Legacy: Making a difference for the leaders of tomorrow

When he arrived at UCA 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. “I was intimidated,” Bunn said. “I won’t even say ‘a little’ intimidated. I was a lot intimidated. I didn’t have any idea … [Read more...]

2023 Laurels and Stripes Photo Gallery

Another amazing Laurels and Stripes is in the books. We honored Nan Snow ’57, this year's Distinguished Alumna, and celebrated the alumni and friends whose generosity has helped to make UCA great. Plus, we danced the night away. Special thanks to all of our sponsors, especially presenting sponsor First Security Bank. Check out the photos and video below to relive all the great m … [Read more...]

UCA physical therapy program receives $100,000 gift

The University of Central Arkansas physical therapy program has received a $100,000 charitable remainder unitrust from Dr. Sandy '77 and Joyce Quillen. The estate gift will provide for the creation of the endowed William S. and Joyce D. Quillen Physical Therapy Scholarship, in honor of his late wife. The scholarship was created to provide significant financial support toward the success of … [Read more...]

UCA alumna receives Fulbright Award

The Fulbright Teacher Exchanges program has awarded University of Central Arkansas alumna Leslee Tell a Fulbright U.S. Distinguished Teaching Award for the 2022-2023 academic year, making her the first Arkansas high school teacher to receive this honor.  Tell, who earned a bachelor’s and master’s degree in family and consumer sciences, has taught in the Conway School District since 2006. Tell cu … [Read more...]

Women’s rights champion selected for UCA’s Distinguished Alumni award for 2023

For decades, Nan Snow ’57 has been a resounding champion for the cause of women's equality. Throughout her years of service, Snow has been instrumental in improving women’s economic opportunities and overall well-being. Her work, which has had a substantial impact on the lives of countless individuals, has earned her the 2023 University of Central Arkansas Distinguished Alumni Award.  The Dist … [Read more...]

UCA honors college dean named fellow of the National Collegiate Honors Council

Patricia Smith, dean of the Norbert O. Schedler Honors College at the University of Central Arkansas, has been recognized as a 2022 fellow for the National Collegiate Honors Council for her substantial time and dedication to furthering the cause of honors education. She was formally recognized during the NCHC awards ceremony on Nov. 5 in Dallas.  To be considered for the Fellows distinction, … [Read more...]

UCA Foundation celebrates donors, students at scholarship reception

More than 365 people gathered to celebrate the spirit of philanthropy at the University of Central Arkansas’ annual scholarship reception hosted by the UCA Foundation. With a theme of “Legacy of Success,” the reception celebrated scholarship donors and the impact their gifts have had on both scholarship recipients and the university as a whole. The event provided an opportunity for students to c … [Read more...]

UCA alumna publishes children’s book

Leigh Anne Fortner, a two-time UCA alumna, has recently published her second children’s book, with the proceeds earmarked for an Arkansas-based charity. Titled “Mariposa,” the book is about a tiny seed growing in the desert and its determination to survive in spite of the odds. Proceeds from the book will benefit Our House shelter in Little Rock. Fortner said becoming an author was not in … [Read more...]

UCA Alumni Association honors outstanding alumni

The University of Central Arkansas Alumni Association will honor three former students at the 2022 Alumni Awards celebration. Ann Burns Hoy ’62 will be the recipient of the Alumni Service Award while Monica Steinberg ’04 will receive the Young Alumni Award. Two-time alumnus Kim Crissler ’84, ’95 will receive the inaugural Volunteer of the Year Award. The trio will be recognized on Friday, Oct … [Read more...]

UCA digitizes more than 1,000 historic photos

Archivists in Torreyson Library at the University of Central Arkansas have recently digitized more than 1,000 historical photographs. The collection, which can be accessed here, includes buildings, social activities and student life dating back to the school’s beginning in 1907.  The process has taken several months and interim archivist Daniel Klotz says this is just a start. His office ha … [Read more...]