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

��Vlog��ý Little Rock Honors Weigel, Loftus, Willis with 2022 Staff Achievement Awards

John Hill — Thu, 21 Apr 2022 13:00:25 +0000

��Vlog��ý Little Rock Staff Senate has honored three of the university’s outstanding staff members for excellence in the areas of service to the university, personal growth, and community service. “The three staff members who won these awards represent staff dedication and commitment to our institution and our community,” said Ross Bradley, president-elect of Staff Senate and web and provost office manager. “Their contributions have benefited faculty, students, fellow staff, and our community members in countless ways. Without staff contributions like the ones highlighted in these three staff members, it would be impossible for the institution to meet its goals.” Melody Weigel, admissions and records specialist for the William H. Bowen School of Law, has received the Ben Fry Service to ��Vlog��ý Little Rock Award. The award recipient is described to be an individual who is distinctive in service through committees, special events, implementation of creative ideas or support and encouragement of others. Additionally, Ashi Loftus, user interface and user experience designer for the Office of Communications and Marketing, has received the Personal Growth Award. The award winner is described as an individual whose scholarship, research, or creative talent has been particularly outstanding. Jacqueline Willis, administrative specialist III for the Department of Chemistry, has received the Service to the Community Award. This award recipient is described as an individual who has been particularly successful in organizing community events or had major achievements in civic, service, or specialty organizations/events. The three winners will receive a $3,000 award distributed via payroll distributions. More information about the Staff Achievement Award winners:

Ben Fry Service to ��Vlog��ý Little Rock Award

Ever since Weigel joined ��Vlog��ý Little Rock in 2016, she has been dedicated to promoting and advocating for diversity, equity, and inclusion. Since 2017, Weigel has served as advisor of the OutLaw Legal Society at the Bowen School of Law, whose mission includes promoting diversity, raising awareness of legal issues affecting lesbian, gay, bisexual, transgender, and queer (LGBTQ+) people, and maintaining an open atmosphere of respect, equality, and justice for all. The OutLaw Legal Society has grown into an influential student organization that has helped attract students who support the local LGBTQ+ community. Since 2016, LGBTQ+ enrollment has increased nearly 60 percent at the Bowen School of Law. Last year, Weigel joined the ��Vlog��ý Little Rock Safe Zone Committee, which is committed to improving the overall campus climate for LGBTQ+ individuals. She advocated for the inclusion of students to Safe Zone, and there are now two trained student members. “Melody looks to champion the success of each project large and small,” said Ashley Nipp, an accountant for the Office of Alumni and Development. “Managing the work of exceptional campus and community student leaders is a time commitment. Melody’s office is more than a safe zone for law school students. She is the default mentor to many law school students who use her office as a place to share their concerns, celebrate their victories, or learn of new campus resources.” An active staff leader, Weigel has also served for four years on the Staff Senate, including president-elect, president, and past president.

Staff Achievement Award for Personal Growth

While a dedicated member of the Communications and Marketing team, Loftus is also committed to completing her education and to learn new skills to excel at her career. During the fall 2021 semester, she graduated with a Bachelor of Arts in Web Design and Development and a minor in information technology. In addition to her graduation, she also married Liz Loftus in November 2021. Her educational aspirations are far from over. Loftus also plans to graduate from ��Vlog��ý Little Rock a second time in 2023 with a Bachelor of Fine Arts in Graphic Design, a minor in digital graphics, a minor in art history, and a graphic design technical certificate Once she has completed her undergraduate education, Loftus plans to enter a graduate program to earn either a Master of Arts in Art History or a Master of Fine Arts. Her ultimate goal is to become a college professor and give back to college students like the many professors who have inspired her at ��Vlog��ý Little Rock. She gets plenty of practice as a future professor by giving presentations every year to design and development classes at ��Vlog��ý Little Rock and National Park College. In her professional role, Loftus is highly involved in the redesign and relaunch of ��Vlog��ý Little Rock’s website, a project that will last at least three years. She is currently using her user experience design skills to improve the overall usability and functionality of the website. “In the past few years, I’ve really seen Ashi grow both professionally and personally,” said Meaghan Milliorn, Loftus’ supervisor and director of digital strategy. “She recently completed her degree and is working on a second one. She has been able to successfully juggle her classes while working full-time as a UI/UX designer on the university web team. Ashi has created countless noteworthy designs that support our digital marketing efforts and her dedication to web accessibility and inclusion is essential as we work to create a better online experience. Ashi is an excellent example of how a degree can change your life and strengthen your career.” While at ��Vlog��ý Little Rock, Ashi has been a member of the ��Vlog��ý Little Rock Safe Zone Committee since 2017. She also served as a committee co-chair of the Safety, Equity, and Inclusion Committee as well as an accessibility coordinator for the Accessibility Summit Committee and the HighEdWeb Conference Committee.

