Newsletter
We have just celebrated a wonderful 2024 Commencement, and we are gearing up for summer breaks for our students at the university and for many local alumni chapters. However, the duties do not go on a pause for your National Alumni Association (Board of Directors and staff) as we must continue to bring awareness of our important work, raise funds for scholarship & operations, and prepare for our (first ever) Leadership Development Retreat in August. I repeatedly am
asked “What I can I do to help the association?” I often struggle with my answer because so many of you that are asking, are already doing what needs to be done but I will share it here. I need each alumni to GIVE: GIVE of your time and tithes, GIVE more. The definition of GIVE is a verb meaning to freely transfer the possession of (something) to (someone); hand over to OR cause or allow (someone or something)
CONTINUES ON GREETINGS, PG. 7
Dr. Ruth D. Jones is considered a “hometown celebrity” in her hometown of West Helena, Arkansas since she has been employed with NASA for 29 years. NASA is not a common name in West Helena unless a shuttle launch is televised. West Helena is 65 miles south of Memphis, Tennessee and is known for the King Biscuit Blues Festival. Currently, Dr. Jones is a Deputy Division Chief of Avionics at NASA Marshall Space Flight Center in Huntsville, Alabama, where she manages over 150 employees, execute the goals of and objectives of Avionics as well as
handling issues, budget, schedule, and accomplishments of missions.
Dr. Jones attended the Helena-West Helena school system where she graduated in the top 5% of her high school graduating class. Initially, Dr. Jones had her eyes set to join the Air Force, but she was unable to join due to a medical condition. Therefore, she enrolled at the University of Arkansas at Pine Bluff (UAPB) to get a college education because the opportunities in West
Dr. James E. Moore Jr. is a distinguished dentist, veteran, professional lecturer, author, civil servant, rancher and activist. He rose from a poor African American student from Hampton, Arkansas to one of the more respected African American men in Arkansas. He received an appointment from Former Governor Bill Clinton to the State Board of Review for Arkansas Historic Preservation Service (1987-1990) and became President of the Arkansas Medical, Dental, & Pharmaceutical Association. He was inducted UAPB/ AM&N Hall of Fame in 2015. A park, “Moore Park” in Arkansas City on Kate Adam’s Lake was also named after him for his distinguished service. In addition, the James E. Moore Jr. Firing Range, of Camp Robinson, Mayflower, Arkansas also bears his name.
Dr. Moore is a 1969 graduate of the University of Arkansas at Pine Bluff, with degree in Chemistry. In 1970, he attended Louisianna University and majored in Pharmaceutical Studies. The Doctor of Dental Surgery (D.D.S) was conferred upon Dr. Moore in 1976 by Meharry Medical College, Nashville, TN. He has additional graduate studies at Southern Illinois University, Carbondale, Illinois in Microbiology and graduate studies from American Straight Wire Ortho Association.
Dr. James E. Moore loved his time at UAPB/AM&N. In fact, he stated, “If I
ALUMNIHighlight
James Ernest Moore Jr., D.D.S.
had not attended UAPB I would have never gone to dental school and for sure never have a Brangus cattle ranch. AM&N Alumni inspired me to go to dental school. Dental alumni helped me financially and gave me a place to start practicing upon graduation. Networking with UAPB/AM&N graduates enabled me to build one of the largest practices in central Arkansas”. Currently, Dr. Moore is Dental Director for CABUN Rural Health services. It is a private nonprofit corporation developed to provide affordable care to meet the primary medical and dental care needs of the residents in 8 counties of rural south and southwestern Arkansas, especially in the communities of Hampton, Bearden, Strong, Hope, Amity, El Dorado and Lewisville. CABUN Rural Health Services is a Federally Qualified Health Center that offers care in communities that would have no other source of healthcare
Dr. Moore is a professional lecturer serving Meharry Medical College, Nashville, TN; University of Arkansas at Little Rock and the University of Arkansas at Pine Bluff. He is an author of several publications including, The History of Anesthesiology” Arkansas Dental Journal.
