seven COB students competed in business-related events at the Future Business Leaders of America (FBLA) Collegiate State Conference and earned top awards in their events: Kaddie Bailey, Laney Bounds, Abby Bounds, Grayson Gardner, Mason Smith, Johnny Vasquez, and Melany Valesquez. Five of these students competed at the national conference in May. Dr. Marsha Carson sponsors the FBLA chapter at UCA.
  • COB’s experiential education opportunities continued to win students great jobs. After JB Hunt’s visit to the Bears Advancing Supply Chain Management (BASCOM) club, supply chain student Julia Cockrell earned one of three positions in their Intermodal Manager Trainee program.
  • Arkansas PBS partnered with Dr. Benjamin Garner‘s Content Marketing students to create 13 published blogs. Dr. Garner’s students also produced marketing videos for 9 community clients.
  • Dr. Steven Schlachter had an article accepted at The International Journal of Organizational Diversity titled “Out of the Shadows: LGBT Employee Resource Group Leaders Embracing Their Identity.”
  • Dr. JiHoon Jhang presented a paper titled “The Unintended Consequences of Stakeholder Resource Integration on Collective Consumer Engagement” at the 2025 AMA (American Marketing Association) Winter Academic Conference in Phoenix, AZ.
  • Dr. JiHoon Jhang had a manuscript entitled, “More variety-seeking in sorted versus non-sorted option displays in hospitality: The moderating effect of optimal stimulation level” accepted for publication in the International Journal of Hospitality Management.
  • Dr. JiHoon Jhang had a manuscript entitled, “AI-Generated News Content: The Impact of AI Writer Identity and Perceived AI Human-Likeness” accepted for publication in the International Journal of Human-Computer Interaction.
  • Dr. JiHoon Jhang was nominated as Most Valuable Professor (MVP) by UCA Baseball and was honored at Bear Stadium.
  • Dr. JiHoon Jhang had two manuscripts, “When Humans Face Limits: How Perceptions of God Affect Purchase Decision Avoidance” and “The Unintended Consequences of Stakeholder Resource Integration on Collective Consumer Engagement,” accepted for presentation and will present both papers at the 2025 AMA (American Marketing Association) Summer Academic Conference in Chicago, IL, this August.
  • Dr. JiHoon Jhang‘s international research team, for which he serves as co-PI, has been selected as the recipient of the 2025 International Collaborative Research Promotion Grant by Ritsumeikan University, Kyoto, Japan.
  • Students Robert Walker, Oluwandamilola “Dami” Osundolire, and Madison Wills conducted a survey under the mentorship of Dr. Alex Chen to understand students’ attitudes and behavior toward Artificial Intelligence (AI). They completed a preliminary report including a college comparison, class comparison, types of AI usage, AI software comparison, and purposes of AI usage.

MASTER OF BUSINESS ADMINISTRATION

  • Master’s graduates Philipp Haessner and Julian Haessner joined Dr. Mark McMurtrey to publish “Trends & Challenges in the Food Supply Chain” in the Journal of Strategic Innovation and Sustainability.

The wonderful accomplishments of our students, alumni, faculty, and staff are too many to count. If we missed yours, please let us know!

ARKANSAS INSURANCE HALL OF FAME ANNOUNCES 2025 CLASS OF INDUCTEES

The Arkansas Insurance Hall of Fame has announced its 2025 class of distinguished inductees. Six new Arkansans will be honored at the 2025 Induction Banquet on Thursday, October 16, 2025, at the Thomas C. Courtway Student Recreation Center on the campus of the University of Central Arkansas.


The six 2025 Arkansas Insurance Hall of Fame inductees are:

– Sharon Allen (1944 – 2021) of Little Rock
– Kelley Erstine of Conway
– James D. Lewis of Little Rock
– Robert (Bob) L. Shoptaw of Little Rock
– Tim White of Little Rock
– William (Bill) H. L. Woodyard, III (1945 – 2014) of Little Rock

* Sharon Allen

* Sharon Allen (1944 – 2021)
from Little Rock, AR
former President and Chief Operating Officer, Arkansas Blue Cross and Blue Shield

