Henderson Magazine

REDDIE FOR WHAT’S NEXT

2022 has been a year of significant change for Henderson State University as we navigated financial exigency and worked to restore fiscal integrity. We made difficult decisions about academic degree programs to align our expenses to revenue while also prioritizing the career readiness of our students with degrees that align with community-based needs. These changes have been difficult but necessary to overcome years of deficit spending and to reimagine Henderson as a college that works for all students.

As I have met alumni and friends during the past year, many of you have asked questions about the future of Henderson. As your Chancellor, please know that I am committed to and have full confidence in the following priorities:

• We will not close or become a two-year college.

• We are and will remain Henderson State University—an integral and contributing member of the Arkansas State University System.

• We will build partnerships to provide access and opportunity for students, making degree completion our highest priority.

• We will create the systems and supports that students need to be successful.

• We will graduate more of our students from our learning communities and connect them directly with high-demand careers that serve our region.

Alumni and friends, your support is more important now than ever. I ask for your help to refer potential students to our admissions team at HSU.EDU/REDDIES, to support student scholarships at HSU.EDU/GIVE , and to be an advocate for your Alma Mater. Together, we will build a stronger Henderson for current and future Reddies.

Joining you in service,

Chuck Ambrose

DEAR ALUMNI AND FRIENDS,

BUILDING THE FUTURE OF COLLEGE TOGETHER

Henderson is forging partnerships to provide access and opportunity for students, create the systems and supports that students need to be successful, and graduate more of our students while connecting them with high-demand careers

NYIT College of Osteopathic Medicine: Partnership for Henderson and NYIT to offer programs that improve access to healthcare for the underserved and rural populations in Arkansas.

ASU Three Rivers: Partnership to provide workforce training and associate degrees in Clark County.

Arkansas State University: Expansion of Henderson programs, such as aviation, to Jonesboro as well as graduate school offerings across both campuses.

Saline County Career and Technical Campus: Partnership to provide concurrent enrollment and expand degree opportunities for high schools in Saline County.

PEP Initiative: Partnership with Complete College America and the Arkansas Department of Higher Education for the Policy, Equity, and Practice Initiative, a grant-funded program that provides technical assistance and coaching to boost student retention and build school to career connections.

ReUp Initiative: Partnership with an agency called ReUp to reengage with students whose college experience may have been interrupted but who wish to re-enroll. This program helps students remove barriers and get back on track for graduation.

DISTINGUISHED ALUMNI

Charles and Anita Cabe

For the past 50 years, Charles and Anita Cabe have been synonymous with Henderson State University. After meeting at Henderson in the spring of 1964, getting engaged on the site of what is now the Charles and Anita Student-Athlete Success Center, and marrying in 1967, the Cabes have devoted themselves to personifying the Reddie Spirit. Clay Cabe accepted the award on behalf of his late father, Charles.

Charles, who was from Gurdon, Arkansas, served as president of Cabe Land and Timber Company, president of the C. Louis and Mary Cabe Foundation, and a board member of the Horace C. Cabe Foundation until his death in 2017. Anita, who was raised in Marianna, Arkansas, has worked as the secretary and treasurer for the C. Louis and Mary Cabe Foundation for 23 years, served on the Henderson State Board of Trustees for 15 years, served on the Henderson State University Foundation Board, the Board of the Brandon Burlsworth Foundation and the Board of the Muses.

What is your hometown? Marianna, Arkansas

Where do you currently live? Gurdon, Arkansas

Why did you choose Henderson?

My school counselor and students from Marianna recommended Henderson State

What was your major at Henderson? Business

What did/do you love most about Henderson?

Lifelong friendships and the Reddie Spirit

Most influential faculty/staff member?

Dean of Women, Bernice Smith, and Marjorie Winslow

What was your first job after graduation? Secretary in the office at Gurdon Lumber Company

What accomplishment are you most proud of? Induction into the Henderson Hall of Honor and being recognized with the Distinguished Alumni Award

How would you describe yourself today, compared to yourself when attending Henderson?

I was very shy when I came to Henderson. The Reddie Spirit changed that. I never imagined I would have the opportunity to be a part of so many remarkable things.

When are you the happiest? When I am spending time with my family. Especially my son, Clay, and my twin sister, Annette.

Brown Hardman

Brown Hardman, a lifelong resident of Clark County, is a graduate of Arkadelphia High School and Henderson State University, graduating with a degree in psychology. He has been a principal broker for 56 years and an appraiser for 57 years. He has also served as a personal financial advisor for IDS Financial Services. He has been married to Carolyn Love for 60 years, whom he met during his time at Henderson. They have two children, Brad and Kimberly, and two grandchildren, Trevor Nation and Hayden Love Hardman.

Maurice R. Horton, Sr.

The family of the late Maurice R. Horton Sr. accepted the Distinguished Alumni Award in his honor and memory. Horton was born in 1935 in Curtis, Arkansas. In 1953, he graduated from Peake High School in Arkadelphia, where he later returned to teach. He entered AM&N College, now known as the University of Arkansas at Pine Bluff in Fall 1953, and during the summer of 1955, his mother and former high school teachers encouraged him to transfer to Henderson State Teachers College. In 1957, he became the first African American to receive the B.S. degree from HSTC and became the first African American to receive both his undergraduate and graduate degrees from this institution after he received his M.S. in mathematics.

Horton later attended Kansas State University and the University of Arkansas. He frequently stated “It’s all about the children,” during his 43 years of service in education including junior and senior high mathematics teacher, assistant high school principal, as the first African American principal of the integrated Dollarway High School, 13 years as an administrator and curriculum coordinator and was the first African American elected superintendent of the Dollarway School District. In February 2007, Horton was one of four former Dollarway District employees to have a building on

the high school campus named and dedicated in their honor, the Horton-Richardson Building.

