This June, Gillenwater was one of just seven interns selected for Colliers’ month-long summer internship program in 糖心视频logo. Earning a spot in the program was a turning point in his academic and professional journey. He hadn鈥檛 imagined this path when he first arrived on campus as a business management major, but a presentation by real estate instructor Elizabeth Small introduced him to a career he hadn鈥檛 previously considered.

“Ryan’s enthusiasm for the commercial real estate profession is very exciting,鈥� Small said. 鈥淐onversing with him about his Colliers experience leaves me with no doubt of his future success in the industry. Ryan is a great student and has a natural quest for learning. The Finance Real Estate program in the School of Business is lucky to have him as an enthusiastic and excellent student.”

A rising junior majoring in finance with a concentration in real estate, Gillenwater鈥檚 internship with Colliers revealed just how many directions the field can take. He spent time with teams in brokerage, property management, and development, gaining a close-up look at everything from property inspections to the complexities of commercial transactions. Each day provided a new perspective, and seeing how different roles work together in the industry deepened his appreciation for the field.

鈥淪ite selection was definitely my favorite. We鈥檇 work on picking the best spots for companies looking to develop, whether it was land, an old building, or a new location,鈥� he said. 鈥淭hat internship definitely assured me that I was doing the right thing.鈥�

Beyond introducing him to different aspects of the industry, the internship reinforced concepts 鈥� from real estate to finance 鈥� he had been covering in his classes, which became practical tools he relied on throughout his experience. For example, having recently completed a real estate law course, he already understood much of the language and legal concepts he encountered reviewing commercial lease agreements, giving him confidence to contribute to professional conversations. As the internship progressed, those classroom lessons continued to develop into real-world experiences.聽

The internship didn鈥檛 just expand Gillenwater鈥檚 knowledge of commercial real estate鈥攈e was able to zero in on where he thrives, discovering that brokerage offered just the right mix of a field where he could put his analytical mind to work while building relationships and closing deals.

“The internship definitely assured me that I was pursuing the right thing,” Gillenwater said. “It’s made me want to keep expanding my network, and it’s definitely made me want to focus on commercial real estate as my career.”

As he reflects on his journey, Gillenwater credits changing majors and embracing new opportunities with helping him discover his career path. He emphasizes that some of the most valuable lessons in college happen outside the classroom 鈥� through internships, networking, and saying yes to new experiences. For students considering their own next steps, he encourages them to take chances on opportunities that spark their interest, since those moments often open unexpected doors and lead to the connections and clarity that shape a future.

“One thing I always like to say is, what you put into it is what you get out of it,” Gillenwater said. “It’s all about having that interest in wanting to do the things you’re required to do in college. The more you do that, the more you’ll reap the benefits.鈥�

Looking ahead to his junior year, Gillenwater feels more motivated than ever. The knowledge and experience he gained during his internship provided added confidence as he begins his upper-level real estate courses. He hopes to return to Colliers as a second-year intern next summer, building on the foundation he established this summer.

The post Colliers Internship Jumpstarts UA 糖心视频logo Student’s Future appeared first on News.

Inspired by her mother’s illness, Robinson has spent the last 26 years helping individuals navigate trauma, anxiety, depression, and other mental health challenges as a licensed certified social worker.

A 糖心视频logo native, Robinson earned a Bachelor of Arts in sociology with a minor in psychology and a Master of Social Work from UA 糖心视频logo. When her mother became ill, Robinson wanted to connect her with the resources she needed to get well. Although her mother passed away before Robinson received her acceptance to graduate school, that experience shaped a career dedicated to helping others through life’s most difficult moments.

“I will say it once, and I will say it again. There is no shame in seeking support,” Robinson said. “We seek support for physical health, but somehow think mental health can be treated by being positive and keeping it to ourselves.”

Robinson credits UA 糖心视频logo with preparing her to serve her community by connecting her with organizations and mentors who shared her passion for advocacy.

Her journey to graduate school, however, wasn’t easy. After not being accepted the first time she applied, Robinson enrolled in a post-baccalaureate social work course before applying again.

“I did not get accepted the first time, but I was determined to get into the program,” Robinson said. “I applied the second time and got in. My life was never the same.”

