- University News Archive - ��Vlog��ý Little Rock

��Vlog��ý Little Rock announces 2019-20 Signature Experience Awards

Ajani Oyindamola — Thu, 12 Dec 2019 15:16:50 +0000

The University of Arkansas at Little Rock has selected nearly 125 students as recipients of 2019-20 Signature Experience grants.�� Since 2017, the program has provided ��Vlog��ý Little Rock students with a grant of up to $1,000 to fund a signature experience, such as a research project, creative activity, or community project, to enrich the students’ academic experience at ��Vlog��ý Little Rock.�� This year’s 124 awards include projects that range from the delivery of drugs for bone tissue disease and cancer using nanotechnology and the creation of a voice-controlled drone to assist people with disabilities to the design and optimization of a portable medical scooter. For the first time, a subset of grants were awarded to freshmen, sophomores, and transfer students to encourage research projects by new college students. Also for the first time, Signature Experience grants were awarded to graduate students to encourage advanced research projects.�� “In support of retention efforts aimed at getting students involved in research so they identify with their majors or programs early in their academic careers, 19 percent of our grants went to support projects undertaken by freshmen, sophomores, or students in their first year as a transfer student,” said Dr. Ecke, director of the Signature Experience Program. “At the other end of the spectrum, for the first year since its inception, the Signature Experience Program funded 29 graduate student projects.”�� Recipients of the Signature Experience grants will exhibit their work at the 2020 Student Research and Creative Works Showcase on April 17, 2020.�� The Signature Experience grant winners and their respective colleges are as follows:

