[{"id":93877,"date":"2026-04-03T10:56:14","date_gmt":"2026-04-03T15:56:14","guid":{"rendered":"https:\/\/ualr.edu\/news\/?p=93877"},"modified":"2026-04-03T10:56:17","modified_gmt":"2026-04-03T15:56:17","slug":"ua-little-rock-alumna-expands-access-to-school-based-mental-health-in-rural-arkansas","status":"publish","type":"post","link":"https:\/\/ualr.edu\/news\/2026\/04\/03\/ua-little-rock-alumna-expands-access-to-school-based-mental-health-in-rural-arkansas\/","title":{"rendered":"UA Little Rock Alumna Expands Access to School-Based Mental Health in Rural Arkansas"},"content":{"rendered":"\nShelly Wolfe, LPC, a native of Warren, Arkansas, did not initially set out to work in education or mental health care. She earned a bachelor\u2019s degree in speech communications \u2014 a field far removed from the classroom \u2014 but life gradually pulled her in a different direction. <\/p>\n\n\n\n
After the birth of her daughter, she took her first teaching position in kindergarten, a step that would ultimately reshape her path. She later returned to school to earn a master\u2019s degree in teaching and went on to teach sixth-grade literacy. It was there, in the quiet moments when students sought her out during lunch and recess to share their struggles, that it became clear her true calling extended beyond the classroom.<\/p>\n\n\n\n
\u201cWhen I was teaching, I became more interested in the students\u2019 social well-being than academics,\u201d she said. \u201cIt became my passion to help them. Those moments made me realize how much they needed dedicated one-on-one support,\u201d she added. \u201cTime I often couldn\u2019t fully give in a classroom setting.\u201d<\/p>\n\n\n\n
That realization became the turning point. Wolfe earned a master\u2019s in counselor education from UA Little Rock, pursued additional coursework to qualify for licensure, and has been licensed by the Arkansas Board of Examiners in Counseling as a Licensed Professional Counselor (LPC) since 2015. After three years as a K-12 school counselor, she joined Mainline Health Systems in 2023 as a behavioral health consultant for the Warren School-Based Clinic. That position brought her full circle back to the community where her story began, back home in Warren.<\/p>\n\n\n\n
The instinct to connect didn\u2019t fade when she left teaching; it deepened. Her years in the classroom gave her something most counselors don\u2019t have: an insider\u2019s understanding of what teachers face every day, allowing her to hold space for those demands while helping students process their experiences, reframe difficult situations and consider new perspectives.<\/p>\n\n\n\n
Wolfe credits her time at UA Little Rock with sharpening the skills that now define her work: flexibility, real-time responsiveness and the ability to collaborate within a school system. Among those who left a lasting mark was Dr. Dawn Harris, who has since passed away. <\/p>\n\n\n\n
\u201cHer impact on my development as a counselor was profound, particularly in her group therapy course,\u201d Wolfe said. \u201cI vividly remember her sharing her experiences serving as a counselor with the Red Cross during 9\/11, which brought a powerful real-world perspective to her teaching.\u201d <\/p>\n\n\n\n
To this day, Wolfe still uses a grief counseling handout Harris provided and continues to share it with others in her work.<\/p>\n\n\n\n
What makes the school-based clinic model so powerful, particularly in rural communities like Warren, is precisely what it eliminates: the barriers that have long kept mental health care out of reach for students who need it most. Transportation, cost and a shortage of local providers have historically made consistent care nearly impossible for families in underserved areas. By embedding services directly inside the school, that equation changes entirely. Support becomes part of the daily environment rather than something families have to seek out, schedule around or afford. For Wolfe, that physical presence also means something deeper, the ability to check in frequently, respond in real time and build the kind of trusting relationships that make meaningful progress possible. Without that access, many of the students she serves would go without mental health care altogether.<\/p>\n\n\n\n
For Wolfe, the work is deeply personal and a way to give back to the community that shaped her. She measures success not only in clinical outcomes, but in quieter moments like a student gaining confidence, taking a small step forward or simply feeling safe enough to speak. Despite the emotional weight the work can carry, she remains hopeful about the future of mental health care in Arkansas, encouraged by a generation of young people more willing than ever to ask for help and support one another. <\/p>\n\n\n\n
\u201cBeing part of that shift where mental health care is becoming more visible, accepted and accessible gives me a lot of hope for the future,\u201d she said.<\/p>\n\n\n\n
To students at UA Little Rock considering a similar path, her advice is direct, the same advice she gave her own daughter, who is currently enrolled in the Clinical Mental Health program at UA Little Rock.<\/p>\n\n\n\n
\u201cThis is an incredibly rewarding path, but self-care is essential,\u201d she said. \u201cThe work can be emotionally demanding, and prioritizing your own well-being is not a luxury \u2014 it is what sustains you and helps prevent burnout over the long term. Embrace every opportunity to connect with others, learn from mentors and gain hands-on experience. Seeing the difference you can make in students\u2019 lives and in your community is a powerful reminder of why this work matters.\u201d<\/p>\n","protected":false},"excerpt":{"rendered":"
Shelly Wolfe, LPC, a native of Warren, Arkansas, did not initially set out to work in education or mental health care. She earned a bachelor\u2019s degree in speech communications \u2014 … UA Little Rock Alumna Expands Access to School-Based Mental Health in Rural Arkansas<\/span><\/a><\/p>\n","protected":false},"author":2906,"featured_media":93878,"comment_status":"closed","ping_status":"closed","sticky":false,"template":"","format":"standard","meta":{"footnotes":""},"categories":[1925,1926],"tags":[35323,36039,25167],"class_list":["post-93877","post","type-post","status-publish","format-standard","has-post-thumbnail","hentry","category-community","category-featured","tag-leaders-in-the-classroom-and-communities","tag-school-of-counseling-human-performance-and-rehabilitation","tag-school-of-nursing"],"yoast_head":"\nUA Little Rock Alumna Expands Access to School-Based Mental Health in Rural Arkansas - News - UA Little Rock<\/title>\n<meta name=\"robots\" content=\"index, follow, max-snippet:-1, max-image-preview:large, max-video-preview:-1\" \/>\n<link rel=\"canonical\" href=\"https:\/\/ualr.edu\/news\/2026\/04\/03\/ua-little-rock-alumna-expands-access-to-school-based-mental-health-in-rural-arkansas\/\" \/>\n<meta property=\"og:locale\" content=\"en_US\" \/>\n<meta property=\"og:type\" content=\"article\" \/>\n<meta property=\"og:title\" content=\"UA Little Rock Alumna Expands Access to School-Based Mental Health in Rural Arkansas\" \/>\n<meta property=\"og:description\" content=\"Shelly Wolfe, LPC, a native of Warren, Arkansas, did not initially set out to work in education or mental health care. 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Little Rock Announces 2026 Faculty Excellence Award Winners"},"content":{"rendered":"\n<p>UA Little Rock has announced the recipients of its 2026 <a href=\"https:\/\/ualr.edu\/facultyexcellence\/\">Faculty Excellence<\/a> Awards, recognizing outstanding faculty members for their contributions in teaching, research and creative works, public service, social justice, and rising faculty achievement.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>Selected from college-level honorees, this year\u2019s winners represent the highest level of achievement across the university. Winners are recognized for excellence in the classroom, advancing knowledge in their fields, and making meaningful contributions to communities across Arkansas and beyond.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>UA Little Rock annually recognizes faculty who are making a difference through their work across these areas, with the Faculty Excellence Awards representing the highest honor the university bestows on its faculty. Each year, academic colleges and the <a href=\"https:\/\/ualr.edu\/law\/\">William H. Bowen School of Law<\/a> select top faculty members in each category.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>\u201cOur faculty continue to demonstrate an extraordinary commitment to teaching, research, and service that strengthens both our university and the communities we serve,\u201d said Provost Ann Bain. \u201cThese awards reflect the depth of talent and dedication across our institution.\u201d<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>Each university-level award recipient receives a $5,000 prize, made possible through private support.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>The <a href=\"https:\/\/ualr.edu\/administration\/board-of-visitors-2\/\">UA Little Rock Board of Visitors<\/a> selects the university-wide winners from the college-level winners in each category. <\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>\u201cI want to thank the Board of Visitors again for their thoughtful continued commitment to recognizing faculty excellence,\u201d Bain said. \u201cWe appreciate their dedication and the positive feedback they consistently share about the impact of our faculty.\u201d<\/p>\n\n\n\n<h3 class=\"wp-block-heading\" id=\"h-teaching-award\"><strong>Teaching Award<\/strong><\/h3>\n\n\n\n<p><strong>Sponsored by the Bailey Foundation<\/strong><\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>Dr. Jana McAuliffe, associate professor of philosophy in the <a href=\"https:\/\/ualr.edu\/humaninquiry\/\">School of Human Inquiry<\/a> in the <a href=\"https:\/\/ualr.edu\/chasse\/\">College of Humanities, Arts, Social Sciences, and Education<\/a>, has been named the recipient of the 2026 Faculty Excellence Award in Teaching.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>McAuliffe is recognized for her engaging, student-centered approach that encourages students to develop their own intellectual voice while exploring complex philosophical ideas. She teaches across the philosophy and interdisciplinary studies curriculum, including the University Core and the <a href=\"https:\/\/ualr.edu\/donagheyscholars\/\">Donaghey Scholars Honors Program<\/a>.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>In the classroom, McAuliffe emphasizes critical discussion, collaborative exploration, and writing for diverse audiences. Her assignments challenge students to translate complex philosophical concepts into accessible formats, helping them communicate ideas beyond academic settings.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>She is also deeply committed to mentoring undergraduate research, supporting independent student projects, helping students secure Signature Experience grants, and guiding them as they present their work at academic conferences. Her impact extends beyond campus through her work as co-director of the Arkansas High School Ethics Bowl and as project director of the UA Little Rock Ethics and Philosophy Summer Academy.