Issuu

Your UAPB/AM&N National Alumni Association started and is still going STRONG with our “UAPB Everyday: 365 Platform”. This endeavor is not for the weak or half-hearted because I have invited the Board of Directors and YOU (our alumni members) to consider Dear Mother EVERY SINGLE DAY of the year! Yes, I realize you are busy with your career! Yes, I realize some of you are winding down to retirement. Yes, I realize so many of you are out in the community connecting

University of Arkansas at Pine Bluff and 2023 Southern Heritage Classic

Saturday September 09, 2023, marked the inaugural year and entry of the University of Arkansas Pine Bluff Golden Lions to the Southern Heritage Classic, to face off against Tennessee State University Tigers. The Southern Heritage Classic began more than 30 years ago in 1990 - bringing fans from across the nation to Memphis, Tn. To watch HBCU football every September. The classic is truly a cultural celebration, connecting the spirit of young and old.

Traditionally, the Southern Heritage Classic would pit Jackson State University against Tennessee State University. The University of Arkansas Pine Bluff replaced JSU, when JSU opted out of the last two years of a five-year contract, giving UAPB entry to the classic for 2023 and 2024 seasons. UAPB’s inaugural year into the classic came with much anticipation and some skepticism

through service organizations, your church, and in politics. However, as an alumni group, we have to stop only loving on or paying attention to Dear Mother when we are together celebrating a classic weekend, during homecoming or when we are in the news. There is SO MUCH work to do, we need YOU to ask yourself EVERY SINGLE DAY: “What can I do to make our university better, create opportunities for our students,

CONTINUES ON GREETINGS, PG. 7

TANESHA WASHINGTON THOMPSON, PRESIDENT AND CHAIR OF THE BOARD

The conference was held August 3-5, 2023, in Pine Bluff, Arkansas, with a majority of the meetings and activities held on the campus of the University of Arkansas at Pine Bluff. This was our first in-person Summer Conference since the 2020 pandemic. Having the two prior virtual conferences, along with our newly designed website, newsletters, Alumni Center Capital Campaign, and various town hall meetings, allowed us to create an agenda with all alumni in mind.

National Alumni Association President Tanesha Thompson and the National Board of Directors, hosted this year’s conference. However, there was great support from the National Alumni Office and three local alumni chapters who served as the conference’s Planning Committee bringing a wealth of knowledge and a talented network to carry out the business of the Association. The conference included a National Board Meeting, Welcome Reception, Updates from both the

ALUMNIHighlight

33rd UAPB AM&N National Alumni Association Summer Conference

CONFERENCE THEME - UAPB EVERYDAY: ONE ALUMNI. ONE UNIVERSITY.

Ms. Shannon Hendrix

2021-2023 SUMMER CONFERENCE CHAIR

NATIONAL UAPB/AM&N ALUMNI PARLIAMENTARIAN

Association and the University, Campus Bus Tour, and Banquet which included a silent auction, cocktail hour, and dancing.

Our banquet speaker was Kristopher G. Stepps, MD, who is also a 2007 alumnus, Legacy Golden Lion, published author, philanthropist, and Pine Bluff native. Dr. Stepps spoke from our conference theme about the mnemonic R.O.A.R. which stood for:

• Remember your Golden Predecessors,

• Open as many doors as possible,

• Be Asset-driven, and

• Recruit future stakeholders.

All of these attributes were passionately discussed during the many activities of the conference.

The 2023 Summer Conference had over 105 registered participants, over 30 additional banquet tickets sold, and

raised over $1,500 for the Dire Needs Scholarship with the silent auction alone. President Thompson encouraged all alumni and supporters of the Association and the University to be solution-focused, and with that mindset, we were able to have a successful 33rd National Alumni Summer Conference. We are still seeking our 2024 Summer Conference Host, so if your local alumni chapter is interested then please contact Director Kim Jones Sneed at admin@ uapbalumni.org or 870-536-2309.

We would like to once again give ROARING thanks Ms. Shannon Hendrix 2023 Summer Conference chair and to all alumni, sponsors, vendors, patrons, donors, volunteers, and Chancellor Dr. Laurence B. Alexander and Cabinet for making our in-person Summer Conference experience GOLDEN!