Kelley Erstine

Kelley Erstine from Conway, AR
CEO, Independent Insurance Agents of Arkansas

James D. Lewis, RHU, REBC

James D. Lewis, RHU, REBC from Little Rock, AR
(retired) President, Lewis Marketing Group, Inc.
Independent Consultant for Mountaire Corporation

Robert (Bob) L. Shoptaw, BA, MBA

Robert (Bob) L. Shoptaw, BA, MBA
from Little Rock, AR
(retired) President and CEO, Arkansas Blue Cross and Blue Shield

Tim White, CIC

Tim White, CIC from Little Rock, AR
Executive Vice President, Brown & Brown of Arkansas

* William (Bill) H. L. Woodyard, III

* William (Bill) H. L. Woodyard, III (1945 – 2014)
from Little Rock, AR
former Partner – Mitchell, Williams, Selig, Gates & Woodyard, P.L.L.C.

 *posthumous 


The Arkansas Insurance Hall of Fame was created in 2015 to identify and honor distinguished insurance industry professionals with strong ties to Arkansas who exemplify innovation, social responsibility, leadership and professional excellence; have made broad encompassing and lasting contributions to advance the role of insurance in society; and have significantly impacted the lives of many Arkansans.

Table sponsorships and various levels of recognition in support of the 2025 inductees are available through September 26, 2025, and can be found on the Hall of Fame website at: www.arinsurancehof.org.

The University of Central Arkansas (UCA) College of Business partners with the Arkansas Insurance Hall of Fame to create and nurture a nationally recognized undergraduate degree program in insurance and risk management. Scholarships are awarded to students annually through the Arkansas Insurance Hall of Fame Scholarship.

The Arkansas Insurance Hall of Fame seeks to remind the public of the important role the insurance industry plays in securing the well-being of both individuals and businesses, to inspire the next generation of leadership to reach these high levels of accomplishment, and to encourage young Arkansans to consider careers in the insurance industry.

Learn more about the Arkansas Insurance Hall of Fame on its website www.arinsurancehof.org.

Summer Courses: Catch Up, Get Ahead, Stay on Track

Study from anywhere this summer with online courses or take one in person at COB! Summer courses can help you catch up, get ahead, or stay on track to graduate on your timeline. Many options are offered at every level.

What next?

1. Look at the courses offered this summer (Summer I starts June 2, and Summer 2 starts July 7).

2. Talk to your advisor about what classes you should take this summer.

3. Learn more: uca.edu/summer

UCA College of Business Celebrates Outstanding Students of 2024-2025

At its annual Outstanding Student Awards Banquet, the UCA College of Business announced and celebrated the Outstanding Students selected for the 2024-2025 academic year.

The awards given celebrate students who stood out this year in our academic programs and student organizations. The following students were selected because they have optimized their education by combining exemplary academic performance with internships, volunteerism, professional development, experiential education, and participation in clubs and other important experiences.

Outstanding Students of the Year

ACADEMIC AWARDS

College of Business Outstanding Student of the Year
Also: Outstanding Information Systems Student
Jane Nim

Jane Nim pictured with Dean, Dr. Mike Casey

Outstanding General Business Student
Caitlin Hambuchen

Caitlin Hambuchen pictured with Dr. Ashley Phillips, Associate Professor of Accounting

Outstanding Fully Online Undergraduate Student
Crystal Calhoun

Crystal Calhoun pictured with Associate Dean, Dr. Laci Lyons

Outstanding Accounting Student
Matthew Warren

Matthew Warren pictured with Accounting Department Chair, Dr. Stephanie Watson

Outstanding Computer Information Systems Student
Olivia Balentine

Olivia Balentine pictured with Dr. Jim Downey, Professor of CISA

Outstanding Cybersecurity Management Student
Caleb Goines

Caleb Goines with Dr. Jim Downey, Professor of CISA

Outstanding Data Analytics Student
Elizabeth Yancey

Elizabeth Yancy pictured with Dr. Mike Ellis, Associate Professor of CISA

Outstanding Economics Student
Perla Zapata

(not pictured)

Outstanding Finance Student
Cooper McClellan

Cooper McClellan pictured with Dr. Joe McGarrity, Chair of the EFIRM Department

Outstanding Insurance & Risk Management Student
Emma Daughtrey

Emma Daughtrey pictured with Ivan Hudson, Director of the UCA Center for Insurance and Risk Management