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>\u201cPhilosophy as a discipline is well-known for not offering one \u2018right\u2019 answer,\u201d McAuliffe said. \u201cI work hard to help my students feel comfortable enough with that to craft their right answer, and to share that with each other and with the broader world.\u201d<\/p>\n\n\n\n<h3 class=\"wp-block-heading\" id=\"h-research-and-creative-works-award\"><strong>Research and Creative Works Award<\/strong><\/h3>\n\n\n\n<p><strong>Sponsored by Jafaar Golzar <\/strong><\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>Dr. Nitin Agarwal, the Jerry L. Maulden-Entergy Endowed Chair and Donaghey Distinguished Professor of <a href=\"https:\/\/ualr.edu\/informationscience\/\">Information Science<\/a> in the <a href=\"https:\/\/ualr.edu\/cstem\/\">Donaghey College of Science, Technology, Engineering, and Mathematics<\/a>, has been named the recipient of the 2026 Faculty Excellence Award in Research and Creative Works.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>Agarwal is internationally recognized for his research in social computing, artificial intelligence, and cognitive security. Since joining UA Little Rock in 2009, he has built an interdisciplinary research program that examines how information spreads across online networks and how digital influence campaigns shape public perception.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>He founded the Collaboratorium for Social Media and Online Behavioral Studies (COSMOS), an interdisciplinary research center dedicated to understanding evolving social and cyber behaviors on modern information platforms.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>\u201cUnderstanding how digital information ecosystems influence society is one of the defining challenges of our time,\u201d Agarwal said. \u201cI\u2019m fortunate to work alongside talented students and colleagues who are committed to advancing knowledge and developing solutions that strengthen communities and institutions.\u201d<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>Over the past five years, Agarwal has secured more than $60 million in federal funding, including grants from the National Science Foundation, DARPA, and the U.S. Department of Defense, with nearly $30 million directly supporting UA Little Rock research initiatives.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>His collaborations span more than 200 researchers across 130 academic, government, and industry organizations worldwide. His work includes 12 books and more than 400 articles in top-tier journals and conferences, earning 26 best paper awards.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>Agarwal\u2019s research has also produced widely used tools for analyzing digital information ecosystems, including systems designed to identify adversarial influence campaigns and online scams. These tools are used by organizations such as NATO, the U.S. Department of Defense, and the World Health Organization. He has also been nominated to serve on the Arkansas AI task force established by Governor Sarah Sanders.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<h3 class=\"wp-block-heading\" id=\"h-public-service-award\"><strong>Public Service Award<\/strong><\/h3>\n\n\n\n<p><strong>Sponsored by Alfred Williams in Honor of Elaine Eubank<\/strong><\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>Dr. April Chatham-Carpenter, professor and chairperson of the <a href=\"https:\/\/ualr.edu\/appliedcomm\/\">Department of Applied Communication<\/a> in the College of Humanities, Arts, Social Sciences, and Education, has been named the recipient of the 2026 Faculty Excellence Award in Public Service.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>Chatham-Carpenter is recognized for applying her expertise in communication to strengthen civic dialogue and democratic engagement at the local, state, and national levels. Her work includes co-hosting the public affairs podcast <em>On the Other Hand<\/em>, which features conversations with leaders and community members about issues shaping Arkansas and the nation.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>She also serves in leadership roles with Braver Angels, a national grassroots organization focused on reducing political polarization. In that role, she facilitates workshops, contributes to statewide and national initiatives, and supports community leaders working to bridge political divides and foster more constructive dialogue.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>Chatham-Carpenter brings that work back to campus and into the community through courses, trainings, and public programs that help students, faculty, and community partners navigate conflict and engage across differences. Her outreach includes workshops with organizations such as the City of Little Rock and the Arkansas Department of Transportation.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>\u201cService allows us to translate what we study in the classroom into real-world impact,\u201d Chatham-Carpenter said. \u201cBy helping people develop the skills to engage across differences, we can contribute to healthier communities and stronger civic dialogue.\u201d<\/p>\n\n\n\n<h3 class=\"wp-block-heading\" id=\"h-social-justice-award\"><strong>Social Justice Award<\/strong><\/h3>\n\n\n\n<p><strong>Sponsored by Scott and Amy Schuh, Katherine Shoulders and an Anonymous Donor\u00a0<\/strong><\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>Professor Suzanne Penn, supervising attorney and assistant clinical professor of legal education at the William H. Bowen School of Law, has been named the recipient of the 2026 Faculty Excellence Award in Social Justice.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>Penn is recognized for her decades of work expanding access to justice for underserved Arkansans through clinical legal education and community advocacy. She directs the Delta Divorce Clinic, which provides free legal assistance to individuals seeking divorces in counties across the Arkansas Delta where access to legal services is limited.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>The clinic travels to rural communities to assist individuals who might otherwise be unable to afford legal representation or travel long distances to seek help. Through this work, Penn has helped expand access to critical legal services while addressing barriers faced by individuals in underserved regions.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>At the same time, the clinic provides law students with hands-on experience working with real clients and navigating complex legal processes. The program has assisted hundreds of Arkansans facing challenging circumstances\u2014including individuals experiencing domestic violence or financial hardship\u2014while preparing students for client-centered legal practice.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>\u201cAccess to justice is a fundamental principle of our legal system,\u201d Penn said. \u201cThe Delta Divorce Clinic provides meaningful opportunities for students to serve their communities while helping individuals navigate difficult legal situations.\u201d<\/p>\n\n\n\n<h3 class=\"wp-block-heading\" id=\"h-rising-faculty-award\"><strong>Rising Faculty Award<\/strong><\/h3>\n\n\n\n<p><strong>Sponsored by Scott Bowen<\/strong><\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>Dr. Kent Kovacs, associate professor in the <a href=\"https:\/\/ualr.edu\/business\/department-aef\/\">Department of Accounting, Economics, and Finance<\/a> in the <a href=\"https:\/\/ualr.edu\/cbhhs\/\">College of Business, Health, and Human Services<\/a>, has been named the recipient of the 2026 Rising Faculty Award.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>Kovacs is recognized for his strong early impact in research, teaching, and service since joining UA Little Rock in 2024. His work focuses on environmental and resource economics, with particular emphasis on groundwater sustainability, agricultural resilience, and ecosystem services.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>He has maintained an active research agenda, publishing in academic journals and securing external funding, including a National Science Foundation award as principal investigator and support from the Arkansas Soybean Promotion Board. His research examines the economic incentives shaping producer and household decision-making, with issues directly relevant to Arkansas and the broader Mississippi Delta region.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>In the classroom, Kovacs teaches courses including Macroeconomic Principles, Quantitative Business Analysis, and Environmental Economics, where he connects theory to real-world policy problems through active learning, data-driven exercises, and applied case studies. He has also supported student research and helped revive Environmental Economics as an upper-level elective.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>\u201cEconomics offers powerful tools for understanding and addressing complex environmental and policy challenges,\u201d Kovacs said. \u201cI\u2019m grateful for the opportunity to bring that work into the classroom and to build research and teaching connections that strengthen UA Little Rock\u2019s impact.\u201d<\/p>\n","protected":false},"excerpt":{"rendered":"<p>UA Little Rock has announced the recipients of its 2026 Faculty Excellence Awards, recognizing outstanding faculty members for their contributions in teaching, research and creative works, public service, social justice, <a href=\"https:\/\/ualr.edu\/news\/2026\/04\/03\/ua-little-rock-announces-2026-faculty-excellence-award-winners\/\" class=\"more-link\">…<span class=\"screen-reader-text\"> UA Little Rock Announces 2026 Faculty Excellence Award Winners<\/span><\/a><\/p>\n","protected":false},"author":1,"featured_media":93875,"comment_status":"closed","ping_status":"closed","sticky":false,"template":"","format":"standard","meta":{"footnotes":""},"categories":[1925,1926],"tags":[3449,2624,4133,28370,28389,25799,3428,147,35323,2687,33843,535],"class_list":["post-93874","post","type-post","status-publish","format-standard","has-post-thumbnail","hentry","category-community","category-featured","tag-accounting","tag-applied-communication","tag-april-chatham-carpenter","tag-college-of-business-health-and-human-services","tag-college-of-humanities-arts-social-sciences-and-education-chasse","tag-donaghey-college-of-stem","tag-faculty-excellence","tag-information-science","tag-leaders-in-the-classroom-and-communities","tag-nitin-agarwal","tag-school-of-human-inquiry","tag-william-h-bowen-school-of-law"],"yoast_head":"<!-- This site is optimized with the Yoast SEO Premium plugin v27.2 (Yoast SEO v27.2) - https:\/\/yoast.com\/product\/yoast-seo-premium-wordpress\/ -->\n<title>UA Little Rock Announces 2026 Faculty Excellence Award Winners - News - UA Little Rock<\/title>\n<meta name=\"robots\" content=\"index, follow, max-snippet:-1, max-image-preview:large, max-video-preview:-1\" \/>\n<link rel=\"canonical\" href=\"https:\/\/ualr.edu\/news\/2026\/04\/03\/ua-little-rock-announces-2026-faculty-excellence-award-winners\/\" \/>\n<meta property=\"og:locale\" content=\"en_US\" \/>\n<meta property=\"og:type\" content=\"article\" \/>\n<meta property=\"og:title\" content=\"UA Little Rock Announces 2026 Faculty Excellence Award Winners\" \/>\n<meta property=\"og:description\" content=\"UA Little Rock has announced the recipients of its 2026 Faculty Excellence Awards, recognizing outstanding faculty members for their contributions in teaching, research and creative works, public service, social justice, ... 