College of Arts, Letters, and Sciences

Zayna Abdulla, a junior studying English and biology, mentored by Anindya Gosh – “A Novel, Injectable Hydrogel Based on Guar Gum for Anti-cancer Drug Delivery” Reem Adai, a sophomore studying physics, mentored by Gregory Guisbiers – “Synthesis of Iron Oxide Nanoparticles By Laser Ablation” Anthony Aloi, a junior studying chemistry and biology – “Laser-induced Graphene Nanofiltration Membranes for Water Purification” Nabeel Alwan, a junior studying chemistry and biology, mentored by Noureen Siraj – “The Role of Functional Groups of Porphyrin as a Photodynamic Therapy Nanodrug” Emily Anderson, a senior studying biology, mentored by Shanzhi Wang – “Silver Nanoparticle Conjugated Glucose Oxidase for Prevention and Growth of Bacteria” Michael Appiah-Kubi, a senior studying chemistry, mentored by Wei Zhao – “Controlling the Pore Sizes of Graphene Oxide Nanostructures through Hydrothermal Reactions for Efficient Water Purification” Mujeebat Bashiru, a graduate student studying applied chemistry, mentored by Noureen Siraj – “Room Temperature Phosphorescent Materials for Use in Optoelectronic Application” Assem Basurrah, a graduate student studying chemistry, mentored by Wei Zhao – “Electrochemical Nitrogen Reduction to Ammonia Using MoS2-based Nanocatalysts” Alexis Boling, a freshman mentored by Sandra Leiterman – “Mom and Me STEM” Marvin Bonney, a graduate student studying applied physics, mentored by John Nichols – “Investigation of Strain Effects in Superconducting Magnesium Diboride Thin Films” Jess Brasher, a senior studying theatre arts, mentored by Lawrence Smith – “1,000 Cranes 10,000 Thoughts: Trans Narrative in Performance” Stuti Chatterjee, a junior studying chemistry and biology, mentored by Noureen Siraj – “Effect of Nanoparticle’s Morphology towards the Cellular Uptake, Toxicity and Selectivity to Cancer Cells” Meghan Clark, a senior studying biology, mentored by Nawab Ali – “Effect of Oxidative Stress on Programmed Cell Death (Apoptosis) Mediated via Endoplasmic Reticulum Multiple Inositol Polyphosphate Phosphatase 1 (Minpp1)” Sarah Coffman, a junior studying chemistry, mentored by Anindya Ghosh – “Esterification of Aromatic Aldehyde using Nickel” Thomas Coleman, a graduate student studying interdisciplinary studies, mentored by Heather Hummel – “Intersections of Poetry and Music” Ivy Crowe, a junior studying English, mentored by Jeffrey Condran – “Braddock Avenue Books Spring Catalogue at the Association of Writers and Writing Programs Conference, San Antonio, Texas, March 2020” Iris Denmark, a graduate student studying chemistry, mentored by Noureen Siraj – Synthesis of Conductive Materials from Chemically Treated Renewable Carbon Precursors for Use in Energy Applications Kajal Desai, a junior studying chemistry, mentored by Wei Zhao – “Graphene Oxide-MoS2 Composite Membranes for Arsenic and Lead Polluted Water Purification” LaDarius Doaks, a senior studying dance and psychology, mentored by Robin Neveu Brown – “WithIN MOTION: BFA senior Dance Project Film” Yousef Elbalawy, a sophomore studying biology, mentored by Nawab Ali – “Effect of Microgravity on the Expression of Multiple Inositol Polyphosphate Phosphatase” Rad Elsaidi, a senior studying chemistry, mentored by Shanzhi Wang – “Anti-Microbial Effects of GSDMD” Sakr Elsaidi, a post baccalaureate student studying biology, mentored by Gregory Guisbiers – “Synthesis of Topological Nanomaterials” Taiwo Famuyiwa, a graduate student studying applied mathematics and statistics, mentored by Wei Zhang – “Develop New Machine Learning Methods for Integrative Analysis” Ashi Franke, a senior studying graphic design/web design and development, mentored by Lynne Ellsworth Larsen – “Bauhaus’ Renaissance and the Future of UI/UX Design” Luke Geoffrion, a graduate student studying applied physics, mentored by Gregory Guisbiers – “Synthesis of Colloidal Topological Insulators” Cordell Gilreath, a senior studying chemistry, mentored by Shanzhi Wang – “Examination of the Enzymatic Characteristics of Borrelia Burgdorferi” Taylor Green, a senior studying theatre arts, mentored by Lawrence Smith – “Uncovering Elaine: The Story of the Elaine Massacre of 1919” Carmen Gutierrez, a junior studying dance, mentored by Stephanie Thibeault – “Nature vs. Nurture: The Roots of Movement Preferences Amongst Dancers” Yanping Harville, a senior studying biology and geology, mentored by Scott Woolbright – “Toxic Effects of Acetaminophen on Bacteria from a Probiotic Supplement Utilized as a Surrogate for the Human Gastrointestinal Microbiome” Tina Hesabizadeh, a junior studying biology, mentored by Gregory Guisbiers – “Quantum Structructure of Selenium Nanoparticles” Evan Hicks, a senior studying physics, mentored by Gregory Guisbiers – “Synthesis of Tellurium Quantum Wires” Amanda Jalihal, a graduate student studying chemistry, mentored by Noureen Siraj – “Near Infrared Ionic Dye Pairs for Optimization of Dye-sensitized Solar Cells” Travis Jumper, a transfer student studying chemistry, mentored by Anindya Ghosh – “Polyamide Formation via a Nickel Pincer Catalyst” Rawan Kattom, a junior studying biology, mentored by Anindya Ghosh – “Cellulose-based Doped Carbon Materials for the Efficient Degradation of NPs Under Visible Light” Caroline Kornelsen, a senior studying chemistry, mentored by Noureen Siraj – “Investigation of Förster Resonance Energy Transfer in Ionic Materials” Hannah Krehbiel, a sophomore studying chemistry, mentored by Noureen Siraj – “Application of Ionic Materials in Organic Solar Cells” Thuy Le, a graduate student studying chemistry, mentored by Noureen Siraj – “Understanding of Stretchability and Conductivity Characterization of PEDOT:PSS/ionic Liquid for Flexible Electronics” Samantha Macchi, a doctoral student studying applied science, mentored by Noureen Siraj – “Molasses-derived Nitrogen and Silicon Co-doped Carbon Material for Use as Electrocatalyst in ORR for Fuel Cell Application” Mary Melissa Miller, a graduate student studying History of art, mentored by Floyd Martin – “Titian’s Venus of Urbino: A New Interpretation” Brandon Moore, a senior studying biology, mentored by John Bush – “The Use of a Dominant-negative Rab32c Protein from Slime Mold, Dictyostelium Discoideum, for the Study of Neurodegenerative Diseases in Humans” Gary Morris, a graduate student studying biology, mentored by Scott Woolbright – “Urban Ecology of Pearl Crescent Butterflies in the Little Rock Metropolitan Region” Daniel Nde, a graduate student studying applied chemistry, mentored by Wei Zhao – “Investigating Algae-derived Reduced Graphene Oxide Membranes for Ionic and Molecular Nanofiltration” Thao Nguyen, a sophomore studying chemistry, mentored by Hong Li Wang – “Enzymatic Characterization of Bgp from B. Burgdorferi, the Main Causative Agent in Lyme Disease in the United States” Anil Parameswaran-Thankam, a graduate student studying applied chemistry, mentored by Anindya Ghosh – “Guar Plant Based Injectable, Thermoresponsive Hydrogel for Bone Tissue Engineering and Drug Delivery” Lauv Patel, a sophomore studying chemistry, mentored by Shanzhi Wang – “Enzymatic Characterization of E11Q Mutant of Methylthioadenosine Nucleosidase from S. Aureus” Chandrasimha Penthala, a junior studying biology, mentored by John Bush – “The Synthesis and Testing of Nanostructured Stainless Steel Wires by In Vitro Antibacterial Studies for Dental Application” Humendra Poudel, a graduate student studying chemistry, mentored by Anindya Ghosh – “Synthesis of Nanomaterials and Its Application in the Biomedical Field” Atikur Rahman, a graduate student studying physics, mentored by Gregory Guisbiers – “Synthesis and Characterization of Core Shell Magnetic Nanoparticles” Olgaaurora Rodriguez, a junior studying chemistry and biology, mentored by Wei Zhao – “Biomass-derived Nanofiltration Membranes for Drinking Water Purification” Taylor Scifres, a junior studying chemistry, mentored by Noureen Siraj – “Soy Meal as Supercapacitor” Logan Sellen, a senior studying physics, mentored by Yslan Hicks – “Shelter We Seek: An Examination of the Cyclical Patterns of Abuse through Playwriting and Production” Tripti Shukla, a sophomore studying chemistry, mentored by Shanzhi Wang – “Enzymatic Studies of a Triple Mutant of MTA Nucleosidase from S. Aureus” Kaitlin Simmons, a senior studying molecular biotechnology, mentored by Qingfang He – “Effects of Phosphate Limitation on Contamination of Synechocystis sp. PCCC 6803 and a Histidine Kinase Deletion Mutant” Damanpreet Singh, a senior studying biology, mentored by Qingfang He – “Metabolic Engineering of Cyanobacteria for Sustainable Production of Cinnamic Acid” Peter Szwedo, a graduate student studying applied chemistry, mentored by Anindya Ghosh – “Small Molecule Activation Using a Nickel (II) Pincer Complex” Patrick Taylor, a junior studying biology, mentored by Gregory Guisbiers Jose Vivanco, a freshman studying physics, mentored by Tansel Karabacak – “Superhydrophobic Nanostructured Surfaces for Atmospheric Water Generator Application” Rebekah White, a graduate student studying applied bioscience, mentored by Qingfang He – “Functions of DspA in Photosynthesis and Cellular Fitness”

College of Education and Health Professions

Sedre’Auna Griddine, a graduate student studying health education and promotion, mentored by Katie Helms – “Exercise Incentive Programs: Motivation and Longitudinal Effectiveness” Eric Nix, a senior nursing major, mentored by Jennifer Bridges – “Nursing Students’ Knowledge of the Morse Fall Scale and the STRATIFY Tool” Kaylin Orrell, a senior studying communication sciences and disorders, mentored by Donna Kelly –” An Investigation of Evidenced-Based Treatments for Children and Adults who Present with an Acquired Language, Language-related and/or Cognitive Impairment”

