Preliminary enrollment figures show combined undergraduate and graduate headcount up 5% and nearly 300 students for fall 2026, with student semester credit hours up 11% compared with the same time last year. Undergraduate enrollment continues to lead that growth, with headcount up 7%, or more than 325 students, and undergraduate credit hours increasing 12%, as of July 27.

Growth is particularly strong among new students. First-time freshman enrollment is up 17%, and more than 60 students, while transfer student enrollment is up 29%, more than 100 students.

鈥淭hese preliminary results show that more students and families are recognizing both the quality and affordability of a UA 糖心视频logo education,鈥� said Chancellor Christina S. Drale. “That reflects years of work to strengthen the value we offer students through affordability, academic quality, hands-on learning, and the support they need to succeed. We look forward to welcoming the first fall class of our second century in just a few weeks.”

The increase in student semester credit hours is another encouraging sign, Drale said, because it indicates students are enrolling in more coursework as they progress toward their degrees.

鈥淐redit-hour growth matters because it reflects students making meaningful progress toward completing their degrees,鈥� Drale said. 鈥淥ur responsibility now is to make sure every student who joins us this fall has the resources and support to thrive from their first day through graduation.”

Those students will arrive at a university entering its second century with momentum across academics, research, student success, and athletics. Students entering this fall will be the first fall class of UA 糖心视频logo鈥檚 second century, as the university began its yearlong Centennial celebration July 1, recognizing 100 years of expanding educational opportunity and serving Arkansas. This summer also marked the university’s move into the United Athletic Conference following the baseball program’s historic season and first appearance in an NCAA Super Regional.

The university continues to expand opportunities for students through nationally recognized artificial intelligence research, a growing cybersecurity initiative that provides hands-on learning while serving communities across Arkansas, and a new graduate certificate in health informatics launching this fall.

鈥淪tudents are looking for a university that delivers both opportunity and value,” said Dr. W. Cody Decker, vice chancellor for student affairs and chief data officer. “These preliminary numbers suggest more students are finding that at UA 糖心视频logo. We still have several weeks before classes begin, and our team will continue working with prospective and admitted students as they complete the enrollment process.”

While undergraduate enrollment continues to grow, graduate enrollment remains an area of strategic focus.  Preliminary graduate headcount is down 5%, a decline of less than 40 students, while graduate student semester credit hours are down 2%. The decline is concentrated primarily among international students. UA 糖心视频logo is responding by strengthening graduate recruitment, adding workforce-focused programs, and increasing financial support. Beginning this fall, minimum graduate assistant stipends will increase to $10,000 for master’s students and $15,000 for doctoral students 鈥� the university’s largest investment in graduate assistant stipends in more than a decade.

Students who are still considering UA 糖心视频logo have time to join the fall 2026 class before classes begin Aug. 24. Eligible incoming freshmen may qualify for the Trojan Guarantee, which covers remaining tuition and mandatory fees after other financial aid is applied, or the university’s Half-Off Scholarship. More information about admissions, scholarships, and enrollment is available at or by calling 501-916-3127.

“Every fall brings a new class of students with their own goals, ambitions, and potential,” Decker said. “We’re excited to welcome them to campus and help them take advantage of everything UA 糖心视频logo has to offer. As we prepare to begin our second century, there’s tremendous energy around where this university is headed, and it鈥檚 an exciting time to be a Trojan.鈥� 

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The Trojan Teacher Residency Program offers yearlong residencies for teacher candidates, pairing them with experienced mentor teachers in Central Arkansas schools. Funded by a grant from Forward Arkansas, the program gives aspiring educators immersive, hands-on classroom experience, preparing them to enter the profession with confidence.

Although the Trojan Teacher Residency Program has a strong track record at UA 糖心视频logo, this was the largest orientation of its kind, with dozens in attendance, designed to ensure mentor teachers and teacher candidates shared expectations for the school year. Participants reviewed key program components, such as observation protocols, co-teaching models, and strategies for professional conversations. Sessions clarified roles, responsibilities, and best practices for collaboration, establishing a foundation for a successful year.