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Honorees include April Chatham-Carpenter, Jana McAuliffe, Nitin Agarwal, Suzanne Penn, and Kent Kovacs."},{"@type":"BreadcrumbList","@id":"https:\/\/ualr.edu\/news\/2026\/04\/03\/ua-little-rock-announces-2026-faculty-excellence-award-winners\/#breadcrumb","itemListElement":[{"@type":"ListItem","position":1,"name":"Home","item":"https:\/\/ualr.edu\/news\/"},{"@type":"ListItem","position":2,"name":"UA Little Rock Announces 2026 Faculty Excellence Award Winners"}]},{"@type":"WebSite","@id":"https:\/\/ualr.edu\/news\/#website","url":"https:\/\/ualr.edu\/news\/","name":"News","description":"UA Little 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UA Little Rock to The New York Times: How Erica Sweeney Built a National Writing Career"},"content":{"rendered":"\n<p>There\u2019s no secret handshake or code word to break into your dream career, just persistence, hard work, and a commitment to doing the job well.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>For UA Little Rock alumna Erica Sweeney, that mindset has led to a prolific writing career with bylines in <em>The New York Times<\/em>, <em>The Washington Post<\/em>, <em>TIME<\/em>, <em>Business Insider<\/em>, and many more national publications.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>But her path to journalism was not always clear.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>\u201cI\u2019ve enjoyed reading and writing ever since I can remember,\u201d Sweeney said. \u201cIn high school, I started considering writing as a career, but I didn\u2019t get any encouragement until I got to UA Little Rock.\u201d<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>It was in a freshman writing class that someone first recognized her talent.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>\u201cThe first person to ever tell me I was a good writer was my instructor,\u201d she said. \u201cThat stuck with me.\u201d<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>Later, a conversation with her father pointed her toward journalism.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>\u201cI remember looking through the old paper course catalog with my dad,\u201d she said. \u201cHe saw the journalism major and said, \u2018You could work at the newspaper.\u2019 I thought it sounded like a cool job.\u201d<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>That decision set her on a new path.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>Sweeney began her college career undecided, but once she entered the journalism program, she found her footing.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>\u201cI started really learning the craft once I got into the journalism program,\u201d she said. \u201cI wrote for <a href=\"https:\/\/ualr.edu\/forum\/\">The Forum<\/a>, UA Little Rock\u2019s student newspaper, and seeing my byline in print for the first time was so exciting. It still is.\u201d<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>She points to former professors Sonny Rhodes, Bruce Plopper, and Frank Fellone as key influences during her time at UA Little Rock.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>In a feature writing class, she developed a strong foundation in storytelling, learning how to structure stories, craft strong ledes, and use quotes effectively.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>Her coursework also emphasized research and critical thinking. One exercise, known as \u201ccosmic questions,\u201d encouraged deeper inquiry and is something she still uses today.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>In a news writing class, she grew more confident as a reporter and pushed past her natural shyness.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>\u201cThat class really forced me to move past that and develop a thick skin,\u201d she said.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>That resilience has served her well in a competitive industry.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>\u201cIt\u2019s always great to see a UA Little Rock journalism student succeed, especially as a freelancer,\u201d Fellone said. \u201cIt\u2019s a tough business, and Erica\u2019s list of publications is impressive.\u201d<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>Today, Sweeney\u2019s work appears in some of the most recognizable publications in the country, like <em>The New York Times<\/em>, <em>The Washington Post<\/em>, and <em>TIME<\/em>, but breaking into those outlets took time.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>\u201cPeople think there\u2019s a secret handshake,\u201d she said. \u201cBut it\u2019s really just about pitching ideas.\u201d<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>For years, she pitched story ideas to editors, often facing rejection, but she kept going.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>In 2019, she finally broke into <em>The New York Times<\/em> and has been writing for the publication ever since.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>\u201cI just kept pitching,\u201d she said. \u201cOnce I got my foot in the door, I focused on doing a really good job and building relationships.\u201d<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>That focus paid off. Today, she has regular bylines in <em>The New York Times<\/em> and contributes to about a dozen other publications, many of which she has worked with for years.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>\u201cA lot of my work now comes from editors reaching out to me,\u201d she said. \u201cI try to make their lives easier by filing on time, sending clean copy, and pitching strong ideas.\u201d<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>Sweeney always wanted to write about health and wellness, but she didn\u2019t start there. When she began freelancing in 2016, she pitched whatever ideas she could.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>Her entry into health journalism came in 2018 after connecting with an editor at HuffPost, where she began writing about food, nutrition, and trends.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>\u201cThat helped me build clips in health and wellness,\u201d she said. \u201cI still write for that editor today.\u201d<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>Now, much of her work focuses on health, healthcare, and wellness, along with business and lifestyle topics. Her stories often explore emerging trends, new research, and timely issues.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>\u201cI love learning new things or finding different angles on familiar topics,\u201d she said.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>That curiosity has been one of her biggest influences as a writer.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>\u201cI read a lot, including books, magazines, and newspapers. I listen to public radio and watch documentaries,\u201d she said. \u201cWhen I read, I pay attention to structure and word choice. It makes you a better writer.\u201d<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>As her career has evolved, so has her freelancing approach.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>One of the biggest lessons she has learned is the importance of building strong relationships with editors.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>\u201cI didn\u2019t realize early on how important that was,\u201d she said. \u201cNow it\u2019s a huge part of my work.\u201d<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>She has also embraced new challenges, including fast-paced, deadline-driven assignments.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>\u201cI used to be afraid of quick turnaround work,\u201d she said. \u201cNow I actually enjoy it.\u201d<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>For students interested in journalism or freelance writing, Sweeney emphasizes persistence, along with the ability to develop strong ideas, meet deadlines, and find reliable sources.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>She also encourages students to think beyond writing and develop business skills, especially if they plan to freelance.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>\u201cYou have to manage everything yourself, including your schedule, your income, and your marketing,\u201d she said.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>Her most important advice is to keep writing and not let rejection define your path.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>\u201cKeep writing. Get published wherever you can. Learn how to pitch,\u201d she said. \u201cAnd don\u2019t be afraid. You\u2019ll get rejected. I still do. You just have to move on.\u201d<\/p>\n","protected":false},"excerpt":{"rendered":"<p>There\u2019s no secret handshake or code word to break into your dream career, just persistence, hard work, and a commitment to doing the job well. For UA Little Rock alumna <a href=\"https:\/\/ualr.edu\/news\/2026\/04\/03\/from-ua-little-rock-to-the-new-york-times-how-erica-sweeney-built-a-national-writing-career\/\" class=\"more-link\">…<span class=\"screen-reader-text\"> From UA Little Rock to The New York Times: How Erica Sweeney Built a National Writing Career<\/span><\/a><\/p>\n","protected":false},"author":2036,"featured_media":93873,"comment_status":"closed","ping_status":"closed","sticky":false,"template":"","format":"standard","meta":{"footnotes":""},"categories":[1925,1926],"tags":[35323,171,2218],"class_list":["post-93870","post","type-post","status-publish","format-standard","has-post-thumbnail","hentry","category-community","category-featured","tag-leaders-in-the-classroom-and-communities","tag-school-of-mass-communication","tag-student-success"],"yoast_head":"<!-- This site is optimized with the Yoast SEO Premium plugin v27.2 (Yoast SEO v27.2) - https:\/\/yoast.com\/product\/yoast-seo-premium-wordpress\/ -->\n<title>From UA Little Rock to The New York Times: How Erica Sweeney Built a National Writing Career - News - UA Little Rock<\/title>\n<meta name=\"robots\" content=\"index, follow, max-snippet:-1, max-image-preview:large, max-video-preview:-1\" \/>\n<link rel=\"canonical\" href=\"https:\/\/ualr.edu\/news\/2026\/04\/03\/from-ua-little-rock-to-the-new-york-times-how-erica-sweeney-built-a-national-writing-career\/\" \/>\n<meta property=\"og:locale\" content=\"en_US\" \/>\n<meta property=\"og:type\" content=\"article\" \/>\n<meta property=\"og:title\" content=\"From UA Little Rock to The New York Times: How Erica Sweeney Built a National Writing Career\" \/>\n<meta property=\"og:description\" content=\"There\u2019s no secret handshake or code word to break into your dream career, just persistence, hard work, and a commitment to doing the job well. 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Little Rock Doctoral Student Named NSBE 25 Under 25 Awardee"},"content":{"rendered":"\n<p>A University of Arkansas at Little Rock doctoral student is using artificial intelligence to reimagine what\u2019s possible for people with limb loss \u2014 and earning national recognition along the way.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>Ayorinde Alase has been named a National Society of Black Engineers 25 Under 25 awardee.