College of Social Sciences and Communication

Mariam Bouzihay, a senior studying psychology and information technology, mentored by Sandra Leiterman – “Drone Rural: Classroom Exploration” Jacob Chisom, a graduate student studying applied communication, mentored by Avinash Thombre – “Diffusion of Climate Change Reducing Strategies in Farmers of Southeast Arkansas” Brandy Dailey, a graduate student studying public administration, mentored by Kirk Leach – “Evaluation of Batterer Intervention Programs as a Tool to Enhance Offender Accountability” Solomon Davis, a senior studying philosophy and interdisciplinary studies, mentored by Eric Wiebelhaus-Brahm – “Working Better Together: How Material and Symbolic Transitional Justice Affect Post-Civil War Peace” Desiree Doyle, a graduate student studying applied communication, mentored by Avinash Thombre – “Arrival of Hybrid K-Pop culture in Arkansas: An Examination of BlackPink Adoption Among Young Adults” Sadie Goss, a junior studying criminal justice and chemistry, mentored by Robert Lytle – “Paying for Past Crimes: Employment and Prisoner Re-entry amongst Former Serious and Violent Offenders” Zachary Jones, a graduate student studying applied communication, mentored by Louise Lowe – “Ottenheimer Library Space and Perception Study: Evidence-based Inquiry Using Student-Led Focus Groups” Tiffany Meeks, a junior studying applied communication, mentored by April Chatham-Carpenter – “Growth, Maturity, and Stress: Study of Identity Changes through Early Management” Madison Rodgers, a junior studying political science, mentored by Eric Wiebelhaus-Brahm – “Women in Government and the Relationship Between the State and Women’s Rights NGOs” Taylor Toombs, a junior studying political science, mentored by Eric Wiebelhaus-Brahm – “Transitional Justice and Gender” Marisha Twillie, a senior studying applied communication, mentored by Kristen McIntyre – “The Power of Biracial Women’s Code-switching” Ashley Walker, a junior studying criminal justice, mentored by James Golden – “Evaluating Domestic Violence Batterer’s Intervention Programs and their Potential to Reduce Recidivism for Domestic Abusers” Joshua Williams, a sophomore studying international studies, mentored by Eric Wiebelhaus-Brahm – “Arab-Israelis in Evolving Israeli Politics”

