We are very proud of our graduates and no one can better express the impact this program can have on the lives and careers of our students than they can. Here is what just a few of them are up to and had to say when asked about what they got out of the Scholars Program.
Joshua Pack (’25)
Major: Biology (B.S.); Chemistry (B.A.)
Final Project: Investigation of A and C-Ring Modified Prodiginines as Anti-Cancer Agents
Where I Am Now: “This fall, I will begin working toward a Ph.D. in organic chemistry at the University of Illinois Urbana-Champaign.”
“The Donaghey curriculum exposed me to disciplines I would have never learned about, and their financial support allowed me to attend conferences nationwide. Most importantly, though, I met my best friends.”
Phillip Bryan (’21)
Major: Computer Science (B.S.)
Final Project: Continuous Improvement Web Application
Where I Am Now: ” I completed my Master’s degree in Computer Science and now work as a senior software developer with ATek Automation.”
“The Donaghey Scholars Program enabled me to pursue my education and personal goals without worrying about crippling college debt upon graduation. Meeting class deadlines and finding good internships is challenging enough without the added stress of financial burdens. Beyond this, the Donaghey Program gave me the means to analyze complex social issues in ways that I would have otherwise not considered. The promise of studying abroad, although ultimately prevented by COVID-19, encouraged me to further my education in a foreign language and culture. Overall, the Donaghey Scholars Program provided me with the resources and motivation to better myself as an individual and scholar.”
Christopher Davis (’20)
Major: Computer Science (B.A.)
Final Project: Kathartica, an EP of songs translated and sung in Latin
Where I Am Now: “I earned an Undergraduate Certificate in Applied Cybersecurity through SANS and have joined the UA Little Rock team as a Program Specialist with TRIO Higher Education Access Programs.”
“The Donaghey Scholars Program challenged me to look deeply at the reasons behind why I believe the way I do. I had to (gradually) learn how to accept that I would not always have the “right” answer when engaging with some philosophical/social/economic/political/etc. issue. I benefited greatly from the director’s encouragement and advice whether that be in the context of pursuing my own hobbies or needing support in times of emotional distress. If it were not for Donaghey financing, my Spanish courses, and my study abroad trip to Chile (which I still gush about), I would not have had the opportunity to experience as much contact as I did with the Spanish-Speaking world at both a social and academic level.”
Colleen Gilliland (’25)
Major: Biology (B.S.)
Final Project: Effects of Simulated Bulimia Conditions on the Mechanical Properties of Extracted Human Teeth Using Nanoindentation
Where I Am Now: “I am taking a gap year filled with lots of travel and adventure! Once I’ve concluded my travels, I’ll begin the next chapter of my journey in dental school.”
“The Donaghey Scholars Program gave me a free, interdisciplinary college education that challenged and strengthened every part of who I am. I gained lifelong friends, mentors, and a support system that have encouraged me to think critically, explore boldly, and live intentionally. The financial freedom it has provided has allowed me to travel, seek out new adventures, and pursue dental school without the burden of college debt. I am eternally grateful for my time in this program.”
LaTambria Hampton (’22)
Major: Biology (B.S.)
Final Project: Measuring the Effects of Varying Glucose Concentrations on the Growth and Senescence of Synechocystis sp. PCC6803
Where I Am Now: “I completed a Master’s degree in Biochemistry and Molecular Biology at UAMS and now works as the clinical research coordinator at Arkansas Children’s Hospital focusing on cardiology and trauma studied.”
“The Donaghey Scholars Program is important to me because it allowed me to truly become a well-rounded individual. The Scholars Program not only prepared me to be a great biologist, but also helped me to become a more critical thinker, a role model for young women, and an advocate for the next generation.”
Jordan Hancock (’22)
Major: Art History (B.F.A.)
Final Project: The Masculine and Feminine in William Blake’s “Fallen World” Told Through his Large Watercolor Prints
Where I Am Now: “I am currently working as the assistant registrar at the Arkansas Historic Museum.”
“This program was everything in terms of determining my career path. From January-March 2020, the Donaghey Scholars Program funded my first museum internship in London. This internship and my time in London was absolutely vital to discovering my passion for museum work and sparking my interest in collections management. Without the Donaghey Scholars Program, I would never have had the finances or confidence to do an internship in a London museum or to experience London’s vast and varied museums in the way that I did.”
