Two days after the commencement ceremonies for UALR’s class of 2010, top scholars of the class of 2014 – recently graduated high school seniors nominated by their principals and high school counselors for UALR’s elite Chancellor’s Leadership Corp – arrived on campus this week.

The gathering was the first meeting of the more than 100 freshmen selected for the program for their leadership potential as well as academic ability. The program provides each student a scholarship of $8,000 per years, renewable to up to  $32,000,  on top of any other academic scholarship.

Logan C. Hampton, director of student development, expects this crop of students to become leaders in campus housing, student government, academic organization, and especially in UALR’s culture of public service and service learning.

In addition to last week’s orientation activities, students were given a copy of “Soul of a Citizen: Living with Conviction in a Cynical Time” by Paul Loeb. The book has become a classic handbook for budding social activists, veteran organizers, and anyone who wants to make a difference – large or small.

Leadership corps upperclassmen were on hand for the initial meeting of the 2014 class, helping to show the newcomers the ropes and testify to their experiences.

“You all are very special, and you are going to have an awesome time,” said Dr. Charles Donaldson, vice chancellor of educational and student services.