Staff Achievement Award for Community Service

Jacqueline Willis is a longtime ��Vlog��ý Little Rock staff member who has worked at the university since 1995. She started off her career as an administrative assistant in the Department of Biology and has also worked as the higher educational institutional program coordinator for the former College of Arts, Letters, and Sciences (CALS). “Jackie joined the Chemistry department around two years ago,” said Dr. Anindya Ghosh, chair of the Department of Chemistry. “In a short period, with her vast experiences, caring attitude, and strong work ethic, she has become a vital part of the Chemistry family. Chemistry faculty and students are surely thankful to her.” Dr. Shanzhi Wang, assistant professor of chemistry, described Willis as someone who is always willing to help someone with any project. When both the biology and chemistry departments needed administrative assistance in 2019, Willis volunteered to help out both departments while she was already working in the CALS dean’s office. She also assisted the biology department with administrative work when the need arose again in 2021. “Ms. Willis’s service has significantly benefited the chemistry department and ��Vlog��ý Little Rock in recruitment, faculty, and student success. Willis has also been highly involved in service to Mt. Pleasant Baptist Church, Christway Missionary Baptist Church, and the ��Vlog��ý Little Rock Staff Senate.

Nominations open for 2022 Staff Achievement Awards, Scholarships Open Through March 7

John Hill — Fri, 18 Feb 2022 15:27:09 +0000

The University of Arkansas at Little Rock is looking for the next winners of the 2022 Staff Achievement Awards. ��Vlog��ý Little Rock employees, students, and alumni can nominate an outstanding staff member through March 7 in three categories: personal achievement, service to the university, and community service. The winners will receive a $3,000 award, distributed via payroll. The winners will be announced during a virtual celebration for staff members at ��Vlog��ý Little Rock on Thursday, April 21. Staff members who are celebrating work anniversaries, have graduated in the past year, and retiring will also be recognized. The three categories for nominations are:

Personal Growth – Recognition will go to an individual whose scholarship, research, or creative talent has been particularly outstanding.
Ben Fry Service to ��Vlog��ý Little Rock – Recognition will go to an individual who is distinctive in service through committees, special events, implementation of creative ideas or support and encouragement of others.
Community Service – Recognition will go to an individual who has been particularly successful in organizing community events or had major achievements in civic, service, or specialty organizations/events.

In addition to the Staff Achievement Awards, applications are available for the Staff Senate Scholarship, a $250 scholarship, and the Jerry Crittenden Employee Book Scholarship, a $75 book scholarship, for staff members who are furthering their education at ��Vlog��ý Little Rock To fill out a nomination form for the Staff Achievement Awards and Staff Senate scholarships, visit the Staff Senate website. For more information, please contact Ross Bradley at rabradley@ualr.edu.

��Vlog��ý Little Rock to honor staff members during Staff Celebration Week

John Hill — Fri, 02 Apr 2021 21:10:36 +0000

��Vlog��ý Little Rock will honor the hard work and achievements of its staff members during Staff Celebration Week April 5-9. Staff Senate will announce the winners of the Staff Achievement Awards. A $3,000 award will be given to the top staff member in each of three categories: Ben Fry Service to ��Vlog��ý Little Rock, community service, and personal growth. “The staff members are a vital part of the success of ��Vlog��ý Little Rock,” said Staff Senate President-elect Jenn McDannold. “The Staff Achievement Awards highlight our staff members’ incredible commitment to the university and community through hard work, service, and dedication.” Staff Senate will also announce the winners of the Staff Senate Scholarship and Jerry Crittenden Employee Book Scholarship. The ��Vlog��ý Little Rock community is encouraged to join the celebration of staff members by highlighting offices that have gone above and beyond in the past year by filling out a, join the conversation on the, and share your staff stories on social media using #WeHeartOurStaff. You can also visit a Sodexo eatery on campus, write a message for staff members, and then place it on the Trojan logo cutouts at Starbucks, Wow Café, and more. The ��Vlog��ý Little Rock Staff Senate will host a Staff Awards Celebration from 11 a.m. to 1 p.m. on Friday, April 30, in the Donaghey Student Center, where award winners and staff members celebrating work anniversaries, retirement, and educational achievements can drop by to pick up their awards and certificates and have their picture taken. The members of the Staff Awards Committee behind the celebrations include Cadence Baise, Jordan Breckenridge, Serifatu Buford, Shannon Gwinn, Cody Henslee, Jenn McDannold, Anissa Sonia-Williams, and Samantha Wiley.��

Galloway, Dailey, Godley selected as 2020 Staff Achievement Award Winners

John Hill — Tue, 12 May 2020 21:08:40 +0000

The University of Arkansas at Little Rock Staff Senate honored three of its staff members for excellence in the areas of service to the university, community service, and personal growth.�� Geneva Galloway, administrative specialist III for the Donaghey Scholars Program, received the Ben Fry Service to ��Vlog��ý Little Rock Award. Additionally, Eileen Devereux Dailey, business consultant at the Arkansas Small Business and Technology Development Center, was named the winner of the Staff Achievement Award for Community Service, while Colleen Godley, ERP business analyst and developer in Information Technology Services, is the winner of the Staff Achievement Award for Personal Growth. Each winner will receive $2,000. More info about the Staff Achievement Award winners:

Ben Fry Service to ��Vlog��ý Little Rock Award

Geneva Galloway’s co-workers believe that she has a skill for anticipating and engaging the needs of those around her. Some examples of her insights for the Donaghey Scholars Program include streamlining the admissions process, improving how minutes are kept for the Policy Council meetings, and providing wonderful support for the students.

Geneva Galloway

“She is an advocate for students in every way, whether that is providing a sympathetic ear, helping with classes, financial aid issues, or planning a study abroad trip,” One Donaghey Scholar student said about Galloway. “If you are needing someone to vent to or just a hug, she is there.” Galloway works very hard to make a positive difference in the lives of students. She organizes a social event or workshop for Donaghey Scholars every week and oversaw a committee of students to hold a talent show that was also a fundraiser for the Trojan Food Pantry. After bringing in representatives from ��Vlog��ý Little Rock Children International to talk about their work with local children, she organized a drive to gather children’s books to donate. “Geneva’s influence extends beyond the Donaghey Scholars Program,” said Dr. Simon Hawkins, director of the Donaghey Scholars Program. “She played a crucial role in supporting the International Studies Club with its food drive for World Hunger Day. She has been an active participant in the campus food garden. More significantly, she was the assistant director for the theatre department production of ‘As You Like It.’ Geneva is dedicated to the university and will do whatever she can to support it.”

Staff Achievement Award for Community Service

Eileen Devereux Dailey has a passion for helping others, both through her work as a business consultant for the Arkansas Small Business and Technology Development Center and through her extensive volunteer work with nonprofit organizations in central Arkansas.

Eileen Daily

“Eileen moved to Arkansas from Mexico in 2013 and immediately began to plug in and serve the community,” said Heather Robinette, ASBTDC entrepreneurial services manager. “Since making Little Rock her home, Eileen has dedicated her time to a number of local organizations and causes. She is a kind and compassionate person who looks for ways to serve others and give back to the community. Dailey volunteers for Our House, which provides support and care for homeless individuals and families. She serves on the logistics committee for Our House’s annual fundraiser, Dinner on the Grounds. With a passion for the wellbeing of animals, Dailey also volunteers for Saturday Pet Showings and fundraisers for the Central Arkansas Rescue Effort for Animals (CARE). Her work care led her work with the Humane Society as a registered animal rescue volunteer, where she has participated in four large-scale animal rescue operations. Dailey also serves as a board member for Party with a Heart, which helps local small nonprofits raise funds and awareness by organizing events. She has helped with fundraising for local organizations like Arkansas PAWs in Prison Education, Hope Rises, Literacy Action of Central Arkansas, and Partners Against Trafficking Humans. “Eileen is also dedicated to meeting the needs of the Hispanic community in central Arkansas and beyond,” Robinette said. “During her time in Little Rock, she has developed a close working relationship with the Mexican Consulate. Through this relationship, she participates in various events, including speaking at the Consulate’s financial education sessions. Eileen volunteers for a local non-profit organization called El Zocalo, which assists immigrants with various issues by providing resources and information.” In line with her work at ASBTDC, Dailey serves as a mentor for women business owners. She regularly holds discussions with a group of local women in the entrepreneurial ecosystem, where they discuss mentoring opportunities, funding, and resources for women business owners.��

Staff Achievement Award for Personal Growth

Colleen Godley’s former co-workers at the William H. Bowen School of Law recognize her as a staff member who used every opportunity available to create a better future for herself and her family.