Shannon Hendrix

National UAPB/AM&N Alumni Parliamentarian

experience in Fortune 500 aerospace, telecommunications and energy companies. He has held senior management responsibilities at Dynegy Inc, Logix Communications, Intelligent Systems, US West Communications, Tele-TV and Lockheed Martin. Mr. Fleming is experienced in General Management Strategic Development, Sales and Marketing, Network Operations, Auditing, Finance, Project Management and New Product Development. In addition, his experience reaches across various industries, including voice and data networks, cable TV, energy management, software development, and government contracting.

ALUMNISpotlight

Mr. Walker L. Fleming III

ENTREPRENEUR, BUSINESS LEADER AND TRAILBLAZER

CHAIRMAN FLEMING RECEIVES DIRECTOR OF YEAR AWARD FROM MWCUA

2002, Mr. Fleming became the founder and CEO of AxxessConnect(AXCI). A minority owned, veteran owned, certified Telecommunication Information Technology Service provider. Under his leadership, AxxcessConnect became a multimillion-dollar business serving national and international customers.

2010 Mr. Fleming became member of Board of Director Bellco Credit Union, Greenwood Village, Co and was elected Chairman in 2014. The credit union was founded in 1936 and has over 360,000 members with 9 billion in assets. He

received Director of the year award from Mountain West Credit Union Association.

Walker is extremely proud of the education he received at The University of Arkansas at Pine Bluff. “Sometime when you come from humble beginning and a small HBCU you wonder if the education you receive will stand up, said Mr. Fleming, but the education and training I received from University of Arkansas at Pine Bluff has stood the test of time and has served me well. I owe much to ‘Dear Mother’”. Currently, I am working with UAPB Alumni Center

Capital Campaign. I would like to take this opportunity and ask everyone to become a part of history and contribute to this worthy endeavor.

As a business leader, Walker has built a proven track record of success in general-management strategic planning, sales and marketing, network operations, auditing, finance, project management, and new product development. Walker has received numerous awards serves on several boards including University of Colorado Boulder-Leeds School of

SHC

CONTINUED FROM PAGE 1

NATIONAL & INTERNATIONAL News

from our opponent – TSU tigers. The chatter on multiple social media platforms from the TSU fan base, was that UAPB fans do not travel well, and we would not show up for this classic! Well, let’s just put that to rest- as the event attendance reached 32,518 – meeting the expectations of the classic’s founder and our UAPB Memphis Alumni chapter leadership.

As far as the contest on the field, with under a minute to play – UAPB seemed to be on track of mounting a tremendous fourth quarter comeback. Instead, a blocked field goal, which was returned for a touchdown, resulted in the Golden Lions falling to TSU 24- 14.

Phillip Williams

UAPB/AM&N National Alumni Board Member

UAPB Metro Atlanta Alumni Chapter

DID YOU KNOW?

The power of our alumni, as a collective voice, has been consistently demonstrated throughout the past 150 years. The Alumni Association marks its sesquicentennial; reflecting over the first century and a half of the University’s service to students, parents, communities, fellow alumni and the Nation shows just cause for celebration. Now, we’re championing new HISTORICAL objectives for the University. Today, the association and its network of chapters are planning the construction of a CENTER that will create new, lasting bonds of friendship among fellow alumni and their communities nationwide. This process, when completed will bring incalculable good to the University.

This is your chance to celebrate the University’s 150th year Anniversary of our alma mater. In addition, it will allow you to participate in this new “HISTORICAL” undertaking of developing a CENTER for the future!

Achieving the UAPB AM&N National Alumni Association’s Alumni Center (Capital Campaign) (Note: Please place link in your browser)

1. Direct participation by purchasing a: https://uapbalumni.org/ alumni-center-virtual-tour/named-plaques-tiles-and-bricks/

2. Leave a historical legacy: https://uapbalumni.org/alumnicenter-virtual-tour/naming-opportunities/

3. Donate now!: https://uapbalumni.org/alumni-centervirtual-tour/make-a-donation-now/

4. Join your Divine (9) organization and display your Greek Letters. Greek letter organizations can participate through all of the above. The various sororities and fraternities can secure naming rights to rooms, cornerstones, stained glass window etc.

