Dr. Mia Phillips, assistant vice chancellor of student affairs and director of the Multicultural Center at UA Little Rock, has joined the 37th Class of Leadership Greater Little Rock.

Leadership Greater Little Rock (LGLR) is a nine-month community leadership program created by the Little Rock Regional Chamber of Commerce. It is designed to develop effective leaders by enhancing their civic, social, and professional awareness to positively impact our community.

“I am truly honored to be selected for this program,” Phillips said. “It has a long history of providing intensive and effective leadership development. I’m grateful for the opportunity to participate.”

LGLR kicked off with a two-day retreat in October. Participants then meet every month at a different central Arkansas location to explore topics through expert speakers, panelists, tours, and group presentations. This unique program provides participants with a comprehensive understanding of the region’s challenges and opportunities, empowering them to become better leaders in the community.

“Completing this program will help me develop in all areas so that I’m able to better lead on campus and in the community,” Phillips said. “Most importantly, it will help me make connections that will benefit our students in terms of networking and opportunities for them.”

A native of El Dorado, Arkansas, Phillips earned a bachelor’s degree at the University of Central Arkansas and a Master of Arts in professional and technical writing and a Ed.D. in higher education from UA Little Rock.

While working toward her master’s degree, Phillips was offered a position as a writing assistant for the chancellor’s office, which kick-started her career in higher education. In 2018, Phillips was selected as the director of the university’s new Multicultural Center.

Last year, she was also promoted to assistant vice chancellor of student affairs. In this role, she oversees fraternity and sorority life, student organizations, and activities as well as student success programs like Chancellor’s Leadership Corps, Charles W. Donaldson Scholars, and Student Affairs Diversity Initiatives.

“Dr. Phillips is a leader in the community and an advocate for all students,” said Dr. Cody Decker, vice chancellor for student affairs and chief data officer at UA Little Rock. “I’m pleased to see her selection for LGLR. She will add a valuable perspective to Class XXXVII while also utilizing the information and connections from LGLR to advance her leadership in the community and on campus.”

Phillips is also active in professional and community organizations. She is a mentor with NASPA and a member of Delta Sigma Theta Sorority, Inc., and Arkansas Single Parent Scholarship Fund. She also serves on the board of the Vera Lloyd Foundation.