Colleen Godley

After joining ��Vlog��ý Little Rock in 2011 as an administrative assistant for the Higher Education Institute at Bowen Law School, Godley began working toward a Bachelor of Business Administration degree in business information systems and a certificate in data analytics. Godley gained a promotion to career service program coordinator in 2016 and completed her undergraduate degree in 2018. “And as if steadily assuming more responsibility at the law school while raising a family provided insufficient challenge, she also spent the last decade completing her education,” said Nancy Bellhouse May, research professor at Bowen. “Using a steady course-by-course approach, she propelled herself through ��Vlog��ý Little Rock’s undergraduate program, gained admission to the graduate school, and prepared herself for a new career.” Godley’s hard work and determination led her to another promotion as an ERP business analyst and developer in Information Technology Services that she began in February. She is also set to graduate with a Master of Science degree in business information systems in May. “I know that aiming non-traditional students toward success is part of ��Vlog��ý Little Rock’s core mission,” May said. “And I would not be surprised to learn that every department has a success story of its own, but I have heard of no other staff member who so quickly recognized the opportunity that ��Vlog��ý Little Rock offered, mapped a step-by-step path to success, and eventually created a resume that made her a top candidate and eventual hire for an important professional job on main campus.” Outside of work, Godley is also an active volunteer at Our Savior Lutheran Church in Cabot, where she serves as a Sunday School teacher and as the advertising and social media manager.

Women to Watch at ��Vlog��ý Little Rock: Melody Weigel

John Hill — Mon, 23 Mar 2020 12:59:48 +0000

In this special series for Women’s History Month, ��Vlog��ý Little Rock is profiling women leaders who are making a difference at the university. As president of the ��Vlog��ý Little Rock Staff Senate, Melody Weigel, admissions and records specialist for the William H. Bowen School of Law, is responsible for representing the issues and concerns of staff members at the university. Q.�� Tell me about yourself. I graduated from the University of Virginia and grew up in Virginia in a rural, industrial community. My first career was as an archeologist in South Carolina. I focused on how enslaved Africans and African Americans lived, and I tried to tell their story based on what they left behind, rather than on what people had written in the historical record. Then, I got married and lived in Alaska for four years. My husband is a disabled veteran who is a master’s student in the ��Vlog��ý Little Rock applied communication program. Q.�� How did you arrive at ��Vlog��ý Little Rock? During my last job in Arkansas, I was a policy analyst for the Arkansas Department of Health. I reviewed every single tobacco policy across the state and managed $1.2 million in grants. I wanted to work with people again, and no one likes people who work in tobacco control. It was a good experience, but I needed a change. ��Vlog��ý Little Rock was hiring, and Bowen Law School seemed like an excellent place to work. I started here in 2016. Q.�� What is your current position at ��Vlog��ý Little Rock? What are your duties? I am the admissions and records specialist at Bowen and filling in for the dean of admissions, scholarship, and enrollment data during the search to fill the position. I’m also the advisor for Outlaw Legal Society and the president of Staff Senate. I am trying to bring in a diverse and qualified class, award scholarships to current students, and work with the fantastic folks who are members of Outlaw. They are the Bowen Student Organization of the Year, and I’m a proud mama bear. As Staff Senate president, I coordinate the staff at ��Vlog��ý Little Rock and try to represent the staff to the best of my ability in a time when the need for representation is high. I think that we’ve been heard more than in the past and that’s good. We’ve had a lot of accomplishments this year. We’re working on a monthly employee recognition program, broken our personal records for blood drive donations and Helping Hands Committee fundraising, and doubled the amount of money we’re able to give for Staff Achievement Awards. We are able to communicate with university leadership about the needs of staff and have advocated for transition assistance during reorganization. We just have an excellent leadership team in place this year. None of this is done in a vacuum. Q.�� How would you describe your leadership style? I believe a strong team is the key to success, along with gratitude. Everyone is busy, so being thankful for help and support is important to building that team. It’s about making sure there is a balance between what needs to get done and the other responsibilities of the team. As a leader, I try to be as collaborative as possible. I don’t like to micromanage people. They are on my team because I trust them. I believe in empowering folks to do their best work, and I’m here to help and support them and make decisions when needed. Q. What woman has inspired you the most and why? My grandmother was one of 8 sisters and 4 brothers. They were raised on a tobacco farm during the Great Depression. They were all very book smart and went on to work in factories during World War II, or “da waar” as it was referred to by my grandmother. They also stayed in these positions after the boys came back. They were early feminists. They were sassy and spoke their minds and expected you to do the same. I feel like if the time was different my grandmother and great-aunts all would have gone off to college, but they were successful in each of their professions. Grandma said they didn’t know it was the depression because everyone was so self-sufficient, but hard work builds opportunities. Sometimes, you have to leave home to find your adventure. Q.�� What advice would you give to the next generation of female leaders? It’s like my grandma always said, dissent is patriotic. She was always civically engaged. She and my great-aunts told me that you can be respectful while still speaking up and disagreeing. You don’t have to sit in meetings and agree with everyone. You can disagree, but you don’t have to be a jerk about it. Q.�� Name something about yourself that most people would be surprised to learn. I’ve had people tell me that I’m unhireable because my resume is so diverse. Admittedly, I have had a lot of different jobs. I worked in a pharmacy. I got to play with a founding father’s trash when I worked at Monticello (the home of President Thomas Jefferson). I worked for the park service as an archaeologist with the bonus job of park ranger. I’ve been a substitute teacher in Alaska.�� I’ve worked in tobacco policy for the health department. I’m also very good with tools. My grandfather was my babysitter, and he managed a hardware store. After preschool, my Papa would sit me up at the workbench with a block of wood in the vice and let me use hand tools to my heart’s content. I don’t think I ever owned a doll. It came in handy when I worked for the park service because I built my own lab. Q. What’s one leadership lesson you’ve learned in your career? Treat people well.