https://uapbalumni.org/alumni-center-virtual-tour/thedivine-nine-stained-glass-windows/

5. Will you participate in this “HISTORICAL” undertaking?

Janice Roberts

UAPB/AM&N National Alumni Board of Directors

CHAPTER STUDENTNews &

Dire Need Scholarship Fund

The Dire Need Scholarship Fund was designed to help UAPB students who have a critical financial need. Students who have exhausted all means of financial aid, student loans and family support and do not have the capability of paying their outstanding college balance can apply for this scholarship. When students facing this dire need are assisted, it helps them to move forward academically. It offers necessary relief and encourages them to continue their education.

This originally started as The Lifeline Fund which was a joint 3-year fundraising effort of UAPB and the UAPB/AM&N National Alumni Association. The concept originated from three separate efforts/ concerns to develop a pool of funds to help students who just did not have the means to get money to stay in school. Gralon Johnson, a graduate and 2008-2009 Student Government Association President, approached Dr. Margaret Martin-Hall, who was the Director of University Relations and Development at that time, and asked for help and guidance in developing and implementing a fundraising effort to benefit students in dire need. Dr. Martin-Hall then reached out to then National Alumni Association(NAA)” President Hannibal Bolton. Chapters set up Lifeline or Dire Need accounts to support students from their local area. That initiative was launched in 2009. Later alumni who were not affiliated with a chapter also wanted to donate to the NAA Dire Need Scholarship to assist students. Through these funds we have assisted hundreds if not thousands of students, complete enrollment for the semester, purchase that one book needed for their senior year, or pay off that final balance in order to be cleared to graduate!

In 2020, there was an End of Year Challenge to raise funds for the Dire Need Scholarship Fund, and alumni showed up and showed out!

In 2021, we had the Water Crisis. Alumni came through with monetary and other donations like food and water! Showed up and showed out!

In January 2023, President Tanesha Thompson gave the challenge to think UAPB Everyday… that’s 365 days that UAPB/AM&N should cross your mind. She made the call to donate any form of that whether it is $36.50, $365, or $3650. Again, alumni showed up and showed out all based on their love of “”Dear Mother, and their desire to pay it forward and help students fulfill that dream of walking across the stage to obtain their degree!

In August, President Thompson suggested everyone on the UAPB National Alumni Association Board donate $20 to the Dire Need Scholarship and reach out to 20 of their contacts to do the same. That spearheaded a 48-hour social media fundraising event, 20 for $20! …

and what happened “alumni showed up and showed out!”

We hope you keep the Dire Need Scholarship Fund in mind when making donations to the alumni association. Remember, every dollar counts, and there is a graduating student who’s smiling proudly saying “an alumni ma,de this happen!”

Now remember, think UAPB and AM&N EVERYDAY. Our Students need you!

LaDonna Hendrix, Greater Kansas City Alumni Chapter

UAPB National Alumni Association Board of Directors-Central Region

The Pine Bluff/Jefferson County Alumni Chapter: A Beacon of Success and Community Engagement

In the heart of Pine Bluff, Arkansas, a remarkable group of individuals regularly devote their time, talent and treasure as members of the Pine Bluff/Jefferson County Alumni Chapter. Under the leadership of Chapter President Dr. Hazell Reed, this flagship organization has become a shining example of what can be achieved when a community works together with dedication and purpose. Comprising active, hardworking, and community-connected members, this chapter has made significant strides in supporting the University of Arkansas at Pine Bluff (UAPB) and the broader community through various initiatives, scholarships, and fundraising campaigns.

One of the most significant accomplishments of the Pine Bluff/ Jefferson County Alumni Chapter is its unwavering commitment to supporting higher education. By providing scholarships to UAPB students, they are investing in the future of the entire world by helping aspiring young people achieve their academic goals. These scholarships not only ease the financial burden of tuition and book costs, but also serve as a beacon of hope and encouragement to these students.

The Pine Bluff/Jefferson County Alumni Chapter’s dedication to UAPB extends beyond scholarships. The Chapter’s executive committee and members have a strong presence within the UAPB/AM&N National Alumni Association. They serve as invaluable volunteers, filling key committee roles in various campaigns and events. These events provide critical information from the National Alumni Association, celebrate the achievements of the university and also provide a platform for alumni to connect and network.