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>The recognition is a national honor awarded to exceptional students and young professionals who have demonstrated measurable impact, exemplary leadership and sustained excellence across STEM disciplines. It recognizes individuals who are achieving academically and professionally while also contributing to innovation, research, entrepreneurship, and community advancement.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>Alase said he was surprised and needed a moment for the recognition to sink in.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>\u201cI felt deeply grateful. It made me reflect on the journey, the work I\u2019ve put in, and the people who have supported me along the way,\u201d he said. \u201cMore than anything, it reminded me that all I need to do is stay consistent and keep putting in the work, and with God\u2019s grace, it will always yield fruit.\u201d<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>He said being named a 2026 NSBE 25 Under 25 awardee means a lot to him.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>\u201cIt reflects the impact I\u2019ve been able to have beyond myself,\u201d Alasa said. \u201cIt\u2019s about exposing people to opportunities they may not have seen before, helping those around me grow, and inspiring others to push further than they thought possible. For me, it\u2019s a reminder that the work I do should always open doors for others.\u201d<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>Alase, from Ogun, Nigeria, is a Ph.D. student studying electrical and computer engineering. He also serves as president of <a href=\"https:\/\/nsbe.org\/chapter\/university-of-arkansas-little-rock\/\">UA Little Rock\u2019s student chapter of the National Society of Black Engineers<\/a>.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>He was inspired to pursue electrical and computer engineering through a personal experience growing up in Nigeria. His gym coach, who competed at an Olympic level, lost his limbs in an accident, bringing his career to an abrupt end.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>\u201cIn that moment, it felt like he lost more than just his legs; he lost a part of his identity and the life he had built. I could see it in his eyes every time he spoke about it,\u201d Alasa said.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>\u201cThat stayed with me. It made me question why the loss of a limb should mean the end of someone\u2019s dreams or purpose. Today, that question drives my work.\u201d<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>Alase is researching AI-powered prosthetics.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>\u201cI\u2019m working toward a future where people don\u2019t just adapt to loss, but regain movement, independence, and the ability to redefine what\u2019s possible for their lives,\u201d he said.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>Alase is passionate about helping others, which carries into his work as president of NSBE at UA Little Rock. He said the recognition reflects his efforts in leadership, research, and community impact. He connects fellow students with professional opportunities at companies such as Microsoft and Walmart while equipping them with the tools to succeed.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>Outside of his work with the UA Little Rock chapter of NSBE, he mentors high school and college students in using AI to address challenges such as mental health, with a focus on expanding access and awareness.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>Alase said his experience at UA Little Rock has been transformative.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>\u201cIt\u2019s an environment that truly supports student initiative, and that allowed me to step into leadership, build impactful programs, and create opportunities for others through NSBE,\u201d he said.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>He said mentorship has had the biggest impact, citing faculty members such as Dr. David Montague, Dr. Kamran Iqbal, and Dr. Abdel Elfikky.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>\u201cThey didn\u2019t just guide me academically; they pushed me to think bigger, to lead with purpose, and to focus on impact beyond myself,\u201d he said. \u201cUA Little Rock didn\u2019t just shape my journey \u2014 it challenged me to turn vision into action and to use everything I\u2019ve learned to uplift others along the way.\u201d<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>Dr. David Montague said that Alase is one of the most outstanding students he has worked with in his more than 20 years at UA Little Rock.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>\u201cAyo is an exceptional leader for NSBE,\u201d Montague said. \u201cHe was recently recognized at the NSBE National Conference, where he delivered an inspiring speech highlighting the mentorship he has received from faculty and staff at UA Little Rock in front of approximately 8,000 attendees.\u201d<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>At the conference, Ayo also helped organize a team of NSBE chapter officers to lead a group of 18 UA Little Rock students \u2014 ranging from undergraduate to Ph.D. candidates \u2014 to Baltimore, Maryland. While there, they participated in conference panels and interviewed for job opportunities.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>\u201cAs a result of his efforts, Ayo also secured a prestigious internship in Chicago for this summer,\u201d Montague added. \u201cHe is a great example of the hard work and dedication exemplified by so many UA Little Rock students.\u201d<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>After graduation, Alase plans to continue advancing his work in AI and intelligent systems, focusing on technologies that create meaningful, real-world impact in both the United States and Nigeria.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>\u201cLong term, I aspire to become a research scientist in an AI-human mobility company, where I can help shape the direction of innovation and contribute to solving complex, human-centered challenges,\u201d he said.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>Alase is also committed to giving back through mentorship, community engagement, and creating pathways for others to access opportunities in STEM.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>\u201cFor me, success is not just about advancing research, but about using it to empower people, create access, and expand what\u2019s possible for future generations,\u201d he said.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>His advice to fellow UA Little Rock students is to stay consistent, even when no one is watching.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>\u201cBe intentional about growth \u2014 seek out opportunities, build meaningful relationships, and don\u2019t be afraid to step into rooms that challenge you. Most importantly, don\u2019t limit yourself to what feels comfortable. The impact you\u2019re capable of creating is far greater than you think. If you trust God, stay committed to your purpose, put in the work, and trust the process, the results will come,\u201d He said.<\/p>\n","protected":false},"excerpt":{"rendered":"<p>A University of Arkansas at Little Rock doctoral student is using artificial intelligence to reimagine what\u2019s possible for people with limb loss \u2014 and earning national recognition along the way. <a href=\"https:\/\/ualr.edu\/news\/2026\/04\/02\/ua-little-rock-doctoral-student-named-nsbe-25-under-25-awardee\/\" class=\"more-link\">…<span class=\"screen-reader-text\"> UA Little Rock Doctoral Student Named NSBE 25 Under 25 Awardee<\/span><\/a><\/p>\n","protected":false},"author":26,"featured_media":93868,"comment_status":"closed","ping_status":"closed","sticky":false,"template":"","format":"standard","meta":{"footnotes":""},"categories":[1],"tags":[25799,35323,2218],"class_list":["post-93866","post","type-post","status-publish","format-standard","has-post-thumbnail","hentry","category-uncategorized","tag-donaghey-college-of-stem","tag-leaders-in-the-classroom-and-communities","tag-student-success"],"yoast_head":"<!-- This site is optimized with the Yoast SEO Premium plugin v27.2 (Yoast SEO v27.2) - https:\/\/yoast.com\/product\/yoast-seo-premium-wordpress\/ -->\n<title>UA Little Rock Doctoral Student Named NSBE 25 Under 25 Awardee - News - UA Little Rock<\/title>\n<meta name=\"robots\" content=\"index, follow, max-snippet:-1, max-image-preview:large, max-video-preview:-1\" \/>\n<link rel=\"canonical\" href=\"https:\/\/ualr.edu\/news\/2026\/04\/02\/ua-little-rock-doctoral-student-named-nsbe-25-under-25-awardee\/\" \/>\n<meta property=\"og:locale\" content=\"en_US\" \/>\n<meta property=\"og:type\" content=\"article\" \/>\n<meta property=\"og:title\" content=\"UA Little Rock Doctoral Student Named NSBE 25 Under 25 Awardee\" \/>\n<meta property=\"og:description\" content=\"A University of Arkansas at Little Rock doctoral student is using artificial intelligence to reimagine what\u2019s possible for people with limb loss \u2014 and earning national recognition along the way. ... 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Investment To Enhance Student Experience at UA Little Rock"},"content":{"rendered":"\n<p>More than five years ago, UA Little Rock alumnus Larry Golden and his wife Debbie first heard Chancellor Drale talk about strengthening the campus living and learning environment \u2014 the spaces and experiences that shape student life beyond the classroom, where students gather, recreate, and build community.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>For Golden, the concept resonated as a powerful vision for the campus. And then the Trojan Way was completed, and it was a shining example of what could be possible when everyone comes together around the Chancellor\u2019s vision. <\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>\u201cA university experience isn\u2019t just about earning a degree,\u201d Golden said. \u201cStudents are also asking: Where will I live? Where will I eat? Where will I spend time with friends and make new friends that may last a lifetime? Where can I recreate? All of that is part of the living and learning environment.\u201d<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>This idea was part of a broader vision championed by Chancellor Christina S. Drale to strengthen the environments that support recruitment, retention, and the overall student experience at UA Little Rock.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>Golden said he saw that vision as both practical and powerful.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>\u201cMy respect for the Chancellor is boundless,\u201d he said. \u201cShe set a vision for strengthening the living and learning environment and has stayed true to it. When leadership sets a clear direction like that, it creates opportunities for others to step forward and help.\u201d<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>As a former Trojan swimmer and current member of the university\u2019s Board of Visitors, Golden knew firsthand how much campus spaces shape the student experience. Some of his most meaningful moments as a student happened outside the classroom \u2014 in the pool, in shared campus spaces, and through the lifelong friendships built there.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>That perspective led him to look closely at areas of campus that needed attention.