Jana Thompson

Focusing on Children’s Health

As assistant professor in the Nursing Department, Jana Thompson has volunteered in local and state emergency response efforts on many occasions. Her work with Cycle Breakers allowed her to involve nursing students with middle and secondary school children in central Arkansas.

She also led students in an educational effort surrounding legislation to improve trauma services in Arkansas, demonstrating her commitment to the overall health of all citizens.

Thompson is an ambassador to the community through her work with the Junior League to carry out its mission of service to Arkansans, especially disadvantaged mothers. She currently serves as vice chair of Little Rock’s Commission on Children, Youth, and Families, an advisory group providing policy leadership and advocacy to improve the health, safety, education, and quality of life of residents.

Stacy Gravett with UA Little Rock’s Children International called Thompson “a passionate educator who has woven service and teaching in ways that bring education alive for a host of students.” With the help of Thompson and other volunteers, Children International provides annual health screenings to more than 1,000 children.

Thompson received master’s and bachelor’s degrees in nursing from the University of Arkansas for Medical Sciences and an associate of arts degree from the University of Arkansas at Monticello.