CHAPTER STUDENTNews &

CONTINUED FROM PAGE 5

Their contributions are essential to the success of initiatives such as the Alumni Center Capital Campaign, the Alumni Summer Conference, Alumni Luncheon and the General Membership Meeting and Hall of Fame Induction Ceremony. Finally, their active involvement in the 2023 Ms. Alumni Queen Fundraising Campaign for Chapter Member Joyce Bracy Vaughan demonstrates their commitment to promoting the National Alumni Association’s vibrant spirit and heritage.

Members of the Pine Bluff/Jefferson County Alumni Chapter are making a difference. Many actively participate in civic, social, spiritual and political activities. They collaborate with other community organizations and work tirelessly to address pressing issues facing Pine Bluff and Jefferson County. Their commitment to improving the quality of life for residents is a testament to their dedication to ensuring their community a better place.

The Pine Bluff/Jefferson County Alumni Chapter reminds us all of the power of unity, determination, and a shared vision for a brighter future.

Kim Jones Sneed, Director National UAPB/AM&N Alumni Association

Chapter Development Empowers Local Alumni Chapters

Alumni Chapters are the heart and soul of the UAPB/AM&N National Alumni Association. They not only represent University of Arkansas at Pine Bluff (UAPB) alums, but they help undergird “Dear Mother” in numerous ways.

Chapter Development is an important aspect of the National Alumni Association. On the second Tuesday of nearly every month, chapter officers and assigned representatives meet to be informed and updated about critical matters, events and activities. The overall goal is to empower local alumni chapters to serve their members with effectiveness and excellence.

Ardren “AJ” Jones, a member of the National Alumni Association’s Board of Directors, has served as chair of Chapter Development for several years now. He is assisted by Kim Jones Sneed, director of the National Alumni Association, who is an ex-officio member of the Board of Directors. She prepares the agenda, schedules the video conferenced meeting and regularly emails information.

FLEMING

CONTINUED FROM PAGE 1

Business and member of The Board of Advisors for Optevo more than that, he is a proud member of the Boy Scouts Trustee Board and the Denver Police Foundation Board, demonstrating and unwavering commitment to making a difference in his local community.

Crystal Burns, administrative assistant of the National Alumni Association, conducts the roll call and provides input when necessary. In previous years, she recorded meetings, transcribed notes and distributed them to chapter presidents and representatives. Thanks to the power of technology, the video conferenced meetings are recorded with replays made available.

Some meetings feature guests from UAPB’s Chancellor’s Office, Executive Cabinet, Athletic Department, Office of Recruitment and much more. Others offer a time of sharing concerns and challenges faced as chapter leaders. The environment is kept positive with solutions to problems and plenty of encouragement being regularly provided.

Chapters provide alums with an opportunity to unite, fellowship and come up with creative ways to fundraise. These monies often provide scholarships that help UAPB students in need of financial assistance.

Joining a local chapter is a simple process. Contact the president or representative and let him or her know that you are interested in joining. Dues are typically affordable and can usually be paid annually.

If there is not a local chapter in your area, perhaps you can join one in another city or state. Consider getting involved with a chapter in your hometown or in a city where you grew up. Another option is to join a chapter that you feel is doing the type of projects that you want to work on.

The global pandemic ushered in an increased use of technology. Many chapters meet via conference calls and video conferencing. Some chapters meet in person but might move meetings around to different locations to accommodate their members.

Kim Jones Sneed, Director UAPB&AM&N National Alumni Association

Walker was born in Forrest City Arkansas. The son of late Arkansas Educators Ruby and Walker Fleming Jr. (AM&N College classes of 1945 & 1949 respectively). Walker earned a BS in Business Administration at the University of Arkansas (1972). He received an MBA – Accounting/ Marketing from Southern Methodist

University – Cox Business School (1974), and he earned a certificate in Advance Management Program from Standford University, MassIT.

Mr. Fleming is an Air Force veteran. He is a proud member of Alpha Phi Alpha Fraternity Inc. Walker is married to his lovely wife Charolette and has four children and 5 grandchildren.

