UA Little Rock’s Carrie Phillips Named Texas Tech’s 2025 Raider on the Rise
Dr. Carrie Phillips, chief communications and marketing officer at the University of Arkansas at Little Rock, has been named Texas Tech University’s 2025 Raider on the Rise, an honor recognizing standout alumni whose leadership is transforming their fields. Phillips received the award recently during the university’s Distinguished Alumni Dinner in Lubbock, Texas.
The recognition underscores the leadership approach Phillips brings to UA Little Rock. She said her doctoral experience sharpened her strategic thinking and strengthened the skills that now guide the university’s communications and marketing efforts. She credits that training with helping her develop data-informed strategies that contributed to UA Little Rock’s recent enrollment momentum.
“That mindset fueled strong campus partnerships and fresh advertising strategies at UA Little Rock, helping halt a 13-year enrollment decline and deliver our best enrollment in 15 years,” she said.
The award also highlights Phillips’ growing national influence in higher education marketing and communications — visibility that benefits UA Little Rock as she represents the university on regional and national platforms. She revitalized CASE District IV programming, driving engagement to 216% of goal and earning the opportunity to present before the international CASE Board of Trustees. She remains active in the Public Relations Society of America’s Counselors to Higher Education, presents regularly for the American Marketing Association, and mentors emerging professionals across the country.
Her recognition as a Raider on the Rise adds to a distinguished list of honors that reflect the caliber of leadership she brings to UA Little Rock, including being named an Arkansas Money and Politics Future Icon, a two-time Top 10 Higher Ed Marketer to Follow, and a CASE Circle of Excellence Grand Gold Award recipient.
Phillips said the award and the values she gained from Texas Tech, guided her work and commitment to serving others.
“Leadership is about investing in others and creating momentum that lifts an entire campus. I’m grateful for the chance to do that at UA Little Rock,” she said.
As UA Little Rock continues to strengthen its reputation and expand its reach, Phillips’ national recognition and leadership help elevate the university’s visibility, strengthen professional networks, and advance the institution’s mission.