George W. Donaghey College of Engineering and Information Technology

Alejandro (Alex) Alvarez-Barreiro, a sophomore studying mechanical engineering technology and Spanish, mentored by Sandra Leiterman – “BB-8 Continued” Andrew Bomberger, a senior studying computer science, mentored by Philip Huff – “Cyber Security Cloud Competition Controller” Jannice Bonilla, a senior studying mechanical engineering technology, mentored by Ashokkumar Sharma – “Multi-Configuration Tower Building Robot: An ASME Student Design Competition Contender” Justin Bullard, a senior studying mechanical engineering technology, mentored by Mamdouh Bakr – “Portable Folding Laptop Stand” Josh Carlat, a senior studying computer science, mentored by Sean Orme – “A Look into the Feasibility of Teaching Game Engine Design at the Undergraduate Level” Gabriel Castro, a transfer student studying mechanical engineering technology, mentored by Kailash Jajam – “Measurement of In-plane Surface Deformations of Planar Solids using the Method of Digital Image Correlation” Trey Chancellor, a senior studying mechanical engineering technology, mentored by Mo Bakr – “Development, Design, and Testing of Folding, Mobile Carpentry Work Bench” John Clements, a senior studying computer science, mentored by Ivan Rodriguez-Conde – “HMD-based Teleoperation of Wheeled Mobile Robots” Jamison Conatser, a senior studying electronics and computer engineering technology, mentored by Steve Menhart – “Voice Controlled Drone with Camera for Disabled Persons” Brandon Crawford, a junior studying e-commerce, mentored by Thomas Wallace – “Optimizing Workflow with Modern Technology and Ergonomics: A STEAM Project” Michael Davis, a junior studying information science, mentored by Philip Williams – “Heifer International Aquaponics Project” Merak Dyer, a senior studying mechanical engineering technology, mentored by Srikanth Pidugu – “Kitchen Appliance Automatic Storage and Retrieval System” Jacob Earley, a junior studying geology, mentored by Margaret (Beth) McMillan – “Using Short-range Photogrammetry for 3D Digital Reconstruction of Arkansaurus Fridayi Fossil Bones” Gaige Ehrenworth, a sophomore studying computer science, mentored by Jan Springer – “Consumer Ray-Tracing in Real Time” Denver Ellis, a sophomore studying computer science, mentored by Jan Springer – “Student Exploration in Computer Graphics Through the Creation of a Rasterization Pipeline” Brandon Norman, a freshman studying computer science, mentored by Ivan Rodriguez-Conde – “Web System for the Visualization and Dissemination of Three-dimensional Content in the Field of Paleontology” Jack Gaston, a freshman studying mechanical engineering technology, mentored by Kailash Jajam – “Influence of Layer Thickness and Interface Bonding Strength on Energy Absorption Response of Polyurea Coated Glass Plates” John Graham, a junior studying engineering technology, mentored by Kailash Jajam – “Strengthening Behavior of 7075 Al Alloy After Strain Hardening Versus that of Precipitation Hardening” Anna Gayle Griffiths, a senior studying geology, mentored by Michael DeAngelis – “Improving ��Vlog��ý Little Rock’s Recycling Program” David Hough, a graduate student studying applied science, mentored by Michael DeAngelis – “Synthesis of Targeted Composition Nanoscale Olivine” Jacob Jackson, a senior studying mechanical engineering technology, mentored by Ashokkumar Sharma – “Removal of Water Turbidity Using Natural Coagulants” Matthew James, a sophomore studying computer science, mentored by Albert Baker – “Financial Literacy for Adolescents through Technology” Marcus Johnson, a transfer student studying computer science, mentored by Jan Springer – “Playlistify: Multi-User Application Interfacing with the Music Streaming Service Spotify” Michael (Tyler) Kee, a senior studying geological sciences, mentored by Laura Ruhl-Whittle – “Strontium Isotopic Ratios in Central Arkansas: Insight into Rock Formation and Water Quality” Nigel Kelly, a junior studying mechanical systems engineering, mentored by Jin Wook Lee – “Design and Fabrication of a Novel Flight Saucer” Joseph Kready, a junior studying computer science, mentored by Xiaowei Xu – “Neural Code Search” Trigun Maroo, a graduate student studying engineering science and systems, mentored by Andrew Wright – “Design of a Microphone Array to Facilitate Acoustic Localization” Amanda Martin, a senior studying Geology, mentored by Rene Shroat-Lewis – “Digitization of Economic Mineral Resources of Arkansas” Noah Mejia, a sophomore studying mechanical engineering technology, mentored by Srikanth Pidugu and Ashokkumar Sharma – “Semi-Autonomous Multi-System Integration Tower Robot” Daniel Myers, a sophomore studying computer science, mentored by Chia-Chu Chiang – “Study of Open Source Operating System for Use as Instructional Aid” Uche Nwali, a senior studying mechanical engineering technology, mentored by Ashokkumar Sharma – “Design Modification of an Existing Hydraulic Ram Pump System to Improve Its Overall Performance” Brenda Nyangweso, a junior studying information science, mentored by Ningning Wu – “Application and Benefits of Cloud Development in the College of Engineering and Information Technology” Tarang Parikh, a senior studying electronics and computer engineering technology, mentored by Steve Menhart – “Solar Powered Raspberry Pi Car Audio-video and Camera System” Garrett Phelps, a transfer student studying mechanical engineering technology, mentored by Kailash Jajam – “Synthesis and Characterization of Epoxy Composites Modified with Micron-size Stiff and Compliant Fillers” Ryan Ronquillo, a junior studying information science, mentored by Philip Huff – “Reversus: Education in Reverse Engineering Cybersecurity Vulnerabilities” Shadrach Rubio-Pelayo, a freshman studying civil engineering and construction management, mentored by Srikanth Pidugu and Ashokkumar Sharma – “Unmanned Aerial Racing Cargo Vehicle: An ASME IAM3D Competition Contender” Sherif Selim, a senior studying mechanical engineering technology, mentored by Kailash Jajam – “Processing and Mechanical Characterization of Aluminum Foam Based Interpenetrating Phase Composites (IPC) Infiltrated with Solid and Hollow Glass Microspheres” Ramiro Serrano-Vergel, a graduate student studying information science, mentored by Ivan Rodriguez-Conde – “Enhancing User Experience in Custom Closets Prototyping Using Handheld-based Mobile Augmented Reality” Zachary Smith, a graduate student studying applied geology, mentored by Laura Ruhl-Whittle – “Quantifying the Impact of Urbanization on the Fourche Creek Watershed, Little Rock, Arkansas” Tiwari Snehil, a senior studying information science, mentored by Elizabeth Pierce – “Furrow Irrigation Web Application” Eric Sutherland, a junior studying mechanical systems engineering, mentored by Soheil Saedi – “Damping Capacity of Additively Manufactured (AM) NiTi Alloy” James Teem, a freshman studying computer science, mentored by Chia-Chu Chiang – “Integrating Voice Commands into Web Pages for Accessible Interactions” Stephen Vang, a senior studying mechanical engineering, mentored by Srikanth Pidugu – “Design and Optimization of a Portable Medical Scooter” Xingqiao Wang, a graduate student studying computer and information sciences, mentored by Xiaowei Xu – “Hierarchical Neural Language Model for Question Answering” Hunter Wright, a senior studying information science, mentored by Thomas Wallace – “MAACS: Multipurpose All-around Awesome Clustered Server”

College of Business

John Fetherston, a freshman studying business information systems, mentored by Kent Layton – “Water Purification for Maroa, Venezuela” Claire Herman, a junior studying economics, mentored by Casey Rockwell – “Direct-to-Consumer Genetic Testing: Ethical Concerns in the Supply Chain of a Consumer’s Raw Material through DNA Testing” Snehil Tiwari, a junior studying economics, mentored by Moiz Bhai – “A Cost-Benefit Analysis of Implementing Riparian Buffers in the Buffalo River Watershed”

Sims pop-up art show to feature Arkansas landscape scenes

Ajani Oyindamola — Thu, 31 Oct 2019 21:24:57 +0000

A University of Arkansas at Little Rock employee will showcase his love of photographing beautiful landscapes from Arkansas during his pop-up art show that begins Nov. 1. Brad Sims, who has worked as the media and online instruction specialist for the College of Education and Health Professions for a decade, is also a landscape photographer specializing in Arkansas scenes. “Most of my photos have been taken in Arkansas, and I am focusing on showing off places in Arkansas that that typically don’t get shown off,” Sims said. “From this show, I want people to see that Arkansas has a great deal of really unique views that don’t get enough attention. Those can be everything from hidden waterfalls in the Ozarks to the way the fog rests on the Arkansas River to really tiny, intimate views of the ground in your backyard.” Pop-up shows, which are often held in smaller, non-traditional spaces, give young and nontraditional artists the opportunity to get more exposure. Sims’ show will debut from 5-8 p.m. Friday, Nov. 1, at South Main Creative, 1600 Main St., Little Rock. His show contains images of the fog rising over the Arkansas River, cityscapes of Little Rock, and images that he’s dubbed “Tiny Landscapes,” also the name of his show. “I think the idea of people not looking closely at things that pass them by is interesting,” Sims said. “Tiny landscapes occur when I get really close and low to the ground. They are mostly pictures of moss or small rivulets of water. Whenever I take closeup photos, they usually look like larger landscape. I take tiny landscapes whenever I see interesting, weird scenes in nature.”