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>\u201cWe talked about taking care of what we already have,\u201d Golden said. \u201cWhen you are able to take care of the spaces students use every day, the experience improves immediately.\u201d<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>Golden saw opportunities in two places that reflected both his own experience as a student-athlete and the spaces that now shape student life on campus, the university\u2019s swimming facilities and the Donaghey Student Center.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>While the Donaghey Student Center was built after Golden\u2019s time as a student, he said the facility represents exactly the kind of space envisioned in the university\u2019s focus on strengthening the living and learning environment.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>\u201cStudents today need places where they can connect, recharge, and build community,\u201d Golden said. \u201cThe Donaghey Student Center plays a big role in that experience.\u201d<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>At the same time, the university\u2019s pool has long served as both a training facility for student-athletes and an important resource for the broader community.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>Larry and Debbie Golden committed $95,000 to improvements in those spaces, supporting upgrades to locker rooms in the Donaghey Student Center, improvements to gym lighting, and new equipment and technology for the swimming facilities. They also recognized that strengthening these spaces would require broader support from the Trojan community.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>\u201cWhen I realized we had an opportunity to align an interest area of our family, with the broader vision of the Chancellor, I knew this could be special,\u201d Golden said. \u201cI called some friends in the swimming community, and they were all in. They were ready to help, and everybody played a role.\u201d<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>One of those supporters was Joe Lansden, vice president of construction at Baldwin & Shell Construction Company, who helped bring both professional expertise and community commitment to the effort. He worked closely with university leadership and staff, including Vice Chancellor Dr. Cody Decker and his team, along with Dr. Richard Harper, Rudolfo Morales, Karl Lenser, Tom Genz, and Leslie Hutchins. Their guidance and support helped bring the project to life and ensured the improvements aligned with the university\u2019s broader vision for the living and learning environment.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>Among those who also stepped forward were alumni Mark and Michele Booth, former members of the Trojan swimming program who helped rally additional support from fellow swimmers and supporters. <\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>\u201cWhen Larry shared the vision of the upgrades for the pool, we saw that it was something greatly needed,\u201d Michele Booth said. \u201cWe believe it will be beneficial for recruiting and building a strong team. When students walk into those spaces, we hope they feel a sense of pride, a feeling of support from alumni and a future commitment to the university. We feel that UA Little Rock was part of the foundation for our success, and giving back is a way to help others have that same experience.\u201d<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>Their involvement was part of a broader response from the swimming community, including current and former members of the Arkansas Dolphins program and others who regularly use the facility. Many offered ideas, encouragement, and financial support to help move the effort forward. Together with university support and contributions from alumni and community partners, the effort resulted in nearly $450,000 in improvements benefiting students and campus users.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>University leaders say the improvements reflect the broader effort underway to strengthen the living and learning environment across campus.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>\u201cWe are continuing to strengthen the living and learning environment across campus,\u201d said Chancellor Christina S. Drale. \u201cWe are building real momentum around improving the environments where students spend their time. Spaces like the Donaghey Student Center play an important role in how students connect, recharge, and build community. Investments like Larry\u2019s make a meaningful difference in the daily lives of our students.\u201d<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>Golden said supporting these improvements was his way of helping bring the university\u2019s broader vision for the living and learning environment to life.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>\u201cI\u2019m grateful for the collaboration that made this possible \u2014 from Chancellor Drale and university leadership to the alumni and community members who stepped forward to support it,\u201d he said. \u201cThis was really about aligning around a shared vision and doing our part to make the student experience even stronger.\u201d<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>To learn more about UA Little Rock\u2019s Centennial Campaign and how supporters are strengthening student experiences, visit <a href=\"https:\/\/ualr.edu\/centennial\/\">ualr.edu\/centennial<\/a>.<\/p>\n","protected":false},"excerpt":{"rendered":"<p>More than five years ago, UA Little Rock alumnus Larry Golden and his wife Debbie first heard Chancellor Drale talk about strengthening the campus living and learning environment \u2014 the <a href=\"https:\/\/ualr.edu\/news\/2026\/04\/02\/alumni-investment-to-enhance-student-experience-at-ua-little-rock\/\" class=\"more-link\">…<span class=\"screen-reader-text\"> Alumni Investment To Enhance Student Experience at UA Little Rock<\/span><\/a><\/p>\n","protected":false},"author":1,"featured_media":93864,"comment_status":"closed","ping_status":"closed","sticky":false,"template":"","format":"standard","meta":{"footnotes":""},"categories":[1923,1925,1926],"tags":[112,33343,35323],"class_list":["post-93863","post","type-post","status-publish","format-standard","has-post-thumbnail","hentry","category-arts-culture","category-community","category-featured","tag-alumni-association","tag-centennial-campaign","tag-leaders-in-the-classroom-and-communities"],"yoast_head":"<!-- This site is optimized with the Yoast SEO Premium plugin v27.2 (Yoast SEO v27.2) - https:\/\/yoast.com\/product\/yoast-seo-premium-wordpress\/ -->\n<title>Alumni Investment To Enhance Student Experience at UA Little Rock - News - UA Little Rock<\/title>\n<meta name=\"robots\" content=\"index, follow, max-snippet:-1, max-image-preview:large, max-video-preview:-1\" \/>\n<link rel=\"canonical\" href=\"https:\/\/ualr.edu\/news\/2026\/04\/02\/alumni-investment-to-enhance-student-experience-at-ua-little-rock\/\" \/>\n<meta property=\"og:locale\" content=\"en_US\" \/>\n<meta property=\"og:type\" content=\"article\" \/>\n<meta property=\"og:title\" content=\"Alumni Investment To Enhance Student Experience at UA Little Rock\" \/>\n<meta property=\"og:description\" content=\"More than five years ago, UA Little Rock alumnus Larry Golden and his wife Debbie first heard Chancellor Drale talk about strengthening the campus living and learning environment \u2014 the ... Alumni Investment To Enhance Student Experience at UA Little Rock\" \/>\n<meta property=\"og:url\" content=\"https:\/\/ualr.edu\/news\/2026\/04\/02\/alumni-investment-to-enhance-student-experience-at-ua-little-rock\/\" \/>\n<meta property=\"og:site_name\" content=\"News\" \/>\n<meta property=\"article:publisher\" content=\"https:\/\/www.facebook.com\/UALittleRock\/\" \/>\n<meta property=\"article:published_time\" content=\"2026-04-02T13:47:19+00:00\" \/>\n<meta property=\"article:modified_time\" content=\"2026-04-02T13:47:21+00:00\" \/>\n<meta property=\"og:image\" content=\"https:\/\/ualr.edu\/news\/wp-content\/uploads\/sites\/240\/2026\/04\/Golden-donor-pool-portrait-2026_113.jpg\" \/>\n\t<meta property=\"og:image:width\" content=\"1200\" \/>\n\t<meta property=\"og:image:height\" content=\"804\" \/>\n\t<meta property=\"og:image:type\" content=\"image\/jpeg\" \/>\n<meta name=\"author\" content=\"UA Little Rock\" \/>\n<meta name=\"twitter:card\" content=\"summary_large_image\" \/>\n<meta name=\"twitter:label1\" content=\"Written by\" \/>\n\t<meta name=\"twitter:data1\" content=\"UA Little Rock\" \/>\n\t<meta name=\"twitter:label2\" content=\"Est. reading time\" \/>\n\t<meta name=\"twitter:data2\" content=\"1 minute\" \/>\n<script type=\"application\/ld+json\" class=\"yoast-schema-graph\">{\"@context\":\"https:\/\/schema.org\",\"@graph\":[{\"@type\":\"Article\",\"@id\":\"https:\/\/ualr.edu\/news\/2026\/04\/02\/alumni-investment-to-enhance-student-experience-at-ua-little-rock\/#article\",\"isPartOf\":{\"@id\":\"https:\/\/ualr.edu\/news\/2026\/04\/02\/alumni-investment-to-enhance-student-experience-at-ua-little-rock\/\"},\"author\":{\"name\":\"UA Little Rock\",\"@id\":\"https:\/\/ualr.edu\/news\/#\/schema\/person\/841beab92c4de6b8988cb3708c29b192\"},\"headline\":\"Alumni Investment To Enhance Student Experience at UA Little Rock\",\"datePublished\":\"2026-04-02T13:47:19+00:00\",\"dateModified\":\"2026-04-02T13:47:21+00:00\",\"mainEntityOfPage\":{\"@id\":\"https:\/\/ualr.edu\/news\/2026\/04\/02\/alumni-investment-to-enhance-student-experience-at-ua-little-rock\/\"},\"wordCount\":1009,\"publisher\":{\"@id\":\"https:\/\/ualr.edu\/news\/#organization\"},\"image\":{\"@id\":\"https:\/\/ualr.edu\/news\/2026\/04\/02\/alumni-investment-to-enhance-student-experience-at-ua-little-rock\/#primaryimage\"},\"thumbnailUrl\":\"https:\/\/ualr.edu\/news\/wp-content\/uploads\/sites\/240\/2026\/04\/Golden-donor-pool-portrait-2026_113.jpg\",\"keywords\":[\"Alumni Association\",\"Centennial Campaign\",\"Leaders in the Classroom and Communities\"],\"articleSection\":[\"Arts & Culture\",\"Community\",\"Featured\"],\"inLanguage\":\"en-US\"},{\"@type\":\"WebPage\",\"@id\":\"https:\/\/ualr.edu\/news\/2026\/04\/02\/alumni-investment-to-enhance-student-experience-at-ua-little-rock\/\",\"url\":\"https:\/\/ualr.edu\/news\/2026\/04\/02\/alumni-investment-to-enhance-student-experience-at-ua-little-rock\/\",\"name\":\"Alumni Investment To Enhance Student Experience at UA Little Rock - News - UA Little Rock\",\"isPartOf\":{\"@id\":\"https:\/\/ualr.edu\/news\/#website\"},\"primaryImageOfPage\":{\"@id\":\"https:\/\/ualr.edu\/news\/2026\/04\/02\/alumni-investment-to-enhance-student-experience-at-ua-little-rock\/#primaryimage\"},\"image\":{\"@id\":\"https:\/\/ualr.edu\/news\/2026\/04\/02\/alumni-investment-to-enhance-student-experience-at-ua-little-rock\/#primaryimage\"},\"thumbnailUrl\":\"https:\/\/ualr.edu\/news\/wp-content\/uploads\/sites\/240\/2026\/04\/Golden-donor-pool-portrait-2026_113.jpg\",\"datePublished\":\"2026-04-02T13:47:19+00:00\",\"dateModified\":\"2026-04-02T13:47:21+00:00\",\"breadcrumb\":{\"@id\":\"https:\/\/ualr.edu\/news\/2026\/04\/02\/alumni-investment-to-enhance-student-experience-at-ua-little-rock\/#breadcrumb\"},\"inLanguage\":\"en-US\",\"potentialAction\":[{\"@type\":\"ReadAction\",\"target\":[\"https:\/\/ualr.edu\/news\/2026\/04\/02\/alumni-investment-to-enhance-student-experience-at-ua-little-rock\/\"]}]},{\"@type\":\"ImageObject\",\"inLanguage\":\"en-US\",\"@id\":\"https:\/\/ualr.edu\/news\/2026\/04\/02\/alumni-investment-to-enhance-student-experience-at-ua-little-rock\/#primaryimage\",\"url\":\"https:\/\/ualr.edu\/news\/wp-content\/uploads\/sites\/240\/2026\/04\/Golden-donor-pool-portrait-2026_113.jpg\",\"contentUrl\":\"https:\/\/ualr.edu\/news\/wp-content\/uploads\/sites\/240\/2026\/04\/Golden-donor-pool-portrait-2026_113.jpg\",\"width\":1200,\"height\":804,\"caption\":\"Alumni and former UA Little Rock swimmer, Larry Golden and his wife Debbie, are helping raise money for a half-million dollars in upgrades to the Donaghey Recreation Center and Aquatics Center. 