Three individuals with connections to the University of Central Arkansas were recognized at the 2026 Arkansas Business Publishing Group’s 40 Under 40 awards luncheon Wednesday, June 3, at the Statehouse Convention Center in Little Rock.
Each year, Arkansas Business presents its 40 Under 40 list to recognize intriguing business and political leaders under 40 years old.
UCA Director of Athletics Matt Whiting is among the 2026 Class. He was named director of athletics at UCA in 2024 at age 36. Whiting oversees a department that includes 18 Division I sports, 13 head coaches and 450-plus student athletes. He has also led record fundraising efforts for UCA athletics, totaling more than $15 million in gifts since 2016.
Whiting said his mentor is his former boss, Dr. Brad Teague.
“He afforded me with so many opportunities to grow professionally, believed in my abilities and work ethic, and gave of his time to make me a better leader, person and professional,” Whiting said. “I am grateful for the influence that he has had on my career, both personally and professionally.”
Ashton Collier ’09 is the chief financial officer for the Northwest Arkansas National Airport in Bentonville. She earned an accounting degree from UCA in 2009 and is an active CPA with 15 years of experience in public, corporate and nonprofit/governmental accounting.
Collier said she defines success as finding balance and fulfillment in all areas of life.
“It means being dedicated and effective at work, present and supportive as a mom and wife, and making time to give back to the community,” she said. “Success isn’t just about achievements; it’s the ability to manage responsibilities without sacrificing what matters most.”
Amir Deylami, who served as an Executive in Residence for the UCA College of Business last spring, was also a member of the 2026 class. Deylami is chief operating officer and associate center director for the NASA Ames Research Center.
Deylami said the key to making Arkansas more attractive to young professionals is expanding access to high-impact career opportunities while continuing to invest in leadership development and innovation ecosystems.
“The combination of meaningful work and quality of life is a powerful differentiator,” he said.