Arkansas Magazine Spring 2017 by Arkansas Alumni Association

ARKANSAS

Spring 2017 Vol. 66, No. 3

The Magazine of the Arkansas Alumni Association, Inc.

On the National Park

Centennial

$6.00

Spring 2017 Vol. 66, No. 3

NATIONAL PARKS

U of A faculty share their contributions to our National Park System, now celebrating its 100th anniversary.

GRADUATE

While pursuing their own education, graduate students help faculty and their fellow students. Learn more about them.

SERVICE LEARNING

Students enroll in service learning courses because they want to give back to their community and Arkansas.

Campus View

On the Hill

Profile

Association

Razorback Road

Yesteryear

From Senior Walk 52 Last Look

arkansas

Spring 2017 The Magazine of the Arkansas Alumni Association

Photo by Russell Cothren

ON THE COVER Waterfalls on upper Indian Creek in the Ponca Wilderness of the Buffalo National River.

C A M P U S V I EW

ARKANSAS Publisher Arkansas Alumni Association Executive Director Brandy Cox ✪+ MA’07 Editor Charlie Alison ★ BA’82 MA’04 Associate Editor Ashley Batchelor ★ BA’07 Creative Director Eric Pipkin

Advancing Student Success

University Relations photo

Photo Editor Russell Cothren ✪

Chancellor Joe Steinmetz

After nearly a year of discussion, we were able to announce the University of Arkansas’ Eight Guiding Priorities last October (detailed in Arkansas, Winter 2016). It was the culmination of a comprehensive planning process that will now allow us to move forward with focus and purpose, particularly when it comes to allocating limited resources, whether they be financial, material, or human. I’d now like to elaborate a bit more on what I believe is our most important priority: Advancing Student Success. Currently, Arkansas is second to last in the country in the percentage of adults with college degrees and this is an important contributor to the fact that we are near the bottom in median income as well. We do know that on average college graduates earn significantly more than those without college degrees. Studies have also shown that college graduates are healthier and happier. More importantly, however, we also know that a college education enhances creativity, problem-solving capabilities, flexibility in thinking, and the ability to deal with an everchanging world. These are all factors that can drive innovation and the entrepreneurial spirit needed to advance our state. As such, it’s critical that we provide every opportunity we can for students to take on the challenges of a high-quality college education and finish with degrees. This means helping our students persist through difficulties they encounter, perhaps even before they enroll, as well as through their years on campus. This will translate into better retention rates and better graduation rates,

as well as reduced debt loads for students who graduate on time. Simply by raising our current six-year graduation rate of 64.5 percent to 75 or 80 percent would result in hundreds if not thousands of more college-educated citizens every year. Toward this end, we will create a world-class Student Discovery and Academic Success Center. Among its functions will be to recruit talented students from all over the state, provide support when needed for their retention and on-time graduation, and help them transition into careers or further educational opportunities. On the recruitment side, a critical component we need to work on is increasing financial support for meritorious students who have great needs. We will begin addressing this issue with a new needbased scholarship program we hope to roll out this spring. Last year, the average total cost of attending the university was just over $23,500, while the median income in Arkansas was $41,262. Needless to say, that makes paying for college a real hardship for the average Arkansan. Thus, we have a lofty goal: to commit an additional $10 million in annual scholarship support to help us recruit, retain, and graduate more first-generation Arkansas students, many whom are also underrepresented and low-income. We know one thing for sure: the best way to raise the median income in the state is to raise the percentage of college-educated people. Our most important guiding priority, Advancing Student Success, ensures that we remain focused on doing just that. n

Photographers Whit Pruitt ★ Emma Schock Writers & Contributors Amanda Cantu Kendall Curlee Robby Edwards Scott Flanagin Jennifer Holland ★ MED’08 Bettina Lehovec BA’01 Matt McGowan Andra Parrish Liwag Camilla Shumaker BA’01 MFA’09 David Speer BA’75 Kevin Trainor ★+ BA’94 MA’05 Steve Voorhies ★ MA’78 Heidi Wells ★ BA’88 MA’13 Bob Whitby Advertising Coordinator Catherine Baltz ✪+ BS’92 MED’07 MEMBERSHIP SYMBOLS ★ Member ★+ Member, A+ ✪ Life Member ✪+ Life Member, A+ LETTERS TO THE EDITOR Letters to the editor are accepted and encouraged. Send letters for publication to Arkansas Magazine, Office of University Relations, 200 Davis Hall, University of Arkansas, Fayetteville, AR 72701. Letters should be no longer than 250 words and may be edited for length. Typewritten letters are preferred. Anonymous letters will not be published. Submission does not guarantee publication. Arkansas, The Magazine of the Arkansas Alumni Association (ISSN 1064-8100) (USPS 009-515) is published quarterly by the Arkansas Alumni Association, Inc. at 491 North Razorback Road, Fayetteville, AR 72701. Annual membership dues are now $55 per household and a portion is allocated for a subscription to Arkansas. Single copies are $6. Editing and production are provided through the UA Office of University Relations. Direct inquiries and information to P.O. Box 1070, Fayetteville, AR 72702-1070, phone (479) 575-2801, fax (479) 575-5177. Periodical postage paid at Fayetteville, AR, and additional mailing offices. POSTMASTER: Send address corrections to P.O. Box 1070, F ayetteville, AR 72702-1070. ARKANSAS ALUMNI ASSOCIATION Mission Statement The Arkansas Alumni Association connects and serves the University of Arkansas Family. Vision Statement The Arkansas Alumni Association will be nationally recognized as a model alumni relations program. Value Statement The Arkansas Alumni Association values: • service • excellence • collaboration • relationships • diversity • learning • creativity Arkansas Spring 2017 All photos by University Relations unless otherwise noted. Cover photo by: Charlie Allison ★ Please recycle this magazine or share it with a friend.

A R K A N S A S • Spring 2017

WE’RE A LOT LIKE THIS GUY. Bank Better. Member FDIC

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ON THE HILL

photos submitted

University of Arkansas Student Wins National Apparel Design Competition

The votes are in and after going head-to head against students from five other universities, a U of A senior, Lily Hay, came out on top in the second annual Student Design League competition to see which college could create the best T-shirt designs and receive the most votes. The Student Design League, sponsored by Robin-Ruth, an international casual lifestyle brand for travelers worldwide, also showcased the talent of students from the graphic design program within the J. William Fulbright College of Arts and Sciences and its Department of Art. U of A students’ designs captured 3,743 of the total 14,322 competition votes. Lily Hay created the competition’s overall top design, which received 1,716 votes alone. Hay’s shirt is classic U of A cardinal red, with white and black lettering simultaneously spelling out both “feel” and “Fayetteville.” A square graphic element on the front also includes the university’s 1871 founding date, a running hog logo, the university name and location. A diagonal line through the design evokes the concept of Fayetteville’s many hills.

Hay said the inspiration for her winning design was Fayetteville’s culture and how well the city and the university relate to one another. “I wanted to design a T-shirt that students, faculty, alumni and fans would be proud to wear,” Hay said. “I also wanted to stick true to my style and design something I would like to wear.” U of A designs by Hay, Joe Burns, Sam Broas and Chrystal O’Boyle beat out those from West Virginia University (3,505 votes), Auburn University (3,102 votes), the University of Alabama (1,957 votes), the University of Tennessee (1,567 votes) and Florida State University (749 votes.) Hay said it felt surreal to win the competition, and she thanked Robin-Ruth, Fulbright College and the Department of Art for supporting her throughout the process. “I also want to thank everyone who voted for my design,” Hay said. “It means so much to know that my design is something people want. I couldn’t have done this without your support! I also owe a big thank you to the students in our identity design class, and to Professor Chioffi for his support throughout this competition.” Students in associate professor David Charles Chioffi’s identity design course worked as a team all semester to create shirt design mockups and promote the competition through interactive campus and social media campaigns. “This has been an incredible collaboration with Arkansas from the beginning, delivering learning outcomes and making cool designs which really resonated with the community,” said Ben Jablonski, CEO of Robin-Ruth North America. “Arkansas has really set the bar for all of the other schools, and I believe we are at the start of a very long tradition here.” n

photo submitted

Geoscience Students Make Seismic Measurements on Old Main Lawn

Students and professors from the Department of Geosciences in the J. William Fulbright College of Arts and Sciences participated in a seismic measuring exercise on campus last fall. In November, before the weather got too chilly, Christopher Liner, chair of the Department of Geosciences, took his petroleum geophysics undergraduate students to Old Main lawn to shoot a small seismic line as a part of his class. In the exercise, students planted seismic sensors, or geophones, into the ground to measure the waves. Geophones have two-inch spikes that do no damage to the ground, but allow accurate readings of seismic waves. Seismic surveys of this kind are nondestructive and have no impact on surface or underground facilities. To create these seismic waves, students swung sledgehammers to strike metal plates on the ground, generating waves that can be measured up to several hundred feet away. An analysis of this data gave Liner and his students information about subsurface geological layers. n

A R K A N S A S • Spring 2017

photo by Russell Cothren

Law Dean Joins ‘Remember the Removal’ Bike Ride The opportunity to retrace her ancestors’ journey during the relocation of the Cherokees from their homelands was an experience Stacy Leeds couldn’t refuse — the fact that it included a nearly 1,000mile bike ride was a bonus. “The Cherokee Nation’s Remember the Removal ride program is designed to teach Cherokee youth about the history of the Cherokees’ removal,” said Leeds, dean of the University of Arkansas School of Law. “As a citizen of the Cherokee Nation, the ride was a life-changing experience for me and for all of my fellow riders.” Like other Native American nations of the southeastern United States, members of the Cherokee Nation were forced out of their

homelands and removed to present-day Oklahoma. The Cherokees came in several detachments, one of which camped on grounds on the south part of the present-day university campus where a plaque and small park memorialize their journey. The bicycle riders started in June at New Echota, Georgia, and followed the primary route of Cherokee migration through Tennessee, Kentucky, Illinois and southern Missouri before arriving in Arkansas two weeks later. They rode across the University of Arkansas campus before heading to their final destination at Tahlequah, Oklahoma. Leeds is currently the only American Indian law school dean. n

photo submitted

Razorback Band Launches Campaign to Preserve Decades of Performances

Over the past four decades, Razorback Band alumni Don King, Bill Woolly, and David Woolly have documented the band’s rehearsals and performances through film and photography. The collection consisting of 16mm reel-to-reel films, U-matic tapes, VHS tapes, and CDs was recently donated to Special Collections. With this collection in mind, University of Arkansas Bands has

Spring 2017 • A R K A N S A S

launched the Razorback Band Archive Project to preserve these recordings through digital conversion. Once completed, halftime and pregame performances from 1978 to the present will be available to view online through University Libraries’ Special Collections. The first step in the preservation process will take 12-18 months. “This project will not only provide Razorback fans and band alumni with ready-access to historically valuable materials but will also be an important long-term investment,” said Chris Knighten, director of university bands. “By converting these files, this project will preserve an important piece of university history for future generations to come.” The Razorback Band Archive Project’s conducted a month-long campaign, raising $11,219 through FundRAZOR, the University of Arkansas’ brand new crowdfunding platform, designed to help the campus community raise private gift support for innovative ideas and important initiatives on the Hill. FundRAZOR projects are created and promoted by U of A groups to fund everything from student scholarships and cutting-edge research to service trips and once-in-alifetime experiences. n

photo submitted

ON THE HILL

Bumpers College, School of Law Help Quapaw Tribe With Processing Plant The Quapaw Tribe is building a meat-processing plant near Miami, Oklahoma, and faculty from the University of Arkansas Dale Bumpers College of Agricultural, Food and Life Sciences and School of Law are collaborating to assist in the design and construction of the facility. The plant, expected to be operational in May 2017, will also provide U of A students with opportunities for experience and training. Harold L. Goodwin, a professor and senior economist for Bumpers College, and Janie Hipp, director of the Indigenous Food and Agriculture Initiative in the School of Law, are helping with the business structure and completion of regulatory procedures. Mike Looper, head of Bumpers College’s Department of Animal Science, and Jason Apple, a professor of animal science, have provided input on design of the plant. “It is envisioned there would be availability of the facilities for meat judging and grading training, and also for food safety and meat processing training,” said Goodwin, who also works with the Indigenous Food and Agriculture Initiative. “Most likely, students involved would be from animal science and food science.” Hipp said many Native American tribes have traditional cultural ties to food production. “If you go back into individual tribes’ history on this continent, particularly before European contact, there were massive levels of food production,” said Hipp, who is a citizen of the Chickasaw Nation. “Tribes were not just hunting and gathering as ancient peoples on this continent. Many tribes were involved in food production historically and remain deeply involved in food and agriculture today. Tribes all

across the United States have a rich history in food production and the Quapaw Tribe’s move into food processing and food science is an exciting next step.” The plant will include a classroom, laboratory and test kitchen, and is being designed to process up to 50 animals per week. “We have great expertise in meat and food science at U of A and are the center of expertise for tribal agriculture and food because of the Indigenous Food and Agriculture Initiative,” said Goodwin. “The proximity of the plant to Fayetteville (about 90 minutes away) makes it ideal for joint collaboration between the first U.S. Department of Agriculture-certified beef and bison processing facility owned by a Native American tribe and a land-grant university.” “It’s about building an economy that’s agriculture-based that will support local businesses and feed local people, we’re hoping,” said John Berrey, chair of the Quapaw Tribe, a 1991 U of A graduate and member of the alumni association’s National Board of Directors. “Really it’s about taking advantage of our region and all the agriculture that takes place in this region. It’s a business opportunity for sure. It gives us an outlet for our beef products. It also gives us opportunity to take other peoples’ product and process it. It’s both community development and economic development for the tribe.” The tribe has cattle and bison on a ranch outside Miami. The ultimate goal of the ranch is to raise, slaughter, process, package and ship its own products to local businesses and stores. The tribe is also partnering with Northeastern Oklahoma A&M College, Oklahoma State University and Missouri State University. n

Learn to Fly and Perform Research with Drones Want to be an FAA-licensed Unmanned Aircraft Systems Pilot? The Master of Science in Operations Management Program is offering the first interdisciplinary course on Unmanned Aircraft System, commonly referred to as drones. Instruction was in a hybrid format live on campus and video streamed to other campuses, with some non-credit lab time, optional alternate daytime class times or homework so that students could get hands-on experience with drones. The course is graduate level, but

interested undergraduates could attend with consent of their adviser and the instructor. The first of its kind at the university, this course is applicable to several disciplines; it prepares students to safely operate drones, as well as understanding the history, public safety policy, homeland security, research and sensor applications of various platforms. At the conclusion of the course, students were prepared to take the Federal Aviation Administration Remote Pilot Certificate exam. n

A R K A N S A S • Spring 2017

U of A Honors Student Receives Prestigious Schwarzman Scholarship

Spring 2017 • A R K A N S A S

technologies in southeast Ecuador, where she designed potable water systems in the Andes Mountains and indigenous Amazon jungle communities. She is fluent in Spanish and she worked side-by-side with members of these communities to ensure that reliable drinking water was available. She also developed an education program about a recently installed water tower for the residents of an inland village in Belize. Neighbour also worked in Vietnam, where she realized there was a significant health issue associated with contaminated drinking water. She organized an effort to inform farmers about the problem and led a group to design a purification process, easy and inexpensive to create and maintain. She is currently researching water purification methods for natural disaster relief in developing urban areas. This is the second nationally competitive scholarship Neighbour has received. Last spring she was one of 59 students — and one of two U of A students — to be awarded a Truman Scholarship of $30,000, to be used toward her graduate studies. Truman Scholars are selected on the basis of their academic success, leadership skills, and the likelihood of their becoming public service leaders. She is a Presidential Fellow with the Center for the Study of the Presidency. In 2015, she received a State Undergraduate Research Fellowship, which funded the project “Cryogenic Viscous Liquids on Icy Moons.” Her research examined the viscosity of fluids on the surface of Titan, the largest moon of Saturn. She received the Dwornik Award for this work. She also worked on a water treatment project titled “Re-Envisioning Disaster Relief Shelters in Urban Environments: Integration of Water Treatment Systems.” “The University of Arkansas could not have a better representative among the Schwarzman Scholars than Danielle Neighbour,” said Chancellor Joe Steinmetz. “Her career on campus has been driven by the desire to use her talents and knowledge to help people in the most basic and essential way possible. By finding ways to bring clean drinking water to people in developing nations she is bringing them life itself. She knows that reaching her goal will take more than engineering skills – she will need to understand policy-making, international community development and the nuances of different cultures. Becoming a Schwarzman Scholar is the important next step in her education.” The Schwarzman Scholars were selected through a rigorous and thorough selection process designed to evaluate leadership experience and potential, intellectual and academic ability, strength of character and the capacity to understand emerging trends, design solutions, and inspire others to a vision. The scholarship is fully funded for all participants, including travel costs and a personal stipend, and is supported by the program’s endowment. n photo submitted

Danielle Neighbour, a University of Arkansas Honors College Fellow and senior civil engineering major in the College of Engineering, has been named one of this year’s Schwarzman Scholars. She is one of 129 students from 30 countries and 75 universities who will receive a full scholarship for graduate study at Tsinghua University in Beijing, one of China’s premiere universities. This year 2,747 candidates from 119 countries competed for the award. Neighbour is the first University of Arkansas student to receive the prestigious international scholarship. She is from Lenexa, Kansas, and is the daughter of Rhonda and Robert Neighbour. Neighbour is a member of the second class of Schwarzman Scholars. The master’s degree scholarship program was founded by Blackstone chair, CEO and co-founder Stephen A. Schwarzman. The scholarships are intended to recognize future leaders in a broad range of activities, educating and preparing the world’s most exceptional men and women to confront the most difficult challenges of the coming century, at the same time developing an understanding of China that will be essential to leading in the future. “I am overjoyed with the caliber of students who will make up the second class of Schwarzman Scholars,” said Schwarzman. “It has been truly inspiring for me to meet these people, who at such a young age have already started to make an impact on the world. Clearly their journey is just beginning, but it is our hope that the scholars of the inaugural class, the Class of 2018, and every class thereafter will leave Schwarzman College with a better understanding of how to foster friendship, cooperation and collaboration among the peoples of the world.” Neighbour is eager to start the program and said she has already started practicing Mandarin. “I’m incredibly excited to participate in the second cohort of Schwarzman Scholars at Tsinghua University,” Neighbour said. “I’m grateful for the opportunity to spend a year learning from global leaders in preparation for a future dedicated to public service. It’s an honor to be the first to represent the University of Arkansas in the Schwarzman program and I am deeply thankful for the support of U of A faculty, staff, my family, and my fellow students. I’d especially like to thank the Office of Nationally Competitive Awards, the Honors College, and the College of Engineering for their integral roles in making my undergraduate experience such a positive one.” Neighbour plans to pursue a career focused on improving access to clean drinking water in developing nations, a passion she developed at the University of Arkansas and which has already taken her around the world. As an undergraduate engineering intern for Reach Beyond International she helped install point-of-use drinking water

photo submitted

ON THE HILL

Arkansas Archeological Survey Creates New Website About Bluff Shelters of the Arkansas Ozarks One of the most interesting aspects of archeology in the Arkansas Ozarks is many dry bluff shelters and caves that have been intermittently occupied for 10,000 years. The dry conditions created in these caves and shelters provide a rare glimpse of the kinds of artifacts that usually rot in the wet climate of the Southeastern United States. Archeologists Jamie Brandon, Lydia Rees and a team from the Arkansas Archeological Survey have begun a new multi-year research project related to this class of sites. As the first step in this research and in partnership with the Arkansas Natural and Cultural Resources Council and the University of Arkansas Museum Collections the Survey has spent the last year digitizing important 1930s archeological field notes and creating a public-oriented website about bluff shelter archeology: archeology.uark.edu/ozarkbluffshelters. The website, titled Bluff Shelters of the Arkansas Ozarks, summarizes current knowledge about bluff shelters in a visually appealing and approachable format. The intent is for the website to grow and change and continue to be a platform for updating the public about ongoing bluff shelter research and events. The website has a simple design

and is organized based on questions that archeologists are frequently asked by members of the public at talks and other events. The site aims to cover the basics of bluff shelters as well as address myths and misconceptions about these sites. Each section is meant to address questions thematically and offer information about topics such as the geology of the region, the history of early excavations, a time line of bluff shelter use, as well as information on the rare perishable items that can be found in these sites. The emphasis is placed on the importance and the endangered status of bluff shelters. The site also includes examples of sites and particular artifacts from shelters that convey the kind of important information archeologists can find in bluff shelter contexts. The main “Examples” page is meant to function like a photo gallery. These sites and artifacts are not meant to be inclusive, but were chosen to provide opportunities to address particular subjects like plant domestication, rock art, and other research topics. The final section, “Learn More” sends visitors to bluff shelters that are protected and interpreted – such as those in Arkansas State Parks and the Buffalo National River. n

U of A Launches New Podcast About Research Tune in now to Short Talks From the Hill, a new online podcast from the University of Arkansas. This podcast features stories of discovery across the U of A campus — from renowned historian and Distinguished Professor Randall Woods discussing his new book on Lyndon Johnson and the Great Society to a graduate student who discovered the re-emergence of the northern saw-whet owl in Arkansas. A new podcast will air every three weeks and can be heard on kuaf.com/programs/short-talks-hill. Several programs are already posted with others on the way: • “ How we feel about spending our bottom dollar” – Robin Soster,

assistant professor of marketing • “Searching for the saw-whet owl” – Mitchell Pruitt, graduate student • “Understanding the Federal Reserve and stress testing community banks” – Tim Yeager, professor of finance • “Food scarcity in Northwest Arkansas” – Kevin Fitzpatrick, professor of sociology • “LBJ and the Great Society” – Randall Woods, Distinguished Professor of history • “The dreaded earworm” – Elizabeth Margulis, professor of music • “Graphene, a two-dimensional powerhouse” - Paul Thibado, professor of physics • “Teeth, a very short introduction” – Peter Ungar, Distinguished Professor of anthropology n

A R K A N S A S • Spring 2017

McComas Elected Fellow of the American Association for the Advancement of Science Michael T. Miller, dean of the College of Education and Health Professions, said, “This is an incredible honor for Bill, and one that he richly deserves. Bill has earned tremendous respect from his faculty colleagues in the college, and this honor is a reflection of the respect he has from his colleagues nationally. His election is not a surprise to us; it is something he has earned.” McComas was selected as Fellow as part of the AAAS Education Section for his “distinguished contributions to science education through the preparation of future teachers and researchers, service to biology education as a journal editor and evolution advocate.” McComas continues to develop and teach classes in educational research methods, the history and philosophy of science for science educators, issues in science education, advanced science teaching methods and The Darwin Course, an interdisciplinary exploration of the implications of evolution for honors undergraduates with contributions by 11 U of A professors. n photo submitted

University of Arkansas Professor William F. McComas has been named a Fellow of the American Association for the Advancement of Science. The honor is bestowed by peers in recognition of work deemed scientifically or socially significant. McComas is the inaugural holder of the Parks Family Endowed Professorship in Science Education in the Department of Curriculum and Instruction in the College of Education and Health Professions. McComas directs the Project to Advance Science Education. “Being elected a Fellow in a major scientific society such as AAAS is a wonderful honor for an educator, and is particularly appropriate as it recognizes that scientific discovery and education are inexorably intertwined,” McComas said. “We in science education are charged with translating the work of those engaged in scientific research to inform classroom teachers at all levels, help prepare the next generation of scientists, and assist in communicating the results of science to enlighten the public and inform decision-makers.”