Vasti Hernandez (’25)
Major: Nursing (R.N.) (B.S.N)
Final Project: Addressing the Nutritional Needs of a Type 2 Diabetic Patient in the Hispanic Population
Where I Am Now: “After graduation, I will continue to work on the oncology unit at Baptist Hospital. I am also now chemotherapy certified, so I hope to be able to add a job to continue refining my nursing skills.”
“The Donaghey Scholars Program provided me with the college experience I could have never imagined having when I first stepped on campus. I met so many people, saw new places, and learned new things that I will always carry with me. It taught me to value and appreciate my education, and to use it to better my community and give back more than I receive. The Program opened so many doors for me to achieve my goals and land a spot in the profession I always wanted to be a part of.”
Josiah Johnson (’21)
Major: Economics (B.A.A) and Finance (B.B.A)
Final Project: Estimating the Impact of Small Business Initiatives on Crime in Small Communities
Where I Am Now: “I’m super happy with my work as a data analyst for Apptegy in Little Rock and learning a lot. I am also very proud that I was able to publish my Donaghey honors project in a peer reviewed journal.”
“The Donaghey Scholars Program pushed me out of my comfort zone and gave me opportunities that I wouldn’t have gotten elsewhere. I was able to study abroad (having never been outside of the U.S.), travel to academic conferences, and make lifelong friends. I felt somewhat directionless when I started college, but my senior year classes, advice from the directors, and the experience gained from my Donaghey final project really made clear my interests and where I wanted to focus my career.”
Avery McLean (’21)
Major: Biology (B.S.)
Final Project: The Future of Agricultural Herbicide Regulation: The Biological Evaluation and International Response in Regard to Impending Glyphosate Regulation
Where I Am Now: “I recently graduated from Penn State Law, where I was involved with the Student Bar Association, the Phi Alpha Delta Mock Trial Team, and served as a Law Delegate, Speaker of the Assembly of the Graduate Professional Student Association, Mental Health & Wellness Committee Chair, Mindfulness in Law Society Vice President of Finance, and as the Phi Alpha Delta Legal Fraternity Clerk. Upon graduation from law school, I have accepted a position as an attorney specializing in public law and trust estates with Coughlin & Gerhart LLP in Ithaca, New York.”
“The Donaghey Scholars Program has prepared me for a career in law through the rigorous and mind-broadening Donaghey classes. These largely discussion based classes made entering a Socratic law classroom less daunting, and also provided me with he ability to view issues from various perspectives. More importantly though, the Donaghey Scholars Program has prepared me to be a contributing global citizen who takes pride in service to their community. Without the connections I made during my time as a Scholar, I would not be where I am today.”
Katie Matthews (’20)
Major: Biology (B.S.)
Final Project: Coming Full Circle to Address Food Insecurity in Pulaski County Through Gardening, Education, and Outreach
Where I Am Now: “I completed my Masters of Public Service from the University of Arkansas Clinton School of Public Service and now work as the Americorps Program Officer for Engage Arkansas.”
“The Donaghey Scholars Program helped me become more well rounded in areas outside of my degree and to have a deeper and more empathetic understanding of the world around me. It allowed me to reflect on my perceptions, to be challenged, and to evolve in a judgement free and constructive atmosphere. I also left with lifelong connections through the program and a continued support system that I’m positive will extend far beyond my graduation.”
Abigail Resendiz (’19)
Major: International Business (B.B.A.) and Management (B.B.A.)
Final Project: Vascugenix Business Plan: Bringing a Medical Device to Market
Where I Am Now: “I completed my international master’s program, graduating with three diplomas from three European universities. After working as a business development specialist with POLITICO, I have taken a position as a product manager with AgencyIQ.”