Dr. Moore is a rancher. He grows Brangus breeder cattle. Individual cows may cost as much as $10,000 each. He shares his ranch and expertise with UAPB Agriculture students and staff as they study cattle genetics. He is a member of the National and Arkansas Brangus Breeder Association and the Arkansas Cattle association. In 2009, the Calhoun County
Cattleman Association awarded his ranch their Farm Family of the Year award.
Dr. Moore loves the outdoors and his community. He served on the State Board of Review for Arkansas Historic Preservation from 1987 – 1990. In 1990, Former Governor Bill Clinton appointed Dr. Moore to the Arkansas Game and Wildlife Commission. Dr. Moore served on the commission from 1990-1997. He became the chairmen of the commission in 1996 revitalizing several areas in Arkansas. He selected the firing range on 4000 acres Camp Robinson in Mayflower, Arkansas to restore and provide firearm training for Arkansas hunters. And a result of this successful project the firing range was renamed the Dr. James E. Moore Jr. Firing Range, Mayflower, Arkansas.
Dr. Moore is a man of all seasons. He served as Captain of the Arkansas National Guard Dental Corps (1982). Former member, Urban League of Greater Arkansas Board of Directors, Optimist Club Little Rock, Arkansas, United State Chamber of Commerce, and Boy Scouts of America. At present, he is a member of Kappa Alpha Psi Fraternity, Prince Hall Affiliation, 33rd Degree Mason, Wildlife Federation, Wild Turkey Federation, Ducks Unlimited, Hampton Lions Club. He serves as deacon of the Roanoke Baptist Church, Hot Spring, Arkansas. Dr. Moore lives with his beloved wife Linda and they have four adult children.
Dr. Helen Fleming Johnson Editor, UAPB/AM&N Alumni Voices Newsletter
“I have a Big Heart and Big Spirit! I am energetic and passionate about AKA, UAPB, and community service.”
Patricia Smith Turner is a Pine Bluff native. She grew up in Pine Bluff, Arkansas and is a graduate of Pine Bluff High School. Her mom was an awesome educator for 35 years, which helped mold her into the person she is today (awesome love for children). Her current home is Memphis, Tennessee. She is a 1972 graduate of Pine Bluff High School. She attended her 50th class reunion from high school, in 2022.
She is a 1976 graduate of the University of Arkansas at Pine Bluff. While attending college she was a member of the UAPB Vesper Choir. She was an honor graduate, co-ed, and selected Who’s Who Among Students in American Colleges and Universities. Fall 1973, she became a member of Alpha Kappa Alpha Sorority, Incorporated (Alpha Rho Chapter - UAPB). She received her Master of Education from Trevecca Nazarene College.
After college she worked nine years as a Coordinator for Children with Special Needs at the Pine Bluff Jefferson County Head Start Program. She was an educator in the Crittenden County Area for 35 years, where she won Teacher of The Year Twice.
ALUMNISpotlight
Mrs. Patricia Smith Turner
I have a Big Heart and Big Spirit! I am energetic and passionate about AKA, UAPB, and community service. She attends all chapter activities. She always offers her time, services, and donations to ensure all of our programs are successful.
Patricia actively participates in fundraising activities for UAPB and the community. She is a cheerleader and promoter for UAPB. She is active in the community and with other organizations; Attending City Council Meetings, School Board Meetings, Delta Arts events, Ivy Center for Education activities, Debutante Cotillion, Community Juneteenth Celebration, West Memphis City Clean Up Day, UAPB Alumni meetings, Brown Missionary Baptist Church Education Committee, Holiday Scholarship Gala, UAPB Fundraising Activity, volunteered at Arkansas Department of Health Lehr Arena West Memphis, Arkansas COVID-19 testing site
During Alpha Kappa Alpha Sorority Incorporated’s 91st South Central Regional Conference, Soaring Into The Essence Of Service & Sisterhood, in New Orleans, Louisiana (April 13 -16, 2023), she was crowned as a Golden Soror for being a member of the sorority for 50 years. To top it off, she won 1st Place Soror of the Year for 2023 - Medium Size Chapter - for the South Central Region (AR, LA, NM, & TX). The 90th South Central Regional Conference in Houston, Texas, Reigniting The Flame of Excellence and Sisterhood (March 16-20, 2022), she received a special Soror Spotlight for her outstanding service.
Pat is currently a member of the Pi Chi Omega Chapter of Alpha Kappa Alpha
Sorority, INC. She is actively involved in numerous programs and activities. She has held the following positions: President, Vice-President, Treasurer, Historian, Correspondence Secretary, Door Keeper, and presently Ivy Leaf Reporter. Community committees included MLK Day, Back to School Giveaway, Thanksgiving Project, Back Pack Drive, Senior Citizens Day, Relay for life, HBCU for Life, Breast Cancer Awareness, Voter Registration, Female Entrepreneur Expo, Empower Our Families, Strengthen Our families, Mental Health Awareness, Youth Leadership Institute, Build Our Economic Wealth, Enhance Our Environment, Advocate for Social Justice, Uplift Our Local Community, CHIPP (Child Hunger Initiative Power Pack), Crittenden County Arkansas “EXOffender Day (Record Sealing Clinic).
Her caring spirit goes beyond her sorority affiliation. She participates in many community service activities. She gives up her time to help and support others. She is dedicated to upholding the vision set forth by Alpha Kappa Alpha’s Founders. To cultivate and encourage high scholastic and ethical standards, civic engagement, public service, and to be of “Service to All Mankind”.
Patricia is married to her college sweetheart Patrick Turner. Patrick is also a UAPB graduate and a member of Kappa Alpha Psi Fraternity, Inc.
Ruby Fleming Bridgeforth Co-Editor UAPB/AM&N Alumni Voices Newsletter
JONES
CONTINUED FROM PAGE 1
NATIONAL & INTERNATIONAL News
Helena were very limited. Dr. Jones always had a passion for numbers and solving problems. She took Accounting and Physics her senior year in High School and loved them both. Upon entering UAPB, she majored in accounting where college algebra was the highest level of math that she needed for that curriculum. Dr. Adel Miah, her college algebra professor, saw her passion for solving problems and understanding of math that he persuaded her to change her major to Physics. However, Dr. Miah failed to tell her that there were no Physics majors on campus. Dr. Jones was the first female to receive a Bachelor of Science in Physics from UAPB. After graduating from UAPB, Dr. Jones continued to pursue a Master’s and a PhD in Physics at Alabama Agricultural and Mechanical University (AAMU) where she is lauded as the second African American woman to receive a PhD in Physics in the state of Alabama. Dr. Jones says she owes her success in her career and being in a male dominated field-Physics to Dr. Miah because he observed her mathematical skills, potential and challenged her to excel in Physics. Even though she was the only student in class, Dr. Miah taught class as if he had a room full of students. Dr. Jones stated that UAPB truly lives up to their motto, “Quality education with a personal touch” because she definitely got a quality education with a personal touch with just her and her professor in class.
Dr. Jones also stated that’s the advantage of going to Historically Black Colleges and Universities (HBCU) because you are nurtured, and professors fosters success by making sure you are working at your highest potential. She received all three of her degrees from HBCUs, University of Arkansas at Pine Bluff and Alabama Agricultural and Mechanical University. Dr. Jones contributes her success to the quality education she
received from her two HBCU alma maters. Dr. Jones stated HBCUs means “Helping Blacks Compete Universally” and she has competed universally while working for NASA.
Dr. Jones is very family oriented and stated that her family is her greatest motivation especially her parents, nieces, nephews and cousins. She is motivated by the fact that she’s helped make a difference in the lives of her family. Seeing the smiles on their faces, watching them grow and improve their lives makes her ebullient. She wants her younger generation of family members to know that with a good education, a solid goal and an unfaltering determination the sky is the limit.
Dr. Jones also stated that the gratification of overcoming obstacles is another motivator. She uses obstacles she’s encountered as fuel to launch her into success. The feeling of accomplishment that comes with exceeding challenging goals is what drew her to a STEM career and how she succeeded in a male dominated field.
Giving back to her community is very important to Dr. Jones because she is the woman she is today because of her community and support system. She has been blessed to work at NASA and she wants to continue to inspire the next generation to discover their passion and pursue their dreams despite where they come from, gender, sex and/or race. Coming from a small hometown,
West Helena, where opportunities are limited and knowing a Physicist or a NASA employee was unheard of when she was growing up; therefore, she wants to be that person that students can relate to and see themselves in her; that’s why it’s very important to her to go back to her former schools and do a science day to let the
students know she was once a student at that school and the importance of education and STEM (Science, Technology, Engineering and Math). Dr. Jones stated her success gives the students in her hometown hope, confidence, and determination that they can do anything they put their mind to and work for it.
Dr. Jones also gives two scholarships at her home church, First Baptist Church in West Helena, Arkansas, to students who have excelled academically but more importantly, who are active in the church. While growing up, Dr. Jones was very active in the church from being the Sunday School secretary, director of Jr. Choir, musician on special occasions, and to a participant on various programs, which has contributed to her success.
Since Dr. Jones career has afforded her to be instrumental in so many lives, near and far, leaving a LEGACY is very important to her. To her LEGACY means “Letting Experience Guide and Change YOU” and she wants her experiences to guide and change everyone she meets. That’s why mentoring is so dear to her heart, which is another way she gives back not only to her hometown but to anyone she meets. Her favorite quote on legacy is by Shannon Alder, “Carve your name on hearts, not tombstones. A legacy is etched into the minds of others and the stories they share about you.”
The UAPB/AM&N National Alumni Association salute an outstanding alumni Dr. Ruth D. Jones.
Dr. Helen Fleming Johnson
Editor, UAPB/AM&N Alumni Voices Newsletter
CHAPTER STUDENTNews &
The Fifty Under 50 Outstanding Young Alumni Campaign
The UAPB/AM & N National Alumni Association is pleased to announce the Inaugural Class of FIFTY Under 50 Outstanding Young Alumni Campaign.
This year, the association will recognize 50 Outstanding Young Alumni based on accomplishments in their professional career, work in the community and support of the National Alumni Association. Each honoree must be an active member of the National Alumni Association and age 50 or younger at the time of nomination.
The goal of this initiative is to first spotlight the outstanding work of our young alumni and to raise $50K for the National Alumni Association Dire Need Scholarship Fund and other administrative tasks. The purpose of the Dire Need Scholarship is to support students experiencing a financial hardship that prevents them from paying their tuition balance. To help us reach this goal, each honoree is required to raise a minimum of $1000.
The campaign was officially launched on Thursday, April 25, 2024 to help coumarate our 151st Founder’s Day. We are one week into this campaign and have already raised over $25,000. We are pleased with how these young
alumni have worked to reach their fundraising goals and excited at how well received this campaign has been from the National Alumni Association and our supporters.
If you want to help join in this work, please consider making a tax-deductible donation to support your favorite FIFTY Under 50 Outstanding Young Alumni Honoree. Donations can be made using the link below or by writing a check.
https://fundraise.givesmart.com/vf/UAPBOYA
Please make the check payable to:
UAPB/AM & N National Alumni Association
1200 University Dr. Mail Slot 4813
Pine Bluff, AR 71601
In the memo line, please indicate “FIFTY Under 50/ my name”.
If you would like to make your donation over the phone, please call 870-536-2309.
STUDENTHighlight
Christopher L. Blunt Jr
Classification: Senior
Major: Business Administration (Concentration – Management)
Hometown: Pine Bluff, Arkansas
Organizations: ROTC Cadet
Omega Psi Phi Fraternity Inc. 2023-2024 Mister Senior
Why did you decide to attend this college?
I chose to attend the University of Arkansas, because it was a place that had embedded the deep qualities necessary to strive in these times, into my family members that once attended. I’ve been in Pine Bluff my entire life, attended every homecoming parade, SWAC Championship, parades, probates etc., and I have always wanted to be that student one day walking this campus. Graduating with a degree from this university is more than just a goal, it is a milestone I have always wanted in my life.
What is your favorite thing about this college?
One of my favorite things about UAPB was the relationships built with the professors, and counselors. Being at this university you weren’t just a number, the instructors here actually took the time to be proactive, and made sure I got the assistance I sought as a student. But I most definitely couldn’t forget Pretty Wednesdays. The vibes were definitely there, and you just could come out to embrace that HBCU culture experience in the Lion’s Den with all Greek orgs and student body!
What do you plan on doing after graduation?
Fifty Under 50 Outstanding Young Alumni Committee:
Dr. Ashia Hall Muhammad, Chair Joy Farver Matthew, Co-Chair
Upon graduation I will be a commissioned officer into the Arkansas National Guard. I will also be working at the Jefferson County Sheriff’s Office as a deputy being able to give back and serve my community that has made me who I am today!
GREETINGS
CONTINUED FROM PAGE 1
to have (something, especially something abstract); provide or supply with. GIVE is also a noun meaning the capacity to bend or alter in shape under pressure; elasticity. The concept of giving in the Bible goes beyond merely handing over something to someone else. It represents a profound act of love, sacrifice, and selflessness. The act of giving is a common theme throughout the Bible, with numerous mentions of the importance of generosity and selflessness. In the New Testament alone, the act of giving is mentioned over 100 times. The word “give” appears in various forms about 2,162 times in the King James Version of the Bible. I’ve said all of that to ask you to consider making a commitment to advancing our mission of nurturing the growth and welfare of the University of Arkansas at Pine Bluff by contributing at
a level that is financially comfortable for you keeping in mind that WE CAN ALL DO SOMETHING:
• Contributor’s Club: $25 - $249
• President’s 250 Club: $250$499
• President’s 500 Club: $500$999
• President’s 101 Club: $1,000$1,999
This year, I am introducing an exclusive giving level: The PRIDE representing an esteemed inaugural group of pillars within our community who consistently go above and beyond the call of duty. I am seeking the partnership of 80 individuals who are willing to contribute $2,000 each. All the giving levels will receive recognition at all our events, in all of our publications, and giving level gifts and perks. As we strive to rebuild our organization in
the wake of global challenges, including the recent pandemic and economic shifts, I recognize the importance of collective support and am open to speak with any alumni that needs more information about our organization and my vision/goal of operating in EXCELLENCE.
I have shared with my team that EXCELLENCE cost and we cannot do it on well wishes and love alone.
Your donation, regardless of the amount, would be immensely appreciated. Your generosity will play a pivotal role in expanding our outreach efforts to benefit our alumni, UAPB students, faculty and staff. Thank you in advance for considering GIVING. Together, we can make a lasting impact on the future of our beloved institution.
Yours in Golden PRIDE,
President and Chairman of the Board
DID YOU KNOW?
2024 UAPB/AM&N NATIONAL ALUMNI ASSOCIATION, INC
2024 BOARD OF DIRECTORS
OFFICERS
Tanesha Thompson President
Janice L. Roberts 1st Vice President
Dr. Ruth Jones 2nd Vice President
LaDonna Hendrix Recording Secretary
Otis Jones* Treasurer
Dr. Raynando L. Banks
Larry Braggs
Tahirah Buford
Carmita Collins
Patrick Faulkner
MEMBERS
Kameshia Freeman
Jimmy Fox, III
Kameshia Freeman
Thomas Jackson, II
John Kuykendall* Director of Alumni Affairs
Joy Matthews
Dr. Ashia Muhammad
Jennifer Trice
Tyree “Ty” Webster, II
Phillip Williams
UPCOMING Events
Virtual Summer Leadership Retreat | August 3, 2024
The Leadership Development Committee is excited to host the 2024 Summer Leadership Retreat (Virtual). This retreat promises to be an inspiring and transformative experience, offering a unique opportunity for personal and professional growth. As a valued member of the association your presence and contribution are integral to the success of this event.