Researchers Find Potential Therapy for Brain Swelling During Concussion

Spring 2017 • A R K A N S A S

engineering; and partners at the FDA’s National Center for Toxicological Research in Jefferson, Arkansas. Mild traumatic brain injury, also known as a concussion, is a devastating condition that is commonly experienced in car accidents, full-contact sports and battlefield injuries. One of the main factors that leads to the high death rate in patients who experience mild traumatic brain injury is the swelling or edema of astrocytes, the most abundant cell type in the brain. The researchers engineered a benchtop bioreactor to examine astrocyte cells. This device helped them see that mild traumatic brain injury led to an increased expression of aquaporin-4, the protein that causes a large cellular influx of fluid, which in turn leads to increased astrocyte cell volume. “This study demonstrates the collaborative neuro-engineering efforts that are contributing to both diagnostic and therapeutic methods for addressing traumatic brain injury,” said Raj Rao, professor and chair of the Department of Biomedical Engineering at the University of Arkansas. The research was funded by the National Science Foundation. n University Relations photo

A team of biomedical engineering researchers at the University of Arkansas have identified a cause of fluid swelling of the brain, or cellular edema, that occurs during a concussion. The researchers discovered that pretreating the cells with an existing, FDAapproved drug used for epilepsy and altitude sickness reduces the expression of a specific protein that causes swelling. Their findings were published in a recent issue of Nature’s Scientific Reports. “Our study found that mild traumatic brain injury resulted in increased expression of a protein called aquaporin-4, which caused a massive cellular influx of fluid, leading to increased astrocyte cell volume and injury,” said Kartik Balachandran, assistant professor of biomedical engineering. “We then worked with a drug called Acetazolamide. Our results showed that Acetazolamide minimized cell swelling and injury, suggesting a therapeutic role for this drug in reducing the detrimental effects of concussions.” In addition to Balachandran, who led the study, the research was conducted by Nasya Sturdivant, biomedical-engineering doctoral candidate; Jeffrey Wolchok, assistant professor of biomedical

ON THE HILL

Coleman Selected as Executive Vice Chancellor and Provost to help us enter the new year, and implement the campus planning work we’ve spent the past year actively engaged in,” said Chancellor Joe Steinmetz. “I would be remiss if I didn’t thank Professor Peter Ungar, chair of the search committee, and each member of that committee for their steadfast efforts that led to Jim’s appointment.” Ungar said, “The search committee was thorough and diligent in its task of reviewing leaders across higher education to make recommendations. We were pleased by the diversity of the pool of candidates in terms of ethnicity, gender and particularly institutional experience.” As the chief academic officer at Northern Arizona, Coleman was either directly responsible or had a role in academic planning; deployment of instructional resources, curricular development, review and assessment; institutional accreditation; recruitment and retention of faculty and staff; student academic success and retention; allocation and planning of academic space; and management of the academic affairs budget. Coleman holds advanced degrees, including a doctorate from Yale University, working in plant ecology. He received a bachelor’s degree in forestry from the University of Maine. He also conducted postdoctoral research at Stanford and Harvard universities. n photo submitted

James Scott “Jim” Coleman, provost and vice president for academic affairs and professor of biology at Northern Arizona University, was appointed as executive vice chancellor for academic affairs and provost at the U of A. He started Jan. 1. In addition to serving as the chief academic officer for the state’s flagship university in Fayetteville, Coleman also will hold a faculty appointment as professor of biological sciences in the J. William Fulbright College of Arts and Sciences. Coleman said he is “thrilled about this opportunity to lead academic affairs at the University of Arkansas.” “I look forward to engaging with all areas of campus and doing a deep dive into the culture to better understand the strengths that have led to the creation of the eight campus priorities,” he said. “Ultimately, this work will lead to some signature initiatives for implementation and I’m pleased to be a part of it.” Coleman became the provost and vice president for academic affairs and professor of biology at Northern Arizona University in August 2015. He is a highly regarded ecological and evolutionary biologist and academic administrator with a broad background that crosses multiple disciplines. “We are looking forward to welcoming a seasoned administrator

College of Engineering Food Safety Research Leads to Collaborative Project in China

realized that improving food safety across the supply chain would require researchers from several different disciplines. Li is working with researchers from the Supply Chain Management Research Center in the Sam M. Walton College of Business; the Reliasoft Risk, Reliability and Maintenance Lab in the College of Engineering; and the Center of Excellence for Poultry Science. The project also involves researchers from three Chinese universities and one Chinese research institute. In addition, three Chinese poultry companies are providing samples and feedback for the project. Li explained that food safety is uniquely challenging in China because farms and processors of many different sizes supply poultry, and this kind of system is more difficult to monitor and control. Currently, in order to test poultry products for harmful amounts of bacteria or antibiotics, limited samples are sent to an analytical lab, which is time consuming and expensive. Having in-field test methods applied to farms, processing plants and markets mean more samples can be tested at low cost and data can be quickly collected to monitor the whole supply chain. n University Relations photo

Food-borne diseases cost over $70 billion and cause more than 600 million cases of illness and thousands of deaths worldwide per year. U of A researchers are working with the Walmart Food Safety Collaboration Center, as well as Chinese universities and poultry companies, to improve the safety of poultry products in that country. The project is funded by a $2.3 million grant from the Walmart Foundation. Yanbin Li, the primary investigator, is a professor of biological and agricultural engineering in the College of Engineering and the University of Arkansas System Division of Agriculture. He explained that the project has two main focuses: biosensing technology to more rapidly and easily detect pathogenic bacteria and antibiotic residues in the poultry supply chain and dynamic risk-assessment models integrated with supply chain management to help the industry and regulators make better decisions for ensuring food safety. The project encompasses the entire poultry supply chain, from the farms where chickens are raised all the way to the kitchens in which meals are prepared. “The scope of the project became larger and larger,” Li said. He

A R K A N S A S • Spring 2017

photo by Whit Pruitt

Honors College Hosts ‘First-Generation Fireside Chat’ With Chancellor Steinmetz University of Arkansas Chancellor Joe Steinmetz met for a “fireside chat” with 26 first-generation Honors College students, sharing sandwiches and cookies in the relaxed warmth of the Honors Student Lounge in Gearhart Hall. “I have a special place for first-generation students — the fundamental reason is because I was one myself,” Chancellor Steinmetz said. “Advancing student success” tops the list of the chancellor’s recently unveiled guiding priorities for the University of Arkansas. The planning document places a particular emphasis on providing support for firstgeneration college-going Arkansans, in part because Steinmetz knows from personal experience the challenges these students face when they arrive on a college campus. One of six children raised in an exurb of Detroit, Steinmetz got a good education in Catholic schools but said he received “zilch” in the way of advising or career preparation. He didn’t even consider pursuing a major in his first love, music. “I played piano and keyboard. At age 18, I wanted to be a performer but didn’t want to be a band director — I had no idea I could be a musician and professor at a university, because I had no idea what college was like,” he shared. Steinmetz moved through six different majors as an undergraduate — “If you’ve had that many, there’s hope for you!” he quipped — before finding work in a laboratory conducting research on memory. “That’s when the lightbulb went off, when I realized that this is my future, combining research on behavior, cognition and biology in the field of neuroscience. The critical thing was getting into a laboratory and discovering that this is a lot of fun,” he recalled. After sharing his career trajectory, Steinmetz opened the floor to questions. The honors students came prepared, many with tough questions. Dara Gaines, a senior political science and African and African

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American studies major from Ogden, Arkansas, noted that there were no minorities included on the homecoming court and referenced the tensions that erupted when several players on the women’s basketball team chose to kneel during the playing of the national anthem. “How do you let people know, this is a safe place for a minority?” she asked. Steinmetz responded that “we have to communicate that we live in a world that’s far from perfect. I really believe in education and dialog, and the fact is, different groups, such as our campus veterans, feel differently about the flag.” Steinmetz said that he plans to launch a discussion series to explore this issue. Other topics ranged from time management to growing pains such as parking at the university. “Let’s see, how far did we get into this before parking was mentioned?” he joked. When asked what he missed in his new job as chancellor, Steinmetz was quick to reply that he missed daily contact with students, both in the lab and in the classroom. “I’m trying to correct that,” he mentioned, noting that he will be teaching an Honors College Forum, Flagship U!, next semester. Steinmetz stretched a tight schedule to take more questions from the students, and posed for a group shot in front of the fireplace before heading off to his next appointment. The honors students appreciated the opportunity to have the chancellor’s ear. Nezly Silva, a social work and Latin American and Latino studies double major from Springdale, said she was hesitant to ask about how he might help undocumented students. “Honestly, it was very encouraging to hear that he had fought this fight at Ohio State,” she said. “He was very candid and accepting of his own identity as a first-generation student, and that’s encouraging to all of us.” n

photo by Whit Pruitt

ON THE HILL

Hundreds Line up for Tour of SEFOR Nuclear Plant More than 400 people from the Strickler community in Washington County and beyond waited through long lines and chilly weather for a chance to tour inside SEFOR — the University of Arkansas’ decommissioned nuclear test reactor. SEFOR — officially the Southwest Experimental Fast Oxide Reactor — was built in 1968 near Strickler. It was the dawn of nuclear reactors and this small reactor was designed for experimental purposes. It was decommissioned in 1974. Nuclear fuel and coolant were removed and the plant was given to the U of A, which has been trying to get federal funding to dismantle it for more than four decades. This fall U.S. Sen. John Boozman and U.S. Rep. Steve Womack announced a $10.5 million grant from the U.S. Department of Energy to begin removing the

remaining hazardous materials and begin demolishing the buildings. The tours were conducted by staff from Energy Solutions, the contractor that will handle the cleanup. The goal was to help the people in the community see what the cleanup will involve. Most of those who took the tour said they’d been curious about the plant for years, and enjoyed getting to see what was inside. Others had actually worked in SEFOR, and were saying a last goodbye. Many brought their cameras for some final souvenirs. This phase of the cleanup should be finished by the end of September. The university is hoping to receive an additional $16 million federal grant for the final phase, which will return the site to greenfield conditions, possibly before the end of 2018. n

Fulbright College Student Awarded National Geographic’s Young Explorer Grant

half Yup’ik,” said Fancyboy, who is majoring in cultural anthropology and psychology, and minoring in political science. “It’s crucial that cultures like this be documented before their customs, languages and traditions are lost in history. I believe I’m in a prime position to do this by having a foot in both doors, so to speak. Beyond that, I feel compelled to do so,” she said. As her trip progresses, Fancyboy will be collecting interviews, video clips and photos to post at Discovering the Modern Yup’ik Peoples of Western Alaska on Facebook, and to the Instagram handle @m_explores. National Geographic awards the Young Explorer’s Grant to diligent, creative young individuals who are passionate about their projects and ideas. The grant was designed to support a new generation of adventurers, geographers, anthropologists, astronomers, geologists, conservationists, ecologists, marine scientists, storytellers, pioneers and archaeologists. n photo submitted

Mary Alice Fancyboy, a junior in the J. William Fulbright College of Arts and Sciences, has been awarded the National Geographic Society’s Young Explorer’s Grant. The Young Explorer’s Grant was established for aspiring explorers between the ages of 18 and 25. Fancyboy was awarded the maximum amount of $5,000 to cover the field project costs of her upcoming trip to the rural villages of Pilot Station, Marshall, and Kotlik, Alaska, through the entire month of June 2017. Her project, titled “Discovering the Modern Yup’ik Peoples of Western Alaska,” aims to document the evolving culture of the Yup’ik people in a way that will allow those who may not be familiar with it to access the information easily. The Yup’ik, which is translated to mean “the real people,” are an indigenous people native to western, south central and southwestern Alaska and the Russian Far East. “This project is important to me because I actually lived in one of the villages I’m visiting for the first five years of my life, and I am

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Power Named Vice Chancellor for University Advancement Development in 2013, joined the university in 2001 as the director of development in the Dale Bumpers College of Agricultural, Food and Life Sciences. He was a key part of the Campaign for the Twenty-First Century, which raised more than $1 billion for the university. He was promoted to executive director of development in 2007, and in 2009, became the executive director for development and principal gifts. Power was named assistant vice chancellor for development in 2011. “I’m excited about the opportunity to lead University Advancement, especially at such an important time in the university’s history,” Power said. “I’m also very thankful for the trust and support of Chancellor Steinmetz. I have the privilege of working every day alongside an outstanding team of professionals and with amazing students, faculty, alumni and benefactors of the university. I look forward to enhancing those relationships as we continue to work to implement the guiding priorities for our campus, advance Campaign Arkansas and strengthen the University of Arkansas.” n University Relations photo

Mark Power ★+ has been named vice chancellor for University Advancement at the University of Arkansas after working more than 15 years at the institution, including three and a half years as associate vice chancellor of University Development and serving as interim vice chancellor for University Advancement since August 2016. “Over the past year, I’ve come to know Mark as an effective leader, manager and fundraiser within the Advancement Division, having been a part of the university’s fundraising success since 2001,” said Chancellor Joe Steinmetz. “He has successfully cultivated hundreds of friends and volunteers, raised millions of dollars in private gift support, and developed a highly functioning staff during his time with the university. His work within University Development and time leading the Advancement Division since August give me the confidence that his leadership at this point in Campaign Arkansas is what we need to keep our momentum going in a positive direction.” Power, who became associate vice chancellor for University

NEA Grant to Fund Design Development of Conway Town Square as Rain Terrain

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really great landscape,” said Steve Luoni, director of the Community Design Center and a Distinguished Professor in the Fay Jones School of Architecture and Design. “This will allow new investments to come into the neighborhood.” The Community Design Center is an outreach program of the Fay Jones School. The Markham Square design proposed for Conway will be surrounded by a green infrastructure of streets and auto parking, featuring low-impact development treatment landscapes, Luoni said. The landscape design for the square features living walls, wire mesh container gardens and footbridges, rookeries as landmarks, espaliers, and sculptural butterfly gardens that call attention to landscape systems. Water-loving trees such as poplars and willows absorb water through their root systems. “The idea is an urban park that also delivers ecological services,” Luoni said. The town square design is part of the larger Urban Watershed Framework Plan for Conway, a holistic planning approach to watershed management designed to remove Lake Conway and surrounding streams from the U.S. Environmental Protection Agency Impaired Waterbodies List. n courtesy UACDC

A $50,000 grant from the National Endowment for the Arts will allow the University of Arkansas Community Design Center to assist the city of Conway in developing a plan for a town square that integrates wetlandbased stormwater treatment landscapes with urban land uses and an outdoor performance space. The Art Works grant will support a project called “Water and Wildness: Reimagining the Town Square as a Rain Terrain.” The Community Design Center will work with Conway and the Ecological Design Group on a proposal to transform a flood-prone scrapyard at the intersection of two redeveloping urban neighborhoods into an ecological version of an art park. Rain terrains are a new concept for “wet” areas like Conway, a city that receives 51 inches of rainfall a year (30 percent above the national average). Designed to hold water rather than allow drainage, a rain terrain works as a sponge, combining ecological engineering with landscape architecture and hydrology to maximize water absorption and minimize runoff. “The idea is to use soft engineering to manage the water, which is much cheaper than building new infrastructure, and also gives you a

P RO F I L E

Bjorn Simmons B.S.B.A.’11

Unleashing Entrepreneurial Spirit By Sandra Cox Birchfield B.A.’87

If you think marketing and entrepreneurship pertain only to business, guess again. Bjorn Simmons will tell you that entrepreneurial spirit and a know-how attitude can effect change in many aspects of life, whether it’s helping free a man wrongfully imprisoned or creating a tool that can benefit businesses globally. Simmons speaks from experience. He has used his marketing management degree from the Sam M. Walton College of Business to effect change in the world of politics for the Georgia House of Representatives, drawing from the leadership skills he honed while at the University of Arkansas. He served many roles with the university’s Center for Multicultural and Diversity Education, including as president of Connections, a mentoring program that connected freshmen with upper-class students. Following graduation in 2011, he got involved with Georgia politics, where he eventually became chief of staff and served on several projects, including one that got an innocent man out of prison with reparations from the state to rebuild his life. “What politics allowed me to do was work with key influencers and decision-makers to make impactful decisions for social good,” Simmons says. “It’s entrepreneurial in that you had to make your own judgment and persistence. What you put into it is what you got out of it, like running a business.” Jumping into the world of startups hadn’t entered Bjorn Simmons’ mind. At least, not until Simmons’ old classmate and friend from the Walton College, Stedmon Harper, invited him to do an experiential marketing campaign

for a startup founded by Natasia Malaihollo, a University of California at Berkeley graduate. The three teamed up to participate in the 2014 South by Southwest in Austin, Texas. “I found this world of startups — innovation meets entrepreneurship,” Simmons says. “I was fascinated and knew I had to be a part of it.” While the startup they presented at South by Southwest didn’t take off, another one did. Within the next four months, Simmons left Atlanta along with his political career to move to Syracuse, New York, to launch with Harper and Malaihollo the startup Wyzerr (an edgy play on the word “wiser”), a software program that approaches online survey-taking differently: it makes it fun, fast and easy like a game. Unlike many online surveys, which require participants to read questions and then answer by selecting radio buttons, Wyzerr has them performing activities similar to those found with video games as they answer the questions. As a result, the survey taker is more likely to answer several questions honestly within a short time span, enabling valuable real-time data. In their journey, Wyzerr continued to win both pitch and startup competitions and has been stationed in several cities in the United States, including Los Angeles, but found a home in Covington, Kentucky, located across the Ohio River from Cincinnati, Ohio. There, Wyzerr participated in an accelerator program where the founders raised $1.5 million and expanded their staff from three to 12. In developing their software, Wyzerr has worked with several businesses, including Walmart, Unilever and Volkswagen.

Wyzerr will soon be public to all users. The path to Simmons’ success began in North Little Rock, where he grew up and graduated from high school. It was also there where he chose marketing as a career. The University of Arkansas was on his “wish list” of schools to attend and won out when it offered Simmons a scholarship. His Walton classes provided him with valuable knowledge, including corporate marketing, retail marketing and inventory management, which he applies to Wyzerr now. He also found a mentor in Barbara Lofton, director of diversity and inclusion at the college, as well as those with the university’s student affairs office, Emerging Leaders program and the Center for Multicultural and Diversity Education. Simmons has kept his relationship going with Walton, where he now serves on the Diversity and Inclusion Corporate Advisory Board, and spoke to students enrolled in the Fleischer Scholars Program, a summer residential program, where he tells his story and encourages minorities and women to consider technology as a career. “I try to shout the power of entrepreneurship from the mountaintop as much as I can,” Simmons says. “I’m very passionate about the economic successes of minorities.” Simmons also remains passionate about making a positive impact, especially with diversity and inclusion in the workplace. He tells people that if they have creativity in their hearts, and the desire to help others, don’t waste any time. Go ahead and do it! “You can really be a part of change, even if you’re from Arkansas,” Simmons says. n

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photo submitted

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F E AT U R E

Our Best Idea How the University of Arkansas has worked with the National Park Service to preserve America’s treasured natural resources By Bob Whitby

“National Parks are the best idea we ever had. Absolutely American, absolutely democratic, they reflect us at our best rather than our worst.” – Wallace Stegner

There was no such thing as a “national park” prior to 1872, in America or the world. The idea of preserving land in its natural state began in 1832 when Congress created the Hot Springs Reservation in Arkansas as a way of protecting the natural resource of hot springs in Garland County’s valley of vapors. California’s Yosemite Valley was preserved in 1864, the first instance in which land was preserved as a park for public use under the auspices of the state. But in terms of federal policy, setting aside an area for conservation ran counter to the precedent of transferring publicly held lands to private ownership as a means to settle the West. Nonetheless, in March 1872, President Ulysses S. Grant signed the Yellowstone National Park Protection Act, creating the first national park. Such was the splendor of the place, as described by artists, photographers, painters and explorers, that it warranted protection in perpetuity. Yellowstone preceded the National Park Service by 44 years. By 1916, the federal inventory of national parks, monuments, refuges and sanctuaries had grown to 35, and President Woodrow Wilson signed an act that created the agency to manage them. In honor of the National Park Service’s 100th birthday, a celebration that began in August 2016 and will last a year, we explored some of the ways the University of Arkansas has worked with the National Park Service to research, document and preserve these treasured resources. It’s a natural fit. As a land-grant institution, the U of A is also a 19th-century idea aimed at improving the lives of citizens; not to mention that it’s a year older than the park service.

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A Painful Past Preserved

photos submitted

In rural Desha County, Arkansas, there are cotton and soybean fields that once played a leading role in the one of the most painful chapters in American history. Driving by today, however, you might not suspect it. There’s very little left of the Rohwer Relocation Center, an internment camp that held almost 12,000 Japanese-American citizens forcibly removed from their homes between 1942 and 1945, during World War II. But Rohwer is not forgotten, thanks in part to work by the University of Arkansas. With grants totaling more than $500,000 from the National Park Service’s Japanese American Confinement Sites Grant Program, students in the university’s Landscape Architecture department researched the camp using hundreds of photos, videos and documents. With that information, the university’s Center for Advanced Spatial Technologies, or CAST, was able to recreate some of the physical spaces of Rohwer online to help convey daily life inside the camp. Visitors to the Rising Above website (risingabove.cast.uark.edu) can walk through the mess hall, a typical barrack and a garden area, seeing it much as the people interned there would have. The website is also a virtual repository of photos, letters and documents, a resource drawn from collections held at the University of Arkansas Libraries’ special collections, and materials housed at Arkansas State University and the Central Arkansas Library System.

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A River Runs Through It Perhaps native Arkansan folksinger Jimmy Driftwood said it best in his ballad “Beautiful Buffalo River”: Beautiful Buffalo River The flag of the mountains unfurled Arkansas’ gift to the nation America’s gift to the world In the 1960s, the U.S. Corps of Engineers planned to build two dams on the Buffalo River to turn it into a reservoir. Bentonville physician and environmentalist Neil Compton understood what was at stake and fought the plan through his group the Ozark Society. Then, as now, the Buffalo was a river of unparalleled beauty, its high bluffs, sand bars, densely forested banks and meandering stream offering visitors a glimpse of the untrammeled Ozarks. Compton won the day. In 1972, President Richard Nixon signed a bill creating the Buffalo National River, administered by the National Park Service, America’s first wild and scenic river. University of Arkansas researchers have been instrumental in helping document, protect and preserve the Buffalo since. Journalism professor Larry Foley spent two years working on a film about the river, titled The Buffalo Flows. The film, which featured the talents of many U of A faculty, debuted in 2008 and was later shown in conjunction with filmmaker Ken Burns’ series The National Parks: America’s Best Idea. The University Libraries remastered and digitized a 50-year-old film by Compton himself titled Opportunity for Arkansas:

The Buffalo National River, while the University of Arkansas Press reissued Compton’s classic book The Battle for the Buffalo River. Researchers from the University of Arkansas System’s Arkansas Archeological Survey created a website documenting the importance of bluff shelters found in the park, structures that were used for thousands of years by Arkansas’ first inhabitants. And a team of researchers from the University of Arkansas System Division of Agriculture has used high-tech methods of assessing the potential environmental impact of a controversial hog farm located in the Buffalo River watershed. The efforts help fulfill the promise offered in Driftwood’s song: Now she’s a national river The pride of all races of men A free-flowing beauty forever Forever and ever, amen

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What Lies Beneath

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photos submitted

Yellowstone Lake, in the heart of Wyomingâ€™s Yellowstone National Park, is the largest lake at its altitude in the world. Its 136 square miles of cold, clear water is ringed with sandy beaches, rocky shorelines and stunning mountain vistas. The northern portion of the lake is located in the Yellowstone Caldera, an enormous crater formed by volcanic eruptions some 640,000 years ago. Part of the lake sits on top of two volcanic domes that rise and fall each year, altering the shape of the lake in an unusual way. Typically, lake levels rise and fall uniformly, like water in a bathtub. Yellowstone Lake, however, recedes on one and remains stable on the other, and vice versa. University of Arkansas researchers studied aerial photos of the lake taken between 1954 and 2002 to document the shoreline changes, then created detailed maps of sections of the lakebed. Their goal was to create a digital model that accurately mimicked changes documented in the photos. Such a model would help park personnel track caldera movement and its associated impact on the shoreline, which holds both archeological interest and a great deal of park infrastructure.

