HENDERSON MAGAZINE 2026
CAVER’S COMMITMENT
Henderson celebrates renaming of college
ENTREPRENEUR INSTITUTE
Tad & Judy Krug help create new business initiative
ENDOWMENTS
Building the foundation for learning success
FOR ALUMNI AND FRIE NDS OF HE NDE RSON S TATE UNIVE RSIT Y
Inside HENDERSON MAGAZINE 2026
Features 04 CAVER COLLEGE CELEBRATION 06 ENTREPRENEUR INSTITUTE
Departments 08 CAMPUS NEWS 10 ATHLETIC NEWS
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14 ALUMNI NEWS 20 ALUMNI UPDATES
Connections
Facebook.com/hendersonstateu
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Flickr.com/getreddie
Instagram.com/hendersonstateu
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REDDIE,GO!
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Dear Reddie Family,
The momentum on the campus of Henderson State University these days is palpable. You can feel it when you interact with our amazing students. You can hear it at Reddie sporting events, band concerts, and reunions. You can see it on the faces of our dedicated faculty and staff every day. The Reddie Spirit is more than alive – it is roaring louder than ever before!
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As we continue to blaze a new path, I remain energized by and eternally grateful to you, our supporters, alums, and friends who love this university and its community fiercely. For so many of us, Henderson State is home. With each new stride we make, I find myself reminded of what has remained constant here since 1890: a deep commitment to this place and its people. Our Homecoming theme for 2026, “Home is Where the Heart Is,” truly epitomizes how the Reddie Family feels about their alma mater. Inside this issue of Henderson Magazine, you will see the fruits of a vibrant campus charting a new path for itself. From student success stories to facilities being built and renovated to new grants, scholarships, and funding being acquired, there are victories everywhere you look for Henderson State University. I invite you to experience this momentum firsthand. Whether through one of our many campus events, homecoming celebrations, athletic competitions, or simply a visit while your travels bring you through Arkadelphia, I hope you will take the opportunity to return to campus and see all that is happening at Henderson. There is nothing quite like experiencing the energy, enthusiasm, and transformation underway for yourself.
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Thank you for your love and support of Henderson. Together, we are building an even brighter future for The School with a Heart, and I am excited about what lies ahead.
Dr. Trey Berry, Chancellor HSU.EDU
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HENDERSON DEDICATES CAVER COLLEGE Henderson State University officially dedicated the newly named Lorraine and Troy Caver College of Aviation, Science, and Nursing on August 14, 2025, in a ceremony on campus. The event punctuated the process of renaming the college after distinguished 1962 Henderson alum Dr. Troy Caver and his late wife, Lorraine, who made a transformational multi-million-dollar planned gift commitment, representing the largest estate contribution to date in the university’s history. “Henderson gave me a strong academic foundation and an opportunity to achieve,” Dr. Caver said. “The personal attention given by the Henderson faculty based on my situation and needs at the time was influential in being attentive to the needs of others along my way. This gift is my way of giving back, and I hope it inspires students to embrace excellence, perseverance, and the desire to lift others along the journey through life.” A native of Amity, Arkansas, Dr. Caver was Henderson State’s first graduate to earn a doctorate in engineering. He built a distinguished 20-year military career before retiring as a Lieutenant Colonel and blazing a new path for himself
as a nationally recognized engineer, entrepreneur, and executive. He led or advised on major national defense and aerospace projects, including the B-2 bomber and the International Space Station, and founded four successful companies.
In keeping with Dr. Caver’s wishes, the funds will support a wide array of needs within the college, including advanced technology and equipment, new academic programs, internships, student travel, faculty development, and scholarships.
The celebration on campus included the unveiling of new signage in front of the Reynolds Science Center, along with its accompanying commencement banner bearing the Caver name.
“This is a tremendous and transformational gift that will impact students for many generations, and we’re so thankful for it,” Henderson Chancellor Dr. Trey Berry said.
HEATHER BUFFALO FIRST RECIPIENT OF CAVER-HUDSON ASPIRNAUT AWARD Henderson State University has named Heather Buffalo, a sophomore engineering major from Glenwood, Arkansas, as the first recipient of the prestigious Caver-Hudson Aspirnaut™ STEM Award. The Caver-Hudson Aspirnaut™ STEM Award was established through a partnership
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Class of 1962. Rooted in a friendship that began on the Henderson campus, Caver and Hudson share a lifelong commitment to academic excellence, innovation, and expanding opportunities for students pursuing STEM careers. Funded through the generosity of Caver, the award provides selected students with the opportunity to participate in a prestigious internship experience at Vanderbilt University Medical Center. between Henderson State University’s Caver College of Aviation, Science, and Nursing, and the Aspirnaut™ program at Vanderbilt University Medical Center by Dr. Troy Caver and Dr. Billy Hudson, both distinguished Henderson alumni from the
The award is closely tied to the nationally recognized Aspirnaut™ program founded in 2006 by Hudson, his wife Dr. Julie Hudson, and his siblings, Johnny Hudson and Ann Kincl, also Henderson Distinguished Alumni.
Q&A WITH
FAITH LAMB
In what ways did your Henderson education and experiences prepare you for your career in education? When I began my student teaching experience at Caldwell Elementary in Benton, one thing the teachers kept telling me was they were so pleased with how prepared I was. They called me “a natural.” While I do believe teaching is a calling, I also know it takes a lot of hard work to be prepared for the classroom. All of my instructors set high expectations and provided such great opportunities to learn and grow as a future teacher. I still remember all of the activities 26 years later that I continue to use every day as a teacher. Do you have a favorite memory from your time as a student at Henderson, whether in the classroom, on campus, or in the community?
Henderson State alumna Faith Lamb completed her bachelors degree in education at Henderson State in 1999 and has been an elementary school teacher for 26 years. She said her greatest honor is when a student writes a handwritten note telling her that she is their favorite teacher. “This is my greatest joy as a teacher when a student shares his or her heart with me. It’s something I strive for every day.” What brought you to Henderson, and how did your time here shape who you are today? What brought me to Henderson was mostly the influence of my older brother, Eddie Lamb, who had attended Henderson on a basketball scholarship from ‘87-’92. I spent a lot of time at his basketball games when I was little. When I wasn’t sure where I was going to go to school, he told me how much he had enjoyed his time at HSU and I was looking for a similar experience.
