UCA Magazine

Educating Arkansas: College of Education Leads with Innovation and Technology

As Arkansas’ largest producer of teachers in the state, the College of Education evolved from UCA’s founding in 1907 as the Arkansas State Normal School, an institution dedicated solely to teacher training. In 1925, the school was renamed Arkansas State Teachers College before ultimately transitioning to UCA in 1975.

Forty Years of Excellence: Schedler Honors College Reflects

Each time a student from the Norbert O. Schedler Honors College has walked across the stage at graduation over the last 40 years, they have been handed a medallion engraved with the Greek word “arete” – which means “excellence.”

Only at UCA: A Look at the University’s Trail-blazing Programs and Initiatives

When prospective students begin researching institutions of higher learning, the University of Central Arkansas stands out for its commitment to the lifelong intellectual development of students, dedication to the pursuit of knowledge and devotion to continuous growth through innovation. UCA is home to many programs and degrees one cannot find anywhere else in the state, and sometimes the region.

Karen Shaw ’94: CFO Focuses on Developing Future Business Leaders

Starting her career, Karen Freeman Shaw ’94 simply wanted to work hard, serve others and find a job she would love. She thought she was meant to do her work behind the scenes; instead, she has gone on to significantly impact Arkansas as a successful leader, community activist and mentor to young business leaders.

In Living Color: UCA Alum Learns Life Lessons While Honoring Parents

Michael Turley ’16, ’21 stood out at the University of Central Arkansas’ Farris Center during the fall 2021 commencement ceremony, celebrating his newly-earned doctorate of philosophy in interdisciplinary leadership studies. Among a sea of graduates in the traditional black regalia, Turley wore purple to honor his alma mater.

It’s All Connected: UCA Professor Explores the Impact of Elements in Freshwater Life

Perhaps you’ve heard this one. Algae A floats over to Algae B and says, “Hey, how are things?” Algae B happily responds, “Good, thanks! Business is BLOOMING.”

The Building Blocks of Wellness

The Integrated Health Sciences Building (IHSB) saw its grand opening in August 2021. The 80,000-square-foot, four-story facility offers expanded educational opportunities for students and faculty in the College of Health and Behavioral Sciences (CHBS).

BeWell: Building a Campus Culture of Health During COVID-19 and Beyond

During a pandemic that has taken a global toll on both physical and mental health, investment in human capital is essential now more than ever before. Through the employee wellness program, BeWell, the University of Central Arkansas invests in the physical and mental well-being of more than 1,500 faculty and staff members.

Growing Together: UCA Professor Learns Art of Homesteading

M Shelly Conner has the makings of an agricultural dream. With her wife, Tiffany, she operates a 15-acre homestead in Cabot with plans to grow their own food supply and be self-sufficient.

Prescription for Training: Service-Learning Partnership Promotes Skill, Confidence, Friendship

At its core, academic service-learning at the University of Central Arkansas is designed to integrate community service with instruction to positively impact the learning experience. One uniquely effective and practical example of this learning style exists between the College of Health and Behavioral Sciences, the College of Arts, Humanities, and Social Sciences and area law enforcement agencies.