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Big Snakes, Big Park Biologist J.D. Willson’s research is helping scientists determine how invasive Burmese pythons are changing South Florida’s complex ecosystem. Everglades National Park is a haven for wildlife biologists, who are particularly drawn to its million-plus acres to study reptiles and amphibians in a subtropical environment. But non-native pythons are altering the ecosystem in ways that scientists are just beginning to understand. Pythons were probably first released in the Everglades in the late 1970s or early ’80s. One of the largest snakes in the world, these alpha predators from southern and southeast Asia can eat almost anything they come across, including deer, raccoons, rabbits and even alligators. Between 2003 and 2011, Willson and fellow researchers from other universities and the National Park Service drove thousands of miles on roads traversing Everglades National Park looking for pythons and the mammals they prey on. Pythons are so well camouflaged that the only effective way to find them is when they cross roads. Areas that were once home to abundant populations of rabbits, raccoons and possums were almost empty. The conclusion was clear: “These findings suggest that predation by pythons has resulted in dramatic declines in mammals within Everglades National Park and that introduced apex predators, such as giant constrictors, can exert significant top-down pressure on prey populations,” they wrote in a paper that appeared in the Proceedings of the National Academy of Sciences in 2012.

Willson’s subsequent research attempts to figure out how many snakes there are in the park, and how far north they range. He’s also working to determine how the snakes are altering the area’s food chain. “Top predators not only have strong effects on the species they eat, but can also have effects that trickle up and down the food web. In some cases, these ‘trophic cascades’ can completely change ecosystems,” he said.

A R K A N S A S • Spring 2017

Old Fight, New Findings

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photos submitted

The Battle of Pea Ridge, fought in March 1862, was one of the most pivotal of the Civil War. The outcome decided which side controlled Missouri, and controlling Missouri was the key to controlling the West. Confederates troops outnumbered their Union counterparts, and they pressed their advantage in a series of bold moves that put the Union on its heels several times. But Union leadership carried the day, driving the Confederates out of northern Arkansas/ and Missouri for the remainder of the war. Pea Ridge is now a national military park, and one of the bestpreserved Civil War battlefields in the country. The site has important stories to tell, and researchers from the University of Arkansas’ Arkansas Archeological Survey are helping the National Park Service tell them via a multiyear archeological inventory of the park. By combining traditional archeological techniques with advanced technology including high-resolution magnetometry and GPSenhanced mapping, researchers are able to scan the battlefield for clues much more closely than ever before. Magnetometry picks up small changes in the earth’s magnetic field, allowing archeologists to see where the ground has been disturbed, for example, by an exploding shell more than 150 years ago. An initial survey of Ruddick’s Field, where much of the fighting took place on the first day of battle, the technique revealed some 1.6 million measurements. Ultimately, the work will result in a more comprehensive interpretation of the Battle of Pea Ridge, which will help the National Park Service tell the story of a pivotal Civil War battle. n

Joseph Batta-Mpouma spends lots of time in his lab working to fabricate smart textiles and exotic surfaces. He is advised by Jin-Woo Kim, professor of biological engineering.

A Central Role in Research and Teaching Graduate students are tie that binds lab work to classroom By Amanda Cantu and Bettina Lehovec B.A.’01 After meeting with faculty and deans during 2016, Chancellor Joe Steinmetz set eight priorities to guide the university’s vision. Perched near the center of those priorities is a student often overlooked in the grand scheme of higher education: the graduate student. Graduate students inhabit a betwixt-and-between role, no longer the new undergraduate coveted by admissions officers but also not a sage member of the university faculty yet. They have the unenviable job of working both sides of that gulf while not fully standing on either shore. Nevertheless, a graduate student’s service to both undergraduates and the faculty is crucial. “Graduate students play an integral role in the U of A’s teaching and

research missions,” said Kim Needy, dean of the Graduate School and International Education. “The support they receive from our alumni makes an investment in the graduate student’s personal education but also pays dividends to the rest of our campus. Bringing America’s best graduate students to the University of Arkansas means we have thoughtful teaching assistants for our classrooms and energized research assistants in our labs.” Following are a few of the graduate students who are tackling research projects that support faculty, provide learning opportunities for undergraduates and have the potential to improve our world.

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Photos by Whit Pruitt

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Dennis Lozada is working to breed wheat with a higher grain yield and that is adaptable in a wide variety of climates. He was influenced to study wheat by professor Richard Esten Mason.

Developing Smart Textiles Imagine the Razorback soccer team’s jerseys were made of fabric capable of continuously monitoring and communicating athletes’ breathing rates, heart rates and temperatures to the coaching and training staff on the sidelines. This could potentially improve the staff’s ability to make coaching decisions and provide a better point of care for the athletes. What if the same material were used for a baby’s mattress, allowing parents to monitor their newborn while he sleeps? Or, what if smart phones were outfitted with antireflective, self-cleaning screens? Joseph Batta-Mpouma, a microelectronics-photonics doctoral student and member of the bionanotechnology research group at the Institute for Nanoscience and Engineering, is working to turn this idea of smart textiles and exotic surfaces from mere fantasy to reality. Batta-Mpouma, a native of Cameroon, is in the midst of developing a process to fabricate cellulose nanocrystals-based nanofibers and films from cellulose-rich plant materials. The nanofibers would have many potential applications in biosensing, photovoltaics and displays, including the creation of wearable bioelectronics textiles. One of the reasons Batta-Mpouma is focusing on cellulose nanocrystals, a subunit of cellulose, is because of the potential cost implications for consumers. “Cellulose is one of the most abundant sources of natural materials we have in nature,” he said. “Because of its abundance, it is relatively

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cheap. So, we can make the same materials others are making with petroleum-based products, except ours will be more cost affordable and eco-friendly.”

Changing Course Brings Reward Dennis Lozada wanted to be a medical doctor. But, a leap of faith brought him to Fayetteville to study wheat — a crop he had never even seen until he began graduate school at the University of Arkansas in 2013. With no regrets, Lozada said the decision was one of the best of his life. Since childhood, Lozada has had a passion for helping others. He spent most his life thinking the best way to channel that passion was to become a medical doctor. However, after working with the International Rice Research Institute as an undergraduate, Lozada’s career plans changed. “When I saw first-hand the importance of agriculture, I knew that was the sector I needed to be in,” he said. Lozada refocused his undergraduate research on rice and intended to pursue that same research focus in graduate school. But, when University of Arkansas professor Richard Esten Mason pitched him the idea of studying wheat breeding in the university’s cell and molecular biology program, he took the chance and again changed his course. “Things have definitely turned out differently than I expected them to, but I’m enjoying it,” he said.

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Lozada is trying to breed wheat that has a higher grain yield and is adaptable to a wider range of climate environments than current wheat varieties. He works with 240 wheat varieties to identify regions in the wheat genome that affect variation for grain yield and adaptation traits. By doing so, he could potentially identify wheat varieties that have higher yield and productivity in target environments. The significance of his research earned Lozada a 2015 Monsanto Beachell-Borlaug International Scholars Program fellowship, which is valued at $100,000. The fellowship will afford him the opportunity to conduct research at the International Maize and Wheat Improvement Center in Mexico during the spring 2017 semester.

Examining Malaysia’s Rice Policy Malaysian government officials have set a goal of achieving 100 percent self-sufficiency in rice production by 2020, due to food security concerns. Public policy doctoral candidate and Malaysia native Roslina Ali is digging deeper into the country’s holistic rice policy development strategies to determine the feasibility of the government’s bold objective. Malaysia’s self-sufficiency goal largely stems from the 2008 world food crisis. During the crisis, many of the key countries Malaysia imported from restricted rice exports. This left Malaysia unable to provide sufficient quantities of rice for its citizens. As a result, Malaysian government officials declared in 2010 a goal of becoming completely self-sufficient by 2015. In 2015, the target deadline was extended to 2020. Malaysia currently produces an average of 60 percent of the rice its growing population consumes. Ali’s research suggests the idea of increasing production by 40 percent by 2020 is overly aggressive and unlikely to be successful. According to Ali, one of the biggest impediments to Malaysia achieving total self-sufficiency is rooted in economics. “Rice farmers in Malaysia have received substantial government subsidies,” she said. “An increased demand for rice production has augmented government costs and expenditures, making it more economical to import rice than to grow it locally.” Furthermore, rice farming in Malaysia is historically a small-scale production with unattractive returns for farmers. Farming practices are antiquated, and technology available in the Asian nation is limited compared to countries with larger rice production. Rather than pursue complete self-sufficiency, Ali is exploring the viability of Malaysia scaling down rice production and redirecting its agricultural focus. “I am trying to determine if it would be more beneficial, both economically and socially, for the government to reallocate resources, including rice subsidies, to other crops or commodities with a more competitive, comparative and sustainable advantage,” she said. Ali’s enrollment at the University of Arkansas is sponsored by the Malaysian Agricultural Research and Development Institute. “This research is a crucial contribution to the Malaysian government, driving a way forward through policy sequencing strategies for the Malaysian rice sector and agricultural economics,” she said. “It is such a pleasure to be involved in it, and I really hope to contribute more to my government, especially in research and policy areas.”

Doctoral Student’s Research Suggests Exercise May Protect Against Liver Disease University of Arkansas doctoral student Megan Rosa-Caldwell was excited when she heard Yoshinori Ohsumi had won the Nobel Prize in Physiology or Medicine in early October. She doesn’t know the Japanese cell biologist and hasn’t worked with him, but her research overlaps with his in one important area — autophagy, or the process of how cells clean themselves out. A Greek term for self-eating, autophagy is pronounced aw-tofuh-jee. A breakdown in the process is thought to be involved in the development of several diseases as well as the aging process. RosaCaldwell is looking specifically at the effect on non-alcoholic fatty liver disease, about which she was lead author in a research article recently published by Applied Physiology, Nutrition and Metabolism. The journal article is titled “Moderate Physical Activity Promotes Basal Hepatic Autophagy in Diet-Induced Obese Mice.” Ohsumi’s years of work in discovering autophagy genes and metabolic pathways prompted researchers around the world — such as Rosa-Caldwell — to study the process of autophagy. “He pioneered methods to measure autophagy so that it became mainstream,” she said. With a team of fellow students and faculty in the Human Performance Laboratory in the College of Education and Health Professions, Rosa-Caldwell studied the differences between two groups of mice. Some of the mice were fed a nutritionally balanced mouse chow while others were fed a chow with a nutritional content that matches what’s called a Western diet, which is high in fat at 42 percent of total calories. The two groups were then divided again, into those given an exercise wheel so they could get physical activity in their cages and those who did not get a wheel. Non-alcoholic fatty liver disease is one of the fastest growing diseases of the liver, Rosa-Caldwell said. When the researchers studied the livers of the mice, they found a couple of different markers to indicate that some of the mice were on the way to developing non-alcoholic fatty liver disease, but this was corrected with physical activity, she said. “We used the metaphor that autophagy is like garbage trucks in the cells,” she said, “and we looked at two aspects of that — how many garbage trucks were at work cleaning the cells and how fast they did it.” Physical activity protected against non-alcoholic fatty liver disease development and it appeared this was because autophagy was more efficient in the mice that had exercised, the study results indicated. “That suggests those mice were able to get rid of byproducts brought about by the high-fat diet better than the sedentary mice did,” RosaCaldwell said. Rosa-Caldwell is in the first year of her doctoral program in exercise science. Nicholas Greene, assistant professor of exercise science, is her faculty mentor. The work done for the Applied Physiology, Nutrition and Metabolism article took place during her master’s program in exercise science at the U of A.

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Photo submitted Photo by Whit Pruitt Photo by Earl Richardson

Above left, Roslina Ali is studying Malaysia’s rice policy strategies. Left, Megan Rosa-Caldwell is studying “autophagy,” the process by which cells clean themselves. Above right, Sandra Bullins spends a lot of time in the Graduate Education Building with her service dog, Mr. Jim. She is helping people with disabilities make the transition to work, higher education and engagement.

She said she became interested in metabolic processes as a high school athlete who ran cross country and track. She knew working hard at practice was the best way to improve her performance but she also knew nutrition was important. While at a regional conference during her undergraduate days in exercise science at Baker University in Kansas, she came across the work being done by Greene and other students in his Integrative Muscle Metabolism Laboratory at the U of A. Research such as hers and other studies being done in the field indicate that exercise helps prevent and also can alleviate the symptoms of non-alcoholic fatty liver disease, but work remains to be done to determine what specific cellular mechanisms cause this effect, RosaCaldwell said. “We know that people are diverse and may have limited time to exercise,” she said. “What’s interesting about our results is they suggest that small amounts of physical activity can still have a big impact on liver health.”

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Navigating Life Without Sight For the first few months after Sandra Bullins lost her eyesight at the age of 22, she stayed home in her pajamas, sunk into depression and despair. Then her bother insisted she join him for a friend’s party, even if he had to dress her himself. The outing was a transformative event for Bullins, as she realized she still was accepted by others and could adjust to the changes her blindness required. “My life wasn’t over. It was a new world and this was a new me — and I needed to find my place in it.” Sixteen years later, Bullins is a doctoral student in the vocational rehabilitation counseling program of the University of Arkansas College of Education and Health Professions, continuing her interest in helping people with disabilities transition to the worlds of work, higher education and community engagement. Bullins’ doctoral candidacy exam is set for January. The dissertation

Photo by Russell Cothern

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topic she plans to propose in May will address the psychological aspects of adjustment to disability, particularly how women cope with the onset of visual impairment and the role their spirituality plays. Bullins felt abandoned by God when she realized that her blindness was permanent, she said. Yet her faith has helped her rally her energies and focus on the positive aspects of her situation. “Yes, I lost my sight, but because of that I’ve been given a lot of opportunities I wouldn’t have had otherwise,” she said. “I’ve earned three different degrees and met many wonderful people — both with and without sight. I’ve learned that I am a strong and rather determined individual. I’ve had the opportunity to challenge myself and meet those challenges head on. “My research will explore the question: How well do other women cope, and, if they cope well, what reliance do they place on their spiritual foundation?”

Left, Alexandru Avram’s lab research focuses on turning plant materials into renewable energy. Avram is advised by Ranil Wickramasinghe, professor of chemical engineering and holder of the Ross E. Martin Endowed Chair in Emerging Technologies. Above top, Graduate student Raíssa Araujo Borges demonstrates the functions of a 3D printer to her labmates. Above, Jacob Brown works in the Integrative Muscle Metabolism Laboratory directed by Nicholas Greene, assistant professor of exercise science.

Finding Empowerment in Science Alexandru Avram loves science. He loves learning the minute details of how things work. He loves conducting experiments to see the impact a slight change to the smallest of molecules can make. Most of all, he loves the implications that science has for advancing human livelihood. “I have loved science since I was a kid,” Avram said. “I think it empowers you. It gives you a mindset that you can change the world, and many scientists actually do.” Avram, a chemical engineering doctoral student, is working to turn plant material into renewable energy. Though corn and sugar cane have been used to produce ethanol fuel for years, the increased demand for the product could result in increasing food prices at the supermarket. For this reason, Avram is focusing exclusively on the potential of nonedible plant materials.

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Through a procedure called biomass hydrolysis, the non-edible plant materials can be decomposed in its building blocks in a reactor containing ionic liquid as a novel solvent. The ionic liquid solubilizes the plant material and allows for fast decomposition of biomass that can be later used to create liquid biofuels and bioplastics. Using ionic liquid in the biomass hydrolysis process is a new and relatively uncommon practice, but its ability to solubilize biomass makes it ideal. However, the expense of ionic liquid presents a challenge Avram is working to solve. “The problem with ionic liquids is they’re very expensive, so I’m looking at a procedure that would allow the ionic liquid to be recycled,” Avram said. Avram is developing a process for modifying the chemistry of the commercial membranes so the reaction products can be separated from the ionic liquid, allowing the liquid to be reused. His work has yielded promising results. “There is nothing better than a research project that actually works,” he said. “Most of the time stuff doesn’t work, but when it starts working and you see that it’s feasible … well, that’s been the happiest moment of my Ph.D.”

Improving Treatment for Meniscus Injuries For athletes with a torn meniscus in the knee, surgical repair is the most common treatment option. However, full meniscus replacements are offered in limited clinical trials to those with the most severe injuries. Raíssa Araujo Borges, a mechanical engineering graduate student, is working to improve replacement treatment options by improving meniscus implants. Currently, implants are made by molding thermoplastic material into a solid meniscus with a predetermined fixed shape. Araujo is exploring the feasibility of using 3D printing to create the implant. Using 3D printing would result in a shape that is patient-specific and has desired porosity to retain body fluid for better lubrication. Additionally, the 3D-printed meniscus generates less waste and has a fast delivery time, ultimately resulting in a long-lasting implant with a faster recovery time for the patient. For her research, Araujo combines a variety of biocompatible polymers to create the feeding material for the 3D printer. The polymers are melted by the 3D printer to produce the desired implant shape. Though she’s made strides, Araujo said there is still a lot of work to be done. “The surface finish on the implants has to be the best possible, and I’m working to improve that,” she said. “I am still trying to figure out the best blend of polymers to use.” Araujo, a native of Brazil, said her research interests paired with her desire to study abroad led her to the University of Arkansas. “I have wanted to study abroad since I was a child,” she said. “When I began looking at universities in the United States, I really liked the research happening in the mechanical engineering department and

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liked the location of the university, so I thought it would be a good fit for me.” Outside the lab, Araujo’s varied interests occupy most of her waking hours. She is the president of the Brazilian Student Organization, is a member of a local ballet company and is an active participant in the International Culture Team. Managing so many responsibilities is not easy, but Araujo’s passion for her interests keeps her motivated. “I try to be as organized as I can be; I think that’s how I manage things,” she said. “I also think I sleep less than most other people.” Araujo, who is advised by Min Zou, is on track to complete her master’s degree in summer 2017.

Doctoral Student Publishes Research Examining Molecular Processes Affecting Muscle Loss Jacob Brown originally considered going into medicine but then he realized studying the cause of disease was really what intrigued him. Now well into a doctoral program at the University of Arkansas, Brown is first author of a new peer-reviewed article in Acta Physiologica. Brown’s advisor, Nicholas Greene, described the journal as one of the most prestigious in the field of physiology since it was established in 1889. Brown is pursuing a doctorate in cell and molecular biology and works in Greene’s Integrative Muscle Metabolism Laboratory in the Health, Physical Education and Recreation Building on campus. Greene is an assistant professor of exercise science in the College of Education and Health Professions. After earning a bachelor’s degree from Missouri Southern State University, Brown researched doctoral programs and found that Greene’s lab fit with his interests. Students and faculty in Greene’s lab examine the regulation of metabolic functions in skeletal muscle in disease conditions and the potential corrective effects of exercise and lifestyle physical activity on skeletal muscle metabolic impairments. Since December, three doctoral students working in the lab have had papers published with them as first author. In the Acta Physiologica article, Brown describes his study that examined a protein called PGC-1α4, a gene that may contribute to muscle-wasting diseases including cancer, HIV and diabetes. Scientists have been studying the possible effects of raising the protein’s levels to help prevent muscle mass loss caused by disease, prolonged inactivity and aging, but according to Brown’s article, there is limited understanding of the regulation of its expression and role in many pathophysiologic conditions. Brown’s research introduced a signaling mechanism that regulates the expression of PGC-1α4 and examined the response to stimuli associated with altered muscle mass. His results suggested a novel mechanism suppressing the PGC-1α4 expression that may limit the muscle’s ability to add protein, critical for maintenance of mass and strength. Brown is in the third year of the cell and molecular biology doctoral program and is interested in continuing to conduct research at the university level once he graduates. n

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Hands-On Education Service Learning Classes Match Students with Community Needs By Bettina Lehovec B.A.’01

The little girl had sat slumped in the saddle for three months, largely unresponsive to the people who propped her up and the horse who carried her around the ring. One day, however, she straightened her torso, a feat she had never mastered before. She picked a toy duck from a lineup of toys in a game played from the horse’s back, engaging the world around her. “I realized that this is what therapeutic riding can do,” said Brooke Satterwhite, a student volunteer who helped spot the child throughout the semester. “The action was so basic, but it was so big for her. “I knew beforehand what horses did for me. Now I saw what they did for other people — and how much more of an impact horses have on them.” Satterwhite was a junior when she took Equine-Assisted Activities and Therapies, a service learning course offered through the Animal Science Department of the Dale Bumpers College of Agricultural, Food and Life Sciences. Now she’s a senior, planning a career in equine-assisted activities and therapies, or EAAT as its known. EAAT is a growing field that uses horses as therapeutic partners, helping children and adults with developmental, physical and emotional needs. Students in the service learning class volunteered with area agencies such as Horses for Healing, Equestrian Bridges and Courage Therapeutic Riding to gain hands-on experience. They also attended class lectures, heard from guest speakers, took field trips, kept journals, wrote papers and created a final small group presentation. “I didn’t know the impact the class would have on me,” Satterwhite said. “I’m passionate about horses, but I’ve always loved helping people, too. Now I can combine the two — and do all the things I love.”

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photo by Russell Cothren

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“Students understand that they need a really well-rounded experience to build their skill sets and set them apart,” agreed Angela Oxford, director of the Center for Community Engagement and co-chairwoman of the Service Learning Initiative. “They need to have hands-on experience for job interviews. It gives them depth.” Students also are motivated by a desire to help others, Oxford said. “They’re the students who were growing up during or after 9/11. They have a real sense of wanting to make their mark on the world, make the world a different place.”

photos submitted

Business Students Make Difference in Delta

Combining Skill Learning With Service Not all students experience such a life-changing ‘aha’ in their service learning courses. But most report a rewarding experience, as they combine public service with academic learning and receive course credit for working in the community. “That hands-on experience gives students the opportunity to determine if that discipline or that career is right for them,” said Jennie Popp, professor of agriculture economics and business and co-chair of the U of A Service Learning Initiative. The initiative was started three years ago to help faculty members incorporate aspects of service learning into their classes and research. “Service learning helps students build leadership skills and selfconfidence,” Popp said. “And they’re doing service. It gives them the opportunity to not only build skill sets but to give back to the community. They can’t get that from classes alone.” Nearly 100 U of A courses are now designated as service learning, Popp said, with new ones being added each semester. They run the gamut from community development to photojournalism, landscape planning to criminal defense, social studies to grant writing. Service learning courses address community needs while clearly connecting to academic content, according to the criteria on the Service Learning website. Students are required to put in five hours of service for every credit hour and engage in some sort of structured reflection along with more formal papers and projects. There’s a growing demand for service learning classes from students, who recognize the benefits of experiential learning for their future careers, Popp said.