Outstanding Management Student
Joshua Baros

(not pictured)

Outstanding Marketing Student
John Brady Littler

John Brady Littler pictured with Dr. Benjamin Britton, Assistant Professor of Marketing

Outstanding Innovation & Entrepreneurship Student
Ally Loter

Ally Loter pictured with Dr. Ron Duggins, Associate Professor of Innovation & Entrepreneurship

Outstanding Logistics & Supply Chain Management Student
Matthew Moix

Matt Moix pictured with Dr. Michael Cross, Lecturer of Management

Outstanding Human Resources Student
Brandon Miller

(not pictured)

Outstanding Master of Accountancy Student
Sidney Mack

Sidney Mack pictured with Dr. Stephanie Watson, Chair of the Accounting Department

Outstanding Master of Applied Data Analytics Student
Brittany Miller

Brittany Miller pictured with Dr. Samira Nichols, Assistant Professor of CISA

Outstanding Master of Business Administration Students
Caitlyn Bellamy & Jason Brown

Jason Brown pictured with Dr. Mark McMurtrey, MBA Program Director

Caitlyn Bellamy pictured with Dr. Laci Lyons, Associate Dean

SERVICE AWARDS

Outstanding College of Business Ambassadors
Izzy Saettele & Michael Isaac

Izzy Saettele and Michael Isaac pictured with Lainey Morrow, COB Student Ambassador Program Coordinator

Outstanding Beta Alpha Psi Student
Carson Griffin

Carson Griffin pictured with Dr. Ashley Phillips, co-sponsor of Beta Alpha Psi

Outstanding Accounting Club Student
Lucas Hayes

Lucas Hayes pictured with Accounting Professor Dr. Ashley Phillips

Outstanding Gamma Iota Sigma Student
Gabriella Adkins

Gabriella Adkins pictured with Ivan Hudson, Director of the UCA Center for Insurance and Risk Management

Outstanding BASCOM Student (Bears for Advancing Supply Chain and Operations Management)
Matthew Moix

Matt Moix (not pictured – BASCOM Sponsor, Dr. Michael Cross)

Outstanding BIT Club Member
Jane Nim

Jane Nim pictured with Dr. Mike Casey, Sponsor of the BIT Club

Outstanding Girls Who Code Member
Abby Bounds

Abby Bounds pictured with CISA Lecturer Susan Shaw, co-sponsor of Girls Who Code

Outstanding Marketing & Sales Club Member
Emily Greer

Emily Greer (not pictured, Dr. Ben Britton, sponsor of the Marketing & Sales Club)

Outstanding BUILD Student
Nick Self

Nick Self pictured with Dr. Louisa Moseley, Director of Student Experiences and BUILD@Carmichael Academic Coordinator

Accounting Students Volunteer to Prepare Community Tax Returns at United Way

This spring UCA Accounting majors participated in the Volunteer Income Tax (VITA) program at United Way of Central Arkansas (UWCA). The VITA program delivers financial support to hundreds of families across Central Arkansas through free tax preparation and filing services. Students participate in this program each year with mentorship from Dr. Ashley Phillips.

 Financial Impact 

  • 414 tax returns prepared
  • Over $440,000 returned to community members through federal and state tax refunds
  • Over $75,000 saved in tax preparation fees
  • Serving households with a median adjusted gross income of approximately $23,500

 Beyond the Numbers

This free service is vital for supporting individuals who might otherwise struggle to afford tax preparation or miss out on critical refunds.  For families struggling to make ends meet, these refunds represent:

  • Relief from mounting bills
  • Critical funds for home repairs, medical expenses, or education
  • Opportunities to build emergency savings

This program delivers support precisely where it’s needed most, helping families move toward greater financial stability and self-sufficiency.

 Community Effort and Investment

 This program is a community effort. UWCA provides VITA site location, resources, financial and administrative support, along with organizing community members as intake volunteers. UCA Accounting department provides accounting majors to prepare tax returns. This experience provides students with invaluable real-world experience. This hands-on training allowed students to:

  • Apply classroom knowledge to actual tax situations
  • Develop client communication skills
  • Navigate tax software and documentation requirements
  • Build professional confidence through meaningful community service

This dual-impact approach not only serves community members in need but also strengthens the professional development of future accountants, creating a powerful educational experience that textbooks alone cannot provide.