A tiny landscape image taken by Brad Sims at Petit Jean State Park.

Sims graduated from ��Vlog��ý Little Rock with a bachelor’s degree in liberal arts in 2000 and a master’s degree in professional and technical writing in 2013. While he’s always seen himself as a “photo enthusiast,” it’s only been in recent years that Sims has focused on his habit of taking tiny landscaping photos.�� “I’ve gotten really serious about photography in the past three years,” Sims said. “I’ve been making more choices and being more mindful of the pictures I take. In landscape photos, you usually see iconic views of these epic, iconic locations that are well known, but I’ve really gotten into the idea of taking smaller, one-of-a-kind photos that are more intimate spaces taken all around Arkansas.” “Tiny Landscapes” will be open through Nov. 30. South Main Creative is open 10 a.m. to 5:30 p.m. Tuesday to Saturday and 10 a.m. to 3 p.m. Sunday.

��Vlog��ý Little Rock scholarship empowers future counselor Ariel Lackey to pursue dream

Tue, 29 Oct 2019 13:43:35 +0000

A University of Arkansas at Little Rock graduate student is one step closer to fulfilling her dream of becoming a mental health counselor thanks to a $2,500 scholarship. Ariel Lackey, a master’s student in social work, received the Big Red Stores/Family Market scholarship for the 2019-20 year. The scholarship is awarded annually by the ��Vlog��ý Little Rock Alumni Association to a full-time or part-time entering freshman, transfer, or continuing student who is an employee or immediate family member of an employee at Big Red Stores/Family Market.�� Lackey worked as a cashier at the Big Red Stores/Family Market in Beebe between 2017 and 2019 during her undergraduate coursework. “Working at Big Red was an opportunity to enrich my social skills,” Lackey said. “We had a lot of regular customers who liked to visit. It was a rewarding experience to really listen to them and create a meaningful connection. Ultimately, it reinforced my desire to be a mental health counselor.” Lackey first learned about the scholarship from a poster at the Big Red store in Beebe. She was encouraged by her former employer to apply.�� “Big Red is a family environment. Everyone is close,” Lackey said. “I loved working there. My boss, Amber Marshall, was really supportive of my education and made it easy for me to focus on school and work at the same time. Sometimes, between customers, she would even quiz me on study questions I’d written on flash cards.” Lackey became even more interested in helping people when her son was diagnosed with autism. Her undergraduate courses in psychology grew her enthusiasm for deepening her knowledge.�� “I fell in love with psychology and understanding human behavior,” Lackey said. Lackey met with LaShonda Norfolk, education counselor for the College of Education and Health Professions, and explained her future career interests. Norfolk immediately set Lackey on track to pursue a master’s degree in social work. “LaShonda was so welcoming,” Lackey said. “She listened to my dreams and I remember her saying, ‘I will get you there!’ I gained so much from her guidance and confidence in me. After that experience, I knew that the ��Vlog��ý Little Rock School of Social Work was where I needed to be.” Lackey participates in the social work program through ��Vlog��ý Little Rock Online. She is on target to graduate in 2022.

Collier-Tenison named interim dean at ��Vlog��ý Little Rock��

Ajani Oyindamola — Tue, 08 Oct 2019 14:08:21 +0000

Associate Dean Shannon Collier-Tenison has been named interim dean of the College of Education and Health Professions at the University of Arkansas at Little Rock.�� Collier-Tenison, also an associate professor of social work, will replace Dr. Ann Bain, who was appointed ��Vlog��ý Little Rock’s new executive vice chancellor and provost Oct. 4. “I am pleased to be able to continue my work with the faculty, staff, and students in the College of Education and Health Professions,” Collier-Tenison said. “While I know there will be challenges ahead, our college is strong and well positioned to move forward. I am very optimistic about our university leadership with Chancellor Christy Drale and Provost Ann Bain at the helm.” As interim dean, Collier-Tenison will oversee the college with the largest student enrollment at ��Vlog��ý Little Rock. The College of Education and Health Professions includes the School of Education, School of Social Work, Department of Nursing, Department of Audiology and Speech Pathology, and the School of Counseling, Human Performance, and Rehabilitation. The college also houses key centers and community service units, including the Center for Literacy, the Jody Mahony Center for Gifted Education, MidSOUTH, and the STEM (Science, Technology, Engineering, and Math) Education Center. “Dr. Collier-Tenison has demonstrated able leadership in several positions over the last nine years and has earned the respect of her colleagues through her conscientious and collaborative administrative activities,” said Chancellor Christina Drale. “I have every confidence that Dr. Collier-Tenison will be an excellent interim dean. She brings to the position perspective, experience, superb interpersonal skills, and a strong work ethic. She is well-prepared to lead the College of Education and Health Professions through the next phase of our journey to a strong and flourishing university.” Collier-Tenison graduated with a bachelor’s degree in psychology from Hendrix College and a master’s degree and Ph.D. in social work from Washington University in St. Louis. After beginning her career as a graduate advisor and assistant professor of social work at the University of Texas at Arlington, Collier-Tenison joined the ��Vlog��ý Little Rock School of Social Work as an assistant professor in 2006 and served as coordinator of the Bachelor of Social Work program from 2010 to 2014. She also served as the restructuring liaison for the College of Social Sciences and Communication and the interim co-director of the School of Social Work. Her research interests and scholarly writing focus on intimate partner violence, bystander intervention, economic assets, and welfare policy.�� An active member of the community, Collier-Tenison serves as an executive board member and treasurer of Arkansas Advocates for Children and Families and previously served on the boards of Women and Children First and Kaleidoscope Grief Center. She has experience working with survivors of interpersonal violence and sexual assault as a crisis counselor, researcher, and advocate.