Students are not the only ones clamoring to add service learning classes to the curriculum. Molly Jensen, clinical associate professor of marketing in the Walton College of Business, is partnering with professors across campus and the Urban League of Arkansas to design an interdisciplinary service learning project in the Delta of Arkansas. Jensen was introduced to service learning through the interdisciplinary study abroad program Global Community Development in Belize. Jensen co-led a course called Micro Loans and Entrepreneurship in Belize from 2012-16. “As a result of going to Belize, there was a fundamental shift in my idea of service learning and how I teach on campus,” she said. Jensen developed a service learning course in nonprofit marketing; she taught the course as a special topics class for three years before she and a colleague created the nonprofit studies minor in 2014. Students in the course work with area nonprofit agencies to conduct a marketing audit — an in-depth analysis of marketing strategies and how well agencies are getting their message across. Community partners have included the Fayetteville Boys and Girls Club, Peace at Home Family Shelter, The Cancer Challenge, the Teen Action Center, Feed Fayetteville and area state parks. The service learning project allows students to wrestle with the ambiguities they will face in their real-world careers, Jensen said. “They have to deal with a real client, which can be very messy. They have to deal with each other outside of class,” she said. “They begin to start executing their own ideas, spreading their wings and owning the project by utilizing all the things we’ve taught them in the Walton College. Things like critical thinking, problem solving, evaluating and identifying valid solutions. They get to put all of those things into practice.” Students are attracted to the “social good” aspect of service learning, Jensen said. “Millennials like to do. I find, most of the time, that if you give them a little bit of structure and get out of the way, they are far more successful than I could ever be,” she said. In 2014, Jensen and honors student Shannon Klenke designed a second service learning class for her marketing students. They teamed with Angela Oxford, director of the U of A Center for Community Engagement, whose Dream BIG program was changing lives in the Marvell-Elaine School District near West Helena. The course, launched during the January intercession in 2015,

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included four intensive days of study on campus and a three-day trip to the Delta. Students created curriculum to teach financial literacy at Marvell High School, coaching juniors and seniors in soft skills such as public speaking, resume building and dressing for success. They recruited prominent business owners as keynote speakers and coordinated a career fair to end the daylong event. Ryan Cooney, now a senior majoring in economics and management, participated in that first course. At the start of the day at Marvell-Elaine, many teens seemed to view the seminar as a way to get out of classes, Cooney said. “By the end of the day, they were telling us they didn’t want us to leave. They really got engaged.” One student in particular was “goofy” during the first session, Cooney said, distracting others with his disrespectful attitude. “Then, during resume building, his whole demeanor changed. He realized this was something he needed to work on. He started asking questions and getting serious. He got his buddies involved. By the end of that session, every single one of them walked out with a resume they could bring to an employer that week.” Such real-life interactions help prepare students for life after college, Ryan said. “There are so many projects we’re going to work on where we have to come up with a plan, organize people, and get things done. This will help us be prepared for later on. “Service learning is great. You really get to get in there and apply everything you’ve learned in the classroom. It’s not just a theory – you truly apply what you’re learning.” n

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Service Learning Courses Earn Award Seven U of A service learning courses were recognized by the President’s Higher Education Community Service Honor Roll in October 2016, along with three service volunteer programs. The Honor Roll recognizes institutions of higher education that support exemplary community service programs and raise the visibility of effective practices in campus community partnerships. The courses, all offered in 2015, the time of the application, were: • Community Health Coaches • Sin Limites: The Latino Youth Biliteracy Project • Teaching Art for Special Needs Adults • Public Health Education in Belize • Micro Loans and Entrepreneurship in Belize • Saving Money Makes Cents • The School of Law Legal Clinic.

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A S S O C I AT I O N

President’s Message Vibrant local alumni chapters and societies extend the reach and impact of the Arkansas Alumni Association and support our mission of connecting and serving the University of Arkansas family. The AAA provides support to chapters and societies, but these groups exist organically because of many of you — committed alumni and friends with shared geography (chapters) or experiences (societies) who desire a forum for enjoying one another’s company and working towards a common purpose. These groups also spring from the knowledge that we can accomplish more (and have more fun) when we work together. This past fall, the AAA hosted an on-campus summit for volunteers from across the country. The summit, which included more than 80 participants, was an opportunity to exchange information and ideas, discuss challenges, and align direction. It also was an opportunity to celebrate the success of a number of teams and individuals. Last year, more than 8,000 alumni and friends volunteered nearly 23,000 hours. That is an extraordinary expression of passion and commitment to the state’s flagship university. From this group, we recognized the following teams and individuals at the summit: Board Cup (most outstanding team): • Black Alumni Society for promoting communication and friendship among alumni, faculty and friends. Their signature event, the biennial BAS Reunion in 2015, connected members and friends and raised $15k towards student scholarships. Mace Award (best event or program by a team; named after Mike Macechko, the Association’s long-serving, former executive eirector): • Latino Alumni Society for the 2016 Meritos Latinos event, which honored individuals who connect, serve, and advance the UA Latino community and also recognized the group’s scholarship recipients. Chancellor Joe Steinmetz served as keynote speaker.

Morris Fair Heart Award (an individual who exemplifies spirit, enthusiasm, and commitment; named after Morris Fair, a volunteer from Memphis): • Madison Broyles for her support of the Dallas Chapter’s 2016 golf tournament. The event, hosted in partnership with the Greater Dallas Razorback Club, featured head football Coach Bret Bielema and raised over $7,000 for scholarships. • John L Colbert for his outstanding leadership in delivering the mission and values of the AAA and the BAS. He served two terms on the AAA’s Board of Directors and is immediate past president of the BAS. We also recognized a number of other teams and individuals, who are listed in the Volunteer Summit article within this Association section. The honorees above are just a sampling of the many of you who willingly gave your time, talent and treasure to organize watch parties and other social activities, help your communities, serve as ambassadors to prospective students and other stakeholders, and mentor to and network with other Razorbacks. I am grateful to them and all of you for your many contributions. Your work directly supports our Campaign Arkansas goals of increasing membership and engagement and raising additional funds for student scholarships. Since the scholarship program’s founding in 1990, the AAA’s endowed funds for this purpose have grown to $3.6m (as of year-end 2016). Among chapters and societies, the three largest endowments include BAS ($187k), Houston ($185k), and San Francisco ($147k). These amounts are a testament to the hard work and commitment of many volunteers over a long period of time. Distributions from endowed funds, along with Hog Tag license plate revenues and a portion of your membership dues, provided $1.1m in scholarships to hundreds of deserving students in the 2015-16 academic year. Please keep up the great work! The paths to chapter and society success are many, but the groups who are more successful over the long-term have at least two common characteristics — they share work among a number of volunteers and periodically renew leadership. The challenges are simply stated, but difficult to address — identifying and developing a pipeline of like-minded individuals to serve and lead. Dale Green, supported by Thomas Ellis (chapters) and Angela Mosley-Monts (societies), are the Alumni Association’s resources to help you. My career took me from Tulsa to Chicago in 1990. I was new to a big city and knew few people outside work. The Chicago Chapter of the AAA provided a little bit of home and a ready-made set of friends. Nearly 27 years on, many of those Chicago-Arkansas Club connections are still friends today. I have had a similar experience since moving to Houston in 2009. My chapter friendships and our accomplishments are part of the reason why I understand and care about our chapter and society work. Woo Pig, Don Eldred ✪+ BSBA’81 President, Arkansas Alumni Association

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Past Presidents of the Arkansas Alumni Association Board of Directors 1923-24 Joseph Kirby Mahone ✪ BA’07 1924-25 Robert Hill Carruth BA’11 1925-26 James E. Rutherford ✪ BA’22 1926-27 Winston Lee Winters BSCE’06 1927-28 J.L. Longino BSEE’03 1928-29 Alfred Boyde Cypert BA’12 1929-30 James William Trimble BA’17 1930-31 G. DeMatt Henderson BA’01 LLB’03 1931-32 Dr. Jasper Neighbors MD’18 1932-33 Scott D. Hamilton BA’24 1933-34 Charles A. Walls BA’07 1934-35 Arthur D. Pope BA’06 1935-36 John C. Ashley BA’11 1936-37 Beloit Taylor BA’19 1937-38 John P. Woods ✪ BA’09 1938-39 Glen Rose ★ BSE’28 MS’31 1939-40 Claude J. Byrd ★ BSA’25 1940-41 Charles Frierson Jr. ’29 1941-42 John B. Daniels BSA’33 1942-44 G. DeMatt Henderson BA’01 LLB’03 1944-45 Dr. M. L. Dalton MD’32 1945-46 Jack East ✪ BSE’24 1946-47 Steve Creekmore ★ BSBA’11 1947-48 Maupin Cummings ✪ BA’32 1948-49 Roy Milum BA’04, LLD’58 1949-50 Paul Sullins ✪ JD’37 1950-51 Francis Cherry LLB’38 1951-52 J.C. Gibson BA’24 MS’38 1952-53 George Makris ✪ BSBA’37 1953-54 Edward B. Dillon Jr. ★LLB’50 1954-55 Beloit Taylor BA’19 1955-56 Louis L. Ramsay Jr. LLB’47 LLD’88 1956-57 Stanley Wood ✪ BA’23 1957-58 A.L. Whitten MS’40 1958-59 W.R. “Dub”Harrison BA’20 1959-60 E.M. “Mack”Anderson✪+ BA’32 1960-61 Warren Wood ✪ LLB’32 1961-62 Owen Calhoun Pearce BSBA’41 LLB’41 1962-63 James C. Hale BA’33 1963-64 Jack East Jr. BSBA’48 1964-65 J. Fred Patton ✪+ BA’29 MA’36 1965-66 P.K. Holmes Jr. ✪ BA’37 LLB’39

1966-67 William H. Bowen ★ LLB’49 1967-68 Guy H. Lackey ✪+ BSBA’49 1968-69 Robert P. Taylor ✪+ BSBA’47 MS48 1969-70 John Ed Chambers BA’39 LLB’40 1970-71 Chester H. Lauck ’25 1971-72 Nathan Gordon ✪+ JD’39 1972-73 Charles E. Scharlau ✪+ LLB’51 1973-74 Carl L. Johnson ★ BSBA’47 1974-75 R. Cecil Powers ✪ BSBA’30 1975-76 J.C. Reeves ✪ ’25 1976-77 Elizabeth (Sissi) Riggs Brandon ✪+ BSE’55 1977-78 Roy Murphy ✪+ BSIM’49 1978-79 Fred Livingston ✪ BSBA’55 1979-80 Tracy Scott ✪ BSE’53 1980-81 Edward W. Stevenson ✪+ BSBA’60 1981-82 Fred Livingston ✪ BSBA’55 1982-83 Don Schnipper ✪+ BA’63 JD’64 1983-84 Mary Trimble Maier ✪+ BA’49 1984-85 Bart Lindsey ✪+ BSBA’67 1985-86 W. Kelvin Wyrick ✪+ BSE’59 1986-87 Larry G. Stephens ✪+ BSIE’58 1987-88 Rebecca Shreve ✪+ BSE’60 MED’63 1988-89 Robert T. Dawson ✪+ BA’60 LLB’65 1989-90 Gregory B. Graham ✪+ BSBA’70 JD’72 1990-91 Blake Schultz ✪+ BA’51 1991-92 Chuck Dudley ✪+ BSBA’76 MBA’77 1992-93 Harriet Hudson Phillips ✪+ BA’72 1993-94 Richard Hatfield ✪+ BSBA’65 LLB’67 1994-95 Jenny Mitchell Adair ✪+ BA’62 1995-96 Jack McNulty ✪+ BSBA’67 JD’70 1996-97 Sylvia Boyer ✪+ BSE’63 1997-98 Morris Fair ★ BSBA’56 1998-00 H. Lawson Hembree IV ✪+ BSA’83 2000-02 Jeffery R. Johnson ✪+ BA’70 2002-04 Edward Bradford ✪+ BSE’55 MED’56 2004-06 Brian M. Rosenthal ✪+ BSBA’84 2006-08 Kenny Gibbs ✪+ BSBA’85 2008-10 Gerald Jordan ✪+ BA’70 2010-12 Steve Nipper ✪+ BSBA’71 MBA’73 2012-14 John Reap ✪+ BSBA’70 2014-16 Stephanie S. Streett ✪ BS’91

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Sunrise to Sunset

The view from your condo at The Dickson starts every day off right, and ends it nicely too. Discover The Dickson Lifestyle at the-dickson.com

609 W. Dickson St. | Fayetteville, Arkansas Randy Werner | 479.287.4599 lifestyle@the-dickson.com

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Arkansas Alumni Association Announces 2017 Student Alumni Board Executive Team

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The Arkansas Alumni Association is pleased to announce the Student Alumni Board Executive Team for 2017. The Student Alumni Board serves as the Board of Directors for the Student Alumni Association. The Student Alumni Association is the student membership program established by the Arkansas Alumni Association. Created by students in 2003, SAA was designed to inspire loyalty, preserve University of Arkansas traditions and establish the bond between students and

alumni. Originally called R.E.A.L. Razorbacks, this organization grew out of the Student Alumni Board, established in 1996. The Student Alumni Association is “The Student Chapter of the Arkansas Alumni Association.” Over the last year, the chapter has grown to more than 4,500 members, making it the largest student organization on campus.

President ASHLYN SMITH

Vice President of Sponsorships DANIEL SHIMER

Ashlyn is a junior from Harrisburg, Arkansas. She is majoring in social work. This past year, she was vice president of administration on SAB. She also serves on various positions within Zeta Tau Alpha and the Volunteer Action Center.

Daniel is a junior from Fayetteville majoring in finance. This past year, he served on the SAB sponsorship team. Daniel also serves as the warden for Sigma Alpha Epsilon and was a walk-on wide receiver on the football team his freshman year.

Vice President of Board Development REGAN BURGESS

Vice President of Marketing MANNY MEJIA

Regan is a junior from Tulsa, Oklahoma, majoring in biology/pre-med. This past year, she served as co-director of member recruitment on SAB. She is also an Honors College Ambassador, member of Alpha Epsilon Delta and vice president of the Mortar Board Honor Society.

Manny is a sophomore from Springdale majoring in supply chain management. This past year, he served on the SAB marketing team, expanding their Twitter presence. He also serves on various positions within the Associated Student Government, is an intern for Tyson and is a LAS Scholar.

Vice President of Programming BROOKE TAYLOR

Vice President of Member Recruitment LUKE HUMPHREY

Brooke is a junior from King City, California, majoring in agricultural business on a pre-law track. This past year, she served as assistant director of Homecoming volunteers. She serves on campus as vice president of Sigma Alpha and the experiential lab coordinator within Bumpers College.

Luke is a sophomore from Arlington, Texas, majoring in biology/pre-med. This past year, he was the Official BEAT Shirt chair on SAB. He also serves as a senator within ASG, co-president of the Booster Club and merchandise chair of Kappa Alpha Order. Vice President of Member Engagement COLMAN BETLER Colman is a sophomore from Plano, Texas, majoring in biology. This past year, he served as SAA Day chair on SAB. He serves as an ASG senator, Volunteer Action Center Food Pantry volunteer coordinator and community service chair for Kappa Alpha Order.

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Vice President of Homecoming NIKKI ANDERSON Nikki is a sophomore from Fayetteville majoring in international business and economics. This past year, she was an assistant director of Homecoming. She also is a member of Phi Mu sorority, Leadership Walton and teaches dance at the Fayetteville Youth Dance Company. Vice President of Traditions TAYLOR JOHNSON Taylor is a sophomore from Edmond, Oklahoma, majoring in criminal justice and legal studies. This past year, she served on the Traditions Committee on SAB. She serves as the vice president of Delta Gamma, Dream B.I.G. Volunteer Coordinator and has completed over 200 hours of community service since last August.

Emma is a sophomore from Pine Bluff majoring in biochemistry/pre-med. This past year, she served on the Homecoming Steering Committee. She is a member of Kappa Kappa Gamma, Honors College Ambassador and a Class-Plus Tutor on biology, calculus and statistics. Vice President of Alumni Relations MATT HANSEN Matt is a junior from Fayetteville, majoring in agricultural business and economics. This past year, he served as the Official Ring Ceremony co-chair on SAB. He has served as the vice president of Phi Gamma Delta, secretary of the Agricultural Business Club and is a Bumpers College Ambassador. About the Student Alumni Association: The Student Alumni Association (SAA) offers an excellent opportunity for students to get involved and further their professional development skills. SAA oversees the University of Arkansas Homecoming Celebration, the Official Ring and the Senior Walk Dedication. Planning campus-wide events focused on traditions, alumni relations and the senior experience, SAA strives to provide opportunities for members to connect on campus as well as around the world. To learn more or join, visit www.arkansasalumni.org/students. n

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photos by Whit Pruitt

Vice President of Senior Experience EMMA BUCKNER

Winter Ring Ceremony for Juniors and Seniors The University of Arkansas Official Ring embodies the tradition of this great university and symbolizes the achievements and shared experiences of its graduates. Chancellor Joe Steinmetz presented juniors and seniors who purchased the official ring at the Winter Official Ring Ceremony Dec. 1, 2016, at the Janelle Y. Hembree Alumni House. The Official Ring tradition began in 2002. A committee of students, alumni, faculty and administrators joined together for the common goal of developing this new tradition. This dedicated group devoted more than a year to forming the principles of the tradition and designing the ring. After careful consideration, Jostens was selected to create the ring from the committeeâ€™s design and to produce the ring for the university. The official ring conveys the University of Arkansas journey from the beginning to the end and beyond. For information on how to purchase your official class ring or information about the Spring 2017 Official Ring Ceremony, please contact Mercedes Alberson, student programs assistant, at mbalbers@uark.edu.

A S S O C I AT I O N

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Seniors of Significance: Alumni Association honors 71 graduating seniors

The Arkansas Alumni Association honored its third class of Seniors of Significance during a reception at the Janelle Y. Hembree Alumni House on Dec. 2, 2016. Seventy-one graduating seniors, commemorating the university’s founding date of 1871, were recognized along with their faculty or staff mentor. During the reception, the Seniors of Significance received a gold special honor cord to wear during graduation. The 71 students were selected from more than 400 nominations and represent each University of Arkansas undergraduate academic college. These exceptional seniors were selected based on academic

2017 Seniors of Significance Dale Bumpers College of Agricultural, Food and Life Sciences

Lauren Cheevers – Fayetteville Taylor Farr – West Memphis Austin Hamm* – Elkins Victoria Maloch* – Magnolia Niyah Phillips – Arlington, Texas Sydney Simmons – Rector

Fay Jones School of Architecture and Design

Molly Evans – Conway Caitlin Malloy – Bentonville

J. William Fulbright College of Arts and Sciences

Maggie Benton – Jonesboro Courtney Brooks – Rogers Bradey Chambers – Cabot Madison Cole* – Conway Shelby Cormack – Van Buren Alexander Crawford* – Edmond, Oklahoma Weston Grant* – Plano, Texas Blake Griffin – Mountain Home Katie Hicks* – Conway Anna Kay Hilburn – Kennett, Missouri Antonio Igbokidi – Little Rock Eric Janise – The Woodlands, Texas Moses Kingsley – Abuja, Nigeria Darbie Kuykendall – Clarksville Erin Nelson* – Hackett

achievement, leadership skills and substantial extracurricular campus and/or community activities. Though mostly from Arkansas, they also represent eight other states and two countries. This year celebrates the 52nd year of honoring a senior male and female undergraduate through the Senior Honor Citation program, as well as the re-established Razorback Classics program. Only students selected as Seniors of Significance have the opportunity to update their application in the 2017 spring semester to be further considered for these awards. n

Parker Pocklington^ – Centralia, Washington Will Pohlman*^ – Prairie Grove Patricia Ramos* – Tulsa, Oklahoma Ariel Romero* – Fayetteville Thomas Selig*^ – Hot Springs Nezly Silva* – Springdale Alex Smith – Russellville Nancy Smith – Marianna Paige Walker – Little Rock Sam M. Walton College of Business

Andrew Bingham* – Little Rock Kimber Changose* – Little Rock Connor Cook – Dallas, Texas Hayden Coussens* – Overland Park, Kansas Caroline Dominick* – North Little Rock Brandon Downer – Austin, Texas Connor Flocks – Greenwood Andrea Kathol* – Fayetteville Mackenzie Lantefield – Leawood, Kansas Justin McVeigh* – Frisco, Texas Paulina Moya* – Bella Vista Wesley Prewett* – Russellville Summar Roachell – Conway Jonathan Schultz* – Little Rock Julianne Seykora*^ – Flower Mound, Texas Makenzie Smith* – Longview, Texas Jacob Stansell* – Little Rock Nick Stauffer^ – Lenexa, Kansas

Christine Tan* – Fayetteville Kathryn Theriot* – White Hall Margaret Tirrell^ – Tulsa, Oklahoma Amanda Wellick – Wheaton, Illinois College of Education and Health Professions

Brooklyn Brown – Shreveport, Louisiana Natalie Koster – Bartlesville, Oklahoma Jake Smith* – Paragould Clark Story – Marion Emily Sugg* – Berryville Madeline Wagnon* – Shreveport, Louisiana College of Engineering

Salma Boudhoum – Agadir, Morocco Claudia Chavez – Siloam Springs Lionel Davis II – Little Rock Emily Degner* – Leawood, Kansas Ashleigh Hegwood* – McKinney, Texas Mason Hollis* – Fayetteville Courtney Hunter* – White Hall Mark Kelloms – Haskell Keturah Kiper – Denver, Colorado Danielle Neighbour* – Lenexa, Kansas Britney Washington – Little Rock *Indicates the student is a member of the Honors College ^Indicates the student is pursuing degrees within two Colleges

A R K A N S A S • Spring 2017

photos by Whit Pruitt

Each student recognized a mentor who impacted their time here on campus, including Chancellor emeritus John A. White Jr.

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photos by Emma Schock

Connor Flocks, president of Associated Student Government, pauses for a picture with Chancellor Joe Steinmetz.

Student-athletes Parker Pocklington, Eric Janise and Summar Roachell gathered for a photo Dec. 2.

Spring 2017 â€˘ A R K A N S A S

Seniors of Significance, including Taylor Farr, Victoria Maloch, and Britney Washington, each receive a special gold cord to wear at graduation.

A S S O C I AT I O N

University Relations photo

Alumni Endowed Scholarship Recipients 2016-17

The 2016-17 Alumni Endowed Scholarship recipients are, front row from left, Sophia Scalise, Lori de Boer, Brooklyn Brown, Lauren Love, and, back row from left, Manny Mejia, Matthew May, Nicholas Cockerell and Erica Brewer.

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Eight U of A students are recipients of the 2016-17 Alumni Endowed Scholarship. The Alumni Endowed Scholarship was first awarded in 1992. Since its creation, $877,345 has been dispersed to 65 students. Recipients graduating this spring are seniors Brooklyn Brown and Nicholas Cockerell. Both students received this scholarship in 2013 during their senior year of high school. Brown, from Shreveport, Louisiana, will graduate from the U of A with a bachelor’s degree in kinesiology from the College of Education and Health Professions. “It has meant so much to me to be a recipient of the Alumni Endowed Scholarship. I have been provided so many opportunities – from studying abroad to representing the university as a part of the Brooklyn Brown cheerleading team – that I will forever be grateful for,” she said. After graduation, she plans to pursue a master’s degree in occupational therapy at Texas Women’s University in Dallas. Cockerell, from Texarkana, Texas, will graduate with a bachelor’s degree in biology (pre-dental). “As a third-generation Razorback, I am extremely grateful to have been a recipient of the Arkansas Alumni Endowed Scholarship. This scholarship has meant so much to me during my four years at the U of A,” he said. “Yes, the financial aid lifted a tremendous burden off my family and myself; Nick Cockerell however, this scholarship has meant much more to me than just money.” Cockerell said it has been a blessing to be educated at the “Harvard of the South,” as his family calls it, and develop lifelong friendships.