“This is the first time we’ve opened the orientation to all of our residents and mentor teachers across every program,鈥� said Rachel Eells, director of the School of Education. 鈥淲e have a much larger group this year, which means mentor teachers receive more training, and residents have the opportunity to learn from a wider variety of peers.”

Both days featured lunchtime speaker sessions with 2026 Arkansas Teacher of the Year Stephanie Williams of Mountain View Elementary and 2026 Tennessee Teacher of the Year and UA 糖心视频logo alumna Brandi De La Cruz of Collierville High School. These award-winning educators shared stories from their careers and classroom lessons, as well as advice for residents and mentor teachers. Their sessions encouraged discussions on teaching, mentorship, and professional growth.

De La Cruz encouraged participants to stay open to new opportunities as they begin their careers, noting that finding the right school and community may take time.

“The first school you end up at may not be your forever home,” she said. “I had to keep searching until I found a school where I felt accepted and truly at home.”

Williams encouraged residents to view the residency year as a time for growth and reminded them to believe in themselves and their students.

“I would tell the residents to never underestimate your students and never underestimate yourself,” Williams said. “Take this year to learn, fail, and succeed, and consider all of it a win.”

The orientation brought together residents and mentor teachers from a variety of grade levels and subject areas, allowing them to learn from experiences beyond their own classrooms. Participants came from school districts across Arkansas, bringing a wide range of perspectives and experiences to the conversations throughout the event. The opportunity to hear different viewpoints helped participants think through questions and challenges they may not have considered before.

As UA 糖心视频logo teacher candidate Clarissa Riddling, who is completing her residency at 糖心视频logo Central High School, said, “Some people have asked questions I had never even thought of. It’s been good to have a community to start this process with.”

At the conclusion of the orientation, participants left with new connections and a stronger foundation for the year ahead. As they begin their classroom residencies, they will put their preparation into practice while continuing to develop their teaching skills. 

Reflecting on the impact of educators, Williams reminded attendees, “Educators are the creators of the future.”

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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.

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Bhattacharyya not only taught the man braille, but also how to adapt to his new world. Moments like that have defined Bhattacharyya’s career. 

The UA 糖心视频logo alumnus serves as outreach director for the Helen Keller National Center鈥檚 National Outreach Technology Development and Training Program. He travels across the United States helping deafblind individuals use adaptive technology to communicate, work, and live more independently.

Bhattacharyya was born in Kolkata and raised in Telari, a small village about 25 miles away. When he was growing up, the village had no electricity, running water, or paved roads. As someone who was born deaf and gradually lost his vision, Bhattacharyya鈥檚 access to communication and information was limited.

“I learned early to become resourceful and independent because many of the services and technology available today simply did not exist,” he said. 

Helping others has become his life’s work. His journey took shape at UA 糖心视频logo, where he found not only an education but the confidence to become a leader in accessibility, technology, and advocacy.

His father also impressed upon him the importance of becoming financially independent.

“My father commanded that I needed to support myself financially because he would not be there forever to give me a hand,” Bhattacharyya said. “That message served as a guiding point in how I pursued all endeavors in life.”

After attending Gardner-Webb University in Boiling Springs, North Carolina, in 1992, Bhattacharyya transferred to UA 糖心视频logo because of its commitment to accessibility. At the time, universities with comprehensive accommodations for deafblind students were rare. He eventually graduated from UA 糖心视频logo in 1998 with a bachelor’s degree in political science.

He learned that the university was willing to remove barriers instead of creating them.

He said UA 糖心视频logo provided him with qualified interpreters, note-taking support, textbooks translated into electronic formats compatible with adaptive technology, orientation and mobility assistance, and faculty and staff committed to finding solutions.

“The environment at UA 糖心视频logo allowed me to focus on learning instead of constantly fighting for access,” he said.

Bhattacharyya also became involved in improving accessibility for future students. Then-Chancellor Charles Hathaway invited students with disabilities to share ideas for making the campus more accessible, leading to the creation of an Americans with Disabilities Act committee. Bhattacharyya served on the committee, helping advocate for improvements such as ramps, elevators, accessible water fountains, and adaptive technology labs.

“That experience became the foundation for my career in advocacy, accessibility, education without barriers, and technology,” he said.

Although he earned degrees in political science and rhetoric and writing, Bhattacharyya found a career that combined policy, communication, education, and technology.

“Political science taught me how laws, government, policies, and public systems affect people’s lives,” he said. “Rhetoric and writing taught me how to communicate ideas clearly and advocate effectively. Technology already was my deep passion, and it became the tool that makes independence with access to communication and information possible.”

Today, no two days are the same.

He conducts technology assessments, teaches people to use screen readers, refreshable braille displays, smartphones, and computers, evaluates emerging accessibility tools, troubleshoots technology, and trains professionals across the country.

Over the course of his career, he has watched smartphones, artificial intelligence, optical character recognition, GPS navigation, and cloud-based communication tools dramatically expand opportunities for deafblind individuals.

He is particularly excited about artificial intelligence and its potential to improve image descriptions, navigation, access to printed information, and real-time communication.

“I’m especially excited about artificial intelligence becoming more integrated into accessibility,” he said. “These technologies have dramatically increased independence and access to information.”

His advocacy has extended beyond individual training. Bhattacharyya helped support national efforts that led to the creation of , a federally-funded program that provides eligible deafblind individuals with free communication technology and training. Today, he manages that program in Florida and Iowa.

Despite the national scope of his work, Bhattacharyya says success is measured one person at a time.

“What means the most to me is hearing someone say, ‘I can do this on my own now,'” he said. “Those words are more meaningful than any award or title. The most rewarding part is seeing someone realize they can do something independently that they never thought was possible. Whether it’s sending their first email, shopping online, communicating with family, applying for a job, or returning to school, those moments remind me why this work is so meaningful.”

For families and friends of someone who is deafblind, Bhattacharyya encourages people to begin with a simple question, rather than assumptions.

“Ask the individual how they prefer to communicate,” he said. “There is no single approach that works for everyone.”

He also hopes people remember that deafblindness does not define a person’s abilities.

“Never assume that deafblindness limits what someone can achieve,” he said. “With proper training, accessible technology, skilled support professionals, and high expectations, deafblind individuals can pursue education, careers, travel, raise families, and contribute to their communities.”

Bhattacharyya credits UA 糖心视频logo with helping transform the trajectory of his life.

“(That) was a turning point in my life,” he said. “It gave me access to the education, accommodations, mentors, and opportunities that helped me realize my potential.”

“The university didn’t simply provide me with a degree,” he said. “It gave me the confidence to become a leader and dedicate my career to helping others succeed.”

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Helping students gain confidence in their own abilities defined Newton’s 38-year career in education. Recently, the UA 糖心视频logo alumna was recognized with the 2026 Lifetime Educator Award.

“It was such a special day, and I was deeply honored by the recognition,” Newton said. “There are so many outstanding teachers across our state who have dedicated their lives to serving their communities and their students. I wish every one of them could experience the feeling of being appreciated the way I did that day.”

During her career, Newton served as a teacher, library media specialist, curriculum coordinator, adjunct professor, and mentor. She also led professional development for educators across Arkansas, served on the Arkansas State Board of Education, and was named Arkansas Teacher of the Year in 2015.

But the moments she remembers most happened during interaction with her students inside her classroom.

“Some of my favorite moments were watching students who believed they ‘weren’t good at math’ leave my class confident in their abilities,” Newton said. “Seeing that transformation was incredibly rewarding.”

She also cherishes reconnecting with former students years later and hearing about the lives they built after graduation.