 Every dollar returned through the UWCA VITA program strengthens our local economy and enhances the financial resilience of Central Arkansas families. This vital service exemplifies how targeted support can create ripple effects of positive change throughout our communities.

Student Success Spotlight: Rebecca Thomas

Rebecca Thomas is a senior set to Graduate Summa Cum Laude in May 2025. During her time at UCA, Rebecca has combined her education in the classroom with internships, research, and volunteerism in the community.

She chose to pair a business minor with her major in Health Sciences (Concentration in Healthcare Administration) and a Certificate of Proficiency in Health Coaching. What a wise combination! Rebecca’s success at UCA as a student has helped her make an impact on our campus and our Central Arkansas community. We can’t wait to see her succeed in her career after she graduates in May. Here’s Rebecca’s story.


What drew you to the business industry?
From an early age, I was deeply interested in healthcare and initially envisioned a career in the clinical field. However, through various leadership experiences and exposure to healthcare professionals, I developed a strong appreciation for the administrative and strategic aspects of the healthcare industry. Observing how healthcare leaders drive innovation, enhance patient care, and navigate operational challenges inspired me to explore the intersection of business and healthcare.

2023-2024 Relay For Life Executive Board: Jacey Howerton Bishop, Judith Ramirez, Ashley Brink, Rebecca Thomas, Parker Wyatt, Will Hogue

How are you involved at UCA? 
– Director of Relay For Life and President of Colleges Against Cancer
– Outstanding Community Outreach Award | Colleges Against Cancer | Fall 2023 – Spring 2024
– Research Assistant Fall 2024
– Teaching Assistant Spring 2024 for a Chemistry II course in the Department of Chemistry and Biochemistry
– Teaching Assistant Spring 2025 in the Department of Marketing and Management
– Publication in Vortex Magazine
– Presidential Scholar
– Southwest Distinguished Science Institute 54th Annual Conference – Spring 2025 – selected to present research paper accepted for publication
– Career Services Merit Fellow
– Healthcare Innovation Sprint Participant | Conductor | Conway Regional Health System | May 2024
– Purple Society Inductee
– AR Kids Read tutor
– Health Science Club
– Bear Book Club

Why did you choose your major/minor?
I wanted to pursue a career that not only allows me to make a difference in healthcare but also enables me to shape systems and policies that can improve patient outcomes on a larger scale. My minor in Marketing and Certificate of Proficiency in Health Coaching further complement my major through providing me with the skills to approach healthcare challenges from a comprehensive, business-minded perspective.

Ultimately, I chose this major because it allows me to contribute to healthcare in a meaningful way, combining my passion for improving patient care with my interest in organizational management and business strategy.

Rebecca presenting with Dr. Chen

What did you learn from your research?
Through my research with Dr. Alex Chen on “Factors Influencing Artificial Intelligence Use Behavior Among Americans,” I have gained a deeper understanding of the factors that drive AI adoption and usage behavior. By utilizing the Unified Theory of Acceptance and Use of Technology 2 (UTAUT2) model, Dr. Chen and I examined how motivational factors, such as performance expectancy and social influence, alongside demographic variables that include age, gender, and education, influence American individuals’ decisions to adopt AI technologies. This research has provided valuable insights into the complexity of human behavior in the context of emerging technologies.

Dr. Chen and I presented our findings at the Southwest Decision Sciences Institute (SWDSI) 54th Annual Conference earlier this month, and this experience was an invaluable learning experience for me. Our paper was accepted for publication in the conference proceedings, and we are now preparing it for submission to a peer-reviewed academic journal. Additionally, Dr. Chen and I are currently working on another research project that explores the ethical implications of technology adoption in China.

students and CO faculty enjoying the SWDSI conference

As a Research Assistant since fall 2024 and as a current Teaching Assistant for Dr. Chen’s research class this semester (Spring 2025), I have refined my skills in data analysis, statistical methodology, and effectively communicating complex research findings. This experience has deepened my understanding of the various factors influencing technology adoption and has been instrumental in further developing my academic and professional profile and future career aspirations.

