UCA Magazine

UCA NOW Campaign

The University of Central Arkansas reached a historic milestone raising more than $109 million with the UCA Now campaign. Remarkably, the campaign, which ran throughout the uncertainty of a pandemic, was able to not only surpass its ambitious goal but also successfully finish 10 months ahead of schedule.

Campaign Pillar: Success

Endowments for scholarships and faculty support open many doors. With more than $1.5 million in privately funded scholarships awarded each year, students are able to pursue their passions and thrive. Many of these hardworking students face financial challenges and support is critical in changing their lives, generating lasting impact for our campus, our community and beyond.

Helping Those Who Come After

Jase Wicker, a junior business major, has one less thing to worry about as he pursues his degree thanks in part to the H.B. Hardy Jr. Scholarship. A longtime administrator, alumnus, Sig Tau member, and philanthropist, the late Dr. H.B. Hardy Jr. ’48 understood the value and importance of giving back to students.

Every Gift Matters: Tyler ’14 and Caitlin ’13 Rodgers

Alums Tyler ’14 and Caitlin ’13 Rodgers chose the University of Central Arkansas because of its location in central Arkansas and so they could move just far enough away from home to gain independence while still getting to stay in their home state. What the couple discovered was not only a campus but a home they could come back to and engage with after graduation.

Every Gift Matters: Derek Lewis ’78, ’80, & Derek Lewis II ’97

Giving to students who need it the most is at the forefront of the Lewis family legacy. Derek Lewis ’78, ’80, and his son Derek Lewis II ’97, have made giving a family tradition. Established more than 30 years ago, the Derek Lewis Foundation supports community health through education and prevention. It has also awarded hundreds of scholarships since its inception.

Giving Back: Sue Voegele ’62

Sue Voegele’s ’62 commitment to giving back to the University of Central Arkansas spans several decades. Her passion is giving back to UCA’s Athletics department annually.

Every Gift Matters: Gary Bunn ’88

When he arrived at the University of Central Arkansas as a first-generation college student, Gary Bunn ’88 wasn’t sure what to expect. Having grown up in the small town of Crossett, Arkansas, without any sort of connection to college life, he was admittedly overwhelmed when he first set foot on campus.

Campaign Pillar: Culture

Prior to the grand opening of the University of Central Arkansas Windgate Center for the Fine and Performing Arts on Sept. 21, students and faculty were taking advantage of the enhanced spaces designed for acoustics, creativity, lighting and performance. Made possible by private support, including a $20 million gift from the Windgate Foundation along with a bond initiative approved by the UCA Board of Trustees, this innovative space’s impact places central Arkansas on the map as a thriving cultural arts center and as an innovative educational center that will inspire future students and the community.

Coming Full Circle

When asked to emcee the grand opening of the University of Central Arkansas Windgate Center for Fine and Performing Arts in the fall of 2023, KATV news anchor and UCA Alumnus Ryan Houston ’10 was excited to return to his alma mater for the historic event, bringing his time with the university full circle.

Artistry Celebrated

While the arts may have suffered a decline in some high school and university curriculums in recent years, the University of Central Arkansas has continued to elevate its arts programs with the most cutting-edge technology and innovative performance spaces in the state and region.