“I meet them as adults, and they proudly tell me about their families, their careers, and how they are contributing to their communities,” Newton said. “Every student’s journey is different, and celebrating those journeys has been one of the greatest blessings of my career.”

Newton’s love for teaching started early. Her mother was a teacher and also her first-grade teacher. Other educators helped shape her path as well.

“My high school math teacher, Mrs. Pat Heard, showed me that math wasn’t just a subject. It was something you could truly enjoy,” Newton said. “My high school librarian, Mrs. Sudie Lamb, introduced me to a love of reading and opened the door to so many different genres.”

Newton studied library science at UA 糖心视频logo and said the education she earned at the university gave her the knowledge and confidence to begin her career as a K-12 library media specialist and provided a foundation she relied on throughout her career.

“We are so proud to call Mrs. Ouida Newton a UA 糖心视频logo alumna,” said Dr. Rachel Eells, director of the School of Education at UA 糖心视频logo. “She represents excellence and dedication to teaching, and has positively influenced the lives of countless Arkansas children in her schools, and our teacher candidates are fortunate to have her as a role model.”

Another mentor, her high school English teacher, Mrs. Ruby Riggan, taught Newton a lesson she never forgot.

“She taught me that teaching isn’t just about delivering content,” Newton said. “It’s about knowing your students, caring about them as individuals, and letting them know every day that they matter.”

That lesson shaped the way Newton approached teaching and mentoring throughout her career.

“I hope they remember that they don’t simply teach content. They teach children,” Newton said. “Content is important, but the needs of the child must always come first. When students know they are valued and cared for, learning becomes possible.”

Serving as Arkansas Teacher of the Year and later on the Arkansas State Board of Education gave Newton a broader view of education across the state.

“I had the privilege of meeting dedicated educators from every corner of Arkansas,” Newton said. “While we often had different ideas and approaches, we all shared the same goal of providing every child with the best education and opportunities possible.”

After nearly four decades in education, Newton believes one thing has never changed.

“The teacher is still the most important part of any classroom,” she said. “A teacher who believes in a child can change that child’s life forever.”

When she looks back on her career, Newton hopes people remember something much simpler than the awards she received or the positions she held.

“More than anything, I hope people remember that I loved their children with all my heart and always wanted what was best for them,” Newton said. “If they remember that, then I will consider my career a success.”

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The interdisciplinary program prepares professionals to meet growing workforce demand for using data and information systems to improve patient outcomes, efficiency, and decision-making across healthcare organizations.

Students gain hands-on experience using EHR Go, a leading educational electronic health record platform. They apply informatics concepts in simulated healthcare environments that mirror real-world scenarios.

“The launch of the Health Informatics Certificate Program reflects the increasing need for professionals who can connect healthcare and technology in meaningful ways,” said Dr. Ahmed A. Halimeh, interim director of the School of Computer and Information Sciences and interim director of the Emerging Analytics Center at UA 糖心视频logo. “This program is designed to give students practical experience alongside a strong academic foundation, ensuring they are ready to step into roles that improve patient care, strengthen data systems, and drive efficiency across healthcare organizations.”

The graduate certificate provides a foundation in healthcare data systems, analytics, and informatics while emphasizing programming, database management, ethics, and project management.聽

Students will explore how healthcare data is collected, analyzed, and applied to improve both clinical and operational outcomes.

Health informatics continues to grow as healthcare systems increasingly rely on data and technology to improve quality, reduce costs, and support patient care. The program is designed to attract students from a range of backgrounds, including health professions, computer science, data analytics, engineering, and related fields.

Graduates will be prepared for careers in healthcare data analytics, clinical informatics, health information management, and related fields.

Learn more about the new program.

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By expanding the CORE Cybersecurity Clinic through the CLN, UA 糖心视频logo is creating new opportunities for students to gain hands-on experience while meeting needs in communities across the state, bringing together students and faculty from 11 colleges and universities. The CLN extends cybersecurity services to more communities than any one institution could alone, while fostering collaboration, shared expertise, and experiential learning. Through this network, the CORE Cybersecurity Clinic is expanding to Ouachita Baptist University, the University of Arkansas Community College at Hope-Texarkana, and North Arkansas College of the University of Arkansas this fall.