I have too many memories to narrow it down, but I’ll try. The most impactful memory was being named Miss HSU 1997. I was required to work in the welcome center for Mrs. Vikita Hardwrick. I had the best time working here giving future students tours. I also got to sing at many events on campus and ride in the Christmas parade. I was in the Alpha Xi Delta sorority and we made so many memories together. What does it mean to you to be a Reddie? To me, being a Reddie is so special. That Reddie Spirit lives in those of us who’ve experienced it. When I used to hear that Old Time Religion song played at basketball games and people would stand and hold up that finger, you couldn’t beat it! The Reddie Spirit means you are proud to be a Henderson student and know all of the ones who’ve come before you that paved the way. What inspired you to pursue a career in education? I always knew I wanted to be a teacher. My mom was a teacher and had gone to work my whole life teaching kids
and never complained. She acted like she was just leaving to go have fun with kids! So when I entered college, I could not sign up fast enough in the education department. I knew that it was my calling. How does it feel to see your daughter become a Reddie and follow in your footsteps? Seeing my daughter Hope become a Reddie has been amazing. She wants to teach and is eager to get started in her education courses. Hope has felt so supported and loved much like I did while I was there. My niece and nephew also are Henderson graduates, so our family is very proud to be Reddies! What does Henderson State mean to your family across generations? My brother and two of his children are Henderson graduates. We all felt being a part of the university helped lead us to success as adults. We have all looked back on our time at Henderson and longed for just one more day! It was some of the best days of our lives! You’ve had an extraordinary career in education. What accomplishment are you most proud of? It would be the number of students who I have taught that shared their dreams as a child and have gone on to live them out. I have always believed in telling my students they were capable of anything they set their minds to. What advice would you give current Henderson students as they prepare for their future careers and lives? My advice is to give to the university what you expect to receive. Be willing to give your time and talents where the university can use them. Then, even after you graduate, always be proud of where you came from. Be proud to say you are a Henderson graduate and promote the university. It’s a special place where we made good memories.
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Tad & Judy Krug Entrepreneurship Institute Henderson State University’s College of Business announced the creation of the Tad & Judy Krug Entrepreneurship Institute, a new initiative designed to connect the university with the Arkadelphia business community while giving students hands-on experience launching and growing new ventures. Made possible through a significant gift from Henderson alumni Tad and Judy Krug, the investment provides both immediate operational funding and a permanent endowment to sustain the institute for generations. Through the program, students will move entrepreneurship beyond the classroom by launching startups, competing in pitch competitions, securing seed funding, and working directly with mentors and regional business leaders. “The Krug Institute ensures our graduates leave not only with knowledge, but with experience, confidence, and the ability to create opportunities for themselves and others,” said Dr. Nathan Campbell, dean of the College of Business. “The institute is designed to be a bridge
between Henderson State and the Arkadelphia region. Through partnerships with local businesses, economic development organizations, and K-12 schools, we are building an entrepreneurial ecosystem that benefits the entire community.” “We wanted to help Henderson do
something unique by creating a niche or specialty where students will want to come here for it and learn. We’re more than happy to make it a reality,” said Tad Krug. “I hope that as time goes on, we can look back years from now and say that it exceeded our expectations.” teacher education.
HSU, ASUMH sign transfer agreement
At the signing event, ASUMH and Henderson established a “2+2” transfer agreement in teacher education that will provide a seamless pathway for students pursuing careers in teaching. Through this partnership, students will complete their first two years at ASUMH, earning an Associate of Science in Education, before transferring to Henderson to complete a Bachelor of Science in Education with an emphasis in Special Education, Integrated Birth–Kindergarten.
Henderson State University and Arkansas State University–Mountain Home announced a new transfer pathway agreement for teacher education degrees and have initiated discussions to also develop an aviation
ASUMH has also identified a pathway that will align aviation-related curriculum at Mountain Home High School with a degree at ASUMH and then on to Henderson as part of its existing bachelor’s degree in aviation.
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degree pathway to expand collaborative program opportunities for students. Several administrators from both institutions participated in the formal signing of a partnership agreement in
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Monty Hill takes the reins of Henderson band program Veteran music educator Montgomery “Monty” Hill has been named director of bands at Henderson State University, returning to his alma mater after a career spanning more than four decades in music education. Hill, a 1987 Henderson graduate, had served as director of bands at Marion Public Schools since 2020. Throughout his career, he led and revitalized band programs across Arkansas and New Mexico. While attending Henderson State, Hill studied instrumental conducting with Wendell Evanson and clarinet performance with Earl Hesse. He also served as drum major for the Showband of Arkansas in 1986. Hill graduated with
a Bachelor of Music Education degree. “Monty Hill represents the very best of Henderson State — talent, dedication, and a lifelong commitment to music education,” said Henderson State Chancellor Dr. Trey Berry. Hill said, “I am excited to see the growth and resurgence that has occurred at Henderson State, and I feel that the future is very bright. As a band director, my number one job is that of a recruiter. “I look forward to building upon Henderson’s proud musical traditions while fostering growth, collaboration, and excellence across the university and the broader community.”
NYITCOM Pathway program welcomes first student cohort Henderson State University will welcome its first cohort of students to a unique pathway to medical school thanks to an agreement between Henderson and the New York Institute of Technology College of Osteopathic Medicine (NYITCOM) at Arkansas State University in Jonesboro. The three pre-med undergraduates, who were accepted into the program this spring, will work with medical students and be advised by faculty from a medical school while they are earning their degrees at Henderson. Madison Howard from Little Rock, Olivia Speech from Ozan, and Lainey Morrison from Malvern, applied for the program during their freshman year at Henderson. Howard and Speech will be sophomores this fall, and Morrison will be a junior. They will complete a natural science (pre-med) degree at Henderson and must maintain a 3.5 GPA in their
science courses and in their overall GPA. Campus advisors will work with them on their class schedules to ensure that they complete the pathway curriculum. “Henderson and NYITCOM have been collaborating on educational initiatives for several years, and we’re thrilled to now welcome the first cohort of the Physician Pathway Program,” said Terri McMaster, NYIT coordinator at Henderson. Dr. Shane Speights, dean of NYITCOMArkansas State, and a Henderson graduate, said, “We are committed to
finding innovative ways to get more students from Arkansas into medical school, while also ensuring that those students who matriculate are prepared for the rigor of our curriculum. This program does both.” Speights said data shows that students who attend medical school and residency in Arkansas stay in the state to practice about 80 percent of the time. “So, if we get more people with ties to our state studying medicine here, we’ll have a stronger opportunity to get them to practice here,” he said.
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HENDERSON STATE CELEBRATES COMPLETION OF RUSSELL FINE ARTS CENTER PROJECTS Henderson State celebrated the grand reopening of the Russell Fine Arts Center with a special concert last November. Faculty and students presented a short recital of works by Bach, Chopin, Lerner and Loewe, Horner, and others, with an informal reception following the performance. Significant improvements were made to the Harwood Recital Hall, which serves as the music department’s primary performance venue, the Evanson Band Hall, and choir room. Common areas received fresh paint, and new instrument storage lockers were installed.
HOMECOMING RECAP
CAROL OF THE LIGHTS RETURNS TO CAMPUS
The sound of laughter and the spirit of reunion filled the air at the Homecoming Tailgate. Alumni, families, and friends from generations of Reddies gathered to reconnect, celebrate cherished memories, and enjoy a lively pre-game tradition full of fellowship, fun, and school pride.
The popular Carol of Lights holiday program returned to Henderson State last December. As customary, the South Lawn was lined with hundreds of luminaries. Due to inclement weather, the program was moved into the Garrison Center Ballroom where a fanfare by the Henderson Herald Trumpets opened the program. Several student groups performed, including NuFusion, a trombone choir, a choral ensemble, and the Henderson spirit squads. Chancellor Dr. Trey Berry read “Twas the Night Before Christmas.”
DECEASED MOUNTAIN LION GIVEN TO HSU FOR STUDY A mountain lion that was struck and killed by a vehicle in Hot Spring County last fall was transferred to Henderson State for educational purposes, courtesy of Arkansas Game and Fish Commission. Henderson alumnus and AG&F wildlife
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officer Brady Baker negotiated for the big cat to be taken to Henderson for preservation and scientific study. Dr. Renn Tumlison, professor emeritus of natural sciences, said study of the specimen will benefit students in the present and future.
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REDDIE SERVE DAY RETURNS Reddie Serve Day brought together about 200 campus volunteers to tackle 19 projects across the community, ranging from yard work and painting, to picking up trash and helping out at the Humane Society of Clark County. The volunteers were then treated to lunch on the South Lawn.
LAURA FIGUEROA CROWNED 2026 MISS HSU Laura Figueroa, a junior physical education major from De Queen, was crowned 2026 Miss HSU at Henderson State’s annual competition February 15. McKenzie Sanders, a senior premed biology major from Little Rock, was named first runner-up, and Ava Littleton, a sophomore sport management major from McGehee, was second runner-up.
CAMPUS IMPROVEMENT PROJECTS Improvements continue on Henderson State’s campus! Arkansas Hall received a new roof, along with repairs to the auditorium and other upgrades. In Mooney Hall, two classrooms were renovated for the Tad & Judy Krug Entrepreneurship Institute. The Banquet Room has a new look, and projects were also completed in the Nursing Building, Reynolds Science Center and Evans Hall.
WEATHERCAM GIVES LIVE VIEW OF CAMPUS Henderson State University has partnered with Arkansas Weather Watchers to provide real-time weather conditions and a live camera view for the campus and surrounding community. The installation includes a 360-degree live weather camera and a separate weather station that collects and displays current temperature, precipitation, wind speed, and other essential data. The live feed and weather data can be accessed at hsu.edu/weathercam or by clicking the weather cam link at the bottom of the university’s homepage.
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HOLSWORTH RECEIVES THREE-YEAR EXTENSION
TRACK AND FIELD RETURNS TO HSU
Head football coach Greg Holsworth signed a three-year contract extension at the conclusion of the 2025 season. The agreement will keep one of the rising young stars in NCAA Division II football in Arkadelphia for the foreseeable future. Holsworth’s 16 victories in his first two seasons at HSU are the most for any coach in school history.
For the first time since 1993, Henderson State will compete in track and field. The university reinstated the men’s program after a 33year hiatus and introduced women’s track and field for the first time in school history last year. Both teams will begin competition in the fall of 2026 under new head coach Brett Charlton, who has recruited over 70 student-athletes to comprise his first rosters. The programs will also have a brand-new facility to practice and compete on as the asphalt track at Carpenter-Haygood Stadium was replaced over the summer with a state-of-the-art, synthetic, eight-lane competition surface, courtesy of GeoSurfaces. The original men’s track and field program, which ceased operations during the university’s transition from the NAIA to the NCAA, produced 14 All-Americans and 25 Hall of Honor inductees.
NEW VIDEO SCORER’S TABLES ADDED AT DUKE WELLS CENTER The scorer’s tables at the Duke Wells Center were brought into the modern age when they were upgraded to video display boards in January. The new tables rotate through player profiles for starting lineups, run ads for corporate partnerships, and highlight important initiatives for the university during home contests.
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ATHLETICS BREAKS GROUND ON WAGE DEVELOPMENT CENTER A big facility enhancement is on the way for Reddie Athletics thanks to a $250,000 gift from the estate of James (Jim) Reginald Wage, a Henderson State alum and former baseball player. The transformational gift will help fund a state-of-the-art player development center that facilitates year-round training opportunities and will serve as a major recruiting asset for the baseball and softball programs. The James Reginald Wage Player Development Center will feature a covered training facility equipped with batting cages, bullpens, and a flexible netting system that can be reconfigured for infield practice and defensive drills. The indoor space will ensure that training can continue year-round—
providing uninterrupted development for student-athletes regardless of weather conditions. “We are deeply grateful to the Wage and Jones families for their incredible generosity and commitment to Henderson State University and Reddie
Athletics,” HSU Chancellor Dr. Trey Berry said. “This transformative gift will leave a lasting impact on our student-athletes for generations to come. Jim’s legacy as a Reddie will now be forever honored through this facility, which will provide invaluable opportunities for growth, development, and success.”
ATHLETICS ADDS DIRECTOR OF SPORTS PERFORMANCE POSITION The Reddies added a key new role to the athletic department in 2026-27 with the introduction of Dom Hall as director of Sports Performance. This new position will oversee the strength and conditioning programs for all 16 NCAA DII athletic teams and provide vital support for student-athletes that improves their nutrition, performance, recovery, and long-term health.
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REDDIES DOMINATE OUACHITA BAPTIST IN THE 98TH BATTLE OF THE RAVINE Henderson picked up its largest road win ever against rival Ouachita Baptist when the Reddies roared past the Tigers 41-14 in the 98th Battle of the Ravine in November. Fifth-year senior quarterback Andrew Edwards of Bentonville amassed 366 yards of total offense and three touchdowns to lead HSU. The Reddie defense stifled Ouachita all afternoon. The Tigers were limited to just 50 rushing yards on 32 attempts in the Reddie victory. Henderson has won the last two meetings at Ouachita’s Cliff Harris Stadium dating back to 2023.
WOMEN’S FLAG FOOTBALL
HENDERSON CELEBRATES 28TH HALL OF HONOR CLASS Henderson State Athletics inducted a new class of Reddie legends into the Hall of Honor in October. The class was the 28th in school history and included Glennon Bobo (Football), Maxie Graham (Football), Jay Brewer (Golf), Chris Hunt (Baseball), Hailey Estes (Basketball), Pink Jones (Basketball), Robert Hester (Football), Shawn Jones (Distinguished Service), and Steve Eddington (Willie Tate Award).
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The athletic department announced in June that it would sponsor women’s flag football beginning in the 2026-27 school year in an expansion of women’s sports opportunities at the university. Henderson State is the second school in the state, and the first Great American Conference member institution, to add flag football. Currently, over 60 Division II schools nationwide sponsor the sport.
DON DYER COURT GETS A FACELIFT Don Dyer Court at the Duke Wells Center was bigger, brighter, and bolder this season after a fresh redesign of the hardwood playing surface. The wood was shaved down to brighten the floor, and the lines and midcourt logo were simplified from previous iterations to provide a clean, modern look for basketball and volleyball.
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RED WAVE MEN WIN 2026 NSISC SWIM TITLE The Red Wave men’s swimming team outlasted rival Ouachita Baptist 1056-1029.5 to capture their second New South Intercollegiate Swimming Conference (NSISC) championship in the last three years. Head coach Scotty Serio was named Coach of the Year after winning his second title at HSU.
LILY NELSON FINISHES THIRD OVERALL AT NCAA GOLF NATIONALS Senior golfer Lily Nelson took third place overall at a field of 103 golfers at the NCAA Division II National Championships in Palm Beach Gardens, Florida – the highest finish by an individual in school history. Nelson finished 1-over par for 54 holes to secure WGCA All-American honors.
VOLLEYBALL NABS PLAYER OF THE YEAR AWARDS
Kaylon Partain
The GAC Player of the Year and Defensive Player of the Year both played for the Reddies in 2025 as Katilyn Steffes was voted the league’s top player and Kaylon Partain was tabbed as the best defender in the conference. Steffes was the first Henderson player to win the Player of the Year award while Partain became the second Reddie to bring home the top defensive honor.
CLYDE BERRY FIELD UPGRADES FENCE AND BRANDING
Katilyn Steffes
Clyde Berry Field had a new look this spring in the outfield thanks to a new fence, installed by Keith Ford Construction, and updated wall branding, courtesy of Batson Signs. The new wall art features a “Reddie Baseball” decal and a message that greets all patrons with, “Welcome to The Clyde.”
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ALU M N I N E WS Henderson State University Foundation Portfolio Growth
GROWING A LEGACY OF
OPPORTUNITY
Under the leadership of the Henderson State University Foundation Board of Directors and through the extraordinary generosity of alumni and friends, the Foundation’s endowment has experienced remarkable growth since 2016. This enduring investment provides annual support in perpetuity for student scholarships, academic colleges and departments, faculty and staff excellence, and Reddie Athletics—creating opportunities that strengthen Henderson today and for generations to come.
BLACK ALUMNI ENDOWED SCHOLARSHIP
MAX BROWN SCHOLARSHIP
DON’T DESPAIR SCHOLARSHIP
PARIS ROTC SCHOLARSHIP
Through the generosity of alumni, the Black Alumni Chapter established a second endowed scholarship for Henderson students.
Bonnie Adams Sanjuan and Rafael Sanjuan established the Don’t Despair Scholarship to expand opportunities for future Reddies.
The Max Brown Memorial Scholarship Endowment honors Max Brown’s legacy by supporting future Reddies from Clark County area schools.
Frank and Karen Paris established the Advanced ROTC Scholarship Endowment to support future Henderson ROTC leaders.
For more information on initiating an endowment at Henderson State, please contact Josh Kee at keej@hsu.edu or 870-230-5350.
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CAP’D OUT CELEBRATION
Graduating seniors came together for the Cap’d Out Celebration, a special event recognizing their time at Henderson and the memories made along the way. The celebration was filled with Reddie pride as students prepared to join the alumni family.
ALUMNI AWARDS BANQUET Henderson State University honored six outstanding alumni at the Alumni Association’s annual awards banquet April 10. Distinguished Alumni awards were presented to Dr. Thomasena Craig (‘93), John Elkins (‘02), Jim Garland (‘82), and Shannon Schwartz (‘01). Vanna Eddington (‘90) received the “H” Award, and the Young Alumni Award was presented to Dani Pickens (‘08).
1985 FOOTBALL REUNION The 1985 AIC Football Team gathered to celebrate 40 years since their remarkable season, proving that time can’t diminish the bonds formed as teammates. From reminiscing about game days to catching up on life’s journeys, the reunion was a special reminder that being part of the Reddie family is for a lifetime.
AVIATION LUNCHEON Reddie Pride took flight at the Aviation Alumni Luncheon, held during Fly-In Day at the Dexter B. Florence Memorial Field Airport. Alumni reconnected with fellow Reddies, enjoyed the atmosphere of Fly-In Day and heard exciting updates about Henderson’s aviation program.
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YOUNG ALUMNI REUNION Homecoming Weekend began with a memorable Friday Night Social for young alumni. Surrounded by fellow Reddies, attendees enjoyed an evening of fellowship, shared stories, and celebrating the lifelong bonds built at Henderson
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BUSINESS COLLEGE HALL OF FAME Steve Ratcliff, a Henderson State University alumnus and native of Malvern, became the newest member of the College of Business Hall of Fame during an awards ceremony in April. Jazz Scott received the Young Alumni Award. Yurik Paroubek was honored with the Rising Star Award. Roger Wingfield’s State Farm agency in Arkadelphia was named the Business of the Year.
SHOWBAND REUNION
Henderson band alumni and friends came together to celebrate the music, memories, and traditions that make the Henderson Showband special. From reconnecting and sharing memories with fellow Reddies to enjoying live performances and a look back at band history, the event highlighted the lasting impact of Henderson’s band tradition.
DAY AT THE RACES Reddies gathered at Oaklawn for the annual Alumni Day at the Races, hosted in partnership with the HSU Alumni Association and the Spirit of the Reddies Alumni Chapter. Alumni enjoyed a day of horse racing, fellowship, and Henderson pride while supporting the Spirit of the Reddies Scholarship Fund.
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REDDIE RALLY Henderson State University brought Reddie Spirit to Oaklawn Hot Springs with its first-ever Reddie Rally. Alumni, fans, and friends gathered with Henderson Athletics and the HSU Alumni Association for an evening of connection and a preview of the upcoming fall sports season.
BLACK ALUMNI BANQUET A highlight of Homecoming Weekend, the Black Alumni Chapter Banquet was an evening filled with celebration, connection, and inspiration. Alumni returned to campus to uplift one another and celebrate their shared legacy as proud Reddies.
GOLDEN REDDIES The Class of 1975 marked a golden milestone with a joyful reunion during Homecoming Weekend. From the morning ceremony to the tailgate and football game, these Golden Reddies celebrated 50 years of memories, milestones, and Reddie Spirit.
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BASKETBALL REUNIONS Men’s and women’s basketball alumni returned to Duke Wells Gymnasium to reconnect with former teammates, share memories, and cheer on the Reddies. The reunion celebrated Henderson basketball tradition and brought generations of Reddies back together.
FOOTBALL TAILGATES Reddie spirit was alive and well at Henderson’s home football tailgates as alumni, fans, and friends came together to celebrate game day traditions. From great food and fellowship to cheering on the Reddies, every home game brought excitement, connection, and plenty of Reddie pride both on and off the field.
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ALU M N I U PDATE S CLASS NOTES
1960s Mike Hamer (‘62) retired from active duty in 1980 after 20 years of distinguished service for the U.S. Marines and U.S. Army. In 1981, he joined Civil Service in Army Forces Command Plans and Operations for 30 years at Fort McPherson, GA. In 2011, he retired with 50 years of service. He was inducted into the Class of 2025 Georgia Military Veteran’s Hall of Fame on November 1, 2025. David McCool (’60, ’69) had his driver education program awarded the best small school program in the state of Florida while he was teaching and coaching for 30 years. He served as president of the Florida Driver Education Association for one term. After retiring from teaching, he played on various basketball teams in the senior Olympics and men’s masters tournaments until his early 80s.
1970s Randy Hicks (’77) was selected to the 2026 Hall of Fame class of the Arkansas High School Athletic Administrators Association and was inducted in July 2026. Stanley Stevens (‘75) retired as the Radiation Safety Officer and GammaRay Spectroscopist SME at Perma-Fix Environmental Services in April 2026.
1980s Mary Vitro (’84) retired from teaching in 2023. She later rejoined the workforce in 2024 as a part-time Title 1 Interventionist and a Retail Clerk in Downtown Hot Springs at a gift shop.
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April Shepherd (’89, ’06) was recognized as the latest FutureMaker Honoree by the Arkadelphia Regional Economic Development Alliance and Area Chamber of Commerce. Janice Walker (’89) was promoted to System Vice President and Chief Nursing Officer for University of Florida Health Clinical Enterprises.
1990s Jeff Williams (’97) started working for the Springdale School District as the new Athletic Director, serving the Har-Ber High School side of the district in June 2025. Susan Ford (’91) was named the 2026 Top 15 Regional Finalist for Arkansas Teacher of the Year. Kevin Downing (’94) was named the Athletic Director at Pea Ridge School District. Carl McCraney Jr. (’96) was named the 2025 Arkansas Bandmaster of the Year and will be serving as the Arkansas Bandmasters Association President for 2025-2026. In August 2025, he joined Henderson music faculty as an adjunct professor of trumpet. Jill Batson (’95) hired on with Ouachita Baptist University as an Adjunct Instructor of Language and Literature. Tina V. Hall (’96) was named the Chief Communications Officer at the Arkansas Community Foundation in Little Rock. Brad Harris (’99) earned his 84th career win, making him the all-time leader for wins in Benton High School football history. Michael Sanders (’96) wasappointed as the Director of Community Programs with the City of Little Rock.
HENDERSON MAGAZINE
Kitty Braswell (’98) and her husband were featured in the 501 Life Magazine as Couple of the Month December 2025. Jack Curtis (’90) was named the Defensive Coordinator for Missouri State University Football. Corey Cooks (’97, ’04) was awarded the Smart/ Maher National Citizenship Education Teacher Award with Killeen ISD. He was also recognized in January 2026 as Sigma Man of the Year by the Theta Delta Sigma Chapter of Phi Beta Sigma Fraternity, Inc. Scott Fisk (’98) was honored with the combat action badge at Samford University during the 2025 Veterans Day celebration. Catherine Murchison (’91) and husband were featured in AY Magazine recognizing them for 36 Years with the Arkansas Big Buck Classic Event. Bryan DePriest (’99) was recognized by Texarkana ISD for his service and leadership as Secretary for District 5. Gus Malzahn (’90) retired after 35 years of coaching high school and college football, and was appointed by the CFP Management Committee to serve on the CFP Selection Committee. Rusty Bush (’98) was hired as Director of Athletics and Activities by the Fort Smith School District. Lonny Payne (’92) announced his intentions in running for Saline County Justice of the Peace District 8. Clay Totty (’97) was hired to become the head football coach at Hazen by Hazen’s School Board. Jackie McLelland (’97) was honored by U of A with a Distinguished Service Award during their Winter Fest Reception and Alumni Recognition Ceremony.
Doris Pierce (‘97, ‘04), the director for the Office of Accessibility Resources and Services, is celebrating 10 years of service working with students with disabilities at the University of Central Arkansas. Nathan Sullivan (‘96) completed his first year as the Superintendent of the Hamburg School District. Ricky Tompkins (’99) was named Chancellor at the University of Arkansas Hope-Texarkana (UAHT).
2000s C. Nikki Anderson (’04, ’11) was named Principal at Oaklawn STEM starting July 2025. Jennifer Edwards (’00, ’07, ’17) took on the role of Instructional Specialist for Elementary School Counselors with Bay District Schools. Richard Chastain, M.D. (’07) joins UAMS as a family medicine physician at the UAMS Health Family Medical Center in Fayetteville. Justin Bates (’06) got a new job at UA Little Rock on the Marketing and Communications team as a marketing writer. Debbie Fleming (’02) joined Central Baptist College as a Professor of Education and Chair of the Education Department. Shannon Coleman (’02) joined North Little Rock School District as the Administrative Director of Human Resources. Tenesha Greer-Barnes (’03) was named one of Arkansas Money & Politics’ Top 100 Professionals of 2025. Frank Barnes (’00) was appointed the position of Recording Secretary for the Tau Phi Lambda Chapter of Alpha Phi Alpha Fraternity, Inc.
Jordan Ferris (’05), a U.S. Naval Reserve Commander, spoke at the White Hall Event recognizing various branches of the military for their service. Chris Roberts (’02) started a new position as Director of Retail Accounts at InComm Payments. Raymond C. Lee III (’06) was confirmed in a unanimous vote to become Portland’s first long-term city administrator. Crystal Lougin (’00, ’02) was published in the Top 50 Women Leaders of Arkansas for 2025 Magazine. She was praised for her commitment, leadership, and expertise in her career. Janet Choate (’01) was promoted to Hope Market President by Farmers Bank & Trust in Jan. 2026. Melissa Speers (’05) retired in June 2026 after eight years serving as Jessieville’s Superintendent. Lynn Kilbourne (’06) and her husband were featured in the 501 Life Magazine as Couple of the Month published April 4, 2026. Casey Jackson (’03) was awarded the 2026 Justice for Victims Award from the Prosecuting Attorney’s Association for Outstanding Service to Crime Victims. Brandy Sweeden Dixon (’02, ’05) was promoted to Senior Associate Athletics Director for External Operations of Marketing and Communications at Little Rock Athletics.
2010s Travis Davenport (’17) was promoted to Electrical Engineer for Goodyear Tire. Corey Jackson (‘18) graduated from Arkansas State University with a Master of Science in Education with a concentration in Educational Leadership.
ALU M N I U PDATE S Lexis Weber (’19, ’22) started a new job at Rustic Fence Specialists, Inc. as an Assistant Project Manager. Breann Forbus (’15) started a new job at Arkansas State University Three Rivers as the TRiO SSS Transfer and Career Specialist in May 2025. Jordan Price, Ed.S. (’15) has joined the University of the Ozarks as an assistant professor of education and director of teacher education and field experience. Nikki Byrd (’15, ’17) started Waymaker Homeschool Collective in July 2025 to provide homeschool students with a safe space to learn. Martin Valdivia (’13) hired on with Ouachita Baptist University as an Instructor of Spanish. Jessi Bratton (’18) joins the Nuclear Medicine Imaging Sciences Program at UAMS College of Health Professions as a Professor and Clinical Coordinator. Kayla Harrington (’10) hired on with Ouachita Baptist University as an Assistant Professor of Nursing. Zachary Blann (’16) was promoted to Marketing Manager at Bank7 and obtained his CFMP (Certified Financial Marketing Profession) from the American Bankers Association. LaQuashia Brooks (’17, ’21) started a job with Pinnacle View Middle School as a 7th Grade Math Teacher. Reginald Evans (’17) was hired as Director of Operations at Fort Smith Regional Airport starting January 2026. Kris McCullough (’17) was announced as GardnerWebb University Athletics new Head Football Coach.
David Salley (’18) was named Senior Director of Marketing and Communications at Henderson State University. Rebeca Haley (’10) has been named the successor of Randy Massanelli for the position as Vice Chancellor for Government Relations at U of A. Cynthia Holland (’14) was promoted to Associate Professor of Biology at Williams College. Clay Garrett (’03) was hired by TexAmericas Center as the Proposal Content and Client Experience Coordinator. BreeAnn O’Donnell (’17) was named a 2027 Florida Teacher of the Year Finalist one of the Top 5 Teachers in the entire state. Hailey Kirksey (‘16, 19), writing under the pen name Hailey Jones, was named a finalist in the General Fiction/Novel (over 100,000 words) category of the 2026 Next Generation Indie Book Awards for her novel Emma: Knightley’s Version. Aaron Campbell (‘11, ‘15) was promoted to Assistant Superintendent of the Lakeside School District in Hot Springs. Katrina May (‘15) was promoted to Pediatric Trauma Program Manager at Ochsner LSU Shreveport, a Level 2 pediatric trauma center.
2020s Cayde Taylor (’24) started working for Charles Schwab as a Financial Service Representative in January 2025. Shameka Chism (’24) started working for Lakeside Behavioral Health System as a Registered Nurse in June 2025.
Becc Nowlin (’23) accepted the position of HR Coordinator once again at the HSU HR Department starting in June 2025. She previously worked in Admissions as the Lead Processor. Brandon Bennett (’22, ’24) started a new role August 2025 as Coordinator of Fraternity & Sorority Life at Arkansas Tech University. Autumn Greenwood (’25) started working for Arkadelphia Public Schools as a 1st Grade Teacher. Darby McCann (’20) was announced by Baxter Health as the new Program Coordinator for the Schliemann Center of Women’s Health. Josey Brown (‘22) and her husband are expecting a future Reddie. LeDena Nsabimana (‘23) relocated to Missouri to become the Associate Director of Special Education and will be starting the role of Director of Special Education at KVC Academy on July 1, 2026. Logan Wetterling (‘22, 24) achieved his board certification in pediatric emergency nursing (CPEN).
Former Students Andrew Daily was selected as an administrator for the cooperative public agency by the Hot Springs County Solid Waste Authority board. Jeremie Burns starts a new role as Head Football Coach with Alma School District. Shari Echols promotion was announced in December by Southern Bancorp. She will be appointed to the role City President of Arkadelphia which oversees all lending operations in the Arkadelphia market.
BIRTHS Maliyah (’19) and Devonte Hamilton, son Malachi Hamilton, May 2025 Carly (’22, ’24) and Andrew Howard (’22, ’24), son Canaan Howard, August 2025 Hannah (’25) and Ethan Rochester, son Callan Rochester, September 3, 2025 Madisson (’23) and Camden Willis, daughter Birdie Kay Willis, November 2025 Raegan (’20, ’22) and Hunter Cheatham (’21), son Thomas Cheatham, March 2026 Danielle (’16) and Adam Greenfield (’18), daughter, April 8, 2026
IN MEMORIAM
1950s Virginia Faye Lovel Braughton, (’53), 94, of Midlothian, VA – June 8, 2025 Donald “Don” Lee Griffith, (’55), 91, of Memphis, TN – May 2, 2025 Patsy Ruth Hanson Pillard, (’51), 95, of Arkadelphia, AR – June 22, 2025 Hazel Eloise Smith Swilley, (’58), 88, of Hazen, AR – June 24, 2025 Wanda G. Hamby Sullivan, (’57), 89, of De Queen, AR – July 10, 2025 Patricia “Pat” Ann Chambers Racop, (’54), 92, of Little Rock, AR – July 13, 2025
WEDDINGS
Mary Lou Wylie Talbert, (’54), 92, of Benton, AR – July 19, 2025
Danielle Terwilliger (’16) married Adam Greenfield (’18), January 11, 2025
Mary Carolyn Wilson Ellis, (’51, ’68), 95, of Nashville, AR – September 7, 2025
Amy Hallman (’19) married Jacob Armstrong (’19), June 14, 2025
Martha Ligon Culp, (’58), 88, of Little Rock, AR – September 10, 2025
Bailey J. Hughes (’19) married Dr. Susan C. Tucker, June 21, 2025
Elise Cate Moon, (’56), 89, of Wilson, AR – September 18, 2025
Zoe Mayberry (’26) married Tyler Strain (’22), August 3, 2025
David Jewell Jones, (’53), 94, of Little Rock, AR – September 26, 2025
Josh Ritter (’12) married Samantha Barrett, September 27, 2025
Lynda K. Overton Speak, (’57), 89, of Tyler, TX – October 11, 2025
Aaliyah Richardson (‘16, ‘21) married Christopher Hayes (‘15), October 25, 2025
Marion Kemp Miller, (’55), 91, of Little Rock, AR – December 12, 2025
Paul Hawron (’20) married Hailey Gorecke (‘20), April 25, 2026 Arielle Michael (‘18) married Jacob Caballero (‘16), April 25, 2026 Rebecca Fellers (‘20) married Aaron Johnson, May 30, 2026
Jim Paul Franks, (’57, ’65), 91, of Malvern, AR – April 30, 2026
1960s Mary Valjean Slatton Echols, (’65, ’77), 85, of Delight, AR – May 31, 2025 Charles E. Frazier, (’60), 86, of Fordyce, AR – June 20, 2025
HSU.EDU
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ALU M N I U PDATE S Glenda Fay Mitchell Arey, (’60), 90, of Haskell, AR – June 21, 2025 Bobby “Bob” J. Stephens, (’68), 89, of North Little Rock, AR – June 26, 2025 David Anthony Chaffin, (’67), 80, of Mabelvale, AR – July 4, 2025 Carolyn Jo Smith Masopust, (’69), 78, of Hot Springs, AR – July 28, 2025 Harry Brooks Hiett, (’64), 83, of Little Rock, AR – August 3, 2025 Anne Elizabeth “Betty” Bishop Coles, (’66), 92, of Pine Bluff, AR – August 6, 2025 Earl Wayne Cloud, (’63), 83, of Benton, AR – August 14, 2025 Lula Mae Black Cathey, (’69), 91, of Hot Springs, AR – August 15, 2025 Dr. Charles D. Watson, (’64), 82, of Little Rock, AR – August 31, 2025 Freda Sue Dial Benton, (’65), 84, of Midland, TX – August 31, 2025 Travis N. Creed, (’62), 85, of Pine Bluff, AR – September 23, 2025 Sara Stevenson Abraham, (’65), 81, of Vicksburg, MS – October 6, 2025 William T. McLaughlin Jr., (’68), 81, of Nashville, AR – October 12, 2025
Norma Bernice Adamson Hays, (’65), 100, of Fort Smith, AR – January 6, 2026 Jessie E. “J.E.” Rowe, (‘62), 84, of Hot Springs, AR - January 15, 2026 Donald “Don” Webb Wilkinson, (’69), 84, of Arkadelphia, AR – January 19, 2026 LT. Colonel Gerald Edward Loyd, (’64, ’73), 83, of Amity, AR – January 22, 2026 George Ann “Gi” Greenlee Billingsley, (’62), 85, of Bella Vista, AR – January 28, 2026 Benny “Ben” Jack Bramlett, (’67), 81, of De Queen, AR – January 29, 2026 Robert E West, (’68), 80, of Caddo Gap, AR – February 26, 2026 Bob Van Compton, (’65, ’67), 88, of Hot Springs, AR – March 14, 2026 Samuel “Sam” J. Goodwin, (’66), 82, of Natchitoches, LA – March 21, 2026 Roxiana “Roxie” Roberts Mayhugh, (’60), 87, of Arlington, TX – March 26, 2026 Klien Stanley Harrison, (’66), 82, of Sparkman, AR – March 29, 2026
Ronald Ben Stringfellow, (‘69), 80, of Camden, AR – May 20, 2026
Karen Sue Conatser Kesterson, (’75, ’76), 73, of Benton, AR – July 20, 2025
James Clyde Pate, (‘68), 80, of Port Gibson, MS – May 27, 2026
Gary Gyrome Hunter, (’74), 74, of Arkadelphia, AR – August 26, 2025
Pat Pappas, (‘60), 88, of Little Rock, AR – June 3, 2026
Bobby G. Jones, (’71, ’95), 76, of Arkadelphia, AR – September 5, 2025
Herman Dewayne Harley, (‘62), 84, of Benton, AR – June 6, 2026
Jerry Ann Smedley Jewell, (’79, ’89), 85, Cove, AR – September 26, 2025
1970s
Robert “Bob” D Goeller, (’72), 80, Texarkana, TX – October 9, 2025
Danny Ray Humphries, (’72), 74, of Safety Harbor, FL – January 4, 2025 David Andrew Beason, (’77), 71, of Malvern, AR – January 28, 2025 James Michael Chunn, (’76), 72, of Sweetwater, TX – March 1, 2025 Mary Rosa Armstrong Dumond, (’77), 70, of Arkadelphia, AR – March 9, 2025 Charles Glen Brown, (’77), 70, of Benton, AR – March 11, 2025 Greggory Vernon Dyess, (’76, ’85), 71, of Batesville, AR – April 3, 2025 Glenda Dale Hendrix Thresher, (’74), 73, of San Antonio, TX – May 10, 2025 Terry DeWayne Thomason, (’74), 70, of Bismarck, AR – May 11, 2025
Johnny D Toombs, (’67), 82, of Texarkana, AR – October 29, 2025
Lt. Col (Ret.) Duncan Andrew “Andy” Thomasson, (’69), 79, of Richmond, VA – April 4, 2026
John E Russ, (’66), 82, of Little Rock, AR – November 1, 2025
Sara Frances Edwards Yarbrough, (’60), 88, of Camden, AR – April 5, 2026
Deborah Kay Bowden, (’75), 72, of Hope, AR – June 5, 2025
Carol Ruth Clanton, (’69), 77, of Brookhaven, MS – November 9, 2025
Herbert Kirkland Reamey III, (’68), 80, of Clinton, AR – April 9, 2026
Jimmy “Jim” Harlan Tarkington, (’64), 83, of Hot Springs, AR – November 23, 2025
Ellen Kay Mosely Goolsby, (‘62), 85, of Hot Springs, AR – May 7, 2026
Patrick Allen McGuire, (’75), 72, of Saint Martinville, LA – June 6, 2025
David Ray McCool, (’60, ’69), 91, of Okeechobee, FL – November 24, 2025
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Patricia Elaine Wright Lipscomb, (‘68), 80, of Benton, AR – May 12, 2026
HENDERSON MAGAZINE
Margie Ruth Sandridge Kluck, (’75), 98, of Arkadelphia, AR – May 16, 2025
Elizabeth Clements Sharp Lovell, (’70, ’72), 89, of Traskwood, AR – July 12, 2025 David Lee Diggins, (’77), 70, of Little Rock, AR – July 15, 2025
Travis Wayne Burris, (’74), 80, of Hot Springs, AR – December 3, 2025 Johnny Wayne Jones, (’79), 77, of Prescott, AR – December 5, 2025 Kenneth Ray Green, (’76, ’98), 71, of Washington, AR – December 17, 2025 John Robert Taylor, (’74), 74, of Fort Smith, AR – December 18, 2025 Brenda Kay Minor Hopkins, (’71, ’72), 76, of El Dorado, AR – December 24, 2025 James Richard “Rick” Green, (’72), 75, of Arkadelphia, AR – January 1, 2026 Phyllis Gail Sharp Isenman, (’75), 72, of Little Rock, AR – January 29, 2026 Carolyn Clark Tennyson, (’74), 74, of Hot Springs, AR – January 31, 2026 Sherry Ann Bird, (’77), 71, of Little Rock, AR – February 14, 2026 John Paul Welch, (’76, ’88), 77, of White Hall, AR – March 16, 2026 Pamela Sue Daniels Campbell Banks, (’70, ’78), 77, of Morrilton, AR – April 1, 2026 William Darryl Muldrew, (’76), 71, of Hope, AR – April 18, 2026
Rebecca Kirkland Whitehead, (‘73), 76, of Fordyce, AR – May 13, 2026 Sally Stockley Johnson, (‘71), 88, of Little Rock, AR – June 3, 2026 Patsy Anne Jones Haynes, (‘72), 76, of Hot Springs, AR – June 4, 2026 Ben Ronald Williamson, (‘75), 74, of Fayetteville, AR – June 5, 2026
1980s Rhonda Kaye Bardwell Anderson, (’88), 58, of Hot Springs, AR – August 15, 2024 Jim Louis Childers, (’82), 74, of San Antonio, TX – January 12, 2025 Jeffrey “Jeff” Wayne Kutchka Sr., (’81), 67, of Fort Smith, TX – March 11, 2025 Vivian Calhoun Harper, (’85), 73, Watson, LA – March 19, 2025 Karen Diane Collie McClard, (’82), 63, of Bismarck, AR – April 18, 2025 Elizabeth Diane Warren, (’88), 74, of Wickes, AR – June 9, 2025 Shirley Ann Hughes, (’87), 60, of Little Rock, AR – June 28, 2025 Charles Raymond Wagner III, (’87), 64, of Hot Springs, AR – July 1, 2025 Drury Shepherd Livingston Hoover, (’88, ’96), 88, of Hope, AR – July 4, 2025 Elvis Edward “Ed” Grissom Jr., (’81), 65, of Texarkana, TX – July 8, 2025 Sue Cato Warner, (’82), 85, of Sherwood, AR – August 14, 2025 Dr. Lesile A. Toombs, (’80), 66, of Odessa, TX – September 27, 2025
Betsy Jean Spragins Gillaspy-Williams, (’85), 86, of Conway, AR – November 4, 2025
Taylor Maleea Fought Schwaller, (’09), 38, of Alexander, AR – August 1, 2025
Lawrence “Tex” Craig Texada, (’83), 65, of Prosper, TX – November 15, 2025
Talithea Arlette McHenry, (’03), 44, of El Dorado, AR – September 25, 2025
Samuel Michael “Mike” Hoover, (’83), 68, of El Dorado, AR – March 4, 2026
Tommy J. Gibson, (’01), 49, of Hope, AR – October 31, 2025
Terry Layne Efird, (’88), 66, of Prairie Grove, AR – April 6, 2026
2010s
Martha Dale Cook Cooley, (’89), 85, of Hot Springs, AR – April 17, 2026 Nona G. Turley Grubbs, (’75), 72, of Rogers, AR – April 18, 2026 George Fisher Weaver, (’85), 70, of Arkadelphia, AR – April 26, 2026 Ricky Loyd Hancock, (‘87), 63, of Centerton, AR – May 1, 2026
1990s Scotty Max Saunders, (’95), 70, of Longview, TX – January 22, 2025 Becky L. Robinson Basinger, (’92), 71, of Fort Smith, AR – March 31, 2025 William G. Pymn, (’90), 57, of Wasilla, AK – May 19, 2025 Vickie L. Bobo Hines, (’92), 64, of Texarkana, AR – May 25, 2025 Christopher Lynn Hughes, (’97), 50, of Rogers, AR – August 16, 2025 Mark Alan Freer, (’95), 54, of Malvern, AR – August 30, 2025
2000s Jacqueline “Jackie” Bardwell Norton, (’00), 62, of Glenwood, AR – February 15, 2025 Julia Ann Ellis Short, (’07), 66, of Hot Springs, AR – February 28, 2025 Margaret Gulley Story, (’06), 72, Chidester, AR – April 25, 2025
Tina Lea Schweri Graham, (’19), 66, of Bonnerdale, AR – October 25, 2025
Former Students Lawrence Alwyn Gibson, 84, of Texarkana, TX – June 5, 2025 Barbara Jean Bridges Barnes, 90, of Little Rock, AR – June 28, 2025 Jerry Holder Johnson, 101, of Hot Springs, AR – July 19, 2025 John Little, 86, of Warren, AR – September 24, 2025 Thad Wesley Flenniken, 80, of Royal, AR – September 30, 2025
Faculty and Staff Cornelia Ross, 95, of Arkadelphia, AR – October 29, 2025 David Eugene Etienne, 80, of Arkadelphia, AR – March 20, 2026 Dr. Charles Adolph Weiner, 85, of Arkadelphia, AR – May 5, 2026
Friends Daniell Carrol “Danny” Golden, 69, of Arkadelphia, AR – June 29, 2025 Joe Stratton, 91, of Pine Bluff, AR – September 20, 2025 Benny Forrest Cox, 93, of El Dorado, AR – September 20, 2025 Billy Roy Wilson, 85, of Little Rock, AR – October 27, 2025 Jackson A. “Jack” White, 92, of Fayetteville, AR – November 13, 2025 John Robert Graves, 84, of Little Rock, AR – April 20, 2026
H S U B OA R D O F V I S I T O R S
Anita Cabe Nikki Chandler Dr. Alvin Futrell Dan Garrison Lena Hayes Jacey Jackson Hosea Sanders Joanna Sutton Bill Wright
A S U SY S T E M P R E S I D E N T
Dr. Todd Shields CHANCELLOR
Dr. Trey Berry
V I C E C H A N C E L L O R O F A DVA N C E M E N T & H S U F O U N DAT I O N E X E C U T I V E D I R E C T O R
Josh Kee
SENIOR DIRECTOR OF MARKETING & C O M M U N I C AT I O N S
David Salley
A L U M N I E N G AG E M E N T D I R E C T O R
Amber Bailey-Brownlee
Col. James “Jim” E. Duke, D.D.S., 94, of Texarkana, AR – October 5, 2025
Steve Fellers
Stacey L. Cross, 53, Lonoke, AR – October 12, 2025
CONTRIBUTORS
Susan Virginia Schaal Hartness, 79, of Mineral Springs, AR – January 20, 2026 Charles Julian Butler, 80, of Bismarck, AR – February 3, 2026 Kenneth Garry Russell, 77, of Houston, TX – February 20, 2026 Raymond Lewis Townley, 81, of White Hall, AR – February 25, 2026 Frances Avery Ross, 89, of Little Rock, AR – April 6, 2026 Galen Nelson Johnson, 78, of Maumelle, AR – April 6, 2026 Ward J. Ramsay, 100, of Russellville, AR – May 26, 2026
DESIGNER
UPDATE YOUR INFORMATION Alumni and friends, Henderson is on the move, and we don’t want you to miss a thing! From exciting advancements to upcoming events, there is always something going on at your Alma Mater. Make sure you stay in the loop by updating your contact information today at HSU.EDU/ UPDATE.
Sydney Bowman Steve Fellers David Salley Amber Bailey Audrey Nowlin Kara Giallanza
Contact HSU Office of Alumni & Development 1100 Henderson Street HSU Box 7540 Arkadelphia, AR 71999-0001 870.230.5352 hsu.edu/alumni alumni@hsu.edu
Please send address corrections to alumni@hsu.edu HSU.EDU
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1100 Henderson Street, Box 7540 Arkadelphia, AR 71999-0001