“The Donaghey Scholars Honors Program acted as a solid foundation to catapult myself into any path of my choosing. It was an environment of positive encouragement for me curated by the directors, Dr. Hawkins and Dr. Scott, administrative assistants, and fellow Scholars, and continues to be. This propelled me to study abroad three times, conduct independent research, compete in national and international business competitions, join a social science-oriented debate team, represent the university at national conferences, and complete relevant internships. The Scholars program allowed me to challenge myself and develop a well-rounded portfolio simultaneously. As a result, I was accepted into my dream international Master’s program in Scotland, Spain, and Germany and received full funding from the European Union. Future Donaghey Scholars are getting much more than an amazing financial package, study abroad opportunities, interdisciplinary curriculum, and endless opportunities; they are getting a whole community of people that genuinely care about their overall well-being, not just their professional accomplishments.”
Aleigha Smith (’22)
Major: Accounting (B.B.A.)
Final Project: What’s Up, Jock? Redefining Duty Days for Professional Athletes in the Wake of Covid-19
Where I Am Now: “I have passed the CPA exam and work as an accountant in Little Rock with HCJ CPAs and Advisors.”
“The Donaghey Scholars Program was so important to my collegiate experience in giving me a support system that helped me through the challenges of college. The program put me in a position to gain leadership experience and research opportunities. Those experiences have translated to my current job by helping me feeling confident to take on opportunities and work through issues regarding client matters.”
Hannah Jones (’25)
Major: Mechanical Engineering (B.S.)
Final Project: Classification of Damage State in Wind Turbine Blade Samples Using Infrared Thermography and Transfer Learning
Where I Am Now: ” I will be interning at NASA’s Johnson C. Stennis Space Center as a Facility System Safety OSTEM Intern during the summer. In the fall, I’ll return to work towards my M.S. in Mechanical Engineering at UA Little Rock as an AAUW Selected Professions Fellow.”
“In my time as a Scholar, I’ve found the confidence to take on leadership positions and establish connections to reach my goals. Through the program’s support, I’ve been able to focus on developing professionally through research, internships, and extracurricular activities. I’ve also found the importance of building campus resources for student success through leadership in the Aerospace Club at UA Little Rock and collaboration within the Donaghey Scholars Program.”
Adrian Rogers (’25)
Major: Mass Communications, Motion Picture Concentration (B.A.)
Final Project: Mothball: Lost, But Found
Where I Am Now: “My production teacher Professor Thorlton invited me to work on his feature film set in Atlanta where I will be a second assistant camera. After that, the world becomes a little bit bigger and more daunting as I find a job for a year and then pursue higher education in film. I’m thinking on going back to Brisbane, Australia again where I completed my study abroad initially.”
“Honestly, I cannot imagine how different my life would have been if it where not for Dr. Hawkins, Dr. Scott, and Ian. I have seen how these three people have been able to change lives, and I am honored to have had my life changed by them. I have a lot more to learn, but the community I found myself in as a Donaghey Scholars was one of the most enriching and humbling communities to have ever been apart of. Thank you!”
Ruby Viera Corral (’22)
Major: Chemistry (B.S.) and Spanish (B.A.)
Final Project: In Vitro Biodegradation of Graphene in Macrophage Cells
What’s Next: “Since graduating, I’ve moved to San Antonio to be closer to my family and to live with my husband, Iván. After applying to 20+ jobs, I got my dream job at UT Health San Antonio – the medical school that I’ve also applied to this past month. I’m working as a study coordinator and research assistant on a phase I mRNA HIV Vaccine Clinical Trial, sponsored by IAVI in New York and with vaccines developed by Moderna. I get a lot of patient care experience, scheduling and coordinating with different teams, putting out small fires when they come up, finding new participants to enroll, and essentially serving as a point of contact for everyone involved in the study. As of now, I’m enjoying a great work/life balance and waiting to hear back about interviews for the school. I’ve also started reading for fun again!”
“The Donaghey Scholars Program has helped to shape me as a person and has bolstered my confidence and growth as a leader. Through the opportunities that I was able to access through the Donaghey Program and the advice of upperclassmen scholars, I had the chance to be a research assistant at the Center for Integrative Nanotechnology Sciences, provide interpreting services at Harmony Health Clinic, and complete a public health internship at the Arkansas Department of Health and those were the experiences that caught my employer’s eye and set me apart from other candidates. I am also confident that I’m prepared for medical school and ready to succeed in the interview process.”