“Every partner site is another place where our students get to apply what they鈥檙e learning to a real problem with real stakes,” said Dr. Sandra Leiterman, director of cybersecurity education and outreach. “That kind of experience is hard to replicate in a classroom, and it鈥檚 what makes our graduates ready to contribute on day one.”

The CORE Cybersecurity Clinic鈥檚 goal is to make cybersecurity expertise available to organizations such as small nonprofits, school districts, health clinics, rural utilities, and small businesses that provide essential services but lack their own cybersecurity staff. These organizations face increasing cyber threats and lack access to costly risk assessments or enterprise security programs.

CORE Center teams, made up of students and faculty experts, work directly with organizations to evaluate their systems, identify vulnerabilities, and deliver actionable recommendations. The clinic identifies the most likely ways hackers could attempt to gain access, then provides prioritized recommendations and safeguarding strategies to help organizations anticipate the top threats and proactively strengthen their defenses.

For Nathan Thomason, a student researcher at the CORE Center, those experiences helped launch his career.

“UA 糖心视频logo’s CORE Center provided me with a foundation of excellence to rely on throughout my studies as an undergraduate student and at the beginning of my cybersecurity career,” Thomason said.

He said working directly with Arkansas organizations and emerging cybersecurity technologies gave his education a deeper sense of purpose.

“The opportunities to engage with my local community and pursue bleeding-edge cybersecurity technologies that I was presented with as a researcher allowed my studies to have a measurable impact on my community,” he said.

The clinic鈥檚 work is also shaped by ongoing research at the CORE Center, where faculty and students are developing new approaches to cybersecurity defense. Rather than remaining in the research phase, many of these ideas are tested and refined through the clinic鈥檚 work, allowing researchers and students to evaluate new methods while providing clients with recommendations informed by the latest cybersecurity research.

One of the center鈥檚 newest research projects explores how artificial intelligence can help organizations identify the most likely paths a cyberattack could take through their systems and prioritize the security improvements that will have the greatest impact. The CORE Center is also collaborating with the Institute for AI Policy and Strategy, a national nonpartisan AI policy think tank, on initiatives that support cybersecurity policy and the protection of the nation鈥檚 critical infrastructure, helping connect the center鈥檚 applied research with broader national conversations about emerging cyber threats.

The clinic also provides students with valuable, real-world experience beyond the classroom. Working with organizations across Arkansas, they learn not only how to identify cybersecurity risks but also how to explain technical concepts in ways that help non-technical leaders make informed decisions. Those communication skills are just as critical as technical expertise in preparing students for careers in cybersecurity.

“Working at the CORE Center has been wonderful because it’s given me real-world experience in my field,” said Divija Vijay, a sophomore double majoring in computer science and cybersecurity. “On the projects I get to work on, I’m always learning new concepts and technical skills. It’s a really supportive environment that genuinely cares about our growth.”

Through the CLN, the CORE Center is helping schools, nonprofits, utilities, and businesses better understand their cybersecurity risks while giving students opportunities to gain practical experience addressing the challenges organizations face every day.

“Arkansas has cracked the code for making these partnerships work,” said Dr. Philip Huff, director of the CORE Center and assistant professor of computer science. “Communities across the state need practical help defending against cyberattacks, and our students are ready and able to meet that need. Now our job is to clear the path so these partnerships can thrive and strengthen cybersecurity across Arkansas.”

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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.”

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Selected from an applicant pool of 115 students, the incoming class enters UA 糖心视频logo with an average high school GPA of 4.29.

The Donaghey Scholars Honors Program provides a scholarship package valued at approximately $92,000 to $100,000 over four years. Scholars receive full tuition and fees, a housing subsidy, a stipend, a laptop, and funding for a required international study experience, allowing them to focus on research, leadership, service, and academic exploration throughout their college careers.