What experience are you gaining at your internship?
I learned about internships through my college at UCA and by proactively meeting with my college’s internship coordinator on campus to explore potential opportunities. After identifying several internship sites of interest, I reached out to each one, submitted my resume, and participated in interviews. I received multiple offers and ultimately accepted an internship at Baptist Health Medical Center – Conway, which was my top choice for an internship site. In this role, I work closely with the administrative and leadership team of Baptist Health Medical Center – Conway, including the President, Chief Nursing Officer (CNO), Vice President of Operations, and all department managers and leaders. This experience has given me firsthand insight into hospital administration, strategic decision-making, and leadership in a healthcare setting.

I learned how hospital leaders navigate complex operational challenges, manage resources efficiently, and implement strategic initiatives to enhance patient care. Observing high-level decision-making processes deepened my understanding of hospital administration, financial management, and healthcare policy compliance.

Additionally, I developed strong problem-solving and leadership skills by assisting with administrative projects, attending executive meetings, and analyzing operational workflows throughout the medical center. This experience reinforced my passion for healthcare administration and provided a real-world perspective on the critical role that leadership plays in driving innovation, improving patient outcomes, and establishing a positive and goal-oriented culture in the workplace.

By gaining firsthand experience in financial management, resource allocation, and patient care initiatives, I feel more prepared to take on leadership roles in the future. This internship has confirmed my passion for improving healthcare systems and has given me the confidence to pursue opportunities where I can make a meaningful impact.

How do you plan to use your degree?
I plan to leverage my Bachelor’s degree in Health Sciences (with a concentration in Healthcare Administration) and minor in Marketing to pursue a career in healthcare leadership and hospital administration. My aim is to work in hospital operations, strategic planning, or healthcare management and to contribute to enhancing patient care, optimizing organizational efficiency, and improving overall healthcare delivery.

Through my academic coursework, research, internship experiences, and leadership roles, I have developed a strong foundation in healthcare systems, business strategy, and patient-centered care. I intend to apply these skills in hospital administration, healthcare consulting, and/or policy development to help healthcare organizations navigate challenges, implement innovative solutions, and achieve better health outcomes for patients.

Looking ahead, I am committed to continuing my education at a higher level, potentially pursuing a master’s degree in healthcare administration or business administration, and I ultimately plan on advancing toward doctoral studies. Additionally, I plan to stay engaged in academic research to further contribute to the field and remain involved in scholarly work throughout my career.

2023-2024 Relay For Life Executive Board & Relay For Life Committee

Has a volunteer position helped you gain skills?
Yes, volunteer positions on campus have assisted me greatly in obtaining skills! My involvement with Relay For Life and Colleges Against Cancer at UCA has been incredibly formative, both in terms of skill development and personal growth. I first joined the organization as a general committee member during my freshman year, and I quickly learned the importance of teamwork, communication, and event planning. After a year of volunteering, I applied for and was named the Vice President of Communication and Outreach role on the Executive Board, which expanded my responsibilities and allowed me to manage outreach initiatives, develop advertising strategies, and enhance community engagement. I served in this role for two years, which further aided me in refining my leadership and teamwork skills.

For nearly a year now, I’ve had the honor of serving as the President of Colleges Against Cancer and the Director of the Relay For Life event in Conway. This organization and its mission are incredibly meaningful to me, as we raise critical funds for the American Cancer Society. These funds directly support cancer research, advocacy efforts, and patient services. In my current role, I oversee the entire planning and execution of the Relay For Life event, from securing sponsorships to coordinating logistics and leading a dedicated team of 50+ student volunteers. The responsibility of managing a fundraising goal of $25,000+ each year has significantly strengthened my project management, leadership, and fundraising abilities — skills that I know will be invaluable in my future career in healthcare administration.

Being part of this organization has deepened my understanding of the power of advocacy and the impact of community engagement. Rallying people together to support a cause that directly impacts so many lives has been both humbling and motivating. The ability to manage multiple responsibilities, build relationships with sponsors and community members, oversee an Executive Board and large group of volunteers, and lead a large-scale event has helped me develop resilience, intention, and focus, especially when challenges must be overcome, which are essential qualities I’ll carry with me throughout my career.