Throughout her time at UA 糖心视频logo, faculty members also helped shape Robinson both professionally and personally. As an undergraduate, the late Dr. Doug Buffalo encouraged her to become a teacher’s assistant after recognizing her talent in social statistics. During graduate school, the late Judith Faust left a lasting impression by emphasizing the importance of communication, writing, and advocacy.

“She believed that social policy can change the world, and I agreed with her,” Robinson said.

Although Robinson once dreamed of becoming a singer or dancer, encouragement from her father ultimately led her to social work.

“My father, Ocie Robinson, told me I should be a social worker when I was a kid because I always listened to my friends and offered advice,” Robinson said. “I did not want to do that and wanted to be a singer or dancer. However, I began to think about how I enjoyed helping others and seeing the lightbulb go off when they made decisions that were healthy for them.”

Twenty-six years later, Robinson remains passionate about social work because of its flexibility and the opportunity to make a lasting impact. Throughout her career, she has embraced new opportunities whenever she felt ready for a change, allowing her to continue serving others while avoiding burnout.

“I am proud of the longevity of my career,” Robinson said. “There is nothing wrong with pivoting if it keeps you vibrant and continuing to work in your field.”

Over the course of her career, Robinson has also witnessed a significant shift in conversations surrounding mental health, particularly in communities of color. While stigma still exists, she said more people are willing to seek help than when she first entered the profession, a change she believes accelerated during the COVID-19 pandemic.

“Mental health was considered taboo when I graduated from the MSW program, especially with African Americans and other minorities,” Robinson said.

For those considering therapy, Robinson encourages people to keep searching until they find someone who feels like the right fit.

“If you do not feel comfortable with the person you picked, try again,” Robinson said. “We try on clothes until we find the right fit, right? The same goes for therapy.”

The greatest reward, Robinson said, has been watching people transform their lives and gain the confidence to navigate difficult seasons on their own.

“I get satisfaction knowing that the people I work with are improving their lives and that they know how to handle the bad days based on the tools we have worked on in treatment,” Robinson said.

As she reflects on the journey that began at UA 糖心视频logo, Robinson hopes current students remember to use the resources available to them, including the university’s counseling services, and never let setbacks define their future.

“Stay encouraged. Be of good cheer. This journey will lead to many other roads. Please do not give up on your dreams,” Robinson said. “I was not accepted the first time I applied to the graduate program. But I knew that I wanted to help others and applied again. If you get a no, that is fine. If you believe you are chosen for something, you keep going.”

The post From Personal Loss to Purposeful Healing: UA 糖心视频logo Alumna Advocates for Mental Health appeared first on News.

As a respiratory therapist and later a pulmonary disease navigator, she encouraged others to continue their education and pursue new opportunities. When she decided to pursue a bachelor鈥檚 degree herself, it was her son, Jeffrey Andrews, who helped show her the way.

This spring, the pair celebrated a milestone together, as graduates of the University of Arkansas at 糖心视频logo.

For Andrews, a first-generation college student, sharing the experience with his mother made the moment even more meaningful.

鈥淚t means a lot to me to graduate with my mother,鈥� Andrews said. 鈥淚 admire her strength and commitment to self-improvement. She has instilled in me a passion to achieve big dreams without limitations. Graduating together encompasses the hard work we surpassed to achieve those dreams.鈥�

Andrews graduated with a Master of Public Administration, a Graduate Certificate in Nonprofit Management, and a Graduate Certificate in Conflict Management. Johnson completed her Bachelor of Arts in interdisciplinary studies after decades working in healthcare.

Their paths to graduation were different, but both were shaped by determination, a commitment to education, and personal growth.

Andrews arrived at UA 糖心视频logo in 2017 unsure what to expect about college life and a populated, busy campus after he graduated from Maumelle Charter High School. 

鈥淢y graduating class had 25 students,鈥� he said. 鈥淚t was daunting to go to such a large institution in my eyes at the time.鈥�

A and New Student Orientation helped ease the transition, but he said the biggest surprise came when classes began.

鈥淭he small classroom sizes made the university feel like a second home,鈥� Andrews said. 鈥淚 built connections with my professors and found new friends quicker than I would have at a larger university.鈥�

He credits supportive faculty, the Ottenheimer Library, Counseling Services, and friendships formed through campus involvement, including Kappa Sigma fraternity, with helping him succeed while working full time.