At the heart of the Donaghey Scholars experience is an interdisciplinary curriculum where students from every academic discipline explore complex questions through discussion, writing, collaborative projects, and engagement with the 糖心视频logo community. The program encourages scholars to think across traditional academic boundaries while using Arkansas’s capital city as an extension of the classroom.

Founded in 1987 through the support of the George W. Donaghey Foundation, the Donaghey Scholars Honors Program reflects a legacy that stretches back nearly a century. Former Arkansas governor George W. Donaghey and his wife, Louvenia, established the Donaghey Foundation in 1929 with a singular purpose: to support 糖心视频logo Junior College, the institution that would eventually become the University of Arkansas at 糖心视频logo. Their gift, recognized as the largest bequest in Arkansas history at the time, created one of the longest-standing philanthropic partnerships in the university’s history.

George Donaghey believed education created opportunity and dedicated much of his public life to expanding access to higher education in Arkansas. Through the George W. Donaghey Foundation, his vision continues today by supporting student success, academic excellence, leadership development, and transformative opportunities at UA 糖心视频logo. The Donaghey Scholars Honors Program is one of the Donaghey Foundation’s signature investments in preparing future leaders.

鈥淥ne of the greatest privileges of the Donaghey Foundation is helping open doors for extraordinary students,鈥� said Greg Flesher, president of the Donaghey Foundation. 鈥淭hese scholars have demonstrated exceptional talent, curiosity, and leadership. We are proud to invest in their futures and are excited for the difference they will make in Arkansas and beyond.鈥�

That investment continues to pay dividends through the accomplishments of Donaghey alumni. The Donaghey Scholars Honors Program has prepared hundreds of graduates for careers and advanced study in medicine, law, business, education, research, public service, and the arts. More than 70% of Donaghey alumni go on to earn graduate or professional degrees, nearly double the national average. Among program alumni, approximately 15% earn doctoral degrees, 10% become physicians, and 10% earn law degrees.

The program’s impact extends well beyond the classroom. Nearly two-thirds of Donaghey alumni remain in Arkansas, where they are helping strengthen communities as physicians, educators, engineers, attorneys, researchers, entrepreneurs, artists, and public servants.

That legacy continues to grow each year. During the past year alone, Donaghey alumni earned three doctoral degrees, three medical degrees, three law degrees, one veterinary doctorate, and five master’s degrees. Alumni also received a National Science Foundation award, Windgate Foundation fellowships, recognition in Best Lawyers in America, and statewide honors for leadership in healthcare, law, public service, and community impact.

“We’re excited to welcome this year’s class of Donaghey Scholars,” said Dr. Jessica Scott, associate director of the Donaghey Scholars Honors Program. “They are outstanding students academically, but what stands out just as much is their curiosity and willingness to engage with new ideas. They bring a wide range of interests and experiences, and we know they’ll challenge one another, learn from one another, and make meaningful contributions both on campus and throughout the 糖心视频logo community.”

Admission to the Donaghey Scholars Honors Program is highly competitive. Applicants are evaluated on academic achievement, extracurricular involvement, essays, recommendations, and intellectual curiosity. Finalists participate in an on-campus interview process with program leaders, faculty members, and current scholars before the incoming class is selected.

The Class of 2030 includes Arkansas Governor’s School alumni, nationally recognized speech and debate competitors, Model Arab League and Model United Nations award winners, accomplished athletes, artists, writers, student leaders, entrepreneurs, aspiring physicians and engineers, and the first twins admitted to the Donaghey Scholars Honors Program in more than a decade.

Meet the 2026-27 Donaghey Scholars

Graydon Anderson of 糖心视频logo graduated from the Arkansas School for Mathematics, Sciences, and the Arts, where she earned second place in the cell and molecular biology category in the Arkansas State Science and Engineering Fair. She also earned a Distinguished Delegation Award at the Arkansas High School Model Arab League Conference. She plans to major in anthropology.