��Vlog��ý Little Rock dean selected as new executive vice chancellor and provost��

Ajani Oyindamola — Fri, 04 Oct 2019 13:10:02 +0000

In her first appointment as chancellor of the University of Arkansas at Little Rock, Dr. Christina Drale has selected Dr. Ann Bain as executive vice chancellor and provost. The appointment is effective Oct. 16. Bain, who joined the university 32 years ago, most recently served as dean of the College of Education and Health Professions. She replaces Dr. Drale, who was interim executive vice chancellor and provost before being appointed chancellor in September by University of Arkansas System President Dr. Donald Bobbitt. As provost, Bain is the senior academic administrator who oversees curricular, instructional, and research affairs. “I’m honored to have been selected for this position and look forward to working with our new leader, Chancellor Drale, the leadership teams, our faculty, staff, and students,” said Bain. “I recognize that I am accepting this position at a challenging time in the history of this university, but with challenging times comes great opportunity.” In her new role, she will focus on strengthening the university’s connection to the Little Rock community and expanding community engagement and collaboration; expanding student support to enable greater student success; and helping to reshape the university to meet the needs of Little Rock and Arkansas.�� “Dr. Bain has a proven track record as an educational leader at ��Vlog��ý Little Rock,” Drale said. “She has demonstrated her ability to successfully manage a variety of units with an eye towards growth and efficiency. She has built effective student support systems in her college and has cultivated productive relationships with key community partners. Dr. Bain has also played an important role in our institutional efforts towards continuous improvement. She is highly qualified for this position, and I have every confidence that she will continue her excellent work as provost.” Bain currently serves as co-chair of the Institutional Effectiveness Committee and a member of the Higher Learning Commission Steering Committee overseeing university accreditation—two critical committees for moving the university forward. A 1972 graduate of Mount St. Mary Academy in Little Rock, Bain earned her bachelor’s and master’s degrees in nursing from the University of Central Arkansas and began her career in nursing at several hospitals in Little Rock. She joined ��Vlog��ý Little Rock in 1987 as an assistant professor of nursing and received a doctorate in higher education administration from the university in 1998. Bain served as chair of the Department of Nursing for 16 years, until she was named interim dean of the College of Sciences in 2013. Over her tenure, Bain grew the nursing department from an associate degree program with about 100 students to a program with five degree programs enrolling about 900 students—the largest academic program at the university. Her work with the ��Vlog��ý Little Rock Office of Development to secure external support and grant funding has provided innovative technology and resources for the Nursing Department. She also helped establish partnerships with CHI St. Vincent Health System and Saline Memorial Hospital.�� In 2014, Bain became the first dean of ��Vlog��ý Little Rock’s newly formed College of Education and Health Professions. During her tenure, she established the college’s Advising and Support Center; implemented 2-plus-2 articulation agreements with Arkansas community colleges in middle childhood education, elementary education, and social work program; and established a partnership with Easterseals Arkansas to enable adults with disabilities to have a college and work experience through ��Vlog��ý Little Rock. Bain is active in several community and professional service organizations. She currently serves on the nomination committee for the Accrediting Commission for Education in Nursing and has previously served as secretary and vice chairperson.

��Vlog��ý Little Rock commencement set for May 11

Janea Snyder — Wed, 08 May 2019 20:03:04 +0000

The University of Arkansas at Little Rock will host three Spring 2019 commencement ceremonies on Saturday, May 11, in the ��Vlog��ý Little Rock Jack Stephens Center, located at South University Avenue and 28th Street. A total of 1,518 students are eligible to participate in the Spring 2019 commencement ceremonies. Of those, 1,032 are undergraduates, 410 are graduate students, and 76 are post-baccalaureate students. The first ceremony begins at 9:30 a.m. for the College of Education and Health Professions and the George W. Donaghey College of Engineering and Information Technology (with Graduate School). A second ceremony will begin at 3 p.m. for students in the College of Arts, Letters, and Sciences; College of Business; and the College of Social Sciences and Communication (with Graduate School). �� The ��Vlog��ý Little Rock Commencement Brass Ensemble and Concert Choir will perform at both ceremonies, along with bagpiper Roy Eggensperger. Nicole Ursin, the 2019 Edward Lynn Whitbeck Memorial Award recipient, will provide greetings at the daytime ceremonies and will be joined by ��Vlog��ý System President Dr. Don Bobbitt at the afternoon ceremony. Gov. Asa Hutchinson will be the keynote speaker for the William H. Bowen School of Law commencement, beginning at 7 p.m. at the Jack Stephens Center. Of the 105 law students who applied for graduation, approximately 90 plan to participate in the ceremony. The Jack Stephens Center will open to guests at 8 a.m. for the morning ceremony; 1:30 p.m. for the afternoon ceremony; and 6 p.m. for the Bowen School of Law commencement. Guests are encouraged to arrive early to park closest to the Jack Stephens Center. More information is available on the commencement website. There’s also an , and a site for students participating in Bowen Law commencement. Graduating students should arrive one hour prior to the ceremony. A offers more information.

Expo showcases student research and creative works

Janea Snyder — Thu, 25 Apr 2019 19:41:30 +0000

University of Arkansas at Little Rock students showcased their academic work this semester at the recent Student Research and Creative Works Expo held April 18 in the Jack Stephens Center. More than 200 students representing every college within the university participated this year, with projects spanning research in computer science/information science, creative work, economics, education, engineering/engineering technology/construction management, health science, humanities, interdisciplinary, life science, physical science, service work/professional application, social science, and social work. More than 100 of the participating students received Signature Experience Awards of up to $1,000 to fund their research this semester. Kajal Shukla, a senior computer science major, used machine learning to predict coronary heart disease. Shukla, who was mentored by Dr. Mariofannia Milanova in the Department of Computer Science, chose to investigate heart disease because a data set was already available for heart disease that allowed her to experiment with three different machine learning models to determine which was the most useful. Shukla will graduate May 11 with a Bachelor of Science in computer science and plans to start a master’s degree program in June. More than a dozen entries in this year’s expo were creative works. Aaron Prosser earned a Bachelor of Fine Arts in graphic art in December but returned to campus to exhibit his “Organo Guys,” a series of action figures that combine his love of toys and his graphic design talent. Inspired by Captain Planet, Swamp Thing, and the Ninja Turtles, Prosser’s action figures were sent by Mother Earth to enforce the preservation of the environment. Prosser was mentored by Kevin Cates. Kat Hall, who will graduate May 11 with a Bachelor of Fine Arts in theatre arts, explored the process and conventions used during the 16th century in England under strict sumptuary laws to transform male players into female characters on stage. Her project, “Cross Dressing: The Transformative Power of Costumes on Shakespeare’s Stage,” used contemporary flat pattern and draping methods to create costumes. “The Student Research and Creative Works Expo really captures the diversity, breadth, and calibre of our students, and is a testament to the expertise and engagement of their faculty mentors,” said Lawrence Smith, assistant professor in ��Vlog��ý Little Rock’s Theatre Arts and Dance Department and co-chair of the Student Research and Creative Works Committee. “It gives you a great insight to the creativity and intellectual rigor that is the heart of our work at ��Vlog��ý Little Rock.” In addition to the expo, individual colleges at ��Vlog��ý Little Rock showcased their programs, research, and resources as part of a larger Research and Creativity in the Rock event. The College of Social Sciences and Communication hosted a two-day mini-conference featuring interdisciplinary panels with faculty, staff, and students. The College of Arts, Letters, and Sciences gave tours of its science laboratories to visiting high school students who were also treated to music and dance and music performances in the Stella Boyle Smith Concert Hall, a majors fair, and ��tour of the Windgate Center of Art and Design. The Donaghey College of Engineering and Information Technology also gave tours of its engineering, engineering technology, and earth science laboratories to visiting high school students who also toured the Emerging Analytics Center. The College of Education and Health Professions hosted an open house in the Bailey Alumni Center to showcase faculty and student research and information about the STEM Education Center, and the George W. Donaghey College of Engineering and Information Technology hosted an open house with student poster presentations and demonstrations. ��Vlog��ý Little Rock students discuss their research with visitors at the Student Research and Creative Works Expo held April 18 in the Jack Stephens Center. Photo by Benjamin Krain

��Vlog��ý Little Rock to showcase Student Research And Creative Works

Janea Snyder — Mon, 15 Apr 2019 19:59:42 +0000

The University of Arkansas at Little Rock will showcase the best of its students’ research and creative works on Thursday, April 18, at the 2019 Student Research and Creative Works Expo from noon – 3 p.m. in the Jack Stephens Center. The 2019 expo is part of the university’s Research and Creativity in the Rock event, which includes the expo as well as individual showcases and demonstrations within the university’s colleges. At the expo, more than 200 undergraduate and graduate students will display��projects spanning research in computer science/information science, creative work, economics, education, engineering/engineering technology/construction management, health science, humanities, interdisciplinary, life science, physical science, service work/professional application, social science, and social work. Recipients of ��Vlog��ý Little Rock’s Signature Experience Awards and Student Undergraduate Research Fellowships from the Arkansas Department of Higher Education are among the students showcasing their work. The event is free and open to the public. “The Student Research and Creative Works Expo really captures the diversity, breadth, and calibre of our students and is a testament to the expertise and engagement of their faculty mentors,” said Lawrence Smith, assistant professor in ��Vlog��ý Little Rock’s Theatre Arts and Dance Department and co-chair of��the Student Research and Creative Works Committee. “It gives you a great insight to the creativity and intellectual rigor that is the heart of our work at ��Vlog��ý Little Rock.” Students from every college within the university are participating this year. “Each year, students’ research projects affirm the difference they and their mentors make on a wide range of relevant world issues, such as pollution, breast cancer, and social injustice,” said Elizabeth Ann Lee, assistant professor of nursing, who is also co-chair of the event committee. “Likewise, students’ amazing creative works enrich the arts, and their professional activities make our community a better place to live.” In addition to the expo, individual colleges within the university will showcases their programs, research, and resources as part of Research and Creativity in the Rock. The College of Social Sciences and Communication��will host��a two-day mini-conference beginning Wednesday, April 17, in the Donaghey Student Center that features interdisciplinary panels with faculty, staff, and students. An online schedule of events is available. The College of Arts, Letters, and Sciences will showcase its science laboratories to high school students who��will see science experiments in the Departments of Chemistry, Biology, and Physics and Astronomy and tour campus. Dance and music performances begin at 10:30 a.m. in the Stella Boyle Smith Concert Hall; an Explore the Majors fair begins at 11 a.m. in the Maners-Papas Gallery; and a tour of Windgate Center for Art and Design begins at 11:30 a.m. The College of Education and Health Professions will have an open house from 10 a.m. – noon in the Bailey Alumni Center to showcase faculty and student research as well as information and activities from the STEM Education Center. The George W. Donaghey College of Engineering and Information Technology will host an open house for visiting high school students from 9-11:30 a.m. “This is a phenomenal showcasing of the work done by ��Vlog��ý Little Rock students, faculty, and staff,” said Dr. Abhijit Bhattacharyya, interim dean of the ��Vlog��ý Little Rock Graduate School. Community members, including high school students, have also been invited to visit the events. Transportation will be provided between the venues for the convenience of visitors. A map of trolley stops is available online. For more information about any of the events, contact Tiffany McFadden-Kidd, Graduate School recruitment and communications coordinator, at tlmcfadden@ualr.edu or 501-569-3088.