“The support, the advice, and the encouragement of Arkansas alumni have truly helped me to reach my most important goal of college — acceptance to dental school next fall,” he said, adding that he plans to attend Texas A&M University College of Dentistry in Dallas. “To say I am thankful to have been part of the Arkansas Alumni Scholarship program is an understatement. As much as I hate to see my four years in Fayetteville come to an end this May at graduation, I look forward to becoming a very proud Arkansas alumnus and joining the Arkansas Alumni Association so I can keep in touch and give back to future students, just like so many alumni have done for me,” Cockerell said. “Thank you for the honor and opportunity to be part of such an outstanding organization!” The junior, sophomore and freshman scholars are: Erica Brewer, junior Major: Psychology (Pre-Med), minor in Biology Hometown: Lonoke “It means so much to me to know I will graduate debt free thanks to the Arkansas Alumni Association. To know that I can spend more time studying and doing things I enjoy instead of having the pressure of working to fulfill the financial burden that comes with college makes me so thankful. It means the world to me that the Arkansas Alumni Association entrusted me with this scholarship money to further my education. To be an Arkansas Alumni Association Endowed Scholar means to me that a person is passionate, hard-working and ambitious.” Sophia Scalise, junior Major: Honors Biomedical Engineering Hometown: Fayetteville “I’m honored to have the opportunity to attend this great University. I can’t thank those who financially support me enough.” Matthew May, sophomore Major: Agribusiness Hometown: Dallas “I am extremely honored to have been awarded an Alumni Endowed Scholarship. It has already helped tremendously with the financial aspect of attending college. I’ve dreamed of being a pilot for as long as I can remember and this scholarship helping me earn my degree is a crucial aspect of my ultimate goal. I am so thankful to have the opportunity to attend such a beautiful campus and have the Arkansas Alumni Association at my side throughout my time here, and even after I graduate.” Manny Mejia, sophomore Major: Supply Chain Management Hometown: Springdale “Being a recipient of the Alumni Endowed Scholarship is a true honor that I am extremely grateful for. When I received the call informing me

A R K A N S A S • Spring 2017

that I was named a recipient, I felt like it was reassurance that I had not hit a dead-end, but had started a new beginning. This amazing opportunity has granted me the ability to make my dreams a reality and embark on a journey full of limitless possibilities. None of this would have been possible if it wasn’t for the generosity of the Arkansas Alumni Association.” Lori de Boer, freshman Major: Art, Pre-Med Hometown: Stillwater, Oklahoma “I feel very honored to have received this scholarship. I grew up an OSU fan and was going to go to school there because I thought, “There’s no way I could afford the U of A!” When I was told I got the Endowed Scholarship, I knew I had to come here. To turn down something like that would be like slapping destiny in the face.”

to the Arkansas Alumni Association Scholarship Program benefit hundreds of students each year. To donate online go to https://onlinegiving.uark.edu/ Or contact Patti Sanders, Associate Director of Alumni Scholarships Phone: 479-575-6391 Email: alumnisp@uark.edu

ARKANSAS

ALUMNI

University Relations photo

Lauren Love, freshman Major: Honors Pre-Nursing Hometown: Allen, Texas “To be a recipient of the Alumni Endowed Scholarship means that I stand out to the Arkansas Alumni as a dedicated student that they want to invest in. Affording college as an out-of-state student was a bit of a financial burden for my family, and with this scholarship, most of my tuition is paid for. For this I am extremely grateful because instead of worrying about finances, I am able to focus on achieving my academic and personal goals at the University of Arkansas.” n

DONATIONS

The Arkansas Alumni Association National Alumni Board members gathered for a photo during the winter board meeting at the Janelle Y. Hembree Alumni House. The members are, back row left to right, Roger Sublett, Ron Rainey, Paul Parette, Charles Redfield, Drake McGruder, Brian Wolff, John Berrey, John Forrest Ales, Melissa Pianalto and Kristen Allbritton; middle row left to right, Carla Martin, Latonya Foster, Judy Covert, Sharon Hunt, Steven Hinds, Greg Lee, Bob Kolf, Ben Beaumont, Linda Bedford-Jackson and Susan Kemp; and front row left to right, Teena Gunter, Kristin Kaufman, Stephanie Streett (Past President), Don Eldred (President), Kenneth Biesterveld (Treasurer), Ashlyn Smith (SAB Ex-officio) and Ashley Harris.

Spring 2017 • A R K A N S A S

A S S O C I AT I O N

2016 Volunteer Summit Members of the Arkansas Alumni Association’s Chapter and Societies Programs came together from all over the nation for Volunteer Summit on Nov. 4, 2016. The summit is held every two years at the Janelle Y. Hembree Alumni House and provides an opportunity for volunteer leaders to return to The Hill to share best practices, receive new program content and network with others. This year’s summit also included the Arkansas Alumni Association’s National Board Members for their quarterly meeting. The day began with both groups in attendance for a breakfast discussion, opening remarks and key announcements from Executive Director Brandy Cox and Board President Don Eldred. After opening remarks, attendees were offered a general session, where each group received an overview of the association’s scholarship program and the membership and marketing program. Patti Sanders, associate director of alumni scholarships, and Terri Dover, director of membership and marketing, led the presentations. Through both sessions, volunteer leaders learned how to create chapter and society scholarships, as well as the breadth and depth of the current scholarship program through the Arkansas Alumni Association. Additionally, Dover provided in-depth discussion around the offerings and support the marketing team can provide chapters and societies through strategic email campaigns that support events and programs. Dover also explained the upcoming changes to the membership program to

include new pricing and streamlined memberships. Following those sessions was a Best Practices Session where content was presented by chapter and society leaders. The leaders focused on signature events and how to pull volunteers together to assist events in need of improvement. The volunteer leaders presenting included Ernst Bauer of the San Francisco Chapter and M.L. Weber of the Greater Memphis Chapter. Bauer’s presentation titled “From Struggle to Success,” offered how a volunteer organization can take increased ownership in the promotion of an event to dramatically improve attendance. “You can rely on the Alumni Association to provide you with a great air campaign, but as a volunteer leader, you have to have your own ground game to ensure a successful turnout at your events,” shared Bauer. He offered that their signature annual Winery Scholarship Event was struggling with low RSVPs last summer, until they collaborated with the association to share data and develop a call and text plan for the chapter members to follow. “Our RSVPs went from low 20s to well over 60 people in attendance, because we got involved and personally reached out via telephone to invite members in the San Francisco area to our event,” Bauer said. The Volunteer Summit included a luncheon awards banquet, with the Alumni Association recognizing volunteer leaders that have had significant impact over the past two years. The awards given this year included the following categories and recipients:

A R K A N S A S • Spring 2017

Mace Award (best event or program by a team; named after Mike Macechko, the association’s long-serving, former executive director): Latino Alumni Society Morris Fair Heart Award (an individual who exemplifies spirit, enthusiasm, and commitment; named after Morris Fair, a volunteer from Memphis) Madison Broyles ★ John L Colbert ★ Beacon (most innovative program): Oklahoma City Chapter for their PIGnic, a sendoff for incoming freshmen and their parents. Student Alumni Association for their UA Birthday celebration.

Spring 2017 • A R K A N S A S

Pride of Arkansas (outstanding philanthropy event): Dallas Chapter, in partnership with the Greater Dallas Razorback Club, for their 2016 golf tournament. Lemke Journalism Alumni Society, in partnership with the Lemke Journalism Department, for J Days, a week of events to celebrate students and alumni. Razorback Rally (most improved team): Pride Alumni Society (connects LGBT alumni, friends and allies) Tulsa Chapter Rising Star (individuals who have made a huge impact in a short period of time): Lauren Ahlers ★ (St. Louis Chapter) John Forrest Ales ★ (Pride Alumni Society) Tymli Frierson (Civil Engineering Alumni Society) Terry Vo (Nashville Chapter)

Servant Leadership (individuals who have dedicated selfless service): Erica Baker ★ (Jonesboro Chapter) Drake McGruder ★ (Fort Smith Chapter) Ray Minor (Lemke Journalism Alumni Society) M. L. Weber ★ (Memphis Chapter) Spirit of Service (individuals who have engaged through community service): Judy Covert (Wichita Chapter) Cecilia Grossberger-Medina (Latino Alumni Society) Leroy and Sue Kerst (Northwest Arkansas Chapter) At the conclusion of the awards luncheon, the volunteer leaders attended breakout sessions that were customized to the unique business needs of both chapters and societies. The sessions ranged in topics from finance to program timelines and resources. Members of the Arkansas Alumni Association led each of those sessions and helped to explain new content as well as reinforce old information. The 2016 Volunteer Summit concluded with a cocktail reception in Sturgis Hall, where participants were able to reconnect with old colleagues, while making new ones. n

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Board Cup (most outstanding team): Black Alumni Society (BAS)

CHAPTERS & SOCIETIES

–3– The Lemke Journalism Alumni Society and the Arkansas Alumni Association hosted the Hall of Honor Awards Oct. 28. 2016, at the Janelle Y. Hembree Alumni House. The 2016 Hall of Honor recipients were Sue Walk Burnett, Charles Portis and Ron Robinson. Right, Jonathan Portis and Dave Edmark paused for a photo Oct. 28. Portis accepted the Hall of Honor award on behalf of his brother, Charles Portis. Far right, Jacqueline King, Sue Walk Burnett, Winifred Watkins and Paula Lee gathered at the Hall of Honor Awards. –4– The Pride Alumni Society and Northwest Arkansas Center for Equality hosted the Northwest Arkansas Equality Night Nov. 11, 2016. The event featured Emmy Awardwinning actor and comedian Leslie Jordan and special appearances by Miss America Savvy Shields and Trey O’Dell. Top left, Pride Alumni Society President John Forrest Ales, Chaz Allen and vice president Jordan Garcia gather outside the Northwest Arkansas Equality Night reception at the Janelle Y. Hembree Alumni House. Top right, Leslie Jordan performs at Northwest Arkansas Equality Night. Lower left, Miss America Savvy Shields introduces Leslie Jordan to the audience during the Northwest Arkansas Equality Night. Lower right, Jason Viator and Chris Woods pause for a photo during Northwest Arkansas Equality Night.

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–1– The Missouri chapters of the Arkansas Alumni Association jointly hosted a Battle Line Rivalry Hog Wild Tailgate Nov. 25, 2016, in Columbia, Missouri, prior to the Arkansas vs. Missouri football game. –2– Four Black Alumni Society scholars graduated in December from the University of Arkansas. The scholars are Taylor Barton, Josilyn Mitchell, LaTanjakeithia Porchia and Denzel Washington. Right, LaTanjakeithia Porchia, Josilyn Mitchell, Black Alumni Society President Latonya Foster. Far right, Denzel Washington, Latonya Foster and Taylor Barton

-4A R K A N S A S • Spring 2017

R A ZO R B AC K S O N T H E ROA D The Arkansas Alumni Association and Razorback Foundation hosted a Hog Wild Tailgate prior to the Belk Bowl on Dec. 29, 2016, at the NASCAR Hall of Fame in Charlotte, North Carolina. –1– Chancellor Joe Steinmetz stops by the buffet during the Hog Wild Tailgate.

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–2– Arkansas Alumni Association Executive Director Brandy Cox pauses for a moment in front of a car at the NASCAR Hall of Fame. –3– Alumni and friends enjoy the Hog Wild Tailgate prior to the Belk Bowl. –4– Julie Simpson, Deb Euculano and Terry Prentice gather for a photo at the Belk Bowl Hog Wild Tailgate prior to the Belk Bowl.

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-4Spring 2017 • A R K A N S A S

GREEK LIFE

A Building Boom for the Greek System By Beth Lewis

New Chapter House for Pi Beta Phi From a whole new house, to new additions and renovations on existing houses, a thriving Greek system at the University of Arkansas is building for the future. For the most part, an increase in membership is driving the construction boom, although some houses are upgrading to become compliant with building codes. With more than 400 collegiate members, the Arkansas Alpha Chapter of Pi Beta Phi is the largest Pi Phi chapter in the nation and they had simply outgrown their 1950s-era house. These women, who wear the golden arrow badge, celebrated a new sorority house with a “Beaus & Arrows” gala on Nov. 4, 2016, and a formal public dedication the following morning. The $12-million structure includes a larger chapter room, kitchen and dining room and several dedicated study spaces. Pi Phis say having that study space was the top request from active members. The new Pi Phi house has received accolades for its design and the Arkansas

photos submitted

Pi Beta Phi Building Committee members, including Cathy Gessler Allen, Jenessa Dyer Bailey, Melissa McIlroy Hawkins, Lauren Young Kimbrough and Kate Rice Dimatrova, gather at the house dedication.

Alpha Chapter received the 2016 Transformation Award at the Construction & Developers Appreciation Awards Banquet, presented by the Fayetteville Chamber of Commerce. The award “honors a project, which brings renewed character to a community and takes it to the next level.” “This new house means so much to the active members of Arkansas Alpha Pi Phi because it represents all of the incredible women who have come before us,” said 2015-16 chapter president, Makenzie Smith. “These women are all a part of this house just as much as they were when the ‘Pink Palace’ stood on this lot before. As the chapter grew and grew, our alumni knew that the house would at some point have to grow with us.” Considered to be the first national women’s sorority, Pi Beta Phi was founded in 1867 and established at the University of Arkansas in 1909. Smith said the new Pi Phi house is the result of the bonds formed by both actives and alumnae alike. “This chapter house would not have been possible if it weren’t for the dedication of so many women that love Arkansas Alpha and Pi Beta Phi,” she said.

Sigma Alpha Epsilon is also undergoing a significant house expansion. The project includes demolishing the kitchen and dining areas and adding space to the back of the house, so that both rooms could be enlarged. SAEs say now with the expansion all chapter members can dine together. In addition, eight more bedrooms and two bathrooms have been added to the house’s top floor. The expansion also includes 11 rooms in the attic, new president’s suite, new women’s rest room, study hall/library in old chapter room, two-story Great Hall, new kitchen and new recreation room. The work will be complete in November. The Alpha-Upsilon Chapter at the university has ranked among the top three fraternities academically for the past three years. SAE was founded at the University of Alabama in 1856 and established at the University of Arkansas in 1894. The 2015-16 chapter president Alex Flemister said members are

Illustration by Allison + Partners

Sigma Alpha Epsilon Expansion

grateful to the alumni who decided to take this project on. “As the largest and one of the oldest SAE chapters nationally, we are proud of our history here at the University of Arkansas and look at this renovation project as an essential part of our growth and mark we will leave for the next generation of members, “ he says. “I am very proud of the work our alumni have done to make this vision a reality and look forward to what our historic home will have to offer for the next generation of SAE’s.”

A R K A N S A S • Spring 2017

photos by Whit Pruitt

Lambda Chi Alpha Renovation A formal ribbon cutting was also held on Nov. 4, 2016, for the expansion and renovation of the Lambda Chi Alpha house. At the recommendation of brothers Jim and Rob Walton, who are both alumni of the University of Arkansas and the Gamma Chi chapter, a $2-million gift from the Walton Family Foundation kicked off the $6.6-million project. Renovations on the house, which was constructed in the 1950s and was the first fraternity to locate on Stadium Drive, were extensive. They included replacing the roof, windows and front columns, installing an elevator and additional interior remodeling. Lambda Chi president Nicholas Beyer credits the bonds of brotherhood for creating a successful capital campaign.

“The first thing I tell the new associate members when they accept a bid to Lambda Chi Alpha, is that those letters are never coming off,” he says. “The dedication was an incredible time to recognize the decades of men who never let their letters come off.” Lambda Chi Alpha was established at the University of Arkansas in 1923. There are more than 200 chapters and colonies in colleges and universities across the U.S. Beyer says the new additions to the house will help the fraternity continue to grow and meet the needs of its members. “Nov. 4th was an exceptional memory for me as I wrapped up my tenure as President,” Beyer said. He says he couldn’t be more “thankful for the opportunity to recognize and thank our alumni for their decades of love, support, and faithfulness to our fraternity.”

While some of the building projects required current members to move out and find other accommodations, the women of Zeta Tau Alpha were luckier with their planned addition. Zeta president Brianna Forth said, “While the construction is going on, we are still able to use our house, as is. Areta Hill Moseley, general adviser for Epsilon Chapter of Zeta Tau Alpha, said, “We have the unique opportunity of preserving our current home while expanding into our old parking lot. This is exciting because we will be able to keep the history and character of the existing home and enjoy the benefits of a larger dining room and meeting space.” Moseley said the new space will allow the members to spend more time together and eliminate the need for renting an outside meeting space. In addition to the new dining room, which will seat over 300 women, the expansion will include a new chapter room, a library, new kitchen, study rooms and media rooms. “With more than 440 women in the chapter, it’s unfortunate that we don’t have the current space to have as many women as possible get to know one another,” Forth says. “ With the new addition, we will truly improve the sisterhood aspect of the chapter and that’s what most exciting!”

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Zeta Tau Alpha Addition

Parice Bowser, director of the Charles and Cappy Whiteside Greek Life Leadership Center, said the outlook for the university’s Greek system is bright. “All of our new Greek houses and renovation projects have helped UA Greek Life to continue to lead the way in building a diverse and vibrant community, but also in providing a place for more of our membership to live in-house,” she said. Bowser says a sorority or fraternity member’s “home away from home” is significant to their sense of belonging. “There’s no doubt that these efforts have influenced and will continue Greek Life’s success related to recruitment, retention, and graduation, “ she said. “Our Greek leaders are truly thankful for the generous support of all, especially those committed alumni, who have helped over the years to make Greek housing possible at the University of Arkansas. n

Delta Gamma, Tri Delta, Sigma Alpha Epsilon and Phi Mu are in active fundraising campaigns, and further details will be discussed in a future issue of ARKANSAS.

Spring 2017 • A R K A N S A S

R A ZO R B AC K ROA D

Razorback Soccer Team Finishes in Top 20 After a historic 18-5-1 season marked by several program milestones, the Razorback soccer team concluded its 2016 season ranked No. 19 in the nation on the National Soccer Coaches Association of America (NSCAA) top 25 poll. Amid the team success, Jessi Hartzler was honored for her academic success as well as on-field play. Arkansas’ ranking was secured by wins over two top-five programs at home – No. 2 Duke on Aug. 26 and No. 4 Florida on Sept. 16 – as well as eight Southeastern Conference victories and a ninegame home win streak, both school records. The Razorbacks also participated in their fourth SEC Tournament under head coach Colby Hale’s tenure, earning a first-round bye after finishing third in the conference with an 8-3 mark. Arkansas defeated Vanderbilt 1-0 in the quarterfinals and Auburn 3-1 in the semifinals before falling to Florida 2-1 in overtime in the championship match. Five days later, Arkansas competed in its third NCAA Tournament in four years, topping Memphis 2-1 in overtime on Nov. 11 at home. The team’s bid to earn its second Sweet 16 appearance in school history

ended on Nov. 18 in Chapel Hill, North Carolina, as Clemson edged the Razorbacks 4-2 in penalty kicks after two grinding overtime periods resulted in a draw. In two separate polls, Arkansas was ranked No. 21 in the nation by HERO Sports and No. 16 by TopDrawerSoccer. com. Junior defender Jessi Hartzler was named by the National Soccer Coaches Association of America into its 2016 Senior College Women’s Scholar AllAmerica Team for Division I. This award is the latest national accolade for the Razorback junior defender, who posted record individual season numbers in 2016 with eight goals, 17 points and four game-winners. Hartzler’s play on the field during the Razorbacks’ 30th season directly contributed to the team’s success this past season. She played a key role in several matches, topped by her two goals against then-No. 4 Florida on Sept. 16 that led to the Hogs’ upset 2-1 win over the Gators at Razorback Field. Along with her Scholar All-America award for the 2016 season, the Kearney, Missouri, native also earned a spot on the NSCAA All-South Region Second Team as well as being named NCAA Soccer Player of the Week on Sept. 21. n photos courtesy Razorback athletics

By Roland Liwag and Kevin Trainor ★+ B.A.’94 M.A.’05

A R K A N S A S • Spring 2017

Arkansas Leads SEC in Directors’ Cup Standings By Kevin Trainor ★+ B.A.’94 M.A.’05 A third-consecutive bowl appearance by the Razorback football team has ranked Arkansas atop the Southeastern Conference and among the nation’s best in the final fall standings of the 2016-17 Learfield Sports Directors’ Cup. Arkansas has earned 205 points and is No. 18 in the rankings released Jan. 12 by the National Association of Collegiate Directors of America (NACDA). The Directors’ Cup tracks the nation’s most successful intercollegiate athletics programs for their performances throughout the year. Arkansas is one of only two SEC programs (Kentucky) listed in the top 25 of the current standings with only one other SEC program (Florida) ranking in the top 30. The standings released Jan. 12 included football, women’s field hockey, men’s water polo, men’s and women’s cross country, and men’s and women’s soccer. “Strong showings by our fall sports has placed the University of Arkansas in the lead of the SEC and in the top 20 in the final fall standings of the Directors Cup,” said Jeff Long, vice chancellor and director of athletics. “To lead the most competitive all-sports conference in the nation is a tribute to our student-athletes, coaches, staff and all those who support our program. It was an exciting fall semester for Razorback fans as we watched as men’s and women’s cross country, soccer and football all return to the post-season. As we begin the spring semester, we look forward to more outstanding individual and team performances to come.” Faced with the most competitive home schedule in Razorback football history, Arkansas won seven games, including its first win over SEC Eastern Division Champion and No. 11 Florida in 34 years. The Razorbacks advanced to their thirdconsecutive bowl game playing ACC Coastal Champion Virginia Tech in the Belk Bowl. The loss to Virginia Tech was the first for coach Bret Bielema at Arkansas after back-to-back bowl victories. Arkansas tallied 25 points in the standings for its regular season performance and post-season appearance. Arkansas head soccer coach Colby Hale led the Razorbacks to a historic 18-5-1 season marked by several program milestones, including finishing ranked No. 19 in the final National Soccer Coaches

