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 … [Read more...]

In photos: UCA celebrates graduates at commencement

The Farris Center at the University of Central Arkansas was a site of celebration and recognition May 5-6 as the University awarded more than 1,160 degrees during spring commencement ceremonies. Revisit the excitement of commencement with this gallery of photos. … [Read more...]

Aspiring Teacher Makes a Difference at Veterans Resource Center

Like many children in military families, Rachel Lowe grew up moving around. That was a fact of life with a father serving in the Army Reserve and Arkansas National Guard for 31 years, including a tour of duty in Iraq. Her family crisscrossed the state and rarely stayed in the same place for more than a couple of years. It wasn't until much later that she was able to put down roots. “Moving … [Read more...]

Jada Simpson Crowned Miss UCA 2023

Jada Simpson, a sophomore education major, was crowned the 2023 Miss University of Central Arkansas at Reynolds Performance Hall on Nov. 5.   “When they called my name – oh my goodness –  it was so surreal,” Simpson said. “When I was crowned it was almost like the room stopped for a second. I was like, ‘Oh wait. They just said your name! You gotta walk up there now.’ It was an indescribable … [Read more...]

UCA alumna named 2023 Arkansas Teacher of the Year

Capri Salaam, a social studies teacher at North Little Rock Middle School, was named the 2023 Arkansas Teacher of the Year by the Arkansas Department of Education on Friday, Oct. 14. Salaam is a 2008 graduate of the University of Central Arkansas with a Bachelor of Arts in English. Salaam, a multi-classroom lead teacher, was one of four state semi-finalists for the award and was chosen by … [Read more...]

UCA alumna tapped as top teacher

A University of Central Arkansas alumna who also serves as an adjunct faculty member was recently selected as the 2022 Arkansas Computer Science Educator of the Year. Kimberly Raup, a three-time UCA graduate, received the award from Gov. Asa Hutchinson at the sixth annual Governor’s All-State Coding Competition. She had initially won $2,500 after being chosen as one of five finalists but … [Read more...]

Alumna chosen to lead DePauw’s equity efforts

A University of Central Arkansas alumna has been named to a leadership position at DePauw University. Dionne Jackson, who earned a master’s degree from UCA, will serve as DePauw’s vice president of institutional equity. She will be the first person in school history to hold the position. Jackson received her master’s degree in school leadership, management and administration from UCA’s … [Read more...]

College of Education Recognized for Leadership in Continuous Improvement

The University of Central Arkansas College of Education has received the 2021 Frank Murray Leadership Recognition for Continuous Improvement from the Council for the Accreditation of Educator Preparation (CAEP). UCA is one of 26 institutions from 17 states and the United Arab Emirates to be recognized for their leadership and commitment to continuous improvement.  The recipients of the … [Read more...]