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One evening, after arriving for a shift at a catfish house in Bee Branch, Arkansas, his boss, a woman named Rosemary, pulled him aside. The 81-year-old encouraged him to consider a career in nursing.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>\u201cShe told me, \u2018Justin, you can\u2019t work for me forever. I\u2019m either going to pass away or close this place in the coming year. You need to find a permanent career. My daughter has been a nurse for 35 years, and I think you would make a great nurse,\u2019\u201d Hicks said.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>It was simple, direct advice, and it stuck.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>Not long after, Hicks took her advice and decided to pursue a career in nursing. Around the same time, his family asked if he would move in with his grandmother, also named Rosemary, and help care for her as her health declined. What began as a practical decision soon became his first real caregiving experience.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>\u201cMy grandma contributed more to my nursing education than I realized at the time,\u201d he said. \u201cI learned patience. I learned how to stay positive. I learned how to really be present with someone.\u201d<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>He spent nights sitting with her, watching television, talking, and simply being there. Those moments shaped how he would later care for patients.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>When she passed away in 2022, Hicks was at work as the charge nurse on 8 East, the behavioral health unit at CHI St. Vincent Infirmary. It was Super Bowl Sunday.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>In the middle of that shift, his father called to tell him his grandmother was gone. As he tried to process the news, he looked up and saw a familiar face in the unit, a veteran nurse he trusted and looked to as a mentor.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>In that moment, Hicks saw it as his grandmother\u2019s way of reminding him he had made the right decision and that he was surrounded by the right people.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>\u201cThe best way you can honor someone is to make something of your life, work hard, love people, and be good to others,\u201d he said.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>That perspective carried with him into his time at UA Little Rock.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>He chose the university not only for its nursing program, but because of what it meant to his family.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>\u201cMy dad attended UA Little Rock but didn\u2019t finish his degree because he was raising a family,\u201d Hicks said. \u201cHe\u2019s always taken care of me and set a great example. I wanted to honor him by finishing what he started.\u201d<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>Hicks enrolled in the accelerated <a href=\"https:\/\/ualr.edu\/nursing\/\">nursing program<\/a> and completed his degree in just 18 months. The pace was intense and required discipline from the start.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>\u201cIt really taught me time management and how to prioritize,\u201d he said. \u201cI also learned how to work with people who had different personalities, work ethics, and strengths.\u201d<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>Midway through his program, the COVID-19 pandemic shifted much of his education online.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>\u201cHalf of my education was virtual,\u201d he said. \u201cIt forced me to adapt and improvise, and those are things I still rely on every day.\u201d<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>Today, Hicks serves as nursing manager for Adult Behavioral Health at CHI St. Vincent Infirmary in Little Rock. He oversees a unit that can care for up to 52 patients and leads a team of around 100 employees, often operating at capacity.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>His path to that role began at the bedside at St. Vincent, where he interned while still in nursing school. It was the only place he interviewed, and he didn\u2019t feel the need to look elsewhere.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>\u201cI wanted to give back and work for them after graduation,\u201d he said.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>He began as a floor nurse in behavioral health and moved through several roles, including charge nurse and utilization review, before stepping into leadership. In March 2026, he became nursing manager.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>Along the way, he credits mentors like Judy Staley, assistant professor of nursing and director of the Center for Simulation Innovation, who helped guide his growth and opened doors for him.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>\u201cThey showed me how to be a professional, how to work hard, and how to truly care about people,\u201d he said.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>Staley said Hicks is a \u201cphenomenal\u201d mental health nurse. <\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>\u201cI had the opportunity to work directly with him in mental health simulation, and he has significantly influenced my growth as both an educator and a nurse,\u201d Staley said. \u201cHe brings an inspiring presence to his interactions with students and has a unique ability to translate complex situations into meaningful learning experiences. His passion and dedication to the profession truly exemplify what nursing is all about.\u201d <\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>Behavioral health, in particular, is deeply personal for Hicks. In 2005, he lost his brother to suicide.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>\u201cIt rattled my family to our core,\u201d he said. \u201cIt\u2019s a permanent hole that\u2019s caused so much heartache and a lot of unanswered questions.\u201d<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>That experience continues to shape how he understands the work.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>\u201cI think nearly all of us encounter some form of mental health struggle at some point in our lives, just like we all deal with physical health issues,\u201d he said. \u201cThe severity may look different, but it affects everyone in some way.\u201d<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>He also knows how difficult it can be for people to express what they\u2019re going through.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>\u201cIn many cases, people aren\u2019t able to fully articulate what\u2019s happening or how serious it\u2019s become until a lot of damage has already been done,\u201d he said.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>That loss continues to guide how Hicks approaches his work.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>\u201cI think if people took an honest look at their own mental health and had meaningful conversations with the people around them, they\u2019d start to see just how common and how serious these issues really are,\u201d he said.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>Even with the demands of his role, Hicks has stayed connected to the UA Little Rock nursing program. For several years, he returned to help with simulation training, working directly with nursing students as they prepared for real-world scenarios.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>\u201cI remember how stressful that time was,\u201d he said. \u201cIf I can help someone feel more confident or give them something they can use later, that means a lot.\u201d<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>Those moments created a bigger picture for him.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>\u201cFundamentally, nursing at its core is about people taking time to genuinely make a difference in someone\u2019s life,\u201d he said.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>That same sense of purpose carried into a moment he never expected. Hicks was featured in a UA Little Rock commercial that aired during the Winter Olympics.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>\u201cIt was a really great experience,\u201d he said. \u201cI was impressed with how much detail went into everything.\u201d<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>For him, it was less about being on screen and more about representing the university that helped shape his path. Through it all, Hicks comes back to a few core ideas that guide how he works and lives.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>\u201cFirst, take care of yourself. You can\u2019t take care of others if you\u2019re not taking care of yourself,\u201d he said.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>He also keeps things simple.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>\u201cBe kind. Keep patients safe. Be a good teammate. And find a way to make a meaningful impact.\u201d<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>It\u2019s a philosophy rooted in his time at UA Little Rock, in the lessons he learned from his family, and in the influence of two women named Rosemary, who saw something in him before he saw it in himself.<\/p>\n","protected":false},"excerpt":{"rendered":"<p>A simple conversation changed the course of Justin Hicks\u2019 life and set him on a path to nursing. At 38, he was working at three different restaurants, picking up shifts <a href=\"https:\/\/ualr.edu\/news\/2026\/04\/02\/ua-little-rock-nursing-alumnus-leads-with-heart-in-behavioral-health\/\" class=\"more-link\">…<span class=\"screen-reader-text\"> UA Little Rock Nursing Alumnus Leads with Heart in Behavioral Health<\/span><\/a><\/p>\n","protected":false},"author":2036,"featured_media":93861,"comment_status":"closed","ping_status":"closed","sticky":false,"template":"","format":"standard","meta":{"footnotes":""},"categories":[1925,1926],"tags":[35323,36026,25167,2218],"class_list":["post-93860","post","type-post","status-publish","format-standard","has-post-thumbnail","hentry","category-community","category-featured","tag-leaders-in-the-classroom-and-communities","tag-pat-walker-center-for-nursing","tag-school-of-nursing","tag-student-success"],"yoast_head":"<!-- This site is optimized with the Yoast SEO Premium plugin v27.2 (Yoast SEO v27.2) - https:\/\/yoast.com\/product\/yoast-seo-premium-wordpress\/ -->\n<title>UA Little Rock Nursing Alumnus Leads with Heart in Behavioral Health - News - UA Little Rock<\/title>\n<meta name=\"robots\" content=\"index, follow, max-snippet:-1, max-image-preview:large, max-video-preview:-1\" \/>\n<link rel=\"canonical\" href=\"https:\/\/ualr.edu\/news\/2026\/04\/02\/ua-little-rock-nursing-alumnus-leads-with-heart-in-behavioral-health\/\" \/>\n<meta property=\"og:locale\" content=\"en_US\" \/>\n<meta property=\"og:type\" content=\"article\" \/>\n<meta property=\"og:title\" content=\"UA Little Rock Nursing Alumnus Leads with Heart in Behavioral Health\" \/>\n<meta property=\"og:description\" content=\"A simple conversation changed the course of Justin Hicks\u2019 life and set him on a path to nursing. 