Dr. Robert Parrent has joined the University of Central Arkansas as the vice president for enrollment management.
Parrent, 59, began his new post on July 1. He previously served as the vice president of student affairs at the University of Southern Indiana. Parrent has more than 30 years experience in higher education. He received his doctor of education in higher education administration from Indiana University and his master of arts in college student personnel administration from Western Kentucky University.
“My wife, Joni, and I are very excited to join the UCA family,” he said. “The commitment to academic excellence, beautiful campus, friendly and approachable faculty and staff, vibrant student life programming, talented and inquisitive students, and solid town and gown relationship make it a wonderful place to live and contribute. UCA has tremendous potential, and we feel fortunate to have the opportunity to be part of this dynamic academic enterprise.”
Parrent’s areas of expertise include strategic planning, admissions, enrollment management, financial aid/scholarships, technology and web solutions, resource management, academic advising and organizational management. His strengths will be an asset to the university, said UCA President Allen Meadors.
“He possesses the skills needed to help the university in its efforts to have a national model for enrollment management,” Meadors said.
In his role as the vice president for enrollment management, Parrent plans to develop partnerships and collaborations that will create an even stronger sense of cohesiveness in terms of seamless and integrated approaches to student recruitment, retention, and graduation rates.
“We shall continue to build upon existing achievements and accomplishments that provide an environment which supports academic achievement, personal development, and intellectual enrichment,” he said. “… UCA is poised for great success in the days ahead. Creativity, enthusiasm, and a renewed sense of commitment will guide our efforts to address opportunities that come our way. Our ability to carefully and conscientiously evaluate and prioritize projects and initiatives will help us maximize our success in the future.”
He added, “We look forward to doing all we can to make UCA the institution of first choice for students from Arkansas, the region, the nation, and internationally.”