A Homecoming of Leadership: Julie Shelby to Lead UA Little Rock’s Disability Resource Center
A Homecoming of Leadership: Julie Shelby Named Director of the Disability Resource Center
For Julie Shelby, the University of Arkansas at Little Rock has always been more than a place to study or work; it is home.
From the time she arrived on campus in 1996 as a vocal performance major, Shelby has immersed herself into the fabric of the university, first as a student and later as an advisor, instructor, and administrator.
Now, after three years serving as assistant director, Shelby has stepped into a new role as director of the Disability Resource Center, where she leads efforts to ensure that every Trojan has access to the resources they need to succeed.
Rooted in Service
Shelby’s path at UA Little Rock has been shaped by her passion for helping students overcome obstacles. While her academic focus shifted from music to liberal arts — eventually earning both a bachelor’s and a master’s degree in professional and technical writing — she remained committed to the university’s mission of student support.
Through her roles as a graduate assistant, teaching assistant, adjunct instructor, and TRIO Student Support Services advisor, she’s spent decades advocating for underrepresented students.
“Through my experience, UA Little Rock has become a home for me in many ways,” she said.
Experience Rooted in Care for Students
As the new director of the Disability Resource Center, Shelby leads a team devoted to advocacy, accommodations, and collaboration. Her expertise in accessibility policy and universal design has already made her a trusted voice on campus, as well as across the state in her role as president of ArkAHEAD, the Arkansas affiliate of the Association on Higher Education and Disability.
Assistant Vice Chancellor of Student Affairs Sharon Ann Downs praised Shelby’s appointment, noting that her experience and her commitment to student success make her an asset to UA Little Rock.
“Julie Shelby has spent many years on campus working with students and faculty in a variety of roles, including teaching in the classroom,” Downs said. “After three years as DRC assistant director, she brings a wealth of experience to the director role. She is a tremendous asset, and we are delighted she is in this new position.”
Looking Ahead
Shelby already has goals for the Disability Resource Center, including a website redesign to make digital accessibility and navigation easier for students. She’s also incorporating more faculty development, with new training sessions on creating accessible documents and ensuring video captioning.
Her work is a rewarding component of her life at UA Little Rock, but she says it’s the people she’s met along the way that she treasures most about her time at the university.
“I have about 30-years-worth of friends, mentors, coworkers, and students I share commonality with as a UA Little Rock alum,” she said. “Nostalgia hits often, and I welcome it. This is a great place to work.”