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Bates"},"url":"https:\/\/ualr.edu\/news\/author\/jbates\/"}]}},"_links":{"self":[{"href":"https:\/\/ualr.edu\/news\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/posts\/93860","targetHints":{"allow":["GET"]}}],"collection":[{"href":"https:\/\/ualr.edu\/news\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/posts"}],"about":[{"href":"https:\/\/ualr.edu\/news\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/types\/post"}],"author":[{"embeddable":true,"href":"https:\/\/ualr.edu\/news\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/users\/2036"}],"replies":[{"embeddable":true,"href":"https:\/\/ualr.edu\/news\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/comments?post=93860"}],"version-history":[{"count":1,"href":"https:\/\/ualr.edu\/news\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/posts\/93860\/revisions"}],"predecessor-version":[{"id":93862,"href":"https:\/\/ualr.edu\/news\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/posts\/93860\/revisions\/93862"}],"wp:featuredmedia":[{"embeddable":true,"href":"https:\/\/ualr.edu\/news\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/media\/93861"}],"wp:attachment":[{"href":"https:\/\/ualr.edu\/news\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/media?parent=93860"}],"wp:term":[{"taxonomy":"category","embeddable":true,"href":"https:\/\/ualr.edu\/news\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/categories?post=93860"},{"taxonomy":"post_tag","embeddable":true,"href":"https:\/\/ualr.edu\/news\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/tags?post=93860"}],"curies":[{"name":"wp","href":"https:\/\/api.w.org\/{rel}","templated":true}]}},{"id":93831,"date":"2026-04-01T08:00:00","date_gmt":"2026-04-01T13:00:00","guid":{"rendered":"https:\/\/ualr.edu\/news\/?p=93831"},"modified":"2026-03-31T09:26:40","modified_gmt":"2026-03-31T14:26:40","slug":"ua-little-rock-nursing-and-social-work-students-align-to-promote-interprofessional-healthcare-collaboration","status":"publish","type":"post","link":"https:\/\/ualr.edu\/news\/2026\/04\/01\/ua-little-rock-nursing-and-social-work-students-align-to-promote-interprofessional-healthcare-collaboration\/","title":{"rendered":"UA Little Rock Nursing and Social Work Students Align to Promote Interprofessional Healthcare Collaboration"},"content":{"rendered":"\n<p>The UA Little Rock <a href=\"https:\/\/ualr.edu\/nursing\/\">School of Nursing<\/a> is redefining how future healthcare professionals are trained by bringing real-world collaboration into the classroom before students step into a hospital.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>An innovative simulation partnership between the School of Nursing and the <a href=\"https:\/\/ualr.edu\/socialwork\/\">School of Social Work<\/a> launched this spring to prepare nursing students for realistic, high-stakes scenarios that students typically don\u2019t experience during hospital-based clinical rotations.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>During these interprofessional simulations, the social work and nursing students work together to assess situations and develop patient-centered interventions, mirroring the level of teamwork required in today\u2019s healthcare environments. Faculty members facilitate the scenario and later debrief the students to reflect on communication, teamwork and professionalism.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>\u201cFeedback from students has been overwhelmingly positive so far,\u201d said Judy Staley, assistant professor of nursing. \u201cFaculty members have seen noticeable gains in student confidence, and the students have improved in navigating conversations and understanding one another\u2019s roles in patient care.\u201d<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>The initiative builds on other efforts already taking place within the nursing program, including a new partnership with the American Sign Language (ASL) program. <\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>The program was inspired by a Doctor of Nursing Practice (DNP) capstone led by assistant nursing professor Anna Williams, which was rooted in a simple but critical insight: modern patient care requires strong alliances and synergy. <\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>The program intends to continue expanding simulation activities throughout 2026. The goal is to continue building interprofessional opportunities and enhancing the realism of simulation-based learning over the next several years.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p><em>Written by Olivia Hicks<\/em><\/p>\n\n\n\n<p><\/p>\n","protected":false},"excerpt":{"rendered":"<p>The UA Little Rock School of Nursing is redefining how future healthcare professionals are trained by bringing real-world collaboration into the classroom before students step into a hospital. An innovative <a href=\"https:\/\/ualr.edu\/news\/2026\/04\/01\/ua-little-rock-nursing-and-social-work-students-align-to-promote-interprofessional-healthcare-collaboration\/\" class=\"more-link\">…<span class=\"screen-reader-text\"> UA Little Rock Nursing and Social Work Students Align to Promote Interprofessional Healthcare Collaboration<\/span><\/a><\/p>\n","protected":false},"author":1,"featured_media":93844,"comment_status":"closed","ping_status":"closed","sticky":false,"template":"","format":"standard","meta":{"footnotes":""},"categories":[1925,1926],"tags":[35323,25167,3530,2218],"class_list":["post-93831","post","type-post","status-publish","format-standard","has-post-thumbnail","hentry","category-community","category-featured","tag-leaders-in-the-classroom-and-communities","tag-school-of-nursing","tag-school-of-social-work","tag-student-success"],"yoast_head":"<!-- This site is optimized with the Yoast SEO Premium plugin v27.2 (Yoast SEO v27.2) - https:\/\/yoast.com\/product\/yoast-seo-premium-wordpress\/ -->\n<title>UA Little Rock Nursing and Social Work Students Align to Promote Interprofessional Healthcare Collaboration - News - UA Little Rock<\/title>\n<meta name=\"robots\" content=\"index, follow, max-snippet:-1, max-image-preview:large, max-video-preview:-1\" \/>\n<link rel=\"canonical\" href=\"https:\/\/ualr.edu\/news\/2026\/04\/01\/ua-little-rock-nursing-and-social-work-students-align-to-promote-interprofessional-healthcare-collaboration\/\" \/>\n<meta property=\"og:locale\" content=\"en_US\" \/>\n<meta property=\"og:type\" content=\"article\" \/>\n<meta property=\"og:title\" content=\"UA Little Rock Nursing and Social Work Students Align to Promote Interprofessional Healthcare Collaboration\" \/>\n<meta property=\"og:description\" content=\"The UA Little Rock School of Nursing is redefining how future healthcare professionals are trained by bringing real-world collaboration into the classroom before students step into a hospital. 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Little Rock Launches Arkansas\u2019 First Direct Admission Program for Transfer Students"},"content":{"rendered":"\n<p>The University of Arkansas at Little Rock is launching Arkansas\u2019 first direct admission program for transfer students, creating an innovative new pathway that simplifies the admission process for community college students to continue their education and earn a bachelor\u2019s degree.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>The initiative combines direct admission with traditional 2+2 transfer pathways, allowing students to complete their first two years at a community college before transferring to UA Little Rock to finish a four-year degree. The program is designed to remove transfer barriers and help hundreds of Arkansas students each year move more easily from an associate degree to a bachelor\u2019s degree. <\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>\u201cUA Little Rock is proud to lead the state in creating innovative pathways that make higher education more accessible for Arkansas students,\u201d said Chancellor Christina S. Drale. \u201cBy strengthening partnerships with community colleges, we are helping more students see a clear and achievable path to completing their bachelor\u2019s degree.\u201d<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>The first institutions to join the initiative are the University of Arkansas Community College at Batesville, the University of Arkansas Rich Mountain, and the University of Arkansas Cossatot Community College. Additional partner institutions are expected to join in the future. UA Little Rock enrolled over 1,300 transfer students for the current academic year.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>Through the partnership, eligible transfer students will benefit from several features designed to simplify the transition to UA Little Rock, including:<\/p>\n\n\n\n<ul class=\"wp-block-list\">\n<li>Waived undergraduate admission application fee<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>Streamlined admissions processing, with UA Little Rock coordinating transcript collection to reduce administrative steps and transcript fees<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>Access to the Trojan Transfer Hub, a web-based platform that allows students to evaluate how their coursework applies to UA Little Rock degree programs and guides them through the transfer process<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n\n\n\n<p>\u201cTransfer students are a vital part of our campus community, and we are committed to making their pathway to a four-year degree as clear and accessible as possible,\u201d said Cody Decker, vice chancellor for student affairs and chief data officer at UA Little Rock. \u201cBy working closely with our community college partners, we are creating new opportunities for students across Arkansas to continue their education and achieve their goals.\u201d<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>Strengthening partnerships with community colleges is central to UA Little Rock\u2019s mission to expand access to higher education across Arkansas.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>\u201cAs Little Rock\u2019s university, we are committed to meeting students where they are and building partnerships that help them succeed,\u201d Decker said.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>The direct admission transfer partnerships will begin in Fall 2026. To learn more about enrolling at UA Little Rock, visit <a href=\"http:\/\/ualr.edu\/admissions\">ualr.edu\/admissions<\/a>. <\/p>\n","protected":false},"excerpt":{"rendered":"<p>The University of Arkansas at Little Rock is launching Arkansas\u2019 first direct admission program for transfer students, creating an innovative new pathway that simplifies the admission process for community college <a href=\"https:\/\/ualr.edu\/news\/2026\/04\/01\/ua-little-rock-launches-arkansas-first-direct-admission-program-for-transfer-students\/\" class=\"more-link\">…<span class=\"screen-reader-text\"> UA Little Rock Launches Arkansas\u2019 First Direct Admission Program for Transfer Students<\/span><\/a><\/p>\n","protected":false},"author":1,"featured_media":93828,"comment_status":"closed","ping_status":"closed","sticky":false,"template":"","format":"standard","meta":{"footnotes":""},"categories":[1925,1926],"tags":[4310,35323,3782,2218,19143],"class_list":["post-93827","post","type-post","status-publish","format-standard","has-post-thumbnail","hentry","category-community","category-featured","tag-admissions","tag-leaders-in-the-classroom-and-communities","tag-office-of-admissions","tag-student-success","tag-transfer-students"],"yoast_head":"<!