Association of America Top 25 poll. The Razorbacks secured wins over two top-five programs at home (No. 2 Duke and No. 4 Florida) as well as eight SEC victories and a nine-game home win streak, both school records. The Razorbacks advanced to the championship match of the SEC Tournament, before falling to Florida, 2-1, in overtime. Arkansas then hosted its first NCAA Tournament match in program history, earning a thrilling 2-1 win over Memphis in overtime. The Hogs narrowly missed out on a return trip to the NCAA Round of 16 when they fell at Clemson in penalty kicks after battling to a scoreless game through regulation. Arkansas continues to dominate the cross country scene with both the men and women winning the SEC Cross Country Championship before earning top-20 finishes at the NCAA Cross Country Championships in Terre Haute, Indiana. The men’s cross country team capped its season by returning to the top five of the NCAA Cross Country meet for the first time in a decade. Arkansas was led by the junior tandem of Alex George and Jack Bruce who both secured finishes inside the top 20. The Razorbacks’ top-five team finish was their best performance since 2006 when they also placed fifth at the championships in Terre Haute. Arkansas earned 75 points for its fifth-place finish and now has ranked in the top 10 nationally in four of the past seven seasons. Arkansas women’s cross country raced to a 19th-place finish at the NCAA Cross Country Championship, earning 55 points. The Razorbacks were led by Taylor Werner who finished 16th in the individual race. Werner earned All-America honors and was the secondhighest freshman finisher in the NCAA meet. Arkansas has now finished as a top-20 national cross country power five years in a row, dating back to its 14th-place finish at the 2011 national meet. Last year in the 2015-16 Learfield Sports Directors’ Cup, Arkansas tallied 820 points and finished 23rd, the eighth top 30 finish in the past nine years. The Razorbacks’ also earned a top-25 finish in the final rankings for the sixth time since the previously independent men’s and women’s athletics programs were combined in 2008. The Directors’ Cup program has been tracking the success of the nation’s top intercollegiate athletics programs since 1993-94. n

A R K A N S A S • Spring 2017

Record Academic Achievement for Student-Athletes By Kevin Trainor ★+ B.A.’94 M.A.’05 In yet another record-setting academic achievement, University of Arkansas student-athletes have set a new standard for graduation success rate (GSR), according to a report released Nov. 15, 2016, by the NCAA. Razorback student-athletes who entered school in a four-year period from 2006-09 earned a school record GSR of 78 percent. The latest GSR marked the eighth-consecutive rate of more than 70 percent by Razorback student-athletes and eclipsed the previous record mark of 76 percent recorded in both 2014 and 2015. The GSR was developed as an improved measurement tool for tracking student-athletes’ academic progress leading toward graduation. The GSR is a four-year snapshot of a program’s academic progress. The University of Arkansas has steadily improved its GSR rate since the measurement was implemented 12 years ago, rising from an initial rate of 60 percent to 78 percent. “Nothing we do within intercollegiate athletics is more important than helping our student-athletes progress toward graduation,” said Jeff Long, vice chancellor and director of athletics. “The remarkable progress of our student-athletes is not only evident in our recordbreaking GSR, but most importantly in the more than 100 young men and women who are graduating from the University of Arkansas each year. I sincerely appreciate the hard work of our coaches and our student-athlete support staff in equipping student-athletes to succeed in their academic pursuits. Ultimately, though, it is the student-athletes themselves who make the choice to do what it takes to earn their degree. Each year more student-athletes are making that commitment and as a program we will continue to be here to assist them in reaching that lifechanging goal.” The graduation success rate was established to more accurately gauge academic progress among student-athletes. Traditional federal graduation rates, which do not account for transfers or other studentathletes who leave institutions in good academic standing, were also released. That rate, based on student-athletes who enrolled full-time in fall 2009, is 56 percent. In addition to the GSR, the NCAA established the Academic Progress Rate that provides institutions with a more real-time indicator of academic success. Last spring, Arkansas exceeded the APR benchmark in all 19 sports for the fourth consecutive year, including each sport exceeding the benchmark by at least 14 points. In 2015-16, Razorback student-athletes posted a 3.23 cumulative GPA. It was the 13th consecutive semester that Razorback studentathletes recorded a GPA exceeding 3.0. Arkansas ranked second in the SEC in members on the fall academic honor roll, including a league-leading 40 football student-athletes on the list. In all, nearly 300 student-athletes made an honor roll this past year and 100 names were added to Senior Walk as graduates of the University of Arkansas. n

Spring 2017 • A R K A N S A S

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1877

1977

• Eddie Sutton and his Running Razorbacks win eight in a row, beat Kansas and Kansas Stare within three days and enjoy a top 20 national ranking for the first time in school history.

• Daniel H. Hill, a Confederate general during the Civil War, is named president of the university.

1887

• The state legislature passes an act to reorganize the university with agriculture and mechanics being given highest priority for academic subjects.

1907

• The fraternity Sigma Phi Epsilon is established on campus.

1917

• The name of the School of Education is changed to the College of Education. •Former President William Howard Taft lectured at Old Main, encouraging enlistment to help fight the Great War and telling students: “It sharpens the edge of patriotic enthusiasm to know that we are right in this war.”

1927

• President John C. Futrall announces the establishment of a graduate school. Agricultural and engineering buildings are dedicated. • Coach Schmidt orders new “trick” shirts for the Razorback receivers with vertical stripes of white on the back so that they will be easy to spot when compared to linemen, who will have solid-colored backs.

Members of the University Theatre rehearse a puppet show in 1937 to be performed at the university’s Little Theatre.

1947

• The university celebrates its 75th anniversary of classes Jan. 22, 1947. • For the first time, the ROTC and Razorback bands are separated. • Colgate toothpaste costs 43 cents at the Palace Drug Store, “the student headquarters for 43 years.” A carton of cigarettes goes for $1.98. • Lambda Tau, an honorary English student organization, begins publication of a new literary magazine titled Preview. • The new annex of the business administration building was completed and furnished facilities for many more students.

1957

1937

• Religious Emphasis Week kicks off and centers around the theme “Religion – Major or Minor?” and daily convocations attract hundreds.

• U of A President John C. Futrall is astonished when a student tells him making social contacts is the most important part of college.

• Construction on Carlson Terrace is underway. Rent for the student family housing units is expected to be $60-$65 a month with utilities paid. Rent at other married student housing units is about $36 a month.

• The sorority Theta Gamma Phi is founded and calls Carnall Hall its home.

1937 Razorback

• A campus housing shortage, which has many students sleeping in cars, prompts local Fayetteville citizens to rent out unused rooms.

• Charles “Buddy” Portis writes a story about U of A members of the National Guard being called to duty during the Central High School crisis in Little Rock. • The Pi Phis hold a formal dedication of their new pink brick building on Maple Street during Homecoming weekend.

• Congress passes the Buckley Amendment, which assures the privacy of student records.

1987

• The Bell Engineering Center is formally dedicated.

1997

1967

• Recognizing the need for safety and convenience, the U of A campus begins to install night lighting. • The College of Agriculture and Home Economics offers new degrees in food, nutrition and food service and agricultural pesticides. The college also revises the home economics education and agricultural education degrees and adds a new virology-pathology laboratory to the university farm. • Mortar Board recommends that Greek houses not enter floats in the annual Homecoming parade, but instead contribute the money to build a Fayetteville-University Auditorium. • Carnall Hall is closed as a residence hall, but was later used as a fraternity house, academic offices and classrooms.

• Steve Little ties the NCAA record for field goals with a 67-yarder as the Hogs fell to Texas, 13-9, in a nationally televised game.

• The university, in conjunction with alumnus E. Fay Jones, Fayetteville’s nationally recognized architect, announces plans to build the Fulbright Memorial Peace Fountain.

2007

• Instead of giving the state of the university from behind a lectern, Chancellor John A. White offers the annual university update via online video. • Silas Hunt: A Documentary won three awards for telling the story of Silas Hunt, the first student to enroll in a Southern university since Reconstruction. The film was commissioned by the School of Continuing Education and Academic Outreach and produced by its department of media services. • Stacy Lewis wins the women’s Division I golf championship at Daytona Beach. n

A R K A N S A S • Spring 2017

Life Members ✪

By becoming Life Members, the University’s friends and alumni help form a strong foundation on which to build the future of the Arkansas Alumni Association. We welcome the newest Life Members, listed in order of membership number: 7784 7925 7926 7927 7928 7929 7930 7931 7932 7933 7934 7935 7936 7937 7938 7939 7940 7941 7942 7943 7944 7945 7946

Mr. John Meason ’92 Dr. James T. Meredith Jr. ’74, ’76 Kathryn M. Meredith ’74 Dr. Gene C. Wunder ’87 Judy K. Stone Wunder Rudy Bright Jr. ’86 Cherie Rynone Bright ’95 Lung Wen Lim ’86 Mark Bennett III ’92 Libbie Terry Dougan ’75 Ansel L. Condray ’64 Virginia G. Condray ’64 Dr. Robert E. Billingsley Jr. ’76 Roberta B. Billingsley ’76 William J. Tappan ’16 Dr. Nia MacKay ’90, ’93 Michael L. MacKay Ben Beaumont ’04 Claire Bennett Beaumont Lori Genene Aylett ’87 Dr. Evan E. Fusco ’89 Janie McKinney ’87 Charlie Kinslow III ’77

7947 7948 7949 7950 7951 7952 7953 7954 7955 7956 7957 7958 7959 7960 7961 7962 7963 7964 7965 7966 7967 7968 7969

Camellia Alice May ’88 Bijan Karimi Timjani ’84 Tracie R. Ahrens ’00 Dr. Mitchell Amos Ahrens ’98 Dr. Edward L. Halk ’71, ’73 Barbara A. Halk ’72 Cathryn Hammons Slater ’69, ’71 Dr. John Gary Slater Dr. Latisha Ann Settlage ’97, ’99 Dr. Daniel Settlage ’97, ’99 Dr. John H. Glezen ’91, ’95, ’98 Eve R. Glezen Christopher Ryan Meier ’04 Raymond Walter ’13, ’14 Laura R. MacDonald ’78 Bruce C. MacDonald ’82 Brianne Bert ’12 Robert G. Kolf ’78 Vicki D. Kolf Marianne Miller Erwin ’59 Mark Haguewood Lacy Denson Haguewood ’10 Mitchell Scott Padgett

7970 7971 7972 7973 7974 7975 7976 7977 7978 7979 7980 7981 7982 7983 7984 7985 7986 7987 7988 7989 7990 7991 7992

John McNatt ’10 Chet J. Frith ’10 Dr. Kim D. Keisner ’77 Angela Z. Keisner ’77 Linda Y. Bedford-Jackson ’80 Rodney W. Jackson Marian G. Bolen ’86 Michael Ross Cole ’86 Adam James Powell ’05 Chris Johnson ’93 Meredith Anne Johnson ’94 Glenn Douglas Sandlin ’62 Michael Wayne Kersting ’92, ’95 Leaha Roark Kersting ’94 Bao Bui ’98 Michael White Susan Anders Sterling Park Anders Jr. ’87 Bruce Eugene Westerman ’90 Sharon K. Westerman ’90, ’12 Paula S. Werling Kelly Thornton Bostick Tim Bostick

Hog Tags have generated more than $4.4 million toward scholarships. Show your pride and support the Arkansas Alumni Association Scholar program today. Get your HOG TAG today!

WWW.HOGTAGS.COM Spring 2017 • A R K A N S A S

F RO M S E N I O R WA L K

’70

Class Notes Let us know about your milestones and anything else you would like to share with your classmates — births, marriages, new jobs, retirements, moves and more. Please include your degree, class year, and when applicable, your maiden name. To provide the most thorough coverage of alumni news, we publish notes about members and non-members of the Arkansas Alumni Association and will indicate membership status for reference. You may send us news or simply update your information. Since the next issues of Arkansas are already in production, it may be a few issues before your item appears. Mail: From Senior Walk, Arkansas Alumni Association, P.O. Box 1070, Fayetteville AR 72702 Email: records@arkansasalumni.org These symbols indicate Alumni Association membership:

’30 ’50

Bernard Yesner ✪ BS’36, recently celebrated his 101st birthday November 10, 2016.

Charles E. Scharlau III ✪+ LLB’51, Fayetteville. He was inducted into the Arkansas Business Hall of Fame on Feb. 10, 2017. James O. Wear ✪ BS’59 MS’60 PHD’62, received the “Distinguished Collaboration Award for Exceptional Contribution to the Clinical Engineering Profession in China” from the Chinese Society of Clinical Engineering, Chinese Medical Association. This award was presenting at their National Congress in July in Suzhou, China, for his work in the development of their Certification of Clinical Engineers. He also helped give written and oral exam for the Certification of Clinical Engineers at the meeting.

’60

Bruce L. McFadden ✪ BSCE’60. He was recently inducted into the Associated General Contractors of Arkansas’ Construction Hall of Fame.

Mary Jane Martin BSHE’61 and Rufus Algernon Martin Jr. ✪+ BSBA’60, Little Rock, were married on April 22, 2015. Charles E. Wimberly ✪ BSPH’61, Van Buren, retired March 2015 after 50 years of practice. Lowrance Hodge ✪ BSIE’61, and Marilyn Hodge ✪ of Dallas, Texas celebrated their 60th wedding anniversary on Aug. 26, 2016. George A. Lockhart ✪+ BSCE’62, and Rebecca J. Lockhart ✪+ of Jacksonville, Florida, celebrated their 55th wedding anniversary Jan. 27. Micky F. Mayfield Jr. ✪+ BSEE’64 MS’66, Rogers, retired this year from being the VP of sales at Nokia Siemens Networks. Rita Geiger ✪+ BA’66, Oklahoma City, Oklahoma, was selected to represent her sorority Alpha Chi Omega at the annual Oklahoma City Panhellenic Women of the Year banquet held in the spring 2016. Walter J. Moeller ✪ BSBA’67, Prentiss, Mississippi, was awarded Tree Farmer of the Year for 2016 at the annual meeting and banquet of the Jefferson Days County Forestry

University Relations

★ Member ★+ Member, A+ ✪ Life Member ✪+ Life Member, A+

Association on July 18, 2016. Charles D. Cotten ✪ BA’67, Odessa, Texas, has retired from WTPB for a third time after having been called back to serve as Interim Director of the John Ben Shepperd Public Leadership Institute. He is serving as Board Chairman for the Texas Lone Star Pets Training Program. Don Scott Goodner ✪ BS’65 JD’68, Waldron. At nearly 75 years of age, he was re-elected to a four-year term as District Judge of Scott County. Richard L. Markell ✪+ BSBA’68 and Marilyn Kays Markell ✪+ BSE’67, Hot Springs Village, celebrated their 50th wedding anniversary on Dec. 28, 2016. They met during freshman orientation in Aug. 1963 and were married during their senior year in Fayetteville. Paul L. Stephens ✪ BS’68, North Port, Alabama, retired in 2009 as Director of Pastoral Care and Counseling after 30 years at DCH Regional Medical Center in Tuscaloosa, Alabama. George Billy McGill ✪ BSE’69 MBA’77, Fort Smith, was inducted into the Boys and Girls Club’s Hall of Fame.

He was appointed as Deputy Pro Temp of the Arkansas House of Representatives for the 91st general assembly. Bill D. Haddock ✪+ BSBA’73, Tulsa, Oklahoma. The year 2016 marked the 40th anniversary for his business, Haddock Construction Co. Lynda Chancellor Smith ✪ BSHE’75 and Vernon Smith ✪ BSBA’74 , became proud grandparents for the first time to a baby girl, Avery Morgan Smith, born on June 12, 2015. Jeffrey H. Lowrey ✪ BA’75, became Chairman of the Board of Directors of First Capital Bank in Germantown, Tennessee. Joel Wernick ✪+ BSBA’76, Albany, Georgia, was recognized as one of Georgia Trend’s 2017 100 Most Influential Georgians. Chris Liner BS’79. The SEG (Society of Exploration Geophysicists) recently published a new edition of his book, “Elements of 3D Seismology, third edition.”

’80 Stores, Inc.

Kim Byron Eskew BSBA’80, Springdale, was just named the CEO of Harps Food

A R K A N S A S • Spring 2017

Thank You for Being A Proud Member! Donâ€™t forget to take advantage of more than 90 perks that are available to you.

www.arkansasalumni.org/perks

Membership makes a great graduation gift. www.arkansasalumni.org/join

F RO M S E N I O R WA L K

Linda Y. Bedford Jackson ✪ BA’80, Austin, Texas, was named Huston Tillotson University’s Senior Development Officer. Sammy Dorrough ✪+ BA’82, recently retired from the State of Arkansas and is now doing security work for Andritz Hydro, a federal contractor for the U.S. Army Corps of Engineers. Nicki Dowdy Nigro ✪+ BSE’88, was elected to the Board of Trustees of Des Monies University.

’90

John Robert Furner BSBA’96, Bentonville, was named CEO of Sam’s Club in January and took on this role in February. He was previously the Executive Vice President and Chief Merchandising Officer at Sam’s Club. Jenni Taylor Swain MA’90, Fayetteville, was named the executive director of the Arts Center of the Ozarks in Springdale. She had recently retired after 26 years at the Walton Arts Center in Fayetteville, most recently as vice president of programming. Matthew Clark Kincade ✪ BA’98, has been named Chair of the Section of Urology at Mercy Clinic in Springfield, Missouri. He has also been initiated as a fellow in the American College of Surgeons.

’00

Toni Barger Bahn

✪ BA’00. She joined

the Arkansas State Chamber of Commerce and will be serving as the Director of Governmental Affairs.

Lee Batson Armstrong ✪ BA’01, and her husband welcomed their new baby girl, Quinn, April 19, 2016. Patrick Henry Bradley BA’01, Little Rock, is joining the SEC Network’s basketball broadcast team. He will continue to work with 103.7 The Buzz. Christina Woodward ✪ BSBA’01, Centerton. She has become a “Million Women Mentors” mentor for high school aged girls interested in STEM (Science, Technology, Engineering, Math) fields to share her experiences and challenges in getting a career started in cyber security. She also holds CISSP and CISA certifications and plans to obtain her CCSP certification this year. Edwin Hankins IV BLA’02, Little Rock. He has recently joined MCE in

the Little Rock office as a member of the landscape architecture team to assist with site design and land development. Jared Kyle Henderson BA’02, Little Rock, celebrated three years as Executive Director of the Teach for America Arkansas region. Since becoming Executive Director, he has raised more than $6 million in a public private partnership with Governor Asa Hutchinson and philanthropists. He is currently leading 110 Teach For America teachers and 200 alums in communities directly surrounding the University of Arkansas. Chris Traxson ✪ BA’03 BSBA’13 and his wife Heather of Johnson announced the birth of their daughter, Aubree Shay Traxson, born Sept. 9, 2016. Meredith N. Brunen BA’03 MED’05 EDD’12, accepted a job as associate vice president of university advancement at the University of West Florida, a four-year college in Pensacola. She was previously executive director for development at NorthWest Arkansas Community College Foundation in Bentonville. Elisabeth Megan Lau Hertel, D.V.M.

✪ BSA’03, and her husband welcomed

’10

Mary H. Briggler BSE’10 and Andrew M. Briggler BS’11 announced the birth of their son, Jack Henry Briggler. He was born Oct. 3, 2016. Taylor Amelia Johnson MS’11 and Randall Betts were married June 11, 2016. They reside in Fayetteville. Jackie D. Ross ✪ BSE’11 M.AT.’13 welcomed a baby girl into the world in November 2016.

Kelly A. McGruder ✪ BSBA’06 and Drake M. McGruder ✪ BSBE’06 MSE’12, Fort Smith, welcomed a new baby girl into the world on Dec. 1, 2016. Ashley Rausch ✪ BA’06 and John Robert Rausch ✪ welcomed their daughter, Margaret Rose Rausch, into the world July 25, 2016. Nancy Mitchell Cash BA’07 and Aaron Scott Cash JD’13 of Rogers announced the birth of their son, Warren Mitchell Cash. He was born Sept. 6, 2016. Amanda Michelle Hutchins BA’08 MSW’09 and Josh T. Tinker BA’07 of Centerton announced the birth of their fourth daughter, Millicent Elisabeth Tinker. She was born Oct. 5, 2016. They are also the parents of Margaret Dannehl Tinker, Hannah Ruth Tinker and Emily Michelle Tinker. Kelly J. Donaldson, D.C. ✪ BSE’08, married Mitchel M. Voke in April 2016. She has also recently settled in Navarre, FL.

Barret R. Knutson BSBE’15, Fayetteville. He is joining the MCE team as a project designer for the water/wastewater department in the Fayetteville office. Collin E. Hitt PHD’16, was recently appointed by Illinois Gov. Bruce Rauner to a two-year term on the State Board of Education.

Friends

Jesse J. Holland, Fayetteville, was the 2016 visiting distinguished professor of Ethics in Journalism for the Walter J. Lemke Department of Journalism at the University of Arkansas. Marybeth Dunham Mayfield ✪+, Rogers, retired in 2016 from being an IT Manager moving data centers on major software installations in the northeast. Carolyn M. Schnepel ✪, retired from being an educator for over 30 years. She is now Co-President of Northville, Newcomers and Neighbors in Northville, Michigan. Elizabeth Tipton ✪+ and Joshua E. Tipton ✪+ of West Fork announced the birth of their daughter, Annabelle Lynn Tipton. She was born Oct. 3, 2016.

In Memoriam

1920

Albert B. Crawford BA’27, Carroll County, May 22, 1985.

Neva L. Fritsche ✪+ BA’41, Westerville, Ohio, Aug. 20, 2016. Was an executive administrator with the federal Department of Scientific Research and Development. Survivors: Three children, grandchildren and greatgrandchildren. Franklin Hawkins BSBA’42, Tulsa, Oklahoma, Aug. 17, 2016. Served in the Navy as a lieutenant during WWII. He also served as president of the Sparks Regional Medical Center board and foundation. Survivors: Patricia Hawkins, sons, daughter, grandchildren and 17 great-grandchildren. Roger W. Harris BSCE’45, Waco, Texas, July 24, 2016. Served in the U.S. Navy Construction Battalion during WWII. He was also a surveyor for Carter Oil Company. Survivors: Two sons.

Amanda M. Schoenbaum ★ BSBA’12 MED’14 and Roy A. Jacobson★were married June 18, 2016. They reside in Fayetteville.

their daughter, Hazel Elizabeth, in June 2016.

Roberto Nello Loar ✪ BS’03, became a board certified pediatric dentist.

1940

Jeremy J. Burns MA’09 PHD’14, Fayetteville, Aug. 31, 2016, has been promoted to the position of director of communications.

Sue Alewine Blevins BA’45, Little Rock, Sept. 12, 2016. She was a fifth grade teacher in the Dardanelle school district. Survivors: sister, grandchildren and great-grandchildren. Mary I. Heflin BA’46, Fayetteville, Aug. 18, 2016. She was a teacher at Fayetteville High School for 35 years. Survivors: Daughter and grandson. Mary Wood Newell BSE’46, Houston, Texas, Sept. 26, 2016. She taught at Northbrook High School and was very active in many social organizations. Survivors: husband, son, daughter, and four grandchildren. Richard H. Rainey BSBA’46, Dallas, Texas, April 9, 2008. He served in the U.S. Army during WWII. Marvin D. Boatright BSEE’48, Fayetteville, Aug. 27, 2016. He was an Electrical Engineer at Aero Jet~General and also served in the U.S. Navy. Survivors: daughter, two grandchildren and four great-grandchildren. Herbert Huneycutt Sr. BSA’48 MS’69, Fayetteville, Aug. 22, 2016. He served in the U.S. Army during WWII in the Philippines. He ushered at Razorback football, basketball and baseball games for over 40 years. Survivors: wife Betty Huneycutt, two sons, two daughters, six grandchildren and three great-grandchildren. Pat M. Riley Sr. ✪ BSBA’48, Little Rock, Sept. 6, 2016. He served in the U.S. Army Air Force as a ground corpsman. In WWII he served in the

A R K A N S A S • Spring 2017

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F RO M S E N I O R WA L K

Pacific Theater and returned home with the rank of Sgt. He continued to serve for 20 years before retiring as a Major. In his early 40s he acquired a nursing home (Riley’s Oakhill Manor North). Eventually his Company (Riley’s Inc.) would grow to include Oakhill Manor South in Little Rock and with the partnership of his son they later operate four athletic clubs. Survivors: Martha M. Riley, children and grandchildren.

photo submitted

Lester E. Thurman BSCE’49, Carlisle, Sept. 16, 2016. He was a registered structural Engineer and worked for the Little Rock District Corp. of Engineers for 30 years. He was also involved with the Arkansas River Navigation System, Toastmasters International, VFW and Lions Club. He also served in the Navy during WWII and the Korean War. Survivors: Mary Bea Thurman, children, grandchildren and great-grandchildren.