Throughout the retreat, we will engage in a variety of activities designed to enhance leadership skills, foster creativity, build relationships and strengthen connections within the association and the University.
Our speakers and facilitators will share their expertise, insights, and experiences providing valuable perspectives to help you lead and grow. The retreat will offer opportunities for networking and building meaningful relationships with fellow alumni.
Additional details regarding registration, speakers, workshops and sponsorship opportunities will be provided in the coming weeks. If you are interested in serving on the Leadership Development Committee please reach out to Tahirah R. Buford by email at tahirah. roschelle@gmail.com.
Cost: $100 per chapter (This will cover the cost for all chapter members that attend).
$20 per individual (Alumni Members who are not a part of a chapter)
University Students: Free
Tahirah R. Buford UAPB/AM&N National Alumni Leadership Development Chair
EDITORIALThe
Why Should We Vote in the 2024?
By Dr. Helen Fleming Johnson, Austin Chapter
UAPB National Board of Directors - Southwest Region
Editor UAPB Alumni Voices Roar Newsletter
Diamond Life Alumni Member
In our current political landscape, we are witnessing a pivotal moment in history where the power wielded by Black and/ or minority voters is being increasingly recognized and acknowledged- although not always with positive intentions or to positive end. It is critical that we examine this moment in history and look ahead to the 2024 election and recognize this crossroad in American History, its implications for democracy and black and/or minority social life.
A key feature of this moment is that Black representation among elected officials is at its highest level since reconstruction. Currently, we have 60 Black Members of congress. At the height of the Reconstruction Era, during which Black people took advantage of the passing of laws like the Civil Rights act of 1875 and the 14th Amendment, approximate 2,000 black men served in elected positions in America including 16 members of congress and over 600 in state legislatures.
The Equal Justice Initiative reports that during the period of Reconstruction, at least 2,000 Black Americans were victims of lynchings and other racial terror attacks committed in response to Black Americans attempting to take advantage of new freedoms, like civic engagement. Systemically, states enacted policies and laws to disenfranchise Black people; such as literacy tests, poll taxes, grandfather clauses, and other features of Jim Crow—in conjunction with ongoing and widespread racial violence, quickly reversed the trends of Reconstruction, drastically reducing the number of registered Black voters and
Black elected officials. And it was not until almost 100 years later that the passing of the Voting Rights Act of 1965 that most of the discriminatory laws and practices put in place to limit Black civic engagement were outlawed. Despite these obstacles, Black Americans have continuously fought for their right to vote and participate in the democratic process. From the civil rights movement of the 1960s to grassroots organizing efforts in the present day, Black communities have been at the forefront of the struggle for political empowerment. This resilience and steadfast determination in the face of adversity speak to the enduring importance of the Black vote in shaping the course of American democracy. While we are often told that Black people do not vote, this is a stereotype based in misinformation and a lack of historical context. Black people, in fact, are one of the most stable voting blocs in in the U.S.— despite ongoing efforts of disenfranchisement. Moreover, the Black vote has proven to be decisive in key electoral contests, tipping the balance in favor of candidates who prioritize the concerns of Black voters: Black voters, particularly Black women, were critical to President Biden’s 2020 win, and Black voters have demonstrated a crucial role in Democratic coalition, helping to drive progressive issues such as social justice. As we approach the 2024 election, it is more important than ever that Black Americans remain vigilant and informed about those who ask for their votes. We must use the power of the vote to effect meaningful change and advance a more just and equitable society for future generations. Do not let pass, present nor future generation down use your power and vote!
SPORTSSpotlight
Harold Blevins
Harold Blevins – (born October 19, 1943 – Tuscaloosa, Alabama) is an American former professional basket player and coach. He was a four-year starter for the Arkansas AM&N Golden Lions (1961 – 1965), where he is considered one of the program’s greatest scorers. Blevins was a threetime National Association of Intercollegiate Athletics (NAIA) All -American and four-time All Southwestern Athletic Conference (SWAC) selection. Listed height 6 FT 1in, Listed Weight 188 lb.