��Vlog��ý Little Rock Jodie Mahony Center receives $55k grant to provide workshops for Arkansas teachers

Ajani Oyindamola — Mon, 15 Apr 2019 13:13:42 +0000

The Jodie Mahony Center for Gifted Education at the University of Arkansas at Little Rock has received a $55,241 grant from the Arkansas Department of Education to provide workshops and training to candidates seeking National Board Teacher Certification.�� The National Board for Professional Teaching Standards (NBPTS) is a nonprofit organization dedicated to improving effectiveness in education and teaching. Offering 25 areas of certification, NBPTS is the most respected professional certification available to teachers serving in K-12 education. “This is the highest level of professional development a teacher can attain,” said Dr. Christine Deitz, associate director of the Jodie Mahony Center. “It’s like passing the bar for a lawyer, and is the most meaningful professional development a classroom teacher can go through. What the process does for learning is no less than remarkable! The proof is in the students.” Earning the National Board Teacher Certification is a vigorous process that can take 1-3 years. Teachers complete a comprehensive exam of content knowledge and a portfolio emphasizing three classroom components. �� “The National Board Teacher Certification site at ��Vlog��ý Little Rock, which Christine Deitz leads, works with teachers across all 25 areas of certification,” said Dr. Ann Robinson, director of the Jodie Mahony Center. “She works with a team of 16 expert teachers.” ��Vlog��ý Little Rock currently serves more than 130 teachers annually and is the largest support site in the state. “��Vlog��ý Little Rock is the reason we are able to achieve this,” Deitz said. “We receive amazing support from the School of Education. Dean Ann Bain and Bruce Smith of the School of Education have continued to support this program by making sure that facilities and personnel, are available. That level of support is critical ��if you want to have the largest and best National Board Teacher Certification site in the state. It takes all hands on deck.” The grant will cover expenses related to the support and training of candidates working toward National Board Teacher Certification. These workshops, which are held twice a month until May, will provide essential knowledge and skills associated with accomplished and effective teaching. ��Vlog��ý Little Rock facilitators will also offer two one-day Saturday workshops in May and June to help candidates complete their application for the Arkansas Department of Education’s National Board Candidate funding. “We are here to support teachers very passionately, very sincerely in their efforts to achieve National Board Certification,” Deitz said. “The state recognizes certification as a very important professional process that has a direct and positive impact on student learning. ��The process also develops teacher leaders. The state offers a yearly bonus to National Board teachers, and some districts offer an extra salary incentive.” Teachers interested in taking National Board Certification for up to nine hours of graduate credit can contact the Jodie Mahony Center at 501-569-3410 for more information.

Taste of Little Rock draws record crowd, raises $100,000

Janea Snyder — Fri, 12 Apr 2019 22:15:18 +0000

Taste of Little Rock set new records this year, with nearly 800 people attending and more than $100,000 raised for student scholarships. Visitors were treated to tamales from , perfectly plated beef medallions with mashed potato from Arthur’s, melt-in-your-mouth sweets from , frozen treats from and many other cuisines provided by this year’s 33 vendors. served a seafood pasta that won over the crowd and earned the restaurant the “Best of Taste” designation for the second year in a row. “This was by far the most highly attended Taste of Little Rock yet,” said Ryan Miller, director of the ��Vlog��ý Little Rock Alumni Association. “We are excited that this event continues to grow and have an impact on student scholarships.” The event raised just over $100,000 for student scholarships. “This event wouldn’t happen without our volunteers,” Miller said. “Mauri Douglass has been the longtime chair of this event, and we wouldn’t be successful without her guidance. Stephanie Caruthers stepped in to serve as co-chair, and we look forward to her leadership in the coming year. Additionally, the Alumni Board and Taste of Little Rock committee put in countless hours securing sponsors and restaurants to make the event a success, and we had more than 75 student volunteers.” This year’s Taste of Little Rock paid tribute to Arkansas Heart Hospital CEO Bruce Murphy for his longtime support of ��Vlog��ý Little Rock and his work to impact the health of Arkansans. Murphy, who graduated from ��Vlog��ý Little Rock in 1975 with a Bachelor of Science, has been a longtime supporter of ��Vlog��ý Little Rock. Last year, he gave $800,000 to the College of Education and Health Professions. That gift helps support the Student Success Initiatives Fund, which provides academic tutoring and mentoring to students as well as a full-time social worker to assist students. On April 3, the night before Taste of the Little Rock, ��Vlog��ý Little Rock hosted a small reception honoring Dr. Murphy. Sloan Davidson, director of the nursing department, told Dr. Murphy that her students have benefited tremendously from having access to a social worker. Nursing is ��Vlog��ý Little Rock’s largest major, with more than 400 students enrolled in associate degree programs and another 400 in the Bachelor of Science in Nursing program. “Many students have life issues, and their financial need is tremendous,” she said. “A majority are first-generation, and oftentimes they work multiple jobs to get through school to better themselves and their families.” Davidson has had students who have dealt with the death of a spouse and a child. “Having resources to help them get through that and have access to mental health care makes all the difference,” she said. “This gift has been a godsend for our program and our students.” The Student Success Initiatives fund includes emergency funds that have been used to help students in desperate situations. “We’ve been able to help students renew their electricity and prevent them from being evicted. We’ve had homeless students we’ve been able to get housing for. It’s just been more than we could ever ask for, and we so appreciate it,” Davidson told Dr. Murphy. Those kinds of resources often mean the difference between students dropping out of school or finishing a degree that will help them get a job with which they can support themselves and their families. ‘“It’s also adding a nurse to our community, where we currently have a nursing shortage,” Davidson said. Murphy said he felt honored by his alma mater. “I believe that I have a debt to pay to for where I am,” he said. “My expectation when I began this was not that I’d be where I am today. I know it is because I was blessed by my Lord, blessed by the education I got, and I was very blessed by the people who helped me and became role models for me, who were the motivators and molders that gave me the opportunity to stay on the road and not the shoulder.” Top right photo:�� A Taste of Little Rock attendee samples edamame quinoa salad preapred by Arkansas Heart Hospital. Above left: ��Vlog��ý Little Rock student volunteers sample frozen treats from LePop, one of this year’s vendors at Taste of Little Rock. Photos by Benjamin Krain

- University News Archive - ����Vlog��ý Little Rock

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����Vlog��ý Little Rock dean selected as new executive vice chancellor and provost��

����Vlog��ý Little Rock commencement set for May 11