Spotlight Stan Wullschleger Ph.D.’90 Stan Wullschleger, a scientist with Oak Ridge National Laboratory, has been named the recipient of the 2016 Outstanding Alumnus Award for the Department of Crop, Soil, and Environmental Sciences in the Dale Bumpers College of Agricultural, Food and Life Sciences at the University of Arkansas. Wullschleger is in ORNL’s Energy and Environmental Sciences Directorate and Climate Change Science Institute. He is currently the national project director for the U.S. Department of Energy’s Next Generation Ecosystem Experiments-Arctic, a research initiative to improve climate models by addressing physical, chemical and biological behavior of permafrost-rich terrestrial ecosystems on the North Slope of Alaska. Wullschleger earned his doctorate in crop physiology from UA in 1990 after earning bachelor’s and master’s degrees in forest biology from Colorado State University. He was presented the award at a banquet on March 8, 2016. The NGEE-Arctic project includes a team of more than 140 scientists working on integrated, model-inspired studies in geophysics, Continued on page 63

Penelope Higginbottom Robbins BSBA’49, Owasso, Oklahoma, Aug. 11, 2016. She served her country in the armed forces in the Philippines during WWII. Survivors: three children, five grandchildren and one greatgranddaughter. 1950 Richard W. Newby Jr. BSEE’50, Little Rock, Oct. 7, 2016. He served in the U.S. Navy as electrician’s mate aboard the USS Almaack during three Philippine invasions and Iwo Jima. He later served as senior plant electrical engineer for Reynolds Metals Hurricane Creek plant in Bauxite, retiring in 1983 after a 28-year tenure with the company. He was a member of the National Professional Engineering Society and Institute of Electrical and Electronics Engineers. Survivors: two children, grandchildren and five greatgrandchildren. Joe Holmes ★ BSBA’50 JD’52, Pine Bluff, Aug. 12, 2016. He is a WWIII Navy veteran. He also served as a law teacher at the Fuhr School of Business and was a prosecuting Attorney of the 11th district from 1965-1974. He was also involved in the Arkansas Bar Association and Foundation. Survivors: Claire Anne Coleman Holmes ★ BA’52, three children and nine grandchildren. Bob Stapleton BSBA’50, North Richland Hills, Texas, Aug. 27, 2016. He served in the Army Air Corps. He was a Master Sgt. when he was

discharged. He proceeded with his education at the University of Arkansas and 30 days after graduation he was called to active duty by the U.S. Air Force. He served until his retirement in 1968 and began a teaching career at Amarillo High and L.D. Bell High teaching economics. Survivors: son, step son, daughter, grandchildren and greatgrandchildren. Edward L. Gammill ✪ BSME’50, Scottsdale, Arizona, Dec. 14, 2014. He served in the U.S. Army Air Corps as an aircraft mechanic. He served for over four years in the south pacific during WWII achieving the rank of Master Sgt. He also served during the Korean War in the U.S. Air Force. After serving he worked for Garrett AiResearch Manufacturing Co. (Now Honeywell) in LA before being transferred to their Phoenix plant where he resided ever since. Survivors: sons, grandchildren and great-grandchildren. Hugh Lynn Nutt BSA’50, Rogers, Nov. 12, 2016. He died after a long-term incapacity related to Lewy Body’s disease. A graduate of Hamburg High School, he served in World War II and the Korean Conflict, where he was part of Gen. Douglas MacArthur’s headquarters in Tokyo. He earned a Bachelor of Science in Agriculture from the university in 1951 and married a fellow Arkansas student, Frances Barton, the next year. He earned a master’s degree in extension service in 1966 at the University of Missouri. Survivors: wife Frances; three children; five grandchildren; and a brother. Joe B. Melton BSME’51, Richmond, Virginia, Aug. 2, 2016. Served in the U.S. Navy at the end of WWII. He was also a mechanical engineer with Reynolds Metals (now Alcoa) for 39 years. Survivors: Wife, daughter, son and grandchildren. Elizabeth P. Mobley BSSW’52, Russellville, July, 31, 2016. She was the memorial chairman for the American Cancer Society for over 30 years. Elizabeth’s efforts were recognized by President George W. Bush Sr. and the Arkansas State Senate and House of Representatives. Mark Everett Fite BSSW’52, Athens, Georgia, Sept. 4, 2016. He served in the Navy for nearly 30 years. He also worked for the state department of offended rehabilitation. Survivors: wife, three children and four grandsons.

A R K A N S A S • Spring 2017

Dayton Thomason BSA’52 MS’64, Amity, Aug. 1, 2016. Served in the U. S. Army Reserves and retired as a Lieutenant Colonel. Survivors: Wanda Thomason, three sons, one daughter, nine grandchildren and 12 great-grandchildren. Alise Shook Wilkinson BSHE’52, Denton, Texas, Sept. 17, 2016. She was a high school home economics teacher for many years. Survivors: husband Mitch M. Wilkinson BSEE’52, daughter, son and grandchild. H. Werner Essig★ BSA’53 MS’56, Starkville, Mississippi, Aug. 6, 2015. Survivors: wife Alice Hudson Essig ★ BSHE’53. John K. Brooks MS’54 EDS’77, North Little Rock, July 23, 2016. Served as a teacher, coach, principal and secondary school administrator at various schools in Oklahoma and North Little Rock. Survivors: wife Mary V. Brooks, two sons, and grandson. Robert E. Dever ★ BSBA’54, Denver, June 14, 2016. He served in the Air Force. He also had a career in international transportation. Survivors: wife and daughter. Carolyn I. Hickson BM’54, Fayetteville, Aug. 19, 2016. She was a professor for the music department in Fayetteville. Survivors: brother. Carolyn J. Smith BSE’54, Cumming, Georgia, Aug. 1, 2016. She served as a high school economics teacher. Survivors: three children and six grandchildren. Harold E. Cotton MS’54, Hayward, California, April 25, 2011. Robert L. Elkins BSA’54, Searcy, Aug. 27, 2016. He was a sales representative and sales supervisor with Armour Agri Chemical Company. Billy K. Cooper BSCE’55, Hot Springs Village, Sept. 22, 2016. He worked for the Arkansas State Highway Department and was an engineer. He was the chief engineer for 18 years. Survivors: Wife and stepchildren. Lloyd T. Westbrook★BSA’55 MS’64, Conway, Aug. 5, 2016. Served for two years in the U.S. Army. Survivors: wife Connie Westbrook ★, daughters, grandchildren, and six greatgrandchildren. Jerry L. Reichert BA’55, Minneapolis, Minnesota, Aug. 6, 2016. Served in the Marine Corps and later became an

Air Force officer. He then became the Director for the Retail Advertising Art Department at the Minneapolis Star and Tribune newspapers. John W. Best BSBA’56, Little Rock, Sept. 5, 2016. Was the first president of the board of UALR Lettermen’s Association. Survivors: wife and son. Patrick J. Jansen ★+ BSBA’56, Cordova, Tennessee, Aug. 12, 2016. He served in the Army and fought in the Korean War. He was awarded the Silver and Bronze Star for his service. Survivors: Children, 23 grandchildren and four great-grandchildren. Don K. Martin ★ BSBA’56 MBA’57, North Little Rock, Sept. 26, 2016. He worked for Kroger Management in informational systems. Survivors: wife JoAnn Freeman Martin ★ BSHE’60, two sons and five grandchildren. Charles W. Rose BARCH’57, Sidney, Arkansas, Oct. 7, 2014. He served in the military. Survivors: wife and two sons. Donald R. Dodson MED’57, Arkadelphia, Sept. 8, 2016. He served in the U.S. Army and was stationed in Yokohama, Japan, during the Korean War. He taught Accounting at Henderson for 40 years. He and his wife also operated a tax service in Arkadelphia for over 50 years. Survivors: daughter, grandchildren and great-grandson. Jimmy V. Parr BSA’57 MS’65, Little Rock, Oct. 3, 2016. He was a farm broadcaster for the Arkansas Radio Network and later owned and operated the Blue Plate Special Restaurant with his wife. Survivors: children and grandchildren. Franklin G. Tucker BSBA’57, New Braunfels, Texas, Aug. 23, 2016. He was a retired attorney and also served as an artillery officer in the U.S. Army and in the Army reserve for eight years. After serving he worked for Texaco as a sales representative. He preceded in practicing law in Temple, Texas, and became a partner in the law firm of Prescott and Tucker. Survivors: daughters and grandson. Gerald S. Smith★BSEE’57, Huntsville, Sept. 18, 2016. He served in the U.S. Army. He worked on numerous missile programs. Survivors: sons and grandchildren. Jane Dickinson Yarbrough BSE’57, Memphis, Tennessee, July 21, 2016. Survivors: Son and daughter.

Spring 2017 • A R K A N S A S

Jimmy R. Young BSBA’58, Little Rock, Sept. 12, 2016. He was in the United States Air Force where he served during the Korean War. He later was a manufacturer’s representative for several Arkansas companies and later served as the Vice President of the Arkansas Chapter of the United States Junior Chamber of Commerce (Jaycees). Survivors: wife Judy Young, son, daughter and six grandchildren.

31 years. Survivors: Daughters, six grandchildren, three great grandchildren and one great-great-grandchild.

Jerry E. Asher BSBA’59 LLB’62, Palm Coast, Florida, Aug. 12, 2016. He was a city attorney in Arkansas and also a corporate attorney and Director of Real Estate for various national corporations. Survivors: wife and children.

John H. Stewart MED’61, Fayetteville, Sept. 2, 2016. He served in the U.S. Air Force and U.S. Army. He was also an educator for 30 years. He taught at Bergman, Valley Springs, Western Grove, St. Joe, Prairie Grove and Lincoln Schools. He also served as an elementary principal at the districts of Farmington and Decatur. After retiring from being an educator, he worked as a recruiter for the National Guard.

Alice J. Cunningham BA’59, Cunningham, Georgia, Sept. 21, 2016. Alice was a member of the faculty of Agnes Scott College where she was the William Rand Kenan, Jr. Professor of Chemistry. She was also Chair of the department from 1978-90. Throughout her tenure at the college, one of her primary interests was young women’s undergraduate education with emphasis on the importance of undergraduate research in professional preparation. Survivors: Mary Alice Clower and two sisters. Ervin E. Pearcy ✪ BSBA’59, Marion, Aug. 6, 2016. Served in the U.S. Air Force and was the district manager for Gordon’s Transport in Fort Smith. He also founded Pearcy Auto Sales in West Memphis. Survivors: Son, Daughter, nine grandchildren and five greatgrandchildren. James I. Williams BSPH’59, Camden, Aug. 19, 2016. Survivors: Wife, daughter, eight grandchildren and six great-grandchildren. Peggy Wall Hays BA’59, Conway, Aug. 14, 2016. She was an ordained Deacon and ordained Priest. Survivors: two sons, daughter and two grandsons. 1960 Harold Dixon Smith BSCE’60, Arlington, Texas, Aug. 4, 2016. Served for four years in the Air Force during the Korean War. Also worked for the United States Environmental Protection Agency. Survivors: Wife, son, granddaughter, grandson and great-granddaughter. Barbara Long Hill MED’61, Toledo, Ohio, Aug. 28, 2016. She was a high school teacher for many years in Little Rock and in Rison. She taught for

Glen B. Plummer BSBA’60, Dallas, Texas, June 8, 2016. He served in the Air force and upon receiving his wings, he flew the C124 Globe master between Thule, Greenland, Europe and North Africa. He later flew for Delta Airlines for 33 years. Survivors: wife and children.

Lesly W. Mattingly JD’61, Cabot, Aug. 2, 2016. Was a member of the Arkansas Bar Association and a retired lawyer. He practiced law for 30 years and was a judge for almost 20 years. Survivors: Wife, two daughters, three grandchildren, and three greatgrandchildren. Linda Duncan BSE’61, Fayetteville, Aug. 5, 2016. She was an elementary teacher. Survivors: children, granddaughter and great-grandson. Robert C. Wray Jr. ✪+ BS’61, Savannah, Georgia, Nov. 18, 2013. He was a faculty member at the Medical College of Georgia. Survivors: Wife, three children, and six grandchildren. Bill U. Donald BARCH’62, Little Rock, Sept. 9, 2016. He worked for Interactive Resources of Oakland, California where he was project lead on Oakland’s downtown city center and Clorox building professional center. In addition, he developed commercial and residential properties in Northern California. Survivors: Francis Donald, Son, grandchildren and step grandchildren. Bobby F. Blackston BS’62, Fayetteville, Aug. 28, 2016. He served in the U.S. Navy on the aircraft carrier USS Essex CDA 9. He received his honorable discharge from the Navy in 1956. He continued to be active in AGR serving as Alumni Adviser during 1960s and 1970s. He later worked as a U.S. Customs agent in New Orleans. Survivors: wife, daughter, son and four grandchildren.

A Will to Give Back:

photos submitted

Bennett Gift Supports Students from Two Colleges

Elizabeth Grace Bennett, daughter of the late Jim and Betty Bennett, describes her parents as humble and hardworking. “They believed in supporting the institution where they met and received their education,” she said. That institution was the University of Arkansas, where Jim and Betty were both distinguished graduates. The Arkansas natives included the university in their will and established the James Harold and Betty Jo Bennett Endowed Scholarship to benefit undergraduate students. As a nod to their majors, the couple set up the scholarship to benefit two students each year – one studying chemical engineering in the College of Engineering and one studying mathematical sciences in the J. William Fulbright College of Arts and Sciences. The Bennetts met on the U of A campus and were married for more than 60 years. They were devoted members of their community and St. Matthew’s United Methodist Church in Metairie, Louisiana. Jim Bennett was a first-generation college student and graduated with honors, earning a bachelor’s degree as well as a

master’s degree in chemical engineering. He was a member of the Theta Tau Epsilon Fraternity. After college, he worked with the DuPont enterprise for 42 years and was recognized as a leader and mentor while managing various startup and innovative projects. Jim led a team of engineers and scientists to design the Kevlar plant in the New Orleans area for DuPont in 1976. He then managed and streamlined all aspects of production for 12 years until moving the Bennett family to Singapore for five years while he supervised the DuPont facility there. Betty Bennett also graduated with honors from the university, earning a bachelor’s degree in mathematical sciences. She was a member of the Kappa Kappa Gamma Fraternity, the Phi Beta Kappa National Honors Society and Daughters of the American Revolution. She worked as an 8th grade mathematics teacher for several years after college and was an active member of the parent-teacher associations where her children attended school, as well as the Girl Scouts and Boy Scouts of America.

Leaving a gift to the University of Arkansas can easily be done through your will or estate plans. Where there’s a will, there’s a way to make a difference! A gift through a will is: • Easy to do • Allows you to keep control of your property • Costs nothing during your lifetime • Can be changed, if needed Here’s what it won’t do: • Cost anything during your lifetime • Affect your budget • Change your lifestyle • Put your family at risk Please consider remembering the University of Arkansas in your will. Visit our website to learn more, or call or email us for a free illustration that demonstrates how a planned gift can benefit you and the university. Office of Planned Giving (800) 317-7526 legacy@uark.edu plannedgiving.uark.edu

Giving News

Amy Bell with Studio Bella

A $100,000 gift from Stephen and Tricia Chaffin of Little Rock will establish the Chaffin Family Endowed Scholarship in the Sam M. Walton College of Business. Undergraduate students majoring in finance or considering a career in financial planning are preferred for the scholarship.

How to Give:

University Relations photo

Jim and Pat McClelland of Little Rock pledged $100,000 to support the planned Civil Engineering Research and Education Center at the university, which will be located at the Engineering Research Center. The Civil Engineering Research and Education Center will be a “living laboratory” for civil engineering undergraduates at the university. A $50,000 gift from Tommy and Kathryn May of Pine Bluff will create the Tommy and Kathryn May Early Access Academy Endowed Scholarship. Incoming University of Arkansas students from Jefferson County who attend the Early Access Academy will be given preference.

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Ben and Janet Hyneman of Jonesboro made a gift commitment of $375,000 to the University Libraries for the Janet and Ben Hyneman Leadership Endowment. The endowment will formalize the University Libraries’ arts and lecture series and provide students, faculty and community visitors an environment of cultural and artistic enrichment.

campaign.uark.edu onlinegiving.uark.edu

We’re going

ALagLainI!N #ALLIN4ARKANSAS

March 29-30, 2017 allinforarkansas.uark.edu

Bigger • Bolder More fun • More impact

F RO M S E N I O R WA L K

Bryan G. Collins BSAGE’62, Forrest City, Aug. 7, 2016. Survivors: Wife.

In Memoriam

Edna Velma Ward BSE’62, Poteau, Oklahoma, Nov. 27, 2006. Survivors: son, seven grandchildren and 22 greatgrandchildren.

Fred Vorsanger

John H. Moore BSCHE’62, Gainesville, Florida, Aug. 10, 2016. Was a research professor emeritus of anthropology at the University of Florida. He also worked as a surveyor for the U.S. Army Corps of Engineers in the Arkansas swamps. Survivors: wife, son, daughters and grandchildren. photo submitted

Fred Vorsanger, a long-time former vice president of business affairs at the University of Arkansas, who came out of retirement to manage Bud Walton Arena for another 15 years, died Thursday, Jan. 12, 2017. He was 88. Vorsanger came to the University of Arkansas in 1968 at a time when the university needed a problem solver and long-term planner in the financial realm. During his tenure as the chief financial officer over two decades, the university financed the construction of 18 major academic and residential buildings, including the Arkansas Union, Kimpel Hall, Mullins Library, Pomfret Hall, the Business Building, Billingsley Music Building, the Continuing Education Center, Bell Engineering and the Health, Physical Education and Recreation Building. A note from his family said: “In his pursuit of excellence he was tireless in promoting and building the infrastructure that continues to accrue benefits today, enriching the lives of U of A students, alumni, faculty as well as all citizens of Fayetteville.” In the mid-1980s, he helped start the University of Arkansas Foundation, serving as its first director. He was granted a year-long off-campus duty assignment to direct the foundation and serve as president of the National Association of College and University Business Officers. After his official retirement in 1988, he threw himself into civic service, being elected to the Fayetteville Board of Directors and serving as the last mayor before the city government was converted to a city council form. He then ran successfully for city council. In 1992, then-athletic director Frank Broyles asked Vorsanger to come back to the university and manage construction of Bud Walton Arena, then already underway, and then manage operation of the new 19,200-seat arena. “In every aspect of his life, Fred Vorsanger was truly a difference maker for our community, the University of Arkansas and Razorback Athletics,” said Broyles, former director of athletics. “His astute leadership in a variety of important roles helped shape the growth of the university and our region. We shared a longtime friendship based on mutual respect and a love of humor. Shortly after we began construction of Bud Walton Arena, Fred joined the Razorback program as our first arena manager. He often joked that I begged him to take the job and then never gave him a raise. I simply responded that for a former university CFO, he didn’t

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Nancy Barnhill Trumbo ✪+ BSE’62, Fayetteville. She was a teacher at Woodland Junior High School for 15 years. Survivors: Ellis Trumbo ✪+ BSBA’63.

Kay Hafenbrak May BSE’64, Houston, Texas, June 21, 2016. She was a tutor for soldiers while her husband served in the U.S. Army. She moved on to teach for the Epiphany Discovery Center Day School where she later became Director. Survivors: Jerry D. May BSBA’64, three children and grandchildren. Robert H. McGill ✪+ BSBA’64, Marked Tree, Aug. 28, 2016. He served in the U.S. Air Force. Survivors: nieces and nephews. John Lionel Horne BARCH’65, Fort Smith, May 20, 2012. Was a retired architect and was a member of the American Institute of Architects. Survivors: wife, daughter, four sons and six grandchildren. Madeline Clarke Rose BSE’65, Rogers, Sept. 20, 2016. She was a high school math teacher in Ozark and later taught in Prairie Grove. Survivors: daughter, three grandchildren and five great grandchildren.

A. O. Buzzy Hale Jr. ✪ BSBA’63, Kemp, Texas, Aug. 6, 2016. Served in the United States Army. He also had a successful career in data processing and financial services. Survivors: wife, children and grandchildren. Charles R. Hancock MED’63 MS’65, Ruston, Louisiana, June 2, 2014. He served as 1st Lieutenant in the U.S. Army at Fort Bliss, Texas, with an additional six years of service in the reserve in Texarkana, Arkansas. He also taught mathematics at Arkansas high School. Survivors: wife, two sons and grandchildren. Carreather F. Banks Perry MS’63, Forrest City, July 24, 2016.

Dorothy E. Dortch Kapnic BA’66 MA’70, Harrisburg, Pennsylvania, Sept. 4, 2016. She was an educator and also worked for AT&T as a programmer analyst in Kansas City. Guy Watkins Jr. ✪+ BSBA’66, Hot Springs, Sept. 26, 2016. He was a founding partner of Perfection Equipment in Silver City, N.C. Survivors: Mother, sons, stepchildren and grandchildren. Vola M. Beard BSE’66, Kingston, Aug. 5, 2016. Was a school teacher for more than 41 years. Survivors: three daughters, five grandsons, 11 great-grandchildren, and six great-great-grandchildren.

Courtney A. Dermott ✪+ BA’63, Joplin, Missouri, Oct. 3, 2016. She worked for several years at the Joplin Public Library and served as President of the Library’s board. Survivors: Jon A. Dermott ✪ LLB’63, daughter, sons, five grandchildren and one greatgrandchild.

John W. Henderson MBA’67, Kansas City, Missouri, July 31, 2016. Was an avid photographer. Survivors: wife, two children, and two grandchildren.

William R. Robinson BSBA’63, Fayetteville, Aug. 1, 2016. Survivors: wife, sons, daughter and 12 grandchildren.

Tommy Craig BSA’67, Little Rock, Sept. 5, 2016. He was a school teacher for 35 years. Survivors: wife, stepson and one grandson.

Eileen F. Derning Elias BA’64 MED’72, Plano, Texas, Sept. 9, 2016. She was a math teacher for 50 years. Survivors: children and grandchildren. James Franklin Luther BA’64, Redding, California, July 29, 2016. He served as a captain in the United States Air Force. He was a broker and co-owner of Good Earth Realty for over 30 years. Survivors: Wife, four children and six grandchildren.

Billy D. O’Bar BSA’68, Ozark, Sept. 8, 2016. He served as an Air Force ROTC cadet at the University of Arkansas. He also worked as a pilot for FedEx Express. Kinnard L. Kohler★BSBA’68, Little Rock, July 31, 2016. Was the president and chief executive officer of Retail Management Systems of Arkansas. Survivors: Three children, and 11 grandchildren.

