Poulter Commons
On March 18, 2025, a space in the Student Success and Veterans Resource Center at the University of Central Arkansas (UCA) was named the Poulter Commons in honor of former UCA Provost and Executive Vice President Patricia “Patty” Poulter.
Poulter served from 2018 until her retirement in 2024. The plaque placed in the Poulter Commons included the excerpt in part: “Under her leadership, UCA expanded innovative programs, broke down barriers for students, and strengthened institutional accreditation efforts. She played a pivotal role in advancing student success initiatives, ensuring that UCA remained a leader in higher education within Arkansas and beyond.”
Poulter emphasized the significance of the space for students visiting the building.
“Your name matters, and being seen matters, and that’s what a place like this does. It tells every student that comes in that ʻyou are welcome hereʼ,”
– Patty Poulter
Thomas C. Courtway Student Recreation Center
On May 29, 2025, approximately 200 individuals representing past and present members of the UCA Board of Trustees and the Arkansas General Assembly, as well as family, friends, colleagues, alumni and students, gathered at the unveiling ceremony to rename the former Health, Physical Education and Recreation (HPER) Center the Thomas C. Courtway Student Recreation Center. The renaming honored the dedicated service of former UCA President Tom Courtway, who served as the 10th university president from 2011-16.
Highlights of Courtway’s service as president include the adoption of an official university seal; the opening of Bear Hall; the construction of a 200-seat campus amphitheater; the 50,000-square-foot expansion to the Lewis Science Center; the beginnings of the Donaghey Corridor project; and the completion of Greek Village Phase I.
“For over 100 years, UCA has stood as an absolute rock in Conway, stood as a beacon of learning for thousands of citizens around the state and other states,” Courtway said. “My vocabulary lacks the depth and breadth to describe to you what this means to me. While I fail in this regard, always know that I’m humbled, grateful beyond words and will cherish this honor all of my days.”
“I’m humbled, grateful beyond words and will cherish this honor all of my days.
– Tom Courtway”