Crystal Burns

Kim Jones Sneed

Ardren “AJ” Jones

GREETINGS

CONTINUED FROM PAGE 1

and leave a legacy as an alumni member?”

Your UAPB/AM&N National Alumni Association, Board of Directors, and staff are committed EVERY SINGLE DAY in addressing the following:

Student Recruitment & Retention: Through the board, there is a committee dedicated in working with the Office of Recruitment to train chapters in learning the skills to effectively recruit students within their own cities. This connection with the Office of Recruitment also allows the association to become ambassadors in supporting all alumni in developing new relationships within their communities to guide students in making UAPB their school of choice.

Alumni Voice: The Alumni Association, Board of Directors, staff, and I and need to hear from you! We want to address your concerns, we are here to answer questions, and we want to put your suggestions in place. Which brings me to my next point: Our Board of Directors and staff are inviting our alumni to partner with us to be SOLUTION BASED in our communication and direction. Continue to reach out to us with questions and/or concerns, but do so with a solution in mind. This is OUR association and it takes ALL of us to find the answers!

National Alumni Center Campaign: Have you heard that

we are STILL dedicated to our biggest project in the history of our formation? YES! We are STILL working extremely hard to raise $2.8 million to construct a masonry and glass l 0,000 square foot state of the art Alumni Center! This facility will include an alumni hall, meeting rooms, a board room and much more. This campaign provides a tremendous opportunity for all alumni to unite to support the building of this new event center that will be a service to students and alumni for years to come. Please contact the Alumni Association Office to find out how YOU can be a part of history. There are giving levels and giving opportunities for every budget level.

Alumni/University Connection:

The Alumni Association continues moving forward in its purpose of fostering an ongoing partnership between the alumni of UAPB and the University itself that ultimately gives our students the support they need to complete their education and then use what they’ve learned to make the world a better place. By doing so, we are also mentoring young alumni in chapter service work in an effort to have them lead chapters in their communities.

Giving: First, I want to invite all our alumni to read our UAPB Alumni Voices ROAR Newsletter, follow us on social media and look out for updates on our website . Collectively, the Board of Directors and local chapters are working to get the word out about events, ways to support, and membership. Secondly, the association supports two staff

that handle the day- to- day operations of running a network. Our association is the liaison to the university’s leadership and alumni. We also directly support students in mentoring, volunteer opportunities, networking and scholarships, including the Dire Needs Scholarship.

Scholarship Challenge: Under the 365 Challenge, we are asking YOU to donate what you can under this theme whether it is $36.50, $365, or $3650. I need you to show up and show out with your desire to pay it forward and help students fulfill that dream of walking across the stage to obtain their degree!

Homecoming/Membership : we are EXCITED about Homecoming as we do Homecoming like no other HBCU! You are invited to the Alumni Awards Luncheon where we will crown the 2023 Alumni Queen, recognize our 2023 Hall of Fame Inductees, and acknowledge AMAZING individuals and chapters While we want you to enjoy seeing old friends, making new connections, and celebrating at all the festivities; we also want you to use this time to SUPPORT the association. You can still join at the base investment of $50 for the 2023 year or increase your membership level (Silver Life, Gold Life, Platinum Life or Diamond Life) and/or pay in advance for the 2024 year.

I am grateful and honored to serve as your president because this university set a beautiful foundation in my life.

Serving with PRIDE,

ALUMNI CENTER Update

DR. LARRY COOPER AND MR. PHILLIP WILLIAM, CO-CHAIRS ALUMNI CENTER BUILDING COMMITTEE

We are striving to raise the $2.8 million for the construction of the UAPB/ AM&N Alumni Center. We need you help!

We will put a focus on three areas of our fundraising efforts for 2023. (1) We will continue to do call-out campaigns. We were very pleased with the results of the call-out campaign this past year. (2) We have a team that is dedicated to strictly reaching out to alumni and friends of The University that have the capacity to make major contributions. There are still $100K, $50K and $35K recognition categories available. (3) The Partner’s Program has potential

of making a significant impact on our fund-raising efforts.