A R K A N S A S • Spring 2017

Rex L. Grimsley★BSE’68 MED’73, Bentonville, Aug. 31, 2016. Marilyn J. Moore BA’68, Fort Smith, Sept. 25, 2016. She served in the U.S. Navy. Karel E. Bohlken BSE’69, Conway, Aug. 5, 2016. Served many years as a teacher at Daisy Bates and Watson Elementary. Survivors: husband. Robert H. Denton BSBA’69, Warren, Sept. 3, 2016. He was inducted into the Warren Lumberjack Hall of Fame. He worked with 3M National Advertising Company and the national Fire Safety Council. Survivors: Maka Parnell BSE’67, sons, daughters and 10 grandchildren. Wilton Leland Wilson PHD’69, San Marcos, Texas, Sept. 16, 2016. He served in the National Guard in 1947 as a Private and retired in 1970 with the rank of Major. He was the Dean of the School of Business at Texas State University. He was also assistant to the president, chairman of the department of business and was on numerous committees. He was also president of the Lone Star Football Conference in the early 1970s. He was also president of the Hays County Teacher Credit Union. Survivors: son. 1970 Ellsworth M. Bender BSE’70, Hot Springs, Sept. 24, 2016. He coached football for 31 years. He played on the 1964 National Champion Razorback team. In 1965, Coach Bender was a team captain and named all Southwest Conference. Coach Bender was also a member of the Arkansas Sports Hall of Fame. Survivors: Son, daughter and two grandchildren. Grover C. Scruggs Jr. BSBA’70, Pine Bluff, Aug. 7, 2016. Was the Assistant to the President at Higman Marine Services. Survivors: wife Georganne Scruggs, daughter, and two sons. Larry J. Stone ✪ BSAGE’70 MSCE’72, Hot Springs, Aug. 28, 2016. Was a civil engineer and had a firm in Longview. Survivors: wife Pat Stone, sons and three grandchildren.

Sharon Montgomery BSE’70, Haymarket, Virginia, July 22, 2016. Survivors: husband John Montgomery BSBA’68 and two daughters. James R. Tucker BSIE’71, Jacksonville, Mississippi, Oct. 11, 2015. Survivors: wife, children and eight grandchildren. Wilmar B. Moss Jr. MED’71, Magnolia, Sept. 10, 2016. He served in the U.S. Army and was also on the Columbia District Trustee Board, Columbia Court House Restoration Committee, Commissioner on Arkansas Fair Housing Board, NAACP, Bail Bondsman in Columbia County, American Legion, Southwest Arkansas Community Development, Principal of Holmon Elementary School in Stuttgart, and he was also superintendent of Walker Schools in Magnolia. Survivors: Wife, three sons and one daughter. Esther L. Storey BSE’71 MED’74, Bella Vista, Aug. 1, 2016. She served as a teacher and was the Director at Mariah Flat, a center for adults with disabilities in Odessa, Texas. Survivors: Brother and sister. Richard C. Jackson★BSEE’72, Batesville, Aug. 16, 2016. Spent over 30 years as an engineer at Woodruff Electric Cooperative. Survivors: wife Linda Raye Ransom★BSHE’70 MS’77, daughter, son and four grandchildren. Bertha Wong Chu BSE’72 MED’01, Helena, Aug. 23, 2016. She taught computer classes at Central High, Barton High, Desoto School and Phillips Community College of the University of Arkansas. Survivors: husband Charley M. Chu, two sons and three grandchildren. John I. Coppett PHD’73, Portland, Oregon, Sept. 28, 2016. David J. Sackman BM’74 MM’77, Springdale, Sept. 15, 2016. Survivors: Sister. Franklin Lee Pickle MED’74, Atkins, Aug. 25, 2016. He was a teacher, coach and administrator. In 2006 he was chosen by People for a Better Atkins as Citizen of the Year. Survivors: wife Shirley Canerday Pickle BSHE’64 MED’74, son and grandson. Junius B. Stone Jr. ★+ MSEE’74, Little Rock. He was a retired Facilities engineer. Survivors: Mary M. Stone★and son. Thelma L. Gallaway BSE’75, Gentry, Sept. 1, 2016. Survivors: son, daughter, six grandchildren, 10 great grandchildren and one great-great-grandchild.

Spring 2017 • A R K A N S A S

In Memoriam

James Moore

James N. Moore, who established the fruit-breeding program within the University of Arkansas System Division of Agriculture in 1964 that quickly became one of the most influential in the world, died Sunday, Jan. 22, 2017. He was 85. “Jim had a passion for horticulture and was a gifted teacher,” said Mark Cochran, vice president-agriculture and head of the University of Arkansas System Division of Agriculture. “He leaves a tremendous legacy, not only on farms, orchards and vineyards around the world, but also in the students he taught, who will carry on his work for decades to come.” “Dr. Moore was a giant in his profession, and he laid the foundation of the extremely successful fruit breeding program which is today one of our premier research programs,” said Clarence Watson, director of the Arkansas Agricultural Experiment Station. Born in Vilonia and raised in Plumerville, Moore served in the Air Force following high school and met his wife, Janita “Jan” Fitzgerald of Morrilton, soon after discharge. Encouraged by his mother, Moore attained an associate degree from Arkansas Tech University in 1954, followed in 1956 by a bachelor’s degree in horticulture and in 1957, a master’s in horticulture, both from the University of Arkansas. Moore’s next step was moving to the Garden State, earning his doctorate from Rutgers University in 1961 where he met Jules Janick, now the James Troop Distinguished Professor of Horticulture at Purdue. It was the beginning of a collaboration that would last a lifetime. “Jim was a great horticulturist and a great man and will be sorely missed,” Janick said. “I will say that the work he started and is being continued by John Clark will continue to have a tremendous impact on American fruit production.” Clark, a Distinguished Professor of horticulture for the University of Arkansas System Division of Agriculture, inherited the fruit-breeding program from Moore. From 1961-63, Moore worked for the U.S. Agriculture Department at Beltsville, Maryland, as a fruit breeder. “Jim loved to tell the story of his choosing to come back to Arkansas, leaving the USDA breeding position. He made his decision, and in late 1963 went in to tell his USDA boss he was moving home,” Clark said. He began his faculty appointment at Arkansas in 1964. “His boss said, ‘Jim, if you go back to Arkansas, you will never be

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David Lee Poole BSME’68 MSIE’72, Sheridan, Aug. 26, 2016. He served in the Vietnam War. He worked for Sun Oil in Tulsa, Oklahoma, and Gulf Oil in Baytown, Texas, before he moved back to Arkansas where he later worked for the Department of Health. Survivors: Wife.

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F RO M S E N I O R WA L K

Lloyd J. Porchia EDD’75, Itta Bena, Mississippi, Feb. 4, 2016. Survivors: three sons, two daughters, 14 grandchildren, 24 great-grandchildren and one great-great-grandchild. Glen M. Banister BSBA’76, Marion, July 30, 2016. Was a teacher in the West Memphis School system. Survivors: Mother, two sisters. Tim L. Yarborough★BSBA’76 MBA’78, Dallas, Texas, Aug. 5, 2016. Was a National Bank Examiner with the Office of the Comptroller of Currency in Tulsa, Oklahoma, for 22 years. Survivors: Wife Dana Yarborough, and daughter. Lee R. McEwen Jr. BSEE’77, Hartford, Texas, Aug. 1, 2016. Survivors: Wife, three sons, two stepchildren, and seven grandchildren. Michael B. Smith BSBA’77, Little Rock, Aug. 30, 2016. He was a veteran of the Vietnam War. He received four Bronze Stars for Bravery, the Purple Heart, two Medals of Honor and many more. Survivors: wife Robin Smith BSE’75, children and grandchildren. Tommy J. Holifield JD’77, Paragould, Aug. 12, 2016. He was a lawyer. Survivors: wife, sons and grandchildren. Linn Edwin Davis MS’78, Merced, California, Aug. 20, 2016. He served in the military as a weapons controller. He earned the Vietnam Service Medal and the Vietnam air medal. Survivors: wife, sons and four grandchildren. Jeanette Kay Shipley Phillips BA’78 MS’86 PHD’91, Bentonville, Aug. 22, 2016. She was a university professor. Survivors: Husband, sons and four grandchildren. James Hewitt Beck BA’79, Tulsa, Oklahoma, Sept. 28, 2016. He was a master chef throughout the U.S. and for the International Press Center at the 2008 Beijing Olympics. Survivors: mother, two brothers and daughter. Margaret Riley BA’79, Lexington, Kentucky, Aug. 22, 2016. She was a staff member of bluegrass.org in Lexington. Survivors: Husband, two sons and three grandchildren. 1980 Michael Wayne Hawkins BA’81 JD’86, Prairie Grove, Oct. 15, 2014. Survivors: His mother, daughters, grandchildren and Nancy Higdon BA’80.

Carl L. Roberts BSPA’82, Little Rock, Aug. 6, 2016. Survivors: four siblings. Edward A. Calcote BS’82, Houston, Texas, Sept. 3, 2016. He worked in the lubricant section of Shell Oil Company for the past 17 years. He was also a youth bowling coach for 13 years. Survivors: wife Amy Calcote BA’81, one son and one daughter. Leighton McCrary MED’82, Newport, Aug. 21, 2016. He was an educator and a basketball coach for nearly 40 years. Survivors: wife, two sons and 10 grandchildren. Claudell Woods JD’82, McNeil. He worked in the Arkansas National Guard as a judge advocate in the legal division (JAG). He retired from the National Guard after 26 years with the rank of Colonel. He went on to be the Chair of the Political Science, Geography and History Department at his alma mater, Southern Arkansas University. Survivors: wife Paula Woods, two sons and grandchildren. Winnie Wanda Theus MED’83, Little Rock, Aug. 31, 2016. Survivors: children and grandchildren. Stephen G. Krim BSBA’84, Plano, Texas, June 23, 2016. Survivors: Wife, two daughters, and son. Steven Ray Crumpler ✪+ BSBA’84, Garfield, Sept. 4, 2016. He worked for Walmart for more than 30 years. Survivors: wife Petra, daughter and sons. John Fred Stroud III JD’89, Texarkana, Arkansas, Sept. 8, 2016. Was the General Attorney in the Office of Review and Appeals at the U.S. Equal Employment Opportunity Commission in Washington, D.C. He later returned to his hometown of Texarkana and started his own law practice. He also worked part time as a public defender in Miller County. Survivors: wife, children and granddaughter. 1990

2000

Joanna Willson, North Little Rock, Aug. 7, 2016. Was a private piano teacher for many years. Survivors: husband Robert A. Willson, son, daughter, four grandchildren and four great-grandchildren.

Jonathan Michael Bendall BARCH’07, Troy, Missouri, June 22, 2016. He worked at Hill Partnership Architects in Wentzville and later worked at Jinkerson Guttering in Troy. Survivors: parents, brother and sister.

Josh Merrick, Springfield, Missouri, Aug. 22, 2016. He was employed by Mercy Hospital in Springfield in the IT department. Survivors: wife and son.

Aaron Dale Newman ✪ BSA’01 MS’05, Fayetteville, Aug. 5, 2016. He was the regional sales director for Carlson Software in Maysville, Kentucky, and was co-owner of A.R. Firearms Training. Survivors: Renee Newman ✪ and two sons. Daniel K. Elliott BA’05, Fayetteville, July 28, 2016. He served on the board of the Firehouse Hostel and Museum in Little Rock. Survivors: wife, and mother. Friends Betty Hays Bell, Sterling, Virginia, Aug. 13, 2016. Survivors: son, six grandchildren and two great grandchildren. A. A. Kattan, Fayetteville, Sept. 3, 2016. Helped found the Horticulture Food Science department at the University of Arkansas. Also served as the department head. Survivors: three children, five grandchildren and two great grandchildren. Ameta Sue Pratt, Newport, July 31, 2016. Survivors: two daughters, two grandchildren, and two great grandchildren. Andrew Lee Dodds, Fayetteville, Aug. 2, 2016. Survivors: wife, three sons and two grandchildren. Annie Sartin Patterson, Little Rock, Sept. 22, 2016. Bianca Maria Thornton, Bentonville, July 29, 2016. She worked for the Walmart Home office for 23 years and retired as a paralegal. Survivors: Husband and son. Faye Warren Rainey, Dallas, Texas, Aug. 14, 2005.

Patrick R. Dallas BA’90, Fayetteville, Oct. 4, 2016. Survivors: brother.

James William Morris, Longview, Texas, May 10, 2014. Survivors: Rebecca Morris, mother and daughters.

Gary Alan Gay BSBA’91, Bella Vista, Aug. 28, 2016. He was a realtor for Crye Leike Real Estate in Bentonville. Survivors: mother, brothers and sister.

Jean Hartsell McNulty, Little Rock, Sept. 4, 2016. Survivors: Thomas Stanley McNulty Jr. BSBA’58, two daughter and grandchildren.

Kirk Alan Piskor BSBA’93, Frisco, Texas, Sept. 5, 2016. Served as head coach of the Golden Norse Baseball Program. Survivors: wife, daughter and parents.

Jennifer Louise Cash Cowan, Houston, Texas, July 22, 2016. She was employed by Dow Chemical Company as an IT manager. Survivors: Husband, parents, and two daughters.

Patricia Cox Douglass, Dothan, Alabama, Sept. 14, 2016. She was very active in her community. She was a hospital volunteer, and Meals on Wheels volunteer. Survivors: daughters, son, nine grandchildren and eight greatgrandchildren. Phillip Carruth, Russellville, Sept. 17, 2016. In 1975 Phillip accepted the sales manager position with Valmac Industries in Dardanelle. After working for Valmac, he worked for Lane Poultry Industries in DeQueen. He started Poultry Specialties, Inc., in 1978 and was the owner and operator. Also opening a chicken plant in Van Buren, he was a pioneer in development of the fast food chicken sandwich patty. Survivors: wife Phyllis Turpin Carruth, two sons and daughter. Richard Dana, Portland, Oregon, Aug. 15, 2015. Was a professor at the University of Arkansas as well as other universities. He was also a member of many scientific associations in psychology. Survivors: Stepdaughter, son and grandchildren. Sharniece Renea Hughes, Little Rock, Sept. 5, 2016. She published many professional journals for her study in Criminal Justice. She also worked at the University of Arkansas for Medical Sciences in the HR department. She was a behavior specialist for Pinnacle Pointe and founded her own business, Rock’n Flavors. Survivors: two daughters and her parents. Vicki Jo Janssen, Russellville, Aug. 6, 2016. Was a volunteer recruiter for Guardianship. Inc. She was one of the founders of the Johnson Country Parent to Parent Support Group and also served on the State Board for The Arc Arkansas. Survivors: her children. Wade Kreie, Little Rock, Sept. 4, 2016. He was a photographer and also worked at Collier’s Drug Store. Survivors: wife, children and four grandchildren.n

A R K A N S A S • Spring 2017

Spotlight, continued from page 56

ARKANSAS

ALUMNI OFFICERS President Don Eldred ✪+’81, Houston Past-President Stephanie S. Streett ✪ BS’91, Little Rock Treasurer Kenneth Biesterveld ★ ’05, ’10, Bentonville Secretary Debbie Blume ✪+ BSBA’08, Fayetteville BOARD OF DIRECTORS Class of 2017 Ben Beaumont ★ ’04, Little Rock John Berrey ✪ ’91, Tulsa Judy Drummond Covert ✪+ ’83, Bel Aire, KS LaTonya Foster ★ ’96, Springdale Steven Hinds ✪+ ’89, 92, Fayetteville Jordan Patterson Johnson ✪ ’00, Little Rock Carla Martin ★ ’04, Pine Bluff Melissa Pianalto ✪ ’88, ’90, Springdale Molly Rapert ★ ’85, ’87, Fayetteville Class of 2018 Kristen Allbritton ★ ’04, Frisco, TX Teena Gunter ✪ ’92, ’97, Oklahoma City Ashley Harris ✪ ’95, Fayetteville Sharon Hunt ★ ’73, ’75, Fayetteville Kristin Kaufman ✪ ’83, Dallas Bill Kerr ✪ ’88, Tampa, FL Dustin McDaniel ★ ’94, Little Rock Drake McGruder ✪ ’06, ’12, Fort Smith Charles Redfield ✪ ’89 Bentonville Class of 2019 John Forrest Ales ✪ ’02, Bentonville Linda Bedford-Jackson ★ ’80, Austin, TX Susan Kemp ✪ ’73, ’75, Mountain View Robert Kolf ✪+ ’78, Wildwood, MO Greg Lee ✪+ ’70, Fayetteville Paul Parette ✪+ ’89, Dallas Ron Rainey ✪ ’91, ’93, Little Rock Lott Rolfe IV ★ ’94, Maumelle Roger Sublett ✪ ’64, ’65, Mason, OH Amy Tu ★ ’96, Seattle Brian Wolff ✪ ’89, Washington D.C. STAFF Associate Vice Chancellor for Alumni and Executive Director of the Arkansas Alumni Association Brandy Cox ✪ MA’07 Associate Executive Director Dale Green ★ Director of Membership and Marketing Terri Dover ✪+ Director of Constituent Engagement Angela Mosley Monts ✪, BA’80 Director of Outreach and Chapters Thomas Ellis ★ BA’96, MBA’98 Mercedes Alberson ★ Student Outreach Coordinator; Lisa Ault ★ BSBA’94, Accounting Specialist; Catherine Baltz ✪+ BS’92, MED’07, Manager of Affinity Programs & Analysis; Shanna Bassett ★ Associate Director of Membership and Marketing; Ashley Batchelor ★ BA’07, Assistant Director of Communications; Debbie Blume ✪+ BSBA’08 Board and Campaign Coordinator; Jordianna Davis ✪ MSOM’06, Fiscal Support Analyst; Deb Euculano ✪ Associate Director of Alumni Special Events; Rachel Gray ★ Administrative Assistant; Amber Jordan ★ Administrative Support Supervisor; Ryan Miller ✪+ BSBA’07, MED’09, BSBA’13, Associate Director of Student and Young Alumni Outreach; Wren Myers ★ Special Projects Coordinator; Emily Piper, Administrative Specialist; Alyssa Pruitt ★ BSBA’13, MED’15, Marketing Specialist; Patti Sanders ✪+ Associate Director of Alumni Scholarships; Julie Simpson ★ Assistant Director of Facilities and Special Events; Lauren Tyson ★ Fiscal Support Analyst

hydrology, biogeochemistry, vegetation dynamics and multi-scale numerical modeling. The goal is to accelerate the incorporation of new information from the field and lab studies into climate models. Wullschleger has spent more than 25 years pursuing global scientific issues, and has combined training in plant physiology with interdisciplinary approaches. He has researched the sustainable use of herbaceous and woody bioenergy crops as a renewable source of transportation fuel, participated in molecular investigations of model and nonmodel organisms, and measured the physiological mechanisms by which plants and ecosystems respond to global environmental change.

Since joining ORNL in 1990 as an Alexander Hollaender Distinguished Postdoctoral Fellow, Wullschleger has focused on climate change, the genetic basis for bioenergy crops, carbon-water cycles and molecular ecology. ORNL, located near Knoxville, Tennessee, is the largest U.S. Department of Energy science and energy laboratory. Wullschleger was a scientist with the USDA’s Agricultural Research Service before completing his doctorate. Married to Denise with two children and three grandchildren, he teaches an inner city afterschool science program in Knoxville. n

In Memoriam, continued from page 60

negotiate very well.” Vorsanger attended Indiana University on the GI Bill and found an interest in accounting, a field of work that led him to jobs at Ernst & Ernst, Purdue University and then as business manager for the American Council on Education in Washington, D.C. His first marriage of 13 years ended not long after the family’s move to Washington. While there, he earned a master’s degree in business administration from George Washington University and then met Doreen Dawson, whom he married in 1965. In 1968, Vorsanger began looking for a job outside of Washington and was courted by numerous campuses. President David Mullins wanted him to come to the University of Arkansas, but Vorsanger had tentatively considered

a job at the University of Oklahoma. On their way to Oklahoma, though, they stopped by Fayetteville. They stayed. Half in jest, Vorsanger once told the Arkansas Democrat-Gazette: “Deep in my heart, of all the places I visited, I thought this place would be a challenge and I knew they needed me worse than anybody else needed me. … I thought anything I do here — with my training and background — I could make a difference.” During Homecoming in 1998, the Arkansas Alumni Association honored Vorsanger by naming him an honorary alumnus. Survivors include his wife of more than 50 years, Doreen; three children, Diana, Bruce and Bob; five grandchildren; and five great-grandchildren. n

In Memoriam, continued from page 61

heard from again!’ Well, one can say that his coming back to Arkansas was one of the most important moves in small fruit breeding not only in Arkansas, but the region, nationally and internationally,” Clark said. “And, he was definitely heard from again!” Moore developed a very broad breeding program that encompassed blackberries, strawberries, peaches, and grapes, and added blueberries later in his career. His achievements in fruit breeding were monumental, with more than 50 varieties released from his efforts. Among the most important were Cardinal strawberry, Navaho and Shawnee blackberries, Reliance and Mars grapes, Bonfire peach, and Ozarkblue blueberry. Moore received many awards in his career. He was recognized as a distinguished professor at

Spring 2017 • A R K A N S A S

the University of Arkansas, its highest academic appointment. He also received the Arkansas Alumni Association Outstanding Faculty Award, as well as being the first recipient of the University of Arkansas System Division of Agriculture Spitze Land Grant University Faculty Award for Excellence. He was a Fellow of the American Society for Horticultural Science and received the Wilder Medal from the American Pomological Society. He was inducted into the Arkansas Agriculture Hall of Fame as well as the Hall of Fame of the American Society for Horticultural Science. Moore is survived by his wife, Jan Fitzgerald Moore; a daughter and son; four grandchildren and two great-grandchildren. n

photo by Whit Pruitt

L A S T LO O K

Staple Hog When the Office of the Registrar went paperless in 1998, Betty Pliler began collecting the staples she pulled from the files she scanned into the computer – graduation-related documents dating back to 1985. As the staples piled up, she molded them into her first creation, a small Buddha, but as more staples were added it morphed into a Razorback and eventually weighed more than 25 pounds. Pliler kept adding staples to the sculpture until her retirement in 2013 after 28 years with the university. Staple Hog is back at the U of A again, on loan to Pliler’s granddaughter, Robyn Riggins, who works in the Office of Annual Giving. The campus community is welcome to stop by and see the sculpture at 311 University House. n

A R K A N S A S • Spring 2017

Sorrento, Italy (Alumni Campus Abroad) September 13-21, 2017

Discover a region of southern Italy renowned for its beauty and fascinating history on a journey to Campania. Settle in Sorrento and explore the spectacular Amalfi Coast, featuring visits to picturesque Positano and Amalfi, where colorful villages cling to the mountainsides. Local guides and expert speakers provide fascinating insights during included excursions and lectures. From $2,795 per person based on double occupancy.

Normandy, France (Alumni Campus Abroad) October 23-31, 2017

Walk through history on this exclusive journey through Normandy. Local guides and expert speakers provide insight during excursions and lectures. This Alumni Campus Abroad program features engaging excursions, an educational program and an extensive meal plan plus wine with dinner. There is no single supplement for solo travelers. From $2,895 per person.

Bangkok to Bali aboard the EASTERN & ORIENTAL EXPRESS November 6-18, 2017

Southeast Asia’s alluring blend of cultures and traditions has attracted traders and travelers for centuries. Experts and local guides will bring your adventure to life with included excursions and fascinating talks. This small-group experience features deluxe accommodations throughout and an extensive meal plan. From $5,995 per person based on double occupancy.

The early booking deadline for all three of these tours is April 16, 2017. Pricing does not include airfare. Prices and itineraries are subject to change.

ARKANSAS

ALUMNI

For details on these and other great tours www.arkansasalumni.org/tours • travel@arkansasalumni.org 800-775-3465 •479-575-3151

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