SpectacuaLR 2024 to Honor Anne and Merritt Dyke
Little Rock Athletics is proud to announce that loyal Trojan supporters Anne and Merritt Dyke will serve as the honorees for the 16th Annual SpectacuaLR event benefiting Trojan Athletics. The annual fundraising gala celebrating “The Year of the Trojan” is set for Thursday, November 14th at 6:30 pm at the Jack Stephens Center.
“We could not have chosen more deserving honorees for this year’s SpectacuaLR than Merritt and Anne Dyke,” said Frank M. Cuervo, UA Little Rock Director of Athletics. “Since returning to Little Rock, the Dyke’s have profoundly impacted the Little Rock community and beyond, leaving a remarkable imprint on our campus and Trojan Athletics. They embody what it means to be pillars of the community, consistently striving to enhance the places they live and work. It is an honor to recognize their dedication and celebrate their remarkable contributions to our institution.”
Merritt, who has several ties with Central Arkansas organizations, serves on the UA Little Rock Board of Visitors and is a member of the Trojan Athletic Council. Merritt also currently serves as Chairman of the Board of Dyke Industries, Inc. headquartered in Little Rock. The company is a privately held building materials distribution business and has been in business since 1866.
“Anne and I are grateful to be this year’s honorees. The funds raised from SpectacuaLR, have a direct impact on the resources made available for all Trojan student-athletes,” Merritt Dyke said. “We would like to thank George Lee for his efforts over the last four years and welcome Frank Cuervo and his family to Little Rock. Little Rock athletics is coming off a historic year and we are looking forward to a bright future with Frank Cuervo as Athletics Director. The event will be a great night celebrating these young men and women who represent UA Little Rock and our community.”
Since its inception, the annual gala has raised over $3.3 million in support of Trojan Athletics. The money raised from SpectacuaLR, as well as all donations to the Trojan Fund, is dedicated to support the overall student-athlete experience at Little Rock, including scholarships, academic support enhancements, team operations and overall programmatic support.
“I would be remiss if I didn’t thank Dean Kumpuris and Fred Lord who were the first to encourage me to get involved on the UA Little Rock Board of Visitors and the Trojan Athletic Council. I believe that a successful athletic department plays a critical role in increasing the profile of a University and I look forward to helping UA Little Rock and Trojan athletics reach new heights,” said Dyke.
To reserve a table or order your tickets for SpectacuaLR, or for more information on how to become a sponsor, please contact Tyson Baldwin, Little Rock’s Associate AD for External Operations, at 501-350-4653 or via email at twbaldwin@ualr.edu.