His family established the Maurice R. Horton Sr. Emerging Leader Scholarship in 2012 through the Henderson Foundation, and the HSU Black Alumni Chapter initiated the Maurice R. Horton Sr. Awards Ceremony in 2018, where African American graduates receive a medallion to wear during commencement. On May 6, 2021, a portrait of Maurice R. Horton Sr., painted by Ed Martin, was unveiled, and is on display in the Garrison Center.

Hardman was a recipient of the President’s Award of the Chamber of Commerce for outstanding service, and the Elrod Center Award for excellent service. Hardman was on the Henderson State University Board of Trustees for seven years, president of the Perky House Hunting Club for five years, president of the Joan Hunting Club for four years, served on the Clark County Quorum Court for 14 years, and was chairman of the Budget Committee for six years. He served as Arkadelphia City Director and Vice Mayor for 12 years.

What is your hometown? Arkadelphia

Why did you choose Henderson?

I was born a REDDIE!

What was your major?

I attempted to major in football, baseball, and girls but I had enough hours to major in psychology my senior year.

What did/do you love most about Henderson?

The Reddie Spirit! No questions!

What was the greatest lesson you learned at Henderson? Never quit or give up.

Most influential faculty/staff member?

Dr. C.W. Thompson (Doc)

What was your first job after graduation? U.S. Army

What accomplishment are you most proud of?

My great, lifelong friends from Henderson

Who is a person, past or present, that you admire most (and why)?

My momma! No question.

When are you happiest? When the people around me are happy

2022 “H” AWARD

Leah Forrest Sexton

Leah Forrest Sexton is a two-time graduate of Henderson State University, earning a bachelor’s degree in speech communication in 2006 and a Master of Liberal Arts degree in 2014. Sexton is the Chief Administrative Officer for Horizon Capital Partners. Prior to that, she served Henderson in several roles including director of alumni engagement, academic advisor, and as guest services coordinator for admissions tours and events. Sexton has served as president of the Arkadelphia, Arkansas, Rotary Club and participated in Leadership Clark County and Junior Auxilary of Arkadelphia. She is also the executive director of the Miss HSU and Miss HSU Outstanding Teen Pageants. Leah is married to fellow alumnus, Clay Sexton, and they have a daughter, Brooklyn Blair.

What is your hometown?

Warren, Arkansas

Where do you currently live?

Arkadelphia (Joan)

Why did you choose Henderson?

I decided to go on a tour since a friend attended here and auditioned for choir. I was immediately hooked from my tour, seeing the

beautiful campus, meeting Ms. Vikita Bell Hardwrick and auditioning for Dr. Charles Rye.

What accomplishment are you most proud of?

I am most proud of my daughter, Brooklyn. I love to watch her explore life and learn. My husband and I are so proud of the person she is becoming and aspires to be. She teaches me something new every day.

YOUNG ALUMNI AWARD

Who is a person, past or present, that you admire most (and why)?

Outside of Jesus, my granddad who inspires me to this day with everything he has accomplished while remaining extremely humble. I have never heard him say anything negative about anyone, and he thinks of the best interests of his loved ones above anyone else following God.

Beau Baker

What’s something others would be surprised to know about you?

I memorized the song “Ring of Fire” in just one night when I was 10 and performed it at a Johnny Cash-themed talent show in front of the Man in Black himself along with June Carter Cash. I’ll never forget looking straight out in the crowd at them.

Beau Baker has been an Edward Jones financial advisor since July 2016 and has grown his business exponentially since graduating from Henderson. He has his own office in Texarkana and is well known across east Texas and southwest Arkansas when it comes to wealth management.

Baker was a very successful high school football player in Texas before becoming a football player at Henderson State in 2012 and being part of two conference championship teams. Baker graduated with a finance degree and plays an active role on the HSU Business Advisory Council. He and his wife, who is a fellow alumna, established the Beau and Haylee Baker Financial Planning Scholarship through the Henderson Foundation. The couple have a son, Brooks Allen.

What is your hometown?

Texarkana, Arkansas

Where do you currently live?

Kansas City, Missouri

Why did you choose Henderson?

Honestly, Henderson chose me. I had no idea what I was getting into when I applied to college. A friend let me ride with them to

Lloyd Jackson

Lloyd Jackson serves as the Assistant Superintendent for School Leadership with Kansas City Public Schools. Jackson is married to Veronica Jackson. In his role within the Kansas City Public Schools, he gets the opportunity to do what he loves: making an impact on the lives of young people. He received his doctoral degree in educational leadership from the University of Arkansas at Little Rock. Jackson spent 14 years with the Hot Springs School District.

Jackson carries his passion for service into the community by serving as the Founding President of the HSU Black Alumni Chapter, board member of the Coterie Children’s Theatre and Lead to Read in Kansas City. Jackson also serves as the director of the American Legion Arkansas Boys State program. Jackson has held numerous leadership roles, but the one role he is most concerned with is the one which offers help and support to the community. The question to be answered in all he does is “What have we done to help those around us?”

Heart Start. Ms. Vikita upgraded my scholarship, and I had the best time of my life and a life changing experience. I am blessed!

Your favorite memory of Henderson?

My favorite memory is and will forever be the tradition of the Pine Tree Speech and the opportunity for 15 years or so to come back and teach the Alma Mater.

What was the greatest lesson you learned at Henderson?

I learned that family can extend beyond blood and friends. Having the common bond of the Reddie Spirit and experience truly is akin to being a big family. The love is genuine.

What accomplishment are you most proud of?

I am most proud of being

What is your hometown? Keller, Texas

Where do you currently live? Texarkana, Texas

What advice do you have for current students?

Enjoy every minute there and pay it forward after you graduate.

Who is a person, past or present, that you admire most (and why)?

Greg Clark: I’ve never met someone with a bigger heart. He is the epitome of a servant leader.

What accomplishment are you most proud of?

I was the first person in my family to graduate college.

How did Henderson prepare you for your career?