So, for those who have yet to contribute to the center, please consider giving and let’s make The National Alumni Center

VIRTUAL TOUR

uapbalumni.org/ alumni-centervirtual-tour

ALUMNI CENTER Update

EDITORIALThe

Will You Help Defend Our Legacy?

By Dr. Helen Fleming Johnson, Austin Chapter UAPB National Board of Directors - Southwest Region Editor UAPB Alumni Voices Roar Newsletter

Diamond Life Alumni Member

“Dear Mother”, The University of Arkansas at Pine Bluff, Arkansas is OUR legacy. It was authorized in 1873 by the Reconstruction-era legislature as the Branch Normal College and open in 1875. It is the ONLY land grant university/ college in the state of Arkansas. It is one of 107 historically Black Colleges and Universities (HBCUs) under attack and underfunded on State and Federal levels. For example: Per the Associate Press (AP/ KARK) article dated September 2023, The Biden administration stated that historically Black land-grant universities in Arkansas and 15 other states have missed out on $12.6 billion in funding over the last three decades. Secretary of Education Miguel Cardona and Secretary of Agriculture Thomas Vilsack sent letters to the governors of each state asking them to increase funding. Cardona stated, “Unacceptable funding inequities have forced many of our nation’s distinguished historically Black colleges and universities to operate with inadequate resources and delay critical investments in everything from campus infrastructure to research and development to student support services.” Federal law requires states to provide an equitable distribution of state funding for all land-grant universities. The National Center for Education Statistics found the funding disparity in 16 of 18 states that house Black land grants. Only Delaware and Ohio provided equitable funding. Governor Sarah Huckabee Sander’s office responded to the letter citing education support the UAPB. However, the office did not mention how it would correct disparity in funding of UAPB.

UAPB like other HBCUs now find themselves in a continuing controversy

on whether they should exist in a post–Brown v. Board of Education and postObama environment. The relevancy of HBCUs has been the subject of academic inquiry, and many media outlets recently have raised the question of the continued existence of these institutions. Some believe that HBCUs are a remaining vestige of segregation, and many cite the opportunity for African Americans to now attend all institutions of higher education-unlike at the time of the founding of HBCUs. The financial exigency in many states are making leaders take a look at the increasingly scarce funding for higher education, and states are taking a hard look at the future of financing HBCUs. States and the federal government have also placed a renewed focus on accountability, and HBCUs have been criticized for their performance on the metrics used to evaluate all higher education institutions. Simply put, the world of higher education is changing. And funding and existence of HBCUs is under attack!

HBCUs are a part of the diverse set of 4,879 degree-granting two-year and fouryear institutions (1,783 two-year and 3,096 four-year). These institutions have made significant contributions to student access, attainment, research, innovation, and the national economy, all while colleges and universities are being asked to cut costs and land-grant colleges were denied equitable funding. and create efficiencies because of the concern over the rising costs of higher education Branch Normal College, Arkansas Mechanical and Normal College (AM&N) today known as The University of Arkansas at Pine Bluff, Arkansas is a

fully accredited by the higher learning commission. The university offers 31 baccalaureate, 12 master’s, and one PHD across a broad spectrum of subject areas. Graduates from this institution have proven their abilities and excelled in every aspect of American life from Harvard to NASA. Graduates foundational skills and knowledge have stood the test of Fortune 500 companies, institution and other world organizations.

During this historical change in higher education, we must be an active part of history! Please be aware that our university will be measured on 1) graduation rates, 2) retention rate, 3) remediation rate, 4) money management, 5) faculty credentials as well as other forms of accountability. And we must hold the State of Arkansas accountable for land-grants funding and other federal and state resources UAPB is entitled.

It is our duty as alumni to ask the hard questions, help secure equitable distribution of state and federal funds, protect and defend ‘Dear Mother’. Let us use our collective voices and actively lobby State and Federal agencies for funds needed by our university! Are you willing to support her with your time, talent and/ or resources? Will you advocate/lobby for UAPB in your community, Arkansas State Legislature, Governor’s Office and/or Federal Governmental agencies?

Please support The University of Arkansas at Pine Bluff and the UAPB National Alumni Association. If you are not a member of the alumni association please join today. Let us remain united. We are the Mighty Lions! We will and must defend “Dear Mother” and our 150-yearold legacy.

