UCA Magazine

Up Close: Officer Nicole Sumner-Wheeler ’24

Upon joining the University of Central Arkansas’ Police Department (UCAPD) in October 2020, Officer Nicole Sumner-Wheeler ’24 knew she had found a special place to continue her law enforcement career, finish her education and serve her community.

Up Close: Jeremy Horpedahl

Jeremy Horpedahl stays busy in the University of Central Arkansas’ College of Business (COB) – from serving on Faculty Senate to director of the Arkansas Center for Research in Economics (ACRE) to associate professor to public appearances in varying forms of media – which makes his impact in the community noteworthy through his many accomplishments as he strives to help students, citizens and policymakers understand Arkansas’ economy.

Up Close: Graham Mynatt ’20, ’21

Graham Mynatt ’20, ’21 honed his skills while studying music at the University of Central Arkansas and is further elevating his craft as the Bass Trombone Fellow at the New World Symphony in Miami, Florida.

Up Close: Rhiannon Umfleet

When Rhiannon Umfleet considered her future, she never imagined it would lead her to the cockpit of a plane. Now a student at the University of Central Arkansas Aviation Academy and a finance major in UCA’s College of Business, she is fully embracing her passion for aviation.

President’s Society 2025

The annual President’s Society Reception was held Feb. 27 at Cache restaurant in Little Rock. Members of the 2024 President’s Society were invited to the special event to be thanked for their support. Membership is extended to those who contribute at least $1,000 to the University of Central Arkansas during a calendar year.

Laurels and Stripes 2025

The University of Central Arkansas’ annual Laurels and Stripes event showcased UCA’s passion for fundraising. More than 300 attendees enjoyed an unforgettable evening honoring outstanding alumni and celebrating the impact of privately funded scholarships.

Playing for Keeps

When biology professors Ginny and Reid Adams came to the University of Central Arkansas in 2003, they had already established an impressive network of partnerships with governmental, private and public agencies, laying the groundwork for what would be The Adams Fish Ecology Lab.

Beth Helms ’13, ’15

University of Central Arkansas alumna Beth Helms ’13, ’15 hadn’t considered pursuing a career in speech-language pathology (SLP) when declaring a major. Still, an early fascination with American Sign Language and a summer job led her to a career she loves.

Jordan Bellew ’20

Jordan Bellew ’20 endured a life-changing ordeal from ninth grade to his first year of college, marked by 24 hospital admissions due to a severe and progressive paralysis. This condition left him unable to perform even basic tasks like lifting a fork or spoon, despite his background as a young, healthy athlete.

Creating Opportunities within the Therapy Industry

LaTeasha Davis ’06, ’08, the CEO and founder of Therapeutic Focus in West Memphis, Arkansas, continues to impact individuals seeking help and to mentor those seeking a career in therapy.