Noah Beaver graduated from Russellville High School, where he qualified for the National Speech Debate Association National Tournament in Big Question Debate. He plans to major in criminal justice.

Sadie Berry graduated from Bryant High School, where she earned an Honorable Mention as head delegate for the United Kingdom delegation at the Arkansas Model United Nations conference. She was also in concert band for six years and wind symphony for two years. She served as the head captain of the color guard. She plans to major in biology.

Naomi Brooks graduated from Conway High School, where she was named a National Speech Debate Association Academic All-American, an honor earned by fewer than 2% of the organization’s student members. She plans to major in American Sign Language and English.

Jericho Brown graduated from Cabot High School, where she earned the Arkansas Seal of Biliteracy, recognizing proficiency in English and another language. She was a member of Spanish Honor Society, and she plans to major in social work.

Miray Fahmi of 糖心视频logo graduated from Joe T. Robinson High School after attending Arkansas Governor’s School and being named Academy Ambassador of the Year through the Academies of Central Arkansas. She plans to major in biology.

Mohammed Fahmi of 糖心视频logo graduated from Joe T. Robinson High School after attending Arkansas Governor’s School and being recognized by Soir茅e magazine as the school’s Head of the Class for 2026. He plans to major in biology.

Meckenzie Fassett of Gassville graduated from Cotter High School after attending Arkansas Governor’s School and earning third place in Business Communication at the Arkansas FBLA State Leadership Conference. She plans to major in computer science.

Kayden Forrest of Paragould graduated from the Arkansas School for Mathematics, Sciences, and the Arts, where he was active in the school’s literary arts community and performed original work during the Hot Springs Wednesday Night Poetry open mic series. He plans to major in political science.

Kennedy-Lailany Henton of Benton graduated from Bryant High School after attending Arkansas Governor’s School, Girls State, and interning with the Saline County Public Defenders Office. She plans to major in philosophy.

Ruslan Kadyrov of Semey, Kazakhstan, studied at 糖心视频logo Central High School during the 2025-26 academic year as a Future Leaders Exchange (FLEX) Program participant. A product designer, he also served as a FLEX and Civic Education Workshop ambassador. He plans to major in management.

Samantha Lindstrom of 糖心视频logo graduated from 糖心视频logo Central High School. She won the National Council of Teachers of English Essay Competition and was selected for the National Student Leadership Conference. Additionally she served as a Museum of Discovery camp counselor, and she plans to major in biology.

Daniel Lopez of Glenwood graduated from Caddo Hills High School and attended Arkansas Boys State. He was a member of varsity track and field, quiz bowl, and the vice president of Future Business Leaders of America. He also served as president of the Senior Beta Club and on the Mt. Ida Chamber of Commerce Student Advisory Board. He plans to major in biology.

Tristan Lowry of 糖心视频logo previously attended high school on a military base in Japan. While at Yokota High School, he was a member of the Drama Society, the Library Management Society, and the soccer and track and field teams. He is currently a SAT math tutor. He plans to major in geology.

Vanessa Marsh of Friendswood, Texas, graduated from Clear Brook High School, where she was a state-level swimmer in the 500-yard freestyle and breaststroke before signing to compete for the UA 糖心视频logo swimming and diving team. She plans to major in biology.

Zada McCain of Hempwallace graduated from Lake Hamilton High School, where she was recognized as one of the top 5% of graduates in Garland County. She was president of Educators Rising, an art club member, and part of the cross country team. She plans to major in art.

Lillie Parker of 糖心视频logo graduated from 糖心视频logo Central High School, where she was the Class AAA girls 145-pound state wrestling runner-up and was active in the school’s award-winning creative writing program. She plans to major in marketing.

Gargi Patel of 糖心视频logo graduated from 糖心视频logo Central High School after earning a certificate of proficiency through concurrent enrollment. She was part of the Central High Principal’s Cabinet and took part in UA 糖心视频logo Summer Engineering Scholars Program. She plans to major in civil and construction engineering.