Blevins was selected by the New York Knicks in 1965 NBA draft as the 14th overall pick in the second round. He became the first Golden Lions player to be selected in a National Basketball Association (NBA) draft. Despite not playing football in college, he signed as a free agent with Dallas Cowboys of the National Football League (NFL) that same year. Blevins ultimately played in neither the NBA nor the NFL but played for the Trenton Colonials of the Eastern Professional Basketball League (EPBL) during 1965 -66 seasons. He was drafted into the United States Army in 1966 and served a two-year stint in Vietnam.
Upon returning from Vietnam, Blevins became the head basketball coach for two junior colleges, including the men’s and women’s teams at Hartford Community College. In 1995, he became the head coach of the Golden Lions men’s basketball team. Blevins had a 36 – 147 record over seven seasons.
Blevins was inducted into the Arkansas – Pine Bluff Golden Lions Hall of Fame in 2004 and the SWAC Hall of Fame in 2005. His No. 50 jersey was retired by the Golden Lions in 2016.
The University of Arkansas at Pine Bluff and the UAPB National Alumni Association salute you for a job well done!
Phillip Williams
UAPB/AM&N National Alumni Board Member
UAPB Metro Atlanta Alumni Chapter
SPORTSSpotlight
UAPB MEMPHIS ALUMNI ASSOCIATION CHAPTER PRESIDENT
MR. JOHNNIE YOUNG PRESENTS
2024 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 sub-committees for making the 2023 event a success. Mr. Foxx stated that there were four core goals and values that went into their mission for this year’s classic: 1) Giving back and serving “Dear Mother” 2) Furthering the brand of UAPB 3) Making sure the athletic department remains financially solvent 4)And certainly not least – Recruitment!
Mark your calendars for the Southern Heritage Classic – September 14, 2024 (make it a 3-day event September 12-14). The host hotel will remain the same –The Sheraton Downtown Memphis.
The 2023 attendance was 32,000. Our goal is to increase attendance by 10,000 or more. The national eye is on us, Lion Nation. We need your support again next year to root our GOLDEN LOINS to victory!
Thank you, Lion Nation. “WHO YOU RUTTIN FOR”!
Phillip Williams
UAPB/AM&N
National Alumni Board Member
UAPB Metro Atlanta Alumni Chapter
Southern Heritage Classic Committee Chair Mr. Jimmy Foxx
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
UAPB has graduated over 30,000 graduates, but UAPB/AM&N National Alumni Association has under 2000 members. Membership is very important in every organization and it is not different with the National Alumni Association. Being a member of the National Alumni Association benefits not only you but the university and future students. Some of the benefits of being a member are you are an advocate for the university, you have a voice and involvement in university’s decisions, incredible networking opportunities, opportunity to give back to the university, keeps you informed and connected to the university, help future students and it is a great way to show your PRIDE! I know you are asking yourself, what’s in it for ME? The membership committee has worked hard to provide incentives for members and they include discount at local businesses (Pine Bluff), discount at alumni businesses and services, discount on UAPB’s season tickets (football and basketball) and discount at UAPB’s bookstore.
There are several levels to membership with the National Alumni Association:
• Regular Membership: Annual Dues $50
• Silver Life Membership: $300
• Gold Life Membership: $500
• Platinum Life Membership: $750
• Diamond Life Membership: $1000
Note: All Life Memberships are a one-time payment and will receive a lapel pin with your membership level. If you upgrade to a different level, then you pay the difference between the two (ex. Moving from silver to gold, you would pay $200 to upgrade to the gold status).
Let your voice be heard and show your PRIDE by joining the National Alumni Association today! You may join the following ways: uapbalumni.org/membership or mail in your check, cashier’s check or money order to 1200 N. University Drive, Mail Slot 4813, Pine Bluff, AR 7160
2nd Vice President/Membership Chair, ~Dr. Ruth Jones
SOCIALLY Connected
