Commencement 2026

This spring, University of Arkansas at Little Rock student, Grace Wilson, will cross the stage not only as a graduate, but as a mother and emerging broadcast journalist with real newsroom experience already under her belt. For Wilson, the journey to a career in broadcast journalism has been a story of family inspiration, perseverance and … UA Little Rock Student Grace Wilson Balances Motherhood, Broadcast Journalism on Path to Graduation

An unforgettable week is on the horizon for Ragen Hodge and Sutton Manatt. The University of Arkansas at Little Rock students are preparing to graduate this May, compete in the Ohio Valley Conference (OVC) Track and Field Championships, and get married—all within the span of just one week. Hodge, a native of Bartlesville, Oklahoma, and … A Milestone Week: Graduation, Championships, and “I Do” for UA Little Rock Couple

Balee Pennington is raising two children, balancing military life, and using every spare moment she has to pursue a college degree. This spring, the first-generation student will graduate from the University of Arkansas at Little Rock and plans to begin a master’s program this summer. Pennington is originally from Eagletown, Oklahoma, and later moved to … UA Little Rock Student Balances Service, Family, and School

Nistha Neupane was in the middle of presenting her research at the UA Little Rock Research Expo when she got the news. “Honestly, pure shock,” she said. “Within a matter of two minutes, I was surrounded by my closest friends hugging me.” The moment quickly turned into something else. Her first thought was to call … Whitbeck Award Winner: Nistha Neupane Focuses on Advocacy in Medicine

A passion for helping others has shaped Taylor Ward’s path at the University of Arkansas at Little Rock, leading her to pursue careers in both health care and law enforcement. The Little Rock native will graduate in May with a double major in general biology and law enforcement — bringing together her interests in health … Purpose in Action: Taylor Ward Prepares for a Career Helping Others

For Kadeshia Cooper, the road to becoming a nurse has been anything but easy. From raising a child as a single mom to balancing long clinical hours and coursework, the North Little Rock native relied on determination and perseverance to reach this milestone. Cooper will earn her Associate of Science in Nursing from the University … Balancing Motherhood and Medicine: Kadeshia Cooper Reaches Nursing Milestone

From helping build a young program to earning top honors in the classroom, Little Rock wrestler Cael Keck will graduate summa cum laude from the University of Arkansas at Little Rock this May with a degree in business management. Keck is a six-time dean’s and chancellor’s list honoree, a 2023-24 NCAA Division I Scholar All-American, … Little Rock Wrestler Cael Keck Graduates With Honors, Plans to Give Back Through Coaching

For Brooklyn Marcee, the dream of competing as a collegiate athlete started early — and it became the foundation for a college journey defined by discipline, leadership, and determination. Marcee will graduate from the University of Arkansas at Little Rock in May with a Bachelor of Business Administration in management. Beyond leaving college with a … Clearing Every Bar: How Brooklyn Marcee Balanced Athletics, Leadership, and Business