Community Support Builds for Shellam Flake Planetarium Seat Campaign

Community support continues to grow for the return of the Shellam Flake Planetarium at the University of Arkansas at Little Rock.

Since launching the planetarium seat sponsorship program this spring, alumni, friends, and community partners have sponsored 26 seats, generating $65,000 to provide long-term support for the planetarium’s maintenance and future enhancements.

“We’re encouraged by the enthusiasm we’ve seen so far,” said Lloyd Webre, director of development for the Donaghey College of Science, Technology, Engineering and Mathematics. “Every sponsorship represents someone who believes in creating opportunities for students and our community to experience science in a hands-on, inspiring way. We’re grateful to everyone who has stepped forward to ensure the Shellam Flake Planetarium is a UA Little staple for generations to come .”

Provost Ann Bain became the program’s first supporter, sponsoring two seats in honor of her grandchildren, Sadie and Henry.

“I can’t think of a better way to celebrate curiosity and discovery than by supporting a space like the planetarium,” Bain said. “Knowing Sadie and Henry will have a connection to this experience, and that so many other children will be inspired here, makes this especially meaningful.”

Centennial Co-Chair Alfred Williams has been instrumental in securing many of the campaign’s seat sponsorships. Campaign cabinet members Mike Williams, James Bobo, RJ Martino, Courtney Little, and Thomas Dickinson have also demonstrated their support by purchasing seats.

Each $2,500 sponsorship includes a personalized nameplate displayed on a planetarium seat for five years. Sponsors may recognize an individual, family, organization, or honor the memory of a loved one. 

Proceeds from the program provide long-term support for the Shellam Flake Planetarium’s maintenance and future enhancements, helping ensure it remains a premier destination for student learning and community engagement for years to come.

When open in the spring, the restored Shellam Flake Planetarium will serve as a multidisciplinary learning space welcoming K-12 students and community members for educational programming and public shows.

Seat sponsorships remain available. To learn more or sponsor a seat, visit ualr.edu/planetarium or contact Lloyd Webre at 501-951-1794.