2016 Alumni Service Award
Pat Otto (BSE ’66) ended her professional career with UCA in spring 2014, but her role as proud alumna and dedicated volunteer continues. When you review her background, it becomes obvious she was destined to be part of UCA history.
Otto’s relationship with UCA began at the age of three when she enrolled in the Irby Training School on the Arkansas State Teachers College (ASTC) campus. Her education continued at the training school through her completion of the 6th grade. Only a short seven years later, she returned to ASTC as a member of the 1962 freshman class. In typical Pat Cantrell Otto fashion, she made every minute count while enrolled. The 1962-1966 Scrolls are interspersed with Otto’s involvement and accomplishment: cheerleader, Royal Rooter, Delta Zeta (served as president), the 1965 homecoming queen, and the list goes on.
After graduation, she spent many years working beside her husband, Bill, in the dental supply business and teaching in the Conway School System. When time permitted, she would pursue opportunities to be involved with her alma mater. That time developed into 10 years of service on the UCA Alumni Association Board of Directors, two of those as president of the association. In 2000, Dr. Win Thompson, UCA President at the time, asked Otto if she would turn her volunteerism into full-time employment. She joined the UCA Advancement office as a major gifts development officer. Otto stated, “My greatest reward was the opportunity to connect with so many alumni and develop some really wonderful relationships. Many of them became scholarship donors and distinguished alumni recipients and that is very fulfilling for me.”
After 12 successful years in fundraising, Otto joined the Alumni Services staff as outreach coordinator in 2012. It provided her an opportunity to work part-time and still continue what she loved: working with UCA alumni and students. “Otto had such good, strong relationships with our alumni, it was an easy transition for her and a great addition to our department,” said Jan Newcomer, former director of alumni services.
Otto’s retirement plans are simple. She is working in her yard and enjoying time with her family and friends. She states, “We as alums are very fortunate to have attended and graduated from UCA. And we can look forward to a promising future for our university and all students to come.” So what about her continued involvement with UCA? Well, it’s in her blood, so she’ll be around.