What is a project you’re really excited about?
One of the most exciting and impactful moments I’m looking forward to is our upcoming Relay For Life event in Conway that is hosted on UCA’s campus at Estes Stadium (moved to UCA HPER due to weather), which I’m leading as the Relay For Life Event Director and the President of Colleges Against Cancer. This event, taking place this weekend on April 5th, holds deep personal significance for me because it directly supports the American Cancer Society’s mission to fund cancer research, advocacy, and patient services.

As we approach the event, I am proud to share that we’ve raised over half of this year’s fundraising goal of $25,000 so far! What excites me most about this is seeing our community come together in support of a cause that has touched so many lives.

I am incredibly proud of the work we’ve done to bring this event to life. It has been an opportunity for me to hone my leadership, teamwork, and event planning skills while also making a tangible impact on the fight against cancer. I’m excited to see all of our hard work come together this weekend, knowing that it will not only honor those affected by cancer but also support critical cancer research and advocacy efforts!

VOLUNTEER or JOIN REBECCA at the EVENT!

What has helped you most as a student here at UCA?
During my time at UCA, the faculty has been one of the most valuable and impactful aspects of my college experience. Among the many exceptional professors and staff I’ve had the privilege of working with, Dr. Alexander Chen, Ms. Charlotte Strickland, and Dr. Robert Mauldin have had the most significant influence on my academic and personal journey.

Rebecca & Dr. Chen

Dr. Alex Chen, as my research advisor and professor in the College of Business, has played a pivotal role in both guiding me through research and academic projects, such as our paper on Factors Influencing Artificial Intelligence Use Behavior Among Americans, and helping me shape my career aspirations. He has been an incredible mentor in all things research and business, providing me with valuable insights that have fostered my growth both intellectually and professionally. His mentorship has been essential in refining my research skills and learning how to apply theoretical concepts to real-world scenarios. Dr. Chen’s guidance has been crucial in preparing for academic conferences, journal publications, and navigating career paths in business, healthcare, and beyond. He has had a major impact on my career aspirations and goals as I plan to continue advancing my education and conducting research as part of my long-term academic and professional goals.

2024-2025 Relay For Life Executive Board with Advisor Strickland

Ms. Charlotte Strickland, the Director of Employee Engagement & Enrichment and faculty advisor for UCA’s Relay For Life organization, has been an incredible influence on my leadership and mentor during my time at UCA. As the advisor for the organization I have led as director/president for the past year and have been involved in for all four years I have been a student at UCA, she and I have worked closely together throughout the event planning process. Ms. Char has been an unwavering source of support, offering guidance and encouragement as I managed UCA’s Relay For Life Committee. Her leadership style is one that I deeply admire, and I aspire to lead with the same passion, dedication, and vision that she demonstrates both professionally and personally. Her mentorship and guidance has inspired me to lead with integrity, ambition, and confidence and to also continue expanding my commitment to volunteerism and love for serving the local community. I am truly fortunate to have had Ms. Char’s guidance and mentorship throughout my time at UCA, and I am so thankful for the impact she has had on my life.

Dr. Mauldin

Dr. Robert Mauldin, one of my professors in the Department of Chemistry and Biochemistry, also played a significant role in my academic journey. As a Teaching Assistant for his Chemistry II course, I was able to engage with students and assist them in understanding scientific concepts in the chemistry laboratory. Dr. Mauldin’s mentorship helped ignite my passion for science, particularly chemistry. His guidance not only deepened my understanding of the subject but also sparked a greater appreciation for its real-world applications, reinforcing my desire to combine scientific knowledge with practical problem-solving in my future career. Dr. Mauldin’s teaching approach, both in the lab and classroom, emphasized the importance of effective teaching, patience, and fostering a passion for learning in others. His belief in my abilities has not only helped me grow as a student but also reinforced my commitment to pursuing a career that bridges my love for science and business alike.

To all the professors and faculty that have been part of my journey at UCA, specifically Dr. Chen, Ms. Char, and Dr. Mauldin, thank you for everything.

I highly recommend the College of Business at UCA to all students. The college offers a strong education that combines theory with practical skills, preparing students for diverse careers. Faculty members are exceptional mentors who provide valuable guidance, fostering critical thinking and real-world problem-solving. UCA also offers numerous networking opportunities, internships, and leadership roles to help students gain hands-on experience. Whether in healthcare administration, marketing, or entrepreneurship, the College of Business provides the foundation and support needed to succeed in a dynamic business world.