Logan Roggeman of East End graduated from Communication and Community Central Academy, where he completed concurrent college coursework while in high school. He plans to major in mechanical engineering.

Andrew Schlesier of Salem graduated from Bryant High School, where he served as percussion ensemble captain and section leader for the band. He plans to major in computer science.

Bayyinah Sherrill of 糖心视频logo graduated from 糖心视频logo Central High School as an AP Scholar. She was also active in the Arkansas Young Artist Association and National Beta Club. During the summer, she took part in Kamp Khalili Youth Summer Leadership Camp. She plans to major in art.

Jacob Torello of 糖心视频logo graduated from 糖心视频logo Central High School, where he served as team captain of the state runner-up Mock Trial team and earned third place for Best Bill at the Arkansas Student Congress. He plans to major in history.

Sameer Walajahi of 糖心视频logo graduated from 糖心视频logo Central High School, where he was a finalist in the Perfect Pitch Competition. He was also secretary of the Central High Brain Bee and a member of math honor society, Mu Alpha Theta. He plans to major in biology.

Kamryn Young graduated from Conway High School, where she placed third in the ACTM Regional Mathematics Contest and was a member of the school’s award-winning Speech & Debate team. She plans to major in biology.

Nathalie Young graduated from Russellville High School after attending Arkansas Governor’s School, earning AP Scholar with Distinction recognition, serving on the Russellville Youth Council, and being selected as the school’s Colors Day Queen. She plans to major in nursing.

Earlier this month, the incoming scholars gathered on campus for orientation, where they met one another, connected with current scholars and faculty, and began the journey that will officially continue this fall. Learn more about the Donaghey Scholars Honors Program at .

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Working in collaboration with researchers at the University of Arkansas for Medical Sciences (UAMS), Walker’s project focuses on creating and studying derivatives of prodigiosin, a naturally occurring compound that has shown promising anticancer properties.

鈥淥ur goal is to synthesize and characterize prodigiosin analogs and evaluate their biological activity against cancer cell lines,鈥� Walker said. 

Although the research is still in its early stages, Walker said the project could help lay the groundwork for future cancer therapies. By developing and testing how new analogs interact with cancer cells, the research will help determine which chemical structures are most promising for future drug development. The findings could eventually contribute to the development of more targeted cancer treatments that improve patient outcomes.

The collaboration combines expertise from both institutions to strengthen the research. While Walker’s laboratory specializes in designing and synthesizing new chemical compounds, Dr. Robert Griffin and his team at UAMS bring expertise in cancer biology to evaluate how the compounds perform against cancer cells. Together, the teams can more thoroughly evaluate how well the compounds work and how they affect cancer cells, helping researchers identify the most promising candidates for further study. 

鈥淭he INBRE funding supports student stipends, laboratory supplies, and access to analytical instrumentation,鈥� Walker said. 鈥淭hese resources allow us to carry out the synthesis and purification of analogs and identify their structure using techniques such as nuclear magnetic resonance (NMR) and gas chromatography-mass spectrometry (GC-MS).鈥�

In addition to advancing cancer research, the project is designed to prepare the next generation of scientists by providing students with meaningful research experiences and opportunities to present their work at conferences and contribute to scientific publications.

鈥淥ne of the most exciting aspects of this project is the opportunity to bridge fundamental chemistry with meaningful biomedical applications,鈥� Walker said. 鈥淭he potential to discover new compounds with real therapeutic relevance is highly motivating. Equally exciting is the role this project plays in student development, providing hands-on research experiences that prepare them for careers in science and healthcare.鈥�

Through the collaboration with UAMS, Walker and his team hope to advance the search for more effective, targeted cancer treatments while providing UA 糖心视频logo students with transformative, hands-on research experiences.

The post UA 糖心视频logo’s Dr. Brian Walker Receives $72,000 Grant to Advance Anti-Cancer Research appeared first on News.