SPORTSSpotlight

2023 Southern Heritage Classic

The successful planning and organization of the classic would not have been possible without the outstanding leadership and organization from the Memphis Alumni Association lead by chapter president Mr. Johnnie Young and Southern Heritage Classic committee chair Mr. Jimmy Foxx (National Alumni Board Member and Memphis Alumni Chapter).

Foxx, gives special recognition and thanks four subcommittees for making this event a success. Mr. Foxx stated that there were four core goals and values that went into their

UAPB MEMPHIS ALUMNI ASSOCIATION CHAPTER PRESENTS

SPORTSSpotlight

Mark Evans II Drafted by the New Orlean Saints

By Phillip Williams,AM&N/UAPB Alumni Board Member

Mark Evan II was drafted by the New Orleans Saints, April 2023. Mark appeared in 45 games with 40 starts, primarily at left tackle (LT), for University of Arkansas at Pine Bluff He started all ten games at LT in 2022, earning first-team All-SWAC for third consecutive season.

Mark started all ten games at LT in 2021, earning first-team All-SWAC for second consecutive season. He started all five games he played in at LT in the spring, 2021 (2020 season postponed due to COVID-19), helping the Golden Lions reach the SWAC championship game, earning his first of three consecutive first-team All-SWAC selections.

Mark started every game at left tackle in 2019, emerging as one of the league’s top linemen. Offensive line allowed secondfewest sacks in SWAC (18). He helped Tayler Porter become only third player in program history with back-to-back 1,000-yard rushing seasons. Offense posted seven games of 30+ points or more, including back-to-back 50+ point games at Alabama A&M, Sept. 7 and vs. Langston, Sept. 14. Offensive unit posted season-best 614 total yards at Alabama A&M, Sept. 7, one of eight 400+ yard total offense games on season. He started four-of-nine games as a freshman in 2018. Offense produced four 500+-yard total offense games, including seasonhigh 579 vs. Morehouse, Sept. 1. Opened holes for Porter’s career-best 38-carry,

226-yard 3-TD game at Grambling, Oct. 27. Mark participated in the 2023 HBCU Legacy Bowl and the event’s combine which took place at the Ochsner Sports Performance Center…Prepped at C.E. King High School in Houston, Texas.

The University of Arkansas at Pine Bluff and the UAPB National Alumni Association salute you for a job well done!

Dr. Helen Johnson

UAPB/AM&N National Board Member, Southwest Region

Editors

Volunteer Opportunities

Our organization involves volunteers so that we can tap into skills, experiences and talents beyond what our excellent professional staff already bring to our organization and its work. If you are interested in volunteering, please contact the Alumni Office at 870.536.2309 or admin@uapbalumni.org

UAPB/AM&N Alumni Center Campaign Partner’s Incentive Program

YOU CAN MAKE A DIFFERENCE

The Partner’s Program is a creative way for alumni to help raise funds for the Alumni Center while creating credits toward their desired donation amount. When you as a Partner solicits a donation from a fellow alumnus or friend of UAPB/AM&N, you will receive ten percent credit of all funds raised. When you as a Partner recruit other Partners, you will receive five percent credit of all the funds raised by your recruited Partners. For more information, email us at: partnersprogram@uapbalumni.org or call the Alumni Office at 870.536.2309. We need and appreciate your participation.

UAPB/AM&N Alumni Association is a 501(C)(3) charitable Organization. Your contribution is tax-deductible in the year made.

See www.uapbalumni.org for details

Membership

As a graduate, you become a part of the alumni association. The alumni association brings former students together to maintain a connection with their university and fellow graduates. Being a part of the association provides you the opportunity to stay engaged and allows you to help new and potential students.

Making sure the alumni office has the email, phone, and ways you prefer to be contacted is the first start. Signing up to receive communications, volunteering, joining the National Alumni Association are just a few ways to stay connected.

An essential part of being an alumnus is finding ways to give back. Many believe it’s giving donations or responding to emails, but much more is behind giving back. Those small acts of showing support for the alumni community you have become a part of can be the beginning of a success story for new students. Visit Memberships - UAPB AM&N National Alumni Association (uapbalumni.org) to join and for more information.