Those experiences eventually led him to join the Undergraduate Admissions team as a recruiter, where he began helping prospective students navigate the college process.

That knowledge became especially valuable when Johnson called him with an idea.

鈥淪he said, 鈥�I am thinking about going back to school,鈥欌�� Andrews recalled.

Johnson planned to pay out-of-pocket for tuition. Instead, Andrews helped her navigate scholarships and financial aid opportunities available through UA 糖心视频logo.

Their first success came when she received the Trojan Transfer Scholarship. Later, she also benefited from the Corporate Partnership Program between Baptist Health and UA 糖心视频logo, helping make it possible to complete her degree with little financial burden.

鈥淎s a first-generation student, I did not understand what the FAFSA was or where to find scholarships,鈥� Andrews said. 鈥淲hen I began working for the university as a recruiter, that knowledge came with the job.鈥�

For his mother, returning to school was both a professional and personal decision.

鈥淧rofessionally, I felt it was important to enhance and modernize my skills in technology and leadership,鈥� she said. 鈥淧ersonally, I always encourage new therapists to continue their education, so I have to practice what I preach.鈥�

She said UA 糖心视频logo’s flexible online courses allowed her to balance work and family responsibilities while pursuing her degree. Faculty support also helped ease concerns about returning to the classroom after many years away.

鈥淭heir critiques, reviews, and responses encouraged, validated, and inspired me to continue,鈥� she said.

She graduated with a 4.0 GPA and has already begun work in the university’s early-entry Master of Arts in Applied Communication program.

Watching his mother embrace higher education has been one of the most rewarding parts of Andrews’ own academic journey.

鈥淪he went from being timid about returning to school to being excited about contributing to academia,鈥� he said. 鈥淣ow we have long discussions about AI in the classroom and communication in healthcare.鈥�

But their shared graduation day almost did not happen. Undergraduate and graduate ceremonies were originally scheduled separately before a late adjustment placed them in the same commencement ceremony.

鈥淚 could see my mom three rows ahead of me,鈥� Andrews said. 鈥淚t was a great experience to not only graduate but walk across the same stage together. I could not have asked for a better coincidence.鈥�

For Johnson, the moment carried just as much meaning.

鈥淕raduating with my son meant the world to me,鈥� she said. 鈥淥ur journey was not easy, but it was worth the experience of completing such a big chapter in our lives.鈥�

Together, they hope their story encourages others to pursue educational goals, regardless of age or circumstance.

鈥淚 hope our experience and our story inspire others to start their own exciting journey,鈥� she said.

As Andrews looks toward a future that may include law school, he continues to carry a lesson that has guided both his and his mother’s path.

鈥淗ow big would you dream if you knew you could never fail?鈥� he asked.

The post A Family Milestone: Mother and Son Graduate Together from UA 糖心视频logo appeared first on News.

The double shotgun scramble featured 39 teams and brought together business leaders, alumni, faculty, students, and community supporters from across Central Arkansas for a day focused on investing in the next generation of business professionals.

During the morning wave, the First Flight championship team included Hayden Lassiter, Adam Burton, Tristan Talbert, and Woody Harrelson with a score of 55. William Pollock, Richard Blank, John Murphy, and Shea McCarty finished second in the First Flight with a score of 57.

In the morning wave鈥檚 Second Flight, Aaron Huntley, Cody Waits, Zach Brown, and Jeff Whitener earned first place with a score of 64, while Ken Estes, Bill Birch, Steve Hillis, and Richard Rogers placed second with a score of 65.

Special contest winners during the morning wave included John Moran for Closest to the Pin on Hole No. 2, Zach Brown for Closest to the Pin on Hole No. 13, and Toppie Hogan for Longest Drive on Hole No. 18.

During the afternoon wave, Ben Bailey, Beau Glover, Ben Cox, and Zack Sokora captured first place in the First Flight with a score of 54. Trey Schaap, Jamie Cobb, Joe Kleine, and Carson Roberts followed closely in second place with a score of 55.