-- This site is optimized with the Yoast SEO Premium plugin v27.2 (Yoast SEO v27.2) - https:\/\/yoast.com\/product\/yoast-seo-premium-wordpress\/ -->\n<title>UA Little Rock Launches Arkansas\u2019 First Direct Admission Program for Transfer Students - News - UA Little Rock<\/title>\n<meta name=\"robots\" content=\"index, follow, max-snippet:-1, max-image-preview:large, max-video-preview:-1\" \/>\n<link rel=\"canonical\" href=\"https:\/\/ualr.edu\/news\/2026\/04\/01\/ua-little-rock-launches-arkansas-first-direct-admission-program-for-transfer-students\/\" \/>\n<meta property=\"og:locale\" content=\"en_US\" \/>\n<meta property=\"og:type\" content=\"article\" \/>\n<meta property=\"og:title\" content=\"UA Little Rock Launches Arkansas\u2019 First Direct Admission Program for Transfer Students\" \/>\n<meta property=\"og:description\" content=\"The University of Arkansas at Little Rock is launching Arkansas\u2019 first direct admission program for transfer students, creating an innovative new pathway that simplifies the admission process for community college ... 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Attendees will also have the opportunity to interact with therapy dogs. The campus walk will begin at 12 p.m., after the Chancellor provides a proclamation.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p> \u201cThe Campus Suicide Prevention Walk is about bringing our campus community together to send a clear message that you are not alone.\u201d Dr. Aresh Assadi said, \u201cWe want students, faculty, and the broader community to see that support is available and that their lives matter. Events like this help reduce stigma, build connection, and remind people that it\u2019s okay to reach out for help.\u201d<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>According to the American Foundation for Suicide Prevention, approximately 1,100 college students die by suicide each year. In Arkansas, suicide is the third leading cause of death for individuals aged 15-24 and ranks as the 10th leading cause of death statewide.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>\u201cMental health resources are available, but it\u2019s crucial that people feel empowered to seek help,\u201d Assadi said. \u201cWe also want to encourage students to check in on their friends, classmates, or even acquaintances who may be struggling. A simple conversation could make all the difference.\u201d<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>UA Little Rock students, faculty, staff, and community members are invited to participate. Registration is <a href=\"http:\/\/afsp.org\/ualr\">available online<\/a> for both in-person and virtual walkers. Proceeds from the event will support the Arkansas Chapter of the American Foundation for Suicide Prevention. Please register for the Campus Walk at <a href=\"http:\/\/afsp.org\/ualr\">afsp.org\/ualr<\/a>. <\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>Though this is a fundraising event, it is free to everyone. Donations are encouraged but are not necessary to enjoy the event.For more information, contact Dr. Aresh Assadi at 501-916-3185, <a href=\"mailto:axassadi@ualr.edu\">axassadi@ualr.edu<\/a>, or <a href=\"mailto:counselingservices@ualr.edu\">counselingservices@ualr.edu<\/a>.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p><\/p>\n","protected":false},"excerpt":{"rendered":"<p>The University of Arkansas at Little Rock is taking a stand against suicide by hosting the Suicide Prevention Walk on Friday, April 24. The event will begin at 11 a.m. <a href=\"https:\/\/ualr.edu\/news\/2026\/03\/31\/ua-little-rock-to-hold-out-of-the-darkness-suicide-prevention-walk-april-24\/\" class=\"more-link\">…<span class=\"screen-reader-text\"> UA Little Rock to Hold Out of the Darkness Suicide Prevention Walk April 24<\/span><\/a><\/p>\n","protected":false},"author":2392,"featured_media":93850,"comment_status":"closed","ping_status":"closed","sticky":false,"template":"","format":"standard","meta":{"footnotes":""},"categories":[1923,1925,1926],"tags":[24102,5905,2068,35323,7505,2218,35580],"class_list":["post-93849","post","type-post","status-publish","format-standard","has-post-thumbnail","hentry","category-arts-culture","category-community","category-featured","tag-american-foundation-for-suicide-prevention","tag-aresh-assadi","tag-counseling-services","tag-leaders-in-the-classroom-and-communities","tag-mental-health","tag-student-success","tag-suicide-prevention"],"yoast_head":"<!-- This site is optimized with the Yoast SEO Premium plugin v27.2 (Yoast SEO v27.2) - https:\/\/yoast.com\/product\/yoast-seo-premium-wordpress\/ -->\n<title>UA Little Rock to Hold Out of the Darkness Suicide Prevention Walk April 24 - News - UA Little Rock<\/title>\n<meta name=\"robots\" content=\"index, follow, max-snippet:-1, max-image-preview:large, max-video-preview:-1\" \/>\n<link rel=\"canonical\" href=\"https:\/\/ualr.edu\/news\/2026\/03\/31\/ua-little-rock-to-hold-out-of-the-darkness-suicide-prevention-walk-april-24\/\" \/>\n<meta property=\"og:locale\" content=\"en_US\" \/>\n<meta property=\"og:type\" content=\"article\" \/>\n<meta property=\"og:title\" content=\"UA Little Rock to Hold Out of the Darkness Suicide Prevention Walk April 24\" \/>\n<meta property=\"og:description\" content=\"The University of Arkansas at Little Rock is taking a stand against suicide by hosting the Suicide Prevention Walk on Friday, April 24. 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There, he found a passion for the behind-the-scenes operations of collegiate sports, which shaped his career path. <\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>Working alongside coaches and athletes provided valuable insight into the leadership, preparation and teamwork required to run a successful athletic program. Encouraged by coaches and mentors, Taylor is continuing to build on that experience by pursuing a <a href=\"https:\/\/ualr.edu\/academics\/graduate\/sport-management\/\">Master of Science in Sport Management<\/a>, gaining a deeper understanding of how programs operate on and off the field. <\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>Those lessons now shape his approach at Stuttgart High School, where he works daily with student-athletes as the boys and girls tennis coach and an assistant coach for the boys basketball program. Coaching two different sports has also taught him to develop a flexible leadership style. Over time, he has learned that effective coaching means adapting to the needs of each team and each student.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>Dr. Katherine Helms, an associate professor of sports management, said Taylor\u2019s passion for mentorship and athletics makes him a strong role model for student-athletes.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>\u201cIan has seen first-hand the value of sports within education,\u201d Helms said. \u201cHe understands that athletics can be a powerful way to teach life skills, and it\u2019s exciting to see him using what he\u2019s learning in the classroom to positively impact students.\u201d<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>Faculty members at UA Little Rock say experiences like Taylor\u2019s highlight the broader impact athletics can have on students. Taylor Harrington, Ed.D., assistant professor in the <a href=\"https:\/\/ualr.edu\/education\/\">School of Education<\/a>, says mentors like Taylor can make a meaningful difference in rural communities. In towns like Stuttgart, where resources and extracurricular opportunities may be limited, educators and coaches often serve as important mentors, helping students build confidence and discover new opportunities. <\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>For Taylor, that influence is personal. <\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>\u201cComing from a rural community myself, I understand how much coaches and teachers can impact students\u2019 lives,\u201d Taylor says. \u201cIn a small town, the community really shows up for you. There\u2019s a strong support system, and that gives you the ability to make a real difference. I always say to find the place that fits you. Your style will evolve, but the right environment will support you and help you succeed.\u201d<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>For Taylor, coaching is about far more than wins and losses. It\u2019s about creating opportunities for students to grow, both on and off the court. In communities like Stuttgart, where schools often serve as centers of opportunity, educators and coaches play a vital role in helping young people build confidence, develop life skills and imagine possibilities for their futures. Drawing on lessons he gained at UA Little Rock and his own experience growing up in a rural community, Taylor continues to invest in his students’ success, encouraging them to bloom where they are planted.<\/p>\n","protected":false},"excerpt":{"rendered":"<p>On any given afternoon at Stuttgart High School, you can find Ian Taylor moving between courts, guiding student-athletes through tennis drills or basketball practice while simultaneously imparting life lessons on <a href=\"https:\/\/ualr.edu\/news\/2026\/03\/31\/ua-little-rock-alum-brings-leadership-and-purpose-to-stuttgart-high-athletics\/\" class=\"more-link\">…<span class=\"screen-reader-text\"> UA Little Rock Alum Brings Leadership and Purpose to Stuttgart High Athletics<\/span><\/a><\/p>\n","protected":false},"author":2906,"featured_media":93845,"comment_status":"closed","ping_status":"closed","sticky":false,"template":"","format":"standard","meta":{"footnotes":""},"categories":[1925,1926],"tags":[35323,3510,35699,2218],"class_list":["post-93826","post","type-post","status-publish","format-standard","has-post-thumbnail","hentry","category-community","category-featured","tag-leaders-in-the-classroom-and-communities","tag-school-of-education","tag-sport-management","tag-student-success"],"yoast_head":"<!-- This site is optimized with the Yoast SEO Premium plugin v27.2 (Yoast SEO v27.2) - https:\/\/yoast.com\/product\/yoast-seo-premium-wordpress\/ -->\n<title>UA Little Rock Alum Brings Leadership and Purpose to Stuttgart High Athletics - News - UA Little Rock<\/title>\n<meta name=\"robots\" content=\"index, follow, max-snippet:-1, max-image-preview:large, max-video-preview:-1\" \/>\n<link rel=\"canonical\" href=\"https:\/\/ualr.edu\/news\/2026\/03\/31\/ua-little-rock-alum-brings-leadership-and-purpose-to-stuttgart-high-athletics\/\" \/>\n<meta property=\"og:locale\" content=\"en_US\" \/>\n<meta property=\"og:type\" content=\"article\" \/>\n<meta property=\"og:title\" content=\"UA Little Rock Alum Brings Leadership and Purpose to Stuttgart High Athletics\" \/>\n<meta property=\"og:description\" content=\"On any given afternoon at Stuttgart High School, you can find Ian Taylor moving between courts, guiding student-athletes through tennis drills or basketball practice while simultaneously imparting life lessons on ... 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