More than 300 University of Central Arkansas Honors College faculty, staff, students and their parents gathered to celebrate the college?s annual Parents Day on Friday, March 11. This year, the celebration also honored Founding Director Dr. Norbert O. Schedler, who will retire this spring.The day began with parents gathering in the Honors College Forum for coffee and doughnuts, followed by a student poster presentation. Students shared travel experiences and internships funded by Honors Travel Abroad Grants (TAG) and Undergraduate Research Grants for Education (URGE).
A luncheon program followed with Senior Honors Scholar Danielle Sterrenberg serving as master of ceremonies. Skits were performed by senior honor scholars and by Honors College faculty. Honors College Director Rick Scott also recognized all recipients of TAG and URGE grants.
The day?s highlight came as Scott reminisced about his first encounter of Schedler at the beginning of his involvement in the Honors College. Assistant Director Donna Bowman reflected on her relationship with Schedler, who she called a mentor and friend. Alumnus Phillip Melton, also an Honors faculty member, also shared his perspective as a former student-turned-colleague.
The program culminated in the presentation of an honorary plaque to Schedler in thanks for his years of service to the Honors College.
Schedler, who was met with a standing ovation, reflected on the day?s events and on his more than two decades building the Honors College.
