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
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.
Jane Nim pictured with Dean, Dr. Mike Casey
Caitlin Hambuchen pictured with Dr. Ashley Phillips, Associate Professor of Accounting
Crystal Calhoun pictured with Associate Dean, Dr. Laci Lyons
Matthew Warren pictured with Accounting Department Chair, Dr. Stephanie Watson
Olivia Balentine pictured with Dr. Jim Downey, Professor of CISA
Caleb Goines with Dr. Jim Downey, Professor of CISA
Elizabeth Yancy pictured with Dr. Mike Ellis, Associate Professor of CISA
(not pictured)
Cooper McClellan pictured with Dr. Joe McGarrity, Chair of the EFIRM Department
Emma Daughtrey pictured with Ivan Hudson, Director of the UCA Center for Insurance and Risk Management
(not pictured)
John Brady Littler pictured with Dr. Benjamin Britton, Assistant Professor of Marketing
Ally Loter pictured with Dr. Ron Duggins, Associate Professor of Innovation & Entrepreneurship
Matt Moix pictured with Dr. Michael Cross, Lecturer of Management
(not pictured)
Sidney Mack pictured with Dr. Stephanie Watson, Chair of the Accounting Department
Brittany Miller pictured with Dr. Samira Nichols, Assistant Professor of CISA
Jason Brown pictured with Dr. Mark McMurtrey, MBA Program Director
Caitlyn Bellamy pictured with Dr. Laci Lyons, Associate Dean
Izzy Saettele and Michael Isaac pictured with Lainey Morrow, COB Student Ambassador Program Coordinator
Carson Griffin pictured with Dr. Ashley Phillips, co-sponsor of Beta Alpha Psi
Lucas Hayes pictured with Accounting Professor Dr. Ashley Phillips
Gabriella Adkins pictured with Ivan Hudson, Director of the UCA Center for Insurance and Risk Management
Matt Moix (not pictured – BASCOM Sponsor, Dr. Michael Cross)
Jane Nim pictured with Dr. Mike Casey, Sponsor of the BIT Club
Abby Bounds pictured with CISA Lecturer Susan Shaw, co-sponsor of Girls Who Code
Emily Greer (not pictured, Dr. Ben Britton, sponsor of the Marketing & Sales Club)
Nick Self pictured with Dr. Louisa Moseley, Director of Student Experiences and BUILD@Carmichael Academic Coordinator
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
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:
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:
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.
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.
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!
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.
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)
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.
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.
Dr. Tim Bisping
The University of Central Arkansas has announced Tim Bisping as the new dean of the UCA College of Business. Bisping will begin on July 1, 2025.
In this role, Bisping will oversee the College of Business, which offers a wide range of undergraduate and graduate programs across four academic departments and three centers and serves as the home of the Arkansas Insurance Hall of Fame.
Bisping brings extensive leadership experience and a strong commitment to student success to this new role. He currently serves as the dean of 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. [Read more…]
The University of Central Arkansas Insurance and Risk Management program has been awarded a grant from the Spencer Educational Foundation, supporting a key Experiential Learning opportunity for students.
The funds were given to support the 2025 Risk Manager on Campus. For this event, a Risk Management and Insurance Professional is brought to the UCA College of Business for class visits, campus-wide lectures, panel discussions, meetings with student organizations such as Gamma Iota Sigma, and meals with faculty and other IRM community professionals. This is a valuable opportunity to allow students to network and learn from the visiting Risk Manager.
Since 1997, Spencer’s Risk Manager on Campus (RMOC) Program has offered this rewarding educational experience for students and a chance to give back to the profession. Spencer’s Risk Manager on Campus program offers grants to universities and colleges in the United States and Canada to host a practicing Risk Manager on its campus for a 1–3-day residency.
The Spencer Foundation has supported the Risk Manager on Campus program for years, most recently bringing Robin Roeder in 2024, Bailey Pipkin in 2023, and Lance Ewing in 2022.
(CONWAY, Ark.) – The Arkansas Insurance Hall of Fame (AIHF) has opened nominations for its Class of 2025 inductees. Nominations open February 15 and will remain open through April 15, 2025. Nominations may be submitted online at www.arinsurancehof.org. The chosen inductees will be honored in October at the annual AIHF banquet.
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.
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. At each annual banquet, several students are recognized as scholarship recipients. In 2023, an endowment fund was established to ensure the future scholarships of insurance students.
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.
The COB Bulletin shares news and highlights from the recent success of our students, alumni, faculty, and staff.
Notably, the UCA College of Business was named among The Princeton Review’s 2024 Best Business Schools. The College also recognized several faculty and staff for their exemplary service to students and their peers as well as for their impact in their areas of study and in the community.
pictured: Accounting Professors Dr. Patricia Mounce (retired), Dr. Stephanie Watson (Dept. Chair), COB Dean Michael Casey, Mrs. Susan Davenport, and Mary Bane Lackie, Ed.D., VP of University Advancement at UCA
Gabriella Adkins, Mason Smith, Cole Vangsnes, Samuel Roper, Peyton “Kai” Davis, William Van Asche, and Emma Daughtrey were named the 2024 Arkansas Insurance Hall of Fame Scholars at the banquet.
Several guest speakers shared expertise with students in person and online, including Arkansas Supreme Court Justice Rhonda Wood, Representative David Ray, EFIRM alumnus David Beale, and Mark Chambers, the President and CEO of Thrasher and Chambers.
Mrs. Rhea Lana Riner pictured with Dr. Tracy Suter, Chair of the Marketing and Management department at UCA