Henderson prepared me by teaching me to understand the importance of having and keeping great relationships

the charter president of the Black Alumni Chapter of Henderson State University and working with a dedicated and committed group of folks that LOVE HSU.

How did Henderson prepare you for your career?

The educational experience at Henderson was superb. I was challenged and supported in a way that helped me excel and be my best self.

with those around you.

How would you describe yourself today, compared to yourself when attending Henderson?

I am a dedicated Christian, family man, and businessman. I try to steer away from things that take me away from those three pillars.

When are you happiest? Walking into church Sunday mornings with my wife while holding my son.

Congratulations to 2022 Homecoming Royalty winner Keasha Owens. Jaynie Ferguson finished as second runner-up and Janae Hartman as first runner-up.

Korien Burrell, a sophomore from Beaumont, Texas, scores for the Reddies.

Kayla Fite, a junior from Newport, performs with Pom Squad.

HENDERSON HOMECOMING 2022

Alumni and friends of Henderson celebrated Homecoming October 20-23 with a variety of events leading up to the football game against Arkansas Tech University. The Reddies held the Wonder Boys to only six second half points and amassed 525 yards of total offense to seal the 35-19 victory.

Kristi Harris Brown, Cierra Ferguson, Shanalyn Hunter and Tonelli Hatley enjoy the Black Alumni Banquet.

Santa Larry Jefferson tosses the coin before the Homecoming game with Arkansas Tech.

Tailgaters enjoy food, games, and fellowship outside of the Duke Wells Center.

The Showband of Arkansas glows with Reddie pride at the Homecoming pep rally.

Phi Lambda Chi continues the Heartbeat of Henderson tradition from Thursday night until kickoff of the game.

GOLDEN REDDIES CLASS OF 1972 REUNION

Congratulations to the Golden Reddies Class of 1972, who celebrated their 50th reunion at Homecoming 2022. Kinney Black was the keynote speaker, and Paul Hankins introduced a performance of the Showband of Arkansas before the Golden Reddies received their commemorative pins.

Class of 1972 participants included Kinney Black, Alice Duncan Bridges, Grace Andrews Davidson, Brenda J. Futrell, Paul E. Hankins, Susan Clark Jones, Danny Lindsey, Betty Ramey Macon, Sherrel Mock, Larry Moore, Fred Porter, Janet Bollen Stevens, and Richard A. Womack.

Dr. Ambrose presents a gift to Fred Porter

Kinney Black addresses the Class of 1972

Paul Hankins shares the Reddie Spirit

Brenda and Alvin Futrell

ALUMNI LEGACY PINNING

ALUMNI LEGACY STUDENTS received pins from their parents or grandparents and certificates from the chancellor prior to enjoying the tailgate meal at Homecoming. Participants included:

• Braden Arnold, pinned by Kimberly Pell Arnold

• Gannon Arnold, pinned by Kimberly Pell Arnold

• Derrion Beard, pinned by Yolanda Beard

• Julianne Chastain, pinned by Jamie Draper

• Jamie Horne, pinned by Hallie Horne

• Kaylin Kauffman, pinned by Reid Kauffman

• Madi Lee, pinned by Bobbie Lee

• Alexzander Loy, pinned by Samantha F. Loy

• Zoe Mayberry, pinned by Andy Mayberry

• Trinity McKenzie, pinned by Tekelia McKenzie

• Brennan A. Sanders, pinned by Michael and Renata Sanders

• Destiny Zachary, pinned by Mike Zachary

Trinity McKenzie and Tekelia McKenzie

Jamie Horne and Hallie Horne

Braden Arnold and Kimberly Pell Arnold

Alumni Legacy Pinning participants

DEDICATION OF COAK MATTHEWS SCOREBOARD

HENDERSON STATE ATHLETICS and the Red Wave Swimming and Diving programs officially dedicated the Coak Matthews Scoreboard inside the Wells Natatorium on October 21. Named in honor of the legendary former swimming and diving coach, the scoreboard will serve as a lasting legacy to a man who gave so much to the Red Wave program, Henderson State University and the Arkadelphia community. Coak’s wife, Mary, and their three children Blanton, Sallie and William helped dedicate the scoreboard and mural.

A certified master level coach by the College Swimming Coaches Association, Matthews coached more than 200 All-Americans, four individuals who won national championships and led both the men’s and women’s programs at Henderson State to numerous Top-10 national finishes at the NAIA and NCAA II levels of competition during his time at HSU. He was named the CSCAA National Diving Coach of the Year in 1990, the NAIA National Men’s Swimming and Diving Coach of the Year in 1994, was inducted into the Arkansas Swimming Hall of Fame in 1995 and the Henderson State Athletic Hall of Honor in 2003.

Blanton, Mary, Sallie, and William Matthews dedicate the scoreboard and mural

Coak Matthews

FOUNDATION SCHOLARSHIP RECEPTION

ALUMNI AND FRIENDS gathered for the Foundation Scholarship Reception on September 15. Thanks to the generous support of Reddie donors, 396 scholarships totaling $419,156 in direct support for students were awarded in 2022.