In the afternoon wave鈥檚 Second Flight, Blake Edwards, Adam Hope, John Edwards, and Chance Tharp claimed first place with a score of 63. Rodney Peel, Randy Southerland, Joe Buffington, and Courtney Little finished second with a score of 65.

Afternoon special contest winners included Trey Schaap for Closest to the Pin on Hole No. 2, Ryan Crews for Closest to the Pin on Hole No. 13, and Austin Harmon for Longest Drive on Hole No. 18.

Proceeds from the tournament support a variety of student-centered initiatives within the School of Business, including emergency scholarships, participation in regional and national competitions, and the School鈥檚 Ambassador Program.

鈥淲e are grateful for the individuals and companies who sponsored the tournament or a team in support of our students in the School of Business,鈥� said Dr. Mark Funk, director of the School of Business at UA 糖心视频logo. 鈥淲e鈥檙e proud that the business community realizes and appreciates the importance of the work that takes place in our classrooms. Our students are their future employees and leaders, so we are thankful for this collaboration.鈥�

The event provided valuable networking opportunities for students involved in the School of Business Ambassador Program. Throughout the tournament, students connected with business leaders from across the region, building relationships that can lead to internships, mentorships, and future career opportunities.

Saracen served as the presenting sponsor for the event.

Additional sponsors included:

• Golf Ball Sponsor: Pettus Interiors
• Golf Cart Sponsors: Priority1 and Good Day Farm
• Contest Sponsors: Legacy Termite & Pest Control; Paul Rainwater/Rye 51; Ted Bailey, III Family; Quattlebaum, Grooms & Tull Law Firm
• Practice Area Sponsors: Arvest; Ifrah Financial; TMB Capital Partners
• Bar Sponsor: Tito鈥檚
• Hole and Team Sponsors: Segra, AEDI, MK Distributors, DDK Forestry, USAble Life
• Beverage Cart Sponsors: Delta Solar, Apartment Hunters, First Horizon, Haybar Real Estate, Hosto Cardis Law

Additional support was provided through gifts in kind, including breakfast from Chick-fil-A on Markham and University; lunch from Taziki鈥檚/ JTJ Restaurants; and product donations from Pepsi, MK Distributors and Golden Eagle of Arkansas.

鈥淭his tournament is a wonderful example of our community investing directly in our students 鈥� not just through scholarships and program support, but through the relationships that lead to internships and careers,鈥� Dean Ginger Gummelt said. 鈥淲e are grateful to every sponsor who makes this possible.鈥�

The UA 糖心视频logo School of Business hosts the annual tournament as part of its ongoing commitment to creating opportunities that prepare students for success in the workforce while strengthening connections with the business community.

Learn more about the UA 糖心视频logo School of Business.

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Smith, a management major from 糖心视频logo, will graduate this month magna cum laude with a GPA above 3.8 while continuing her volleyball career in the university鈥檚 MBA program.

A setter for the team, Smith said she chose UA 糖心视频logo because it felt like the right fit academically and athletically.

鈥淔rom the beginning, I could see that the program would challenge me in the classroom while also giving me the opportunity to compete at a high level in volleyball,鈥� Smith said. 鈥淚 really valued the supportive environment from the coaches, professors, and teammates. It felt like a place where I could grow and be pushed to reach my full potential.鈥�

鈥淚 also liked that I could build strong relationships and not feel like just a number,鈥� she said.

Smith did not originally plan to graduate early, but continued taking courses to challenge herself.

鈥淥ver time, that added up and put me in a position to finish ahead of schedule,鈥� she said. 鈥淚t still took a lot of discipline, time management, and sacrifice, especially balancing academics with being a student-athlete.鈥�

Smith said earning magna cum laude honors and maintaining a GPA above 3.8 made the hard work worthwhile.

鈥淚t鈥檚 something I鈥檓 really proud of, not just because of the recognition, but because of the consistency and effort it took over time,鈥� she said. 鈥淢ore than anything, it gives me confidence going into the next chapter, knowing I was able to push myself and succeed at a high level both in the classroom and on the court.鈥�

This year, Smith was inducted into UA 糖心视频logo鈥檚 Phi Kappa Phi chapter, the nation鈥檚 oldest collegiate honor society. She was also nominated for Female Scholar of the Year at this year鈥檚 Trojan Top Awards.

鈥淚t represents all the hard work I鈥檝e put in both academically and athletically, and it means a lot to be recognized for balancing both at a high level,鈥� Smith said. 鈥淎s a student-athlete, you鈥檙e constantly working to meet expectations in the classroom and on the court, so this nomination feels like a reflection of that commitment and consistency.鈥�

She added that the recognition helps challenge stereotypes about student-athletes.

鈥溙切氖悠祃ogo have always been a priority for me as well,鈥� she said.

Outside the classroom and volleyball court, Smith serves on the executive board for UA 糖心视频logo鈥檚 Management and HR Society and the Student-Athlete Advisory Committee. She was also elected SAAC president for the upcoming school year.

Smith said her favorite memory as a student-athlete was 糖心视频logo鈥檚 five-set victory over Southeast Missouri State University (SEMO) in its first home conference match last season at the Jack Stephens Center.

鈥淭he energy in the gym was unreal,鈥� she said. 鈥淭he stands were packed, and the intensity was high from the very first point.鈥�

Smith said the match remained close throughout, and the team stayed united through every set.

鈥淕etting that win to start conference play at home, in that kind of environment, is something I鈥檒l always remember because of the atmosphere, the competitiveness, and the way our team stayed together,鈥� she said.

Smith credits professor Phil Harris and athletic trainer Jess Kiser for making a lasting impact on her journey at UA 糖心视频logo.

鈥淚 learned so much in his management classes, but what stood out even more was the mentorship he provided outside of the classroom through the Management and HR Society,鈥� Smith said of Harris. 鈥淗e genuinely cared about helping students grow, not just academically but professionally as well.鈥�

She said Kiser consistently supported student-athletes through injuries and challenges.

鈥淪he was incredibly passionate about her job and truly cared about each of us as athletes and people,鈥� Smith said. 鈥淪he was always there whenever we were dealing with injuries, making sure we were taken care of and supported every step of the way.鈥�

After graduation, Smith plans to use her remaining year of volleyball eligibility to continue playing for the Trojans while pursuing her MBA.

鈥淭his next chapter is a chance for me to keep growing both academically and athletically,鈥� she said. 鈥淐ompeting at a high level while taking on a graduate program will continue to push my discipline, time management, and leadership skills.鈥�

Smith said her biggest advice for future student-athletes is not to underestimate themselves.

鈥淚t鈥檚 easy to underestimate what you鈥檙e capable of when you鈥檙e balancing a full academic and athletic schedule,鈥� she said. 鈥淏ut you鈥檙e capable of more than you think if you stay disciplined and committed.鈥�

She also emphasized the importance of resilience and focusing on what can be controlled.

鈥淵ou can鈥檛 control every outcome, but you can control your effort, attitude, preparation, and how you show up every day,鈥� Smith said. 鈥淚f you focus on those things, everything else tends to fall into place over time.鈥�

The post Trojan Setter Kaylee Smith Graduates Early with Honors appeared first on News.

Grace Shelton, a biology major with pre-med dreams, Faith Shelton, determined to make her mark in civil engineering, and their mother Aaronda Williams, building her future in construction management, all share the same graduation date. 

Across the three women, there are 16 organizational involvements, 13 scholarships, three majors, and one shared journey.

鈥淚t鈥檚 crazy to think about,鈥� Grace says, reflecting on the idea of all graduating together. 鈥淚 don鈥檛 think we ever would have thought it would happen, but here we are.鈥�

It wasn鈥檛 exactly planned, but maybe it was always meant to be. Aaronda remembers conversations from when her daughters were young, when she would ask them about their dreams and talk through the steps they鈥檇 need to take. 

鈥淭hey would ask me, 鈥楳om, what do you want to be?鈥� And I鈥檇 tell them. They鈥檇 say, 鈥榊ou can still do that!鈥� I always said, 鈥楳aybe when y鈥檃ll go back, I鈥檒l go back too,鈥� Aaronda recalls.

Aaronda was always grateful for the small moments.

鈥淚t鈥檚 so amazing having them on campus. We have lunch together, go to events, and cheer each other on. It means the world,鈥� Aaronda says.

But it鈥檚 not always easy. Burnout, doubt, and exhaustion are familiar hurdles. 

鈥淪ometimes it鈥檚 hard to keep going,鈥� Grace admits. 鈥淏ut we always remind each other of our goals. When I felt unsure if I belonged, I could come home, talk it out, and get my motivation back.鈥�

For Aaronda, her daughters are more than just support 鈥� they鈥檙e inspiration.聽

鈥淭hey鈥檙e working, going to school, having a social life, and still showing up for me. I can鈥檛 complain about working and going to school when I see them doing it all.鈥�

That mutual inspiration is rooted in the example Aaronda set. 

鈥淪eeing our mom balance everything, that鈥檚 what shaped our mindset,鈥� Grace reflects. 鈥淗er strength influenced us a lot.鈥�

Still, the women have built their own campus families, branching out into leadership programs, sororities, and student organizations. 

鈥淲e鈥檝e found mentors and friends at UA 糖心视频logo,鈥� says Faith, 鈥渂ut our family bond is always there, too.鈥�

Each woman can pinpoint moments that will stick with her forever. For Aaronda, it鈥檚 lunch together at The WOW Cafe with all her daughters. For Faith, it鈥檚 the quiet joy of everyone gathered in her dorm, just talking, just being together. For Grace it is the memory of all of them realizing they would be graduating together after all. 

As graduation nears, emotions run high. 

鈥淚鈥檒l be grateful and at peace,鈥� Aaronda says. 鈥淚 can finally breathe.鈥� 

Grace knows she鈥檒l be emotional, thinking of how much she鈥檚 grown since her shy, uncertain middle school days. Faith, too, feels the weight of her family鈥檚 achievement, coming from a background without many degrees, and now adding three new ones at once.

Looking to the future, they look to the legacy they hope to leave. 

For Grace, representation in medicine is key. 

鈥淭here aren鈥檛 enough Black women physicians. I want to open a practice for underserved communities and be someone people can see themselves in,鈥� Grace says.

Aaronda dreams of creating a nonprofit to help women enter construction, opening doors that have too often been closed. 

鈥淲e need more women in construction, and I want to show them the way鈥攇ive them a clear pathway to a career,鈥� Aaronda says.

Faith is focused on civil engineering and preparing for a career in roadway and infrastructure design.

鈥淚 want to create infrastructure that strengthens and connects communities,鈥� Faith says.

What鈥檚 next? More giving back, more mentorship, more dreams. Maybe even graduate school, Aaronda jokes 鈥� though with two more daughters still in high school, she might have company again.

For now, the focus is on celebrating, on capturing a family photo in cap and gown, on reflecting on just how far they鈥檝e come 鈥� together.

The post A Family Affair: Mother and Daughters Graduate Together appeared first on News.

Two ceremonies will take place throughout the day.

Undergraduates from the Donaghey College of Science, Technology, Engineering, and Mathematics (DCSTEM) and the College of Business, Health, and Human Services (CBHHS) will participate in the 9:30 a.m. ceremony. Doors for guests will open at 8 a.m.

Special guests for the morning ceremony will include Ms. Danyelle Walker, distinguished alumna, member of the UA 糖心视频logo Board of Visitors, and the first African American president of the Arkansas Bar Foundation. A graduate of the UA 糖心视频logo William H. Bowen School of Law, Walker is a nationally recognized consumer bankruptcy attorney with 30 years of experience advocating for debtor rights and expanding access to justice in Arkansas.

Dr. Dean Kumpuris, chair of the UA 糖心视频logo Board of Visitors, will also participate in the ceremony. A respected cardiologist and civic leader, Kumpuris has long championed educational opportunity, healthcare access, and community engagement in Arkansas. Through his leadership, he has supported initiatives that strengthen student success and advance higher education across the state.

Student Nistha Neupane, recipient of the 2026 Edward Lynn Whitbeck Memorial Award, will be recognized during the morning ceremony. The Whitbeck Award is the university鈥檚 highest honor presented to a graduating senior. Neupane, a biology and chemistry student, has earned recognition for her cancer research, leadership, and advocacy work focused on improving access and representation in medicine.

Undergraduates from the College of Humanities, Arts, Social Sciences, and Education (CHASSE), along with all graduate students from the Graduate School, will participate in the 2 p.m. ceremony. Doors for guests will open at 12:30 p.m.

In addition to Walker and Kumpuris, special guests for the afternoon ceremony will include Col. Nathaniel Todd of the University of Arkansas Board of Trustees. Todd is a retired military officer and longtime public servant who has supported education, leadership development, and community engagement efforts across Arkansas through his professional and civic service.

Family members and guests are encouraged to review commencement policies and ceremony details before arriving on campus. A clear bag policy will be in effect at the Jack Stephens Center for all commencement ceremonies.

Live streaming information, parking details, guest information, and additional commencement resources are available at UA 糖心视频logo Commencement Information.

For more information about UA 糖心视频logo commencement, contact the Office of Records and Registration at (501) 916-3110 or visit UA 糖心视频logo Commencement.

The post Commencement Ceremonies Set for May 16聽 appeared first on News.

The 糖心视频logo native will graduate in May with a double major in general biology and law enforcement 鈥� bringing together her interests in health care and public service.

Ward has long been passionate about helping others, developing an early interest in the medical field, especially working with children. She describes herself as compassionate and nurturing, with a strong desire to help heal others. Her interest in law enforcement emerged later, during her sophomore year of college.

鈥淢y parents worked in law enforcement for more than 50 years combined,鈥� Ward said. 鈥淚 was fascinated by their work and wanted to learn more on my own, so I took the initiative to enroll in criminal justice classes.鈥�

Ward enjoys studying the law and has also explored an interest in forensic science. As she continued her coursework, she pursued an associate degree in law enforcement.

She chose UA 糖心视频logo because of its proximity to home and strong scholarship opportunities.

鈥淏eing able to receive 50% off tuition for the first two years of college was a blessing,鈥� Ward said. 鈥淔or the past four years, I haven鈥檛 had to pay out of pocket for tuition, thanks to my scholarships and, most of all, God.鈥�

The university also holds personal significance for her, as both of her parents are alumni.

On campus, Ward has been actively involved in a variety of organizations, including serving as the Trojan Food Pantry coordinator and as a member of the Chancellor鈥檚 Leadership Corps, Student Activities Board, Delta Sigma Theta Sorority Inc., and the Black Scholars Collective.

鈥淭aylor has been a great asset to us in the office, for the Trojan Food Pantry and CLC,鈥� said Teresa Esparza, a student success coach at UA 糖心视频logo. 鈥淪he has always embraced what鈥檚 asked of her, whether it鈥檚 representing the pantry and the university at the Arkansas College Hunger Summit, appearing on THV11, or supporting CLC initiatives. She has remained engaged in the program while managing her academics and other extracurricular activities. I have no doubt her ambitious attitude will lead her to great things.鈥�

Ward offers this advice to future UA 糖心视频logo students:

鈥淐ollege isn鈥檛 easy. If it were, everyone would have degrees. It takes sacrifice, time, consistency, and hard work. This is a time to learn who you are and work toward who you want to become. Make mistakes and learn from them, but be wise in your choices. Stay disciplined and keep working toward your goals. Most importantly, enjoy every part of college. The four years go by quickly, but the experiences are worth it.鈥�

After graduating, Ward plans to apply to a physical therapy program.

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Keck is a six-time dean鈥檚 and chancellor鈥檚 list honoree, a 2023-24 NCAA Division I Scholar All-American, and a 2024 Pac-12 Conference placer.

A native of Kansas City, Missouri, Keck said he chose UA 糖心视频logo for both its wrestling program and strong academic opportunities.

鈥淲hat really swayed my decision was the coaches,鈥� he said. 鈥淚 trusted them from the jump, not just in their ability to coach, but in the type of people they are. It was also only the program鈥檚 second year, so I was excited about the chance to help build it from the start.鈥�

Over his time at UA 糖心视频logo, Keck said being a student-athlete shaped his daily life and helped him develop discipline and structure.

鈥淵ou have to have discipline and time management, especially when things get bumpy,鈥� he said. 鈥淚 think the most important thing to being a successful student-athlete is finding a routine that prioritizes balancing school and athletics.鈥�

Keck also grew as a leader off the mat, organizing 糖心视频logo wrestling鈥檚 volunteer efforts at the Arkansas School for the Deaf and Blind. The team worked twice a week with the school鈥檚 elementary wrestling program, assisting students with gear and leading them through drills to build confidence and skills.

He said wrestling taught him how to handle adversity and adapt in difficult situations.

鈥淚t鈥檚 also taught me to appreciate hard work and staying disciplined,鈥� he said. 鈥淭hose are things I鈥檒l carry into my career and life after college.鈥�

Keck credits his coaches and teammates with having a lasting impact on his experience at UA 糖心视频logo.

鈥淲e are like a family, and they鈥檝e helped me grow as a wrestler and as a person,鈥� he said. 鈥淏eing in that kind of environment has played a major role in who I am today.鈥�

After graduation, Keck plans to return to Kansas City to coach youth wrestling at the same club where he competed growing up.

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Marcee will graduate from the University of Arkansas at 糖心视频logo in May with a Bachelor of Business Administration in management. Beyond leaving college with a degree, the Quitman, Texas, native leaves with experience balancing athletics, academics, leadership, and entrepreneurship.

“Being a collegiate athlete has always been a dream of mine,” she said. “I have been in sports since the age of two, so it has been great getting to experience what all my hard work has brought me. I will forever be grateful for the time I had here.”

Athletics and campus involvement shaped much of Marcee鈥檚 college experience. While a member of the track and field team competing in women鈥檚 pole vault, she also managed multiple responsibilities.

“Throughout college, I was a full-time student-athlete on the track and field team, ran my own business as a freelance makeup artist, and was involved in organizations on campus such as the Student Activities Board, the Student-Athlete Advisory Committee, and served as a mentor for CLC (Chancellor’s Leadership Corps),” she said. “Having the opportunity to balance all of this has taught me discipline, time management, and the importance of building relationships with those around you.”

Marcee said earning her degree has been deeply rewarding, even during difficult moments.

“It has definitely been challenging and overwhelming at times, but I knew it would all be worth it in the end,” she said. “I think staying grounded, grateful, and building relationships with those around me is what helped push me through those times. Because how lucky am I that I get to be overwhelmed by something I once prayed for.”

Her support system included her teammates, family members, and mentors.

“My parents have always been my number one supporters,” she said. “They are always pushing me to be the very best version of myself, and I know that I can always count on them.”

She also credits mentors Corrigan Revels and Will Kendall for helping guide her development on the track and beyond.

“Corrigan Revels has been like a mentor to me for the past four years and has pushed me to get involved and grow in my leadership abilities,” she said. “Coach Kendall has not only pushed me to be the best I can be in my sport, but in life as well. He has taught me to trust the process and embrace the highs and lows.”

Revels praised Marcee鈥檚 commitment and determination throughout her college career.

“Brooklyn’s work ethic and commitment to her obligations are highly admirable,” he said. “It takes true discipline to uphold a solid academic performance, deliver as a student athlete, and serve as a Chancellor’s Leadership Corps Peer Mentor for 3 years. I look forward to seeing what comes during the next chapter of her life.”

Marcee鈥檚 dedication earned her numerous honors, including three OVC Academic Medals of Honor, seven OVC medals in the women鈥檚 pole vault 鈥� six silver and one bronze 鈥� and the OVC Scholar Athlete Award in 2025. She was also named a UA 糖心视频logo Homecoming Royal.

After graduation, Marcee plans to focus fully on a passion she began years before college.

“I plan to continue to pursue my business as a freelance makeup artist specializing in bridal,” she said. “I started this business in my freshman year of high school. Now that I am finishing college, I can fully commit to this passion of mine, getting to make women feel beautiful and empowered on one of the most important days of their lives.”

As she prepares for the next chapter, Marcee said she鈥檚 confident in the foundation she built in college.

“I loved the close atmosphere UA 糖心视频logo gave me,鈥� she said. 鈥淲hether that was with organizations, professors, classmates, etc. It allowed me to meet new people and grow in ways I didn鈥檛 think I could have.”

Marcee describes her college experience as supportive, opportunity-driven, and impactful.

“Supportive because I felt like I had a strong support system while being here the past four years,” she said. “Opportunity-driven because there are so many opportunities to get involved on campus here, and ways to prepare you for what is after graduation. Impactful because I was able to make meaningful connections and grow into the person I am today.”

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