Jacey Howerton Bishop (2023-2024 Director) & Rebecca Thomas (2024-2025 Director)

What advice do you have for students who may (or may not) be considering an internship?
My advice for students considering an internship, whether they’re certain or still undecided, is to take the leap! Internships offer invaluable hands-on experience that allows you to apply classroom knowledge in a real-world setting. Even if you’re uncertain about a particular career or field, internships can help you discover your interests and strengths. Don’t be afraid to step outside your comfort zone. It’s normal to feel nervous or unsure, but internships are designed to help you learn and grow professionally.

I also recommend exploring different internship sites. Reach out to various sites you’re interested in, whether through professors, internship coordinators, or networking events. Establishing relationships early on can open doors to a variety of opportunities.

Finally, be proactive while interning — ask questions, take initiative to be as involved as possible, and contribute wherever and whenever you can! Whether the internship perfectly matches your career goals or not, you’ll gain valuable experience, connections, and a better understanding of what you want in your future career.

What tips or advice would you give to new, current, or prospective business students?
For new, current, or prospective business students, my biggest piece of advice is to embrace a mindset of continuous learning. The business world is constantly evolving, so stay curious and proactive in seeking opportunities beyond the classroom. Get involved in internships, research, and extracurricular activities to gain real-world experience that complements what you learn in your courses. These experiences will help bridge the gap between theory and practice and make you a stronger, more well-rounded professional.

I also feel that it is equally important to build relationships with your professors. Go to office hours, ask questions, and seek their guidance. Establishing these connections can open doors to mentorship, research opportunities, and professional development. Professors can offer insights beyond the textbook and may even connect you with industry professionals, internships, and other career opportunities.

Polishing your communication, leadership, and teamwork skills is also crucial. Whether you’re working on a team project for a class, presenting ideas, or networking with professionals or fellow students, the ability to articulate your thoughts effectively will set you apart. Also, don’t hesitate to take on leadership roles or challenging projects outside the classroom — I know from personal experience that stepping into unfamiliar territory can be intimidating, but those moments of discomfort are where the most growth happens.

Most importantly, don’t let fear hold you back. Step outside your comfort zone, even when something feels daunting. Dive in headfirst — you’ll eventually learn to tread the water! Growth comes from taking risks, making mistakes, and learning along the way. By staying adaptable, engaged, and willing to push yourself, you’ll set yourself up for long-term success in the business world.

2024-2025 Relay For Life Executive Board (Photo Taken: October 2024) Pictured From Left To Right: Izzy Bishop (VP of Sponsorships), Kate Hale (VP of Communication & Outreach), Katie Boysen (VP of Fundraising), Rebecca Thomas (Director/President), Blake Braswell (VP of Logistics), Laney Sellers (VP of Recruitment & Retention), Judith Ramirez (Executive VP)

Girls Who Code President Invited to WECode Conference at Harvard University

Abby Bounds, Senior Information Systems major and Girls Who Code President, along with Susan Shaw, College of Business CISA faculty and club co-sponsor, were invited to attend the WECode (Women Engineers Code) Conference at Harvard University.

Celebrating its 11th year, WECode welcomed 850+ students, making it the largest student-run tech conference in the world! With a mission to uplift, inspire, and educate young women in tech, the conference creates a powerful space where future leaders work to bridge the gender gap and drive meaningful change in the industry.

UCA Beta Alpha Psi Chapter Wins Competition in Dallas

Congratulations to UCA’s Beta Alpha Psi competition team (Rebecca Gaither, Carson Griffin, Jane Nim, Helen Sokha) who presented at the Beta Alpha Psi Dallas Mid-Year Conference. Their project won the Deloitte Best Practices competition in the Impacting Your Profession category. This win means they will compete at the annual meeting in August in San Antonio!

They were supported Professor Ashley Phillips, Professor Connie McKnight, and UCA Theta Lambda Chapter members Kaddie Bailey, Lucas Hayes, Sidney Mack, Izzy Saettele, Allie Wayne, and Alexis Velasquez.