Brenda Futrell with Michael Ankton, recipient of the Alvin and Brenda Futrell Scholarship, and Dr. Alvin Futrell

Bryan Silva and Jordan Stienke-Sievers, recipients of the Vince Gill Scholarship with Barbara “Mother” Hubbard (center)

Juan Olivas, recipient of the Dr. Pam Davis Scholarship and Taylor Allen, recipient of the Davis-Baker Scholarship with Dr. Pam Davis (center)

Kaden Manley, recipient of the inaugural Wendell O. Evanson Band Scholarship, with Dr. Lydia Evanson and Elora Rawdah, recipient of the Dennis Vaughn Band Scholarship

BIRTHS

Beau (‘16) and Haylee (‘16) Baker, son, Brooks Allen, January 6, 2022

China Banks (‘17), son, Grayson Vines, October 5, 2021

Hannah Elliott (‘20) and Denzel Walter (‘21), son, Cameron James Walter, October 9, 2021

Michaela (‘22) and Will Hampton, daughter, M’ea Rose, October 26, 2022

Myranda (‘14) and Tadarius (‘14, ‘16) Hawkins, daughter, Penelope Quinn, December 8, 2021

Austin (‘17) and Emily Hollis, son, Lawson Boe, December 10, 2021

Ashley (‘14, ‘16) and Nicole Hull, daughter, Quinn Camryn, May 17, 2022

Samantha (‘16) and Jake Jones, daughter, Kinley Renae, January 3, 2022

Rebecca (‘18) and Timothy Lee, daughter, Eliza Joon, August, 3, 2021

Dr. Hiedi (‘09) and Jimmy Mason, daughter, Holland Kate, March 28, 2022

Katie (‘16, ‘17) and Taylor Ochello, daughter, Opal “Opie” Marie, October 26, 2021

Devin (‘20) and Trevor (‘20) Pipkin, daughter, Everly Marie, June 21, 2022

Connor (‘15) and Hannah (‘14, ‘16) Rayburn, daughter, Rosie Blake, May 1, 2022

Tidameca (‘16) and Kylan Rice, son Chance L., July 14,2022

Parker (‘20) and Brennan Robertson (‘19), daughter, Presley Grey, January 27, 2022

Kimberly Robinson (‘15), son, Kingston Jamaal Coggs, December 7, 2021

Lily Schurra (‘13) and Kyle Holden, daughter, Freya Schurra-Holden, December 4, 2021

Keanna (‘19) and Jacob Slayton, daughter, Miyanna Cecelia Elizabeth, October 23, 2022

Cherith (‘14) and Ahmad Smith (‘17), son, Aden James, May 4, 2022

Kayla (‘17) and Hunter Temple, son, Samuel Lane, May 14, 2022

Maryal Vaden (‘21), daughter, Malia Brown, November 30, 2021

Meredith Welch (‘12), daughter, Parker Welch, March 12, 2022

Devin (‘15) and Kelsey West , son, Lucas Cole, October 20, 2021

Cherilyn CampbellWilliams (‘08) and Kole Williams, daughter, Kaelyn Janelle Williams, December 31, 2021

Krista (‘18) and Kade Williams, daughter, Navy Blake, November 24, 2021

Clint (‘13, ‘14) and Olivia (‘16) Wilson, son, Hayden Paul, November 17, 2021

WEDDINGS

Tidameca Bingham (‘16) married Kylan Rice on August 14, 2022.

Mariah Brown (‘15,’18) married Hiram Sumlin on October 22, 2022.

Hannah Calhoon (‘19) married Uriel Diaz (‘19) on May 7, 2022.

Rebecca Chisom (‘18) married Timothy Lee on February 21, 2021.

Cherith Cobbs (‘14) married Ahmad Smith (‘17) on July 30, 2021.

Alex Durham (‘16) married Pat Morrison on April 30, 2022.

Samantha Fendley (‘20) married Trey Smith on December 18, 2021.

Teiler Ferguson (‘16) married Robert Marshall September 26, 2021.

Katie Forga (‘16, ‘17) married Taylor Ochello on May 8, 2021.

Sara Hart (‘15, ‘17) married Corey Adams on April 27, 2021.

Ruth Hegwood (‘03) married Corey Mills on October 2, 2021.

Lisa Massey (‘96, ‘11) married Jordan Bell (‘14, ‘15) on June 11, 2022.

Christine Miller (‘10) married Aaron Wages on June 26, 2021.

Zachary Noga (‘15, ‘17) married Maggie Mankin on January 15, 2022.

Ashtyn Price (‘15) married Garret Linzy (‘15) on June 11, 2022.

Nick Robertson (‘20, ‘22) married Alyssa Dixon (‘21) on May 21, 2022.

Alexandria Roles (‘20) married Chance Taylor on June 10, 2022.

Michaela Singleton (‘22) married Will Hampton on July 24,2022

Sydney Skelton (‘18) married Jordan Vance (‘17) on June 18, 2022.

Cody Sparks (‘18) married Bonnie Magee on July 2, 2022.

Callie White (‘19) married Logan Warlick (‘17, ‘19) on April 2, 2022.

Taylor Wilson (‘18, ‘21) married Halston Tart on May 14, 2022.

IN MEMORIAM

1930s

Arlene H. Rainey (‘38), 105, of Benton, ARNovember 12, 2021

1940s

Rose M. Hogue (‘47), 96, of Bryant, ARFebruary 24, 2022

Ann L Johnston (‘49), 102, of Pine Bluff, AR - July 2, 2022

Bonnie S. Luck (‘49), 93, of Little Rock, AR - January 6, 2022

1950s

Eugene P. Burton (‘50), 93, of McKinney, TX - July 24, 2021

James E. McCowan (‘50), 95, of Austin, TXSeptember 21, 2021

John R. Wood (‘51), 91, of Naples, FL - August 4, 2021

Robert G. Eargle, Jr. (‘52), 93, of Grand Prairie, TX - November 19, 2021

Velma J. B. Woodall (‘52), 90, of Ruston, LA - November 1, 2021

Bennie J. Ford (‘53), 91, of Conway, AR - April 18, 2022

Gladys M. McGraw (‘53), 91, of Beebe, AR - August 22, 2022

James “Jim” F. Shuffield (‘53), 91, of Benton, AR - August 12, 2021

Huberta M. Teeter (‘53), 90, of Malvern, ARDecember 31, 2021

Bobby G. Evans (‘54), 90, of Little Rock, ARSeptember 6, 2021

Denver L. Prince (‘54), 88, of Conway, ARAugust 13, 2021

Mary A. Burns (‘55), 87, of Olathe, KS - June 2, 2021

Sara R. Bailey (‘56), 87, of League City, TX - October 11, 2021

Frances M. Danley (‘56), 87, of Siloam SpringsFebruary 11, 2022

Gene G. Lewis (‘56), 88, of Ashdown, ARDecember 3, 2021

Catherine Ann Martindale (‘56), 86, of Little Rock - July 30, 2021

Beatrice D. Robey (‘58), 84 of Pine Bluff - April 28, 2022

Mona L. Rothwell (‘58), 84, of Hot Springs - July 27, 2021

Bill A. Shirron (‘58), 85, of Benton, ARJanuary 21, 2022

Rodney Bell (‘59), 84, of Paducah, KY - June 10, 2022

George M. Briggs (‘59), 85 of Tulsa, OKNovember 17, 2021

1960s

Virgil L. Bailey (‘60), 84, of Dierks, AR - January 2, 2022

Rex M. Easter, Sr. (‘60), 84, of Little Rock, AR - June 24, 2021

Barbara K. Johnson (‘60, ‘71), 85, of Hot Springs, AR - December 3, 2021

Don L. Moore (‘60), 84, of Hot Springs, AR - August 12, 2021

Richard S. Riley (‘60), 84, of Hot Springs, AR- June 4, 2022

Mary L. Wallis (‘61, ‘66), 91, of Magnet Cove, AR - January 7, 2022

M. Judy Morris (‘62), 81, of Little Rock, AR - March 4, 2022

Rev. O.J. Sharp (‘62), 87, of Hot Springs, ARSeptember 28, 2021

Wanda S. Stowers (‘62), 81, of Lonoke, AR - August 30, 2022

Betty J. Voss (‘62), 79, of Malvern, ARDecember 8, 2021

Laura B. White (‘62,’76), 91, of St. Louis, MO - May 6, 2022

Paul H. Wilson (‘62), 81, of Dallas, TXDecember 19, 2021

Clay S. Dedman (‘63), 83, of Sheridan, ARFebruary 23, 2022

Joe D. Hart (‘63), 85, of McCroy, ARSeptember 15, 2022

James P. Grier (‘63, ‘67), 81, of Little Rock, AR - May 19, 2022

Buel R. Wortham (‘63), 81, of Maumelle, ARFebruary 22, 2022

Col. Charles N. Bullard (‘64), 84, of Gurdon, AR - November 8, 2021

Mary E. Doggett (‘64), 80, of White Hall, ARSeptember 2, 2021

Flora H. Harmon (‘64), 101, of Hope, AR - July 28, 2021

Nancy L. Hill (‘64, ‘67), 79, of Little Rock, AR - February 5, 2022

Sandra J. Diedrich (‘65), 77, of Little Rock, AR - July 31, 2021

John D. Steelman (‘65), 78, of Bearden, AR - May 21, 2021

Carolyn J. Brune (‘66), 79, of Springdale, ARDecember 07, 2021

William B. James (‘66), 78, of Hot Springs, AR - August 6, 2021

Marion W. Little (‘66), 79, of Benton, ARFebruary 16, 2022

Helen L. Parker (‘66, ‘70), 93, of Little Rock, AR - February 11, 2022

Donald L. Crone (‘67), 78, of Buford, GASeptember 6, 2022

James A. Hamm (‘67), 79, of Camden, AR - May 5, 2021

Patricia A. Swanson (‘67), 77, of Cabot, ARSeptember 12, 2022

Don “The General” Campbell (‘68), 81, of Wynne, ARNovember 1, 2021

S. Ray Lacefield (‘68), 84, of Newhope, ARJanuary 14, 2022

Harold K. Davis (‘69), 75, of Hot Springs, AR - August 16, 2021

William B. Hendricks (‘69), 78, of Camden-Fairview, AR - February 23, 2022

Ira B. Thomas, Jr. (‘69), 74, of Gurdon, AR - August 30, 2021

1970s

Donnie G. Braddock (‘71), 73, of Callahan, FL - April 5, 2022

Paul A. Bray (‘71), 74, of Malvern, ARFebruary 10, 2022

Tommy J. Comstock (‘71), 76, of Cabot, AR - October 9, 2021

Barry J. Crites (‘71), 75, of Tulsa, OK - June 13, 2021

Gary L. Tackett (‘71), 72, of Searcy, AR - July 27, 2021

Glenda L. Erwin (‘72), 78, of Malvern, ARJanuary 1, 2022

Larry D. Jester (‘72), 74, of Little Rock, AR - May 24, 2022

Raymond L. Maglothin (‘72), 89 of Birmingham, AL - October 5, 2021

David F. Morris (‘72), 71, of Hudson Oaks, TX - November 25, 2021

Robert L. Shirron (‘72), 72, of Texarkana, AR - July 26, 2022

Randy M. Sorrells (‘72), 71, of Glenwood, AR - October 6, 2021

Charles R. Francis (‘73), 69, of Hot Springs, AR - March 14, 2021

David C. Cochran (‘74), 68, of Lufkin, TX - September 7, 2021

Tacie Korbs (‘74, ‘86), 70, of Rochester, NY - June 5, 2022

Terence S. Henderson (‘75, ‘82), 68, of Hot Springs, AR - January 4, 2022

Sharon G. W. Pigeon (‘75), 64, of DeQueen, AR - May 26, 2021

John C. Studer (‘75), 72, of Malvern, AR - April 28, 2022

Joyce A. Killingsworth (‘76, ‘85), 71, of Cabot, AR - August 18, 2021

Michael P. Price (‘76), 68, of Little Rock, AR - August 13, 2021

David A. Smith (‘76), 68, of Arkadelphia, ARSeptember 12, 2021

Wanda F. Sharpe (‘78), 74, of Hot Springs, AR - October 20, 2021

Gloria C. Williams (‘78), 65, of Little Rock, AR - June 24, 2022

Lionel Ward (‘76, ‘79), 66, of Little Rock, AR - July 31, 2021

Velma M. Buttram (‘79), 81, of Rogers, AR - April 28, 2022

1980s

Randy D. Kizer (‘80), 63, of Benton, ARSeptember 30, 2021

Darlene M. Kerr (‘81), 72, of Lexington, SCJanuary 15, 2022

Ronald S. Reed (‘83), 69, of Sheridan, AROctober 3, 2021

Glenn E. Catlett (‘84, ‘86), 60, of Malvern, AR - March 28, 2022

Tommy J. Vestal (‘89), 70, of Little RockSeptember 3, 2021

1990s

Edna Mae Lange (‘92), 75, of Seven Points, TX - February 1, 2022

Brenda O.G. Powell (‘92), 67, of Hope, AR - January 11, 2022

Virginia A. Clayton (‘93), 68, of Spring Hill, AR - May 22, 2021

Ginger D. Henson (‘94), 48, of Hot Springs National Park, AR - September 10, 2022

2000s

Mary Ellen Lowe (‘00), 66, of Camden, ARSeptember 07, 2021

Demetrius A. Parker (‘03), 44, of Little Rock, AR- September 10, 2022

2010s

Caleb J. Counce (‘11), 37, of Lonoke, ARFebruary 16, 2022

Blake R. Austin (‘13), 31, of Hot Springs, ARSeptember 18, 2022

Bentley S. Harvey (‘18), 28, of Dallas, TX - March 9, 2022

Former Students

Irene A. Apple, 86, of Little Rock, AR - June 9, 2022

Jonathan N. Campbell, 40, of Malvern, AR - April 28, 2022

Rev. Earl B. Carter, 95, of Sherwood, AR - July 9, 2022

Dr. Tifton “Tiff” Connor Covington, 57, of Arkadelphia, AR- June 3, 2022

Marie G. Fair, 97, of Little Rock, AR - July 28, 2021

Jimmie Lou Fisher, 80, of Paragould, AR - July 12, 2022

Eloise Fite, 91, of Pine Bluff, AR - June 7, 2022

Harry A. Fite, 95, of Pine Bluff, AR - January 29, 2022

Charles E. Foehner, III, 73, of St. Petersburg, FLJanuary 20, 2022

Dr. Thomas W. Gray, 98, of Greenland, AR - May 22, 2022

Don E. Hardman, 77, of Fordyce, AR - September 14, 2022

Francis C. Henley, 87, of Norphlet, ARJanuary 30, 2022

J. Brandon Jones, 92, of Hot Springs, ARAugust 28, 2022

Harold E. Mitchell, 85, Maumelle, ARApril 13, 2022

Hannah Smith, 21, of Bismarck, ARJune 16, 2022

Robert Tebbetts, 76, of Little Rock, ARAugust 30, 2022

James C. Thomas, 54, of Mabelvale, AR - April 24, 2022

Barbara F. Hunter Wasson, 83, of Arkadelphia, AR - March 1, 2022

Elva Jo Wylie, 72, of Carthage, ARFebruary 9, 2022

Faculty and Staff

Dr. James “Pat” Adcock, 84, of Arkadelphia, AR - September 4, 2021

Steven B. Allen, 78, of Lubbock, TX - March 29, 2022

Earl R. Fulmer, 91, of Arkadelphia, AR - June 16, 2021

Dr. James “Jimmy” Jones (‘60), 87, of Arkadelphia, AR - January 28, 2022

Dr. Michael S. Kelly, 60, of Arkadelphia, AR - May 2, 2021

Leslie “Stan” Quarles, 74, of Arkadelphia, AR - June 23, 2022

Eula E. Thomas, (‘76), 73, of Arkadelphia, AR - February 3, 2022

Bettye M. Wallace, (‘50), 93, of Arkadelphia, AR - July 26, 2022

Col. Charles “Hank” Wilson, 80, of Arkadelphia, AR - April 9, 2022

CLASS NOTES

1950s

Robert Smith (‘58) retired as Vice President of Simmons First National Bank in Pine Bluff.

1960s

Fred Nuesch (‘60) was named Sports Information Director Emeritus by the Texas A&M University System and became the first SID in system history to receive the honor.

Gerald “Tex” Entrop (‘63) is enjoying retirement in Texas after a successful career in law enforcement. Tex was honored with a Purple Heart for his valor in the line of service.

Dr. Stephen Duke (‘66) is serving as an Adjunct Research Professor with the School of Pharmacy of the University of Mississippi after his retirement from the USDA.

LTC A. Bruce Stacy (‘66) was inducted into the Arkansas Military Hall of Fame in November 2021, becoming the first person from his hometown of Malvern to receive this honor.

Dr. Dennis Watts (‘68) retired after 37 years of practicing emergency medicine.

1970s

Jerry Aday (‘72) retired after directing four nonprofit organizations, managing an oil business, serving on the Kansas State House of Representatives, and owning and operating a firearms store for 12 years.

Major Daniel Hecke (‘73) retired as Major from the United States Air Force.

2nd LTC Stephen A. Jones (‘73, ‘78) was promoted to 13A - Field Artillery Officer for the U.S. Army.

Bart Ghent (‘74, ‘80) remains active as a band/ orchestra adjudicator and clinician, is a piano tuner, and serves as an audio/video engineer for many schools, churches and civic groups in the DFW Metroplex.

James Copeland (‘75) became the Executive Director of the Association of Developmental Disabilities Community Providers in Sept. 2022.

David Robinson (‘75) retired in 2020 after 41 years of teaching at the university level, including department chair for eight years.

Gary Meggs (‘77, ‘87) was named a 2020 inductee into the Arkansas Jazz Hall of Fame, was inducted into the Four States Bandmasters Association Band Director Hall of Fame, a Grammy Educator Semi-Finalist, and remains very active as a musician.

Rick Minter (‘77, ‘78) became a Football Analyst for the University of Michigan in Feb. 2022.

Hosea Sanders (‘78) was featured in a new Hallmark Channel Christmas movie, “Christmas Again,” in Dec. 2021.

Deborah Tackett (‘78), along with her husband, are the owners and operators of Rock Hole Depot Air Bed and Breakfast in Caddo Valley.

Brenda Webb (‘78, ‘81) is entering her 45th year of teaching and is enjoying every minute of it.

Joseph McCaffrey (‘79) retired in 2020 after working with several defense contractors, teaching, and coaching at Barton/ Lexa School District.

1980s

Deborah Drake Gordon (‘81) coached for 25 years in Texas and just completed her 37th year of teaching.

This is her 3rd tour with Mart ISD for a total of 25 years in the district.

Twyla Crow (‘82) retired from teaching, and her family opened a small business that she manages called 23N Farm & Horticulture in Huntsville, AR. They offer a gift shop, events, will have a future Christmas tree farm, and a pumpkin patch along with other produce.

Jerry Clay (‘83) was inducted into the Arkansas High School Coaches Association Hall of Fame in July 2022.

Karen Garcia (‘83) served on the City of Hot Springs Board of Directors and is a graduate of the Southern Leadership Academy.

Doretta Griffin (‘83) was named Administrator of the Year by ArkASPA in July 2021 and currently is the Assistant Executive Director of Crossett Housing Authority.

Carolyn Parker (‘83) retired from the Dallas ISD in December 2021 after 34 years as a Special Education Vocational Adjustment Coordinator for grades 9-12.

Julie Paxton (‘83) became a Middle School Teacher for St. Catherine of Siena School in Oct. 2021.

Coach John Ware (‘83) was named the 202021 Arkansas Junior High Boys Coach of the Year by the Arkansas Basketball Coaching Association.

Judith Davis (‘84) received a Badger Pride Award in Spring 2022 as an Alternative Learning Environment Staff member.

Col. Phil Foster (‘84) was hired as Senior Army Instructor for Arkadelphia High School in Nov. 2021.

Kevin Sander (‘84) was hired as Director for the Revenue Cycle

of Morgan Financial Services in Oct. 2021.

Mary Vitro (‘84) is a National Board Certified Teacher (CTE); MOS Certified, Google Certified Educator, and was named Teacher of the Year by the Hot Springs Kiwanis.

Thomas Dozier (‘85) recently retired from the U.S. Forest Service in June 2022 after 31 years of service.

Kim Hayes (‘85) recently retired from the Texarkana ISD.

Dr. Beth Wyatt (‘85, ‘90) was promoted to Professor at Henderson in June 2022.

Judi Jenkins (‘86, ‘93, ‘08) received her Superintendent Licensure from ASU in Aug. 2022.

Natalie Alred (‘87, ‘92) is a two-time Midwestern Intercollegiate Volleyball Association/ National Association of Intercollegiate Athletics Men’s Coach of the Year, including the NAIA Men’s volleyball championship.

John Caver (‘87) was hired as the Blood Program Consultant for the Arkansas Blood Institute in April 2022.

George Ward (‘87) was named Operations Manager for Arrow Electronics in June 2021.

1990s

Mark Pounds (‘90) retired in July 2022 from the Ashdown School District.

Robin Welch (‘90) was named 2020-2021 Texas Middle School Teacher of the Year, 2021-2022 Texarkana ISD Secondary Teacher of the Year, and the 2022 Region 8 Education Service Center, Pittsburgh, Texas, Regional Secondary Teacher of the Year.

LaTonda Williams (‘90) was named the new associate vice chancellor

of human resources for UA Little Rock, overseeing the Department of Human Resources, recruitment, employee benefits and the Office of Title IX.

Bobby Loeb (‘91) was promoted from Senior Director Training to Vice President for Southwest Airlines University. He joined the Southwest Family in 1994.

Robyn Caldwell (‘91) was named Accountant for Garland County Habitat of Humanity.

V.L. Cox (‘91) opened an exhibit in April 2022 that centers around human rights and equality. “Watchfires” was featured through June 2022 at Troy University’s Rosa Parks Museum.

Gail Hughes (‘92, ‘93) became Director of Graduate Studies in Education and Professor for OBU in June 2021.

Dr. Laura Riddle (‘92) was named Dean of General Education for East Arkansas Community College in Oct. 2021.

Amy Streett (‘92) was named the 2019 Teacher of the Year for the Lake Hamilton School District.

Cynthia Brunworth (‘94) became a Student Advisor for West Coast University in Aug. 2021.

Stacie Elkins (‘94) is the 2022 President Elect of San Angelo Schools Foundation.

Darrell Middleton (‘94) received a Badger Pride Award in Spring 2022 as an Alternative Learning Environment staff member.

Major Burton Furlow, Jr. (‘95) took part in the Changing of Command Ceremony in June 2021. The Special Troops Battalion 528 Sustainment Brigade (Special Operations) (Airborne)

was relinquished to him.

Lori Hamilton (‘95) retired in May 2022 after 27 years of teaching business and computer science in Arkansas and began work as a Family Service Worker for the Department of Child and Family Services in Sebastian County.

Jil’Lana Sheets Heard (‘95) was named one of the 2022 Arkansas Teacher of the Year State Semi-Finalists. Heard is a Library Media Specialist, Grades 10-12, at Lake Hamilton High School and Dawson Education Service Cooperative.

Tanya Wilcher (‘95, ‘97) was named Superintendent for the South Pike County School District for the 22-23 school year.

Dana Fluker (‘96) was hired as School Disease Intervention Specialist for the CDC Foundation in December 2021.

Charlene Haynes (‘96) is now a Military Veteran of 8 years for Army Reserves & Active Duty.

Vanessa Rodgers (‘96) was named the 2021-22 Teacher of the Year for Arkadelphia Public Schools.

Grant Yaney (‘96) became Reimbursement Analyst for UAMS in March 2022.

Tonelli Hatley (‘97) was named Assistant Principal of Mesquite ISD in July 2021.

Carole Kearby (‘97) was named W.J. Clinton Elementary Teacher of the Year 2020-2021 and received her National Board Teacher Certification in Dec. 2017.

Elaine Kneebone (‘97) became President of Sunrise Rotary in Arkadelphia in July 2022 and opened her private practice of law in Arkadelphia in 2022 where she focuses on estate planning and trust and probate administration.

Crystal Smith (‘97) was recently recognized as a Dallas Ft. Worth Great 100 Nurse of 2022.

Mark Anderson (‘98, ‘05) is a Lieutenant Colonel, U.S. Army, Retired, Bronze Star recipient, Operation Iraqi Freedom and New Dawn Veteran.

Nicole Brisco (‘98) was named National Secondary Art Educator of the Year, Texas Secondary Art Educator of the Year, Distinguished Texas Fellow, Texas Humanities Educator of the Year, SFA Educator of the Year, TRAHC Hero in Education, Professional Arts/Solo Shows and Awards.

Libra Cook (‘98, ‘02) became an Alpha Kappa Alpha Sorority, Inc. Silver Soror in Spring 2022.

Brad Evans (‘98) was hired as the Saint Jo High School Principal for the 2022-2023 school year.

DeLance Minefee (‘98), a professional actor, has performed at the Moscow Art Theatre, where Method acting originated and was featured on “Blue Bloods” in early 2022.

Laura Wilson Nguyen (‘98) was recently named Allen ISD District Teacher of the Year.

Dr. Nathan Campbell (‘99, ‘00) was appointed as Academic Program Director for Business Innovation and Entrepreneurship for Henderson starting in July 2022.

Renteria Fermin, III (‘99) was accepted into the 20222023 American Association of Colleges of Nursing (AACN) Elevating Leadership in Academic Nursing cohort.

Dr. TaLisha Givan (‘99) was promoted to Chief Learning Officer and Vice Chancellor for Academic Affairs at Henderson in July 2022.

2000s

Amy Cooley (‘00) was awarded the SSC GEM Award for the local area, the regional area and the divisional area.

Dr. John Harris, M.D. (‘00) completed his tenth year as an Emergency Department Medical Director for US Acute Care Solutions.

Monica Hatley (‘00) wrote the book “I Love the Color Pink!: The Adventures of Laci Macasey.”

April Phillips-Perry (‘00) was named director of school-based learning initiatives and vice president and will be the project lead for the Arvest Academies of Central Arkansas.

Melissa Andersen (‘02) started with the USPS as a Postal Support Employee in Sept. 2021.

Amanda Baker (‘02) was named MedComms’s Dispatcher of the Year for the second straight year in April 2022.

Zach Bledsoe (‘02, ‘05) was hired as the Assessment Coordinator/ Instructor of Education position at Arkansas State University Three Rivers in Malvern in July 2022.

John Elkins (‘02) was named Chief Legal OfficerGeneral Counsel at Seal Solar in Sept. 2021.

Donna Morgan (‘02) opened Arkadelphia Counseling and Therapy Nov. 2021.

Dr. David M. Powell (‘02) released his book “Cather and Opera” in May 2022 by the Louisiana State University Press.

Melinda Schales (‘02) became Health Services

CLASS NOTES

Specialist for the Arkansas Department of Health in Feb. 2022.

Julie Quast (‘02, ‘04) became Assistant Principal for Lakeside Middle School in July 2021.

Harry Cross (‘03) is a former United Methodist pastor and US Army Chaplain now working on a PhD in Marriage and Family Therapy at the University of Louisiana at Monroe.

Season Ellison (‘03) began at BSU as an Assistant Professor and was tenured and promoted to Associate Professor in August 2021. She produces the national “Voices of the Earth” short play festival, focusing on Earth-based new plays.

Nicholas Williams (‘03) is a member of Silver Moon #15, Prince Hall Free & Accepted Masons of Arkansas.

Nikki Thomas (‘04, ‘09) was named Superintendent of Arkadelphia Public Schools in July 2022.

Leslie Elliott Whitefield, APRN, CPNP (‘04) was hired as a new provider in the Little Rock//Benton area for ARcare in August 2021.

Annie Abbott (‘05) was named EOC TRiO Director at Florida State College at Jacksonville in October 2021.

Blake Christenson (‘05, ‘06) was hired as a teacher and coach for Brock ISD in April 2021.

Fred Knox (‘05) was promoted from Interim CEO to Facility Chief Executive Officer of Rivendell Behavioral Health Service of Arkansas.

Glenn Lansdale (‘05) released his second children’s book, “Ronnie Ain’t No Chicken,” in April 2022 as his first book under his own publishing company Brightside Publishing House.

Courtney Matthews (‘05) was named Bryant Pre-K’s Teacher of the Year for 2022.

Hollie Shepherd (‘05) serves as an Executive Board member for Arkansas Educational Theatre Association.

Kristal Nolen-Brandon (‘06) played the role of Calpurnia in “To Kill a Mockingbird” at the Pocket Community Theatre in Hot Springs in Spring 2022.

Robbie Byler (‘06) was named Music Teacher at Ouachita Public Schools in July 2021.

Raymond C . Lee III (‘06) was named City Manager for Greeley, CO in Jan. 2022.

Nevada Mills (‘06) was named Band Director of Malvern Public Schools for the 2022-23 Academic Year.

Shasta Anderson (‘07, ‘11) is a librarian for Angie Grant Elementary in Benton.

Kelly Burrus (‘07) was named the 2021 Wakefield Elementary Teacher of the Year and the 2021 Little Rock School District Elementary Teacher of the Year and she received her 2019 National Board for Professional Teaching Standards Certification.

Linda Cromer (‘07, ‘10) was promoted to the new NW Region Director of Crisis and Forensics Services for Atira Health in June 2022.

Henderson State University 1100 Henderson Street, Box 7540 Arkadelphia, AR 71999-0001