Nominations open for 2020 Staff Achievement Awards, Scholarships

John Hill — Wed, 19 Feb 2020 21:31:21 +0000

University of Arkansas at Little Rock employees, students, and alumni can nominate an outstanding staff member for the 2020 Staff Achievement Awards through Monday, March 9. This year, Chancellor Christina Drale has increased funding so the three winners of the Staff Achievement Awards will receive $2,000.�� The award categories include personal achievement, service to the university, and community service. Eligible employees are full-time regular classified and non-faculty/non-classified employees holding no academic rank. The awards will be distributed via payroll. The winners will be announced at the Staff Awards Ceremony at 10:30 a.m. Thursday, April 16, in the Engineering and Information Technology Building Auditorium with a reception to follow. Staff members who are celebrating work anniversaries, have graduated in the past year, and retiring will also be recognized.�� The three categories for nominations are:

Personal Growth – Recognition will go to an individual whose scholarship, research, or creative talent has been particularly outstanding.
Ben Fry Service to ��Vlog��ý Little Rock – Recognition will go to an individual who is distinctive in service through committees, special events, implementation of creative ideas or support and encouragement of others.
Community Service – Recognition will go to an individual who has been particularly successful in organizing community events or had major achievements in civic, service, or specialty organizations/events.

Staff members who are furthering their education at ��Vlog��ý Little Rock can also apply for a scholarship. The Staff Senate will award two Staff Senate Scholarships, a $250 scholarship, and two Jerry Crittenden Employee Book Scholarships, a $75 book scholarship.�� To fill out a nomination form for the Staff Achievement Awards and Staff Senate scholarships, visit the Staff Senate website. For more information, please contact Angie Faller at 501-916-5905 or amfaller@ualr.edu.

��Vlog��ý Little Rock honors Seamon, Lott, and Hoover as Staff Achievement Award winners

Ajani Oyindamola — Wed, 01 May 2019 13:15:29 +0000

The University of Arkansas at Little Rock Staff Senate honored three of its staff members for excellence in the areas of service to the university, community service, and personal growth. Each winner will receive a $1,000 prize. Michael Seamon, assistant director of operations in facilities management, received the Ben Fry Service to ��Vlog��ý Little Rock Award. He was joined by Wanda Hoover, assistant dean for external relations in the William H. Bowen School of Law, who won the Staff Achievement Award for Community Service, as well as Ann Marie Lott, interpreter and transcriber coordinator for the Disability Resource Center and recipient of the Staff Achievement Award for Personal Growth. “In 1989, the university initiated an awards and recognition program to honor staff members who have brought recognition to ��Vlog��ý Little Rock through personal growth, service to the university, and service to the community,” Staff Senate President Angie Faller said. “These awards give the campus community an opportunity to recognize the work, dedication, and passion of our staff.” More info about the Staff Achievement Award winners:

Michael Seamon

Seamon began his career at ��Vlog��ý Little Rock on June 12, 1978, and will soon celebrate his 41st anniversary with the university. His colleagues describe him as the “go-to guy” for anything to do with mechanical, heating, ventilation, air conditioning, plumbing, and electrical systems on campus.

Staff Senate President Angie Faller (right) presents the Ben Fry Community Service to ��Vlog��ý Little Rock Award to Michael Seamon. Photo by Ben Krain.

He joined ��Vlog��ý Little Rock immediately after high school and has worked as a tradesman, on-call mechanical staffer, and shop supervisor before moving into his current role of assistant director of operations. Seamon is the first responder for storm recovery and clean-up efforts and leads the snow and ice removal crew. Last year, he was honored with the Facilities Management VIP Award. “Throughout the years, Mike has consistently gone above and beyond to serve the ��Vlog��ý Little Rock community,” David Millay and Sandra Vail of Facilities Management wrote in their nomination letter. “Mike has never failed to respond to calls for help no matter the time or day. Mike’s commitment to ��Vlog��ý little Rock is unequaled and unparalleled.”

Wanda Hoover

Hoover is actively engaged in the community and belongs to many civic organizations in Arkansas. She currently serves on the board of directors of the Downtown Little Rock Partnership and as membership engagement chair of the Rotary Club of Little Rock. In 2018, she was recognized as the Rotary Club’s Person of Action. Last year, she joined the City of Little Rock’s Arts and Culture Commission, which she will chair in 2020. “Wanda is an outstanding staff member, deserving of recognition for her service to the community,” Ashley Nipp, alumni and development associate at Bowen, wrote in her nomination letter. “She is an exemplary leader who gives tirelessly of her time, energy, and resources.” Hoover is also a member of the Arkansas Women’s Leadership Forum, Association of Fundraising Professionals, and an active sustainer of the Junior League of Little Rock. In addition to her civic involvement, she serves as the program chair for the Arkansas Women’s Executive Forum and has been selected to serve as president of the forum next year.

Ann Marie Lott

As an American Sign Language/English interpreter, Lott has dedicated much of her time to the growth and development of the interpreter population in Arkansas. At ��Vlog��ý Little Rock, she is an active ��Vlog��ý Little Rock’s Sign Language Klub and mentors students enrolled in the Interpreter Education program. “Working at ��Vlog��ý Little Rock has afforded Ann Marie the opportunity to be close to the main pool of new and enthusiastic students in the field of interpreting, and you can always find Ann Marie in the mix with the group,” Ashley Beaty, staff interpreter with Disability Resource Center, wrote in her nomination letter. “She is always offering time to students to help them to foster growth and improve skills.” In the community, Lott chairs the professional development committee of the Arkansas Registry of Interpreters for the Deaf and is currently planning its conference, and she is an active member of the Registry of Interpreters for the Deaf.

��Vlog��ý Little Rock to honor staff members for their achievements

Ajani Oyindamola — Thu, 25 Apr 2019 17:35:27 +0000

The University of Arkansas at Little Rock Staff Senate will celebrate the achievements of more than 150 staff members during the Staff Awards Ceremony at 10:30 a.m. Friday, April 26, in the Engineering and Information Technology Building Auditorium.�� Staff members will be honored for educational achievements, years of service, and retirement, and Staff Achievement Awards and scholarship recipients will be announced. The ��Vlog��ý Little Rock community is invited to attend. A reception in the lobby will immediately follow the awards ceremony. “This year, I’ve had the opportunity to witness the dedication of our staff members and how vital they are to the ��Vlog��ý Little Rock community,” Staff Senate President Angie Faller said. “We are honoring nearly 100 staff members who have given more than 1,340 years of combined service to the university. We are also recognizing 25 graduates, 18 retirees, and 17 nominees for the Staff Achievement Awards. Thank you to our staff members and everything you do for the university.” ��Vlog��ý Little Rock will honor 18 retiring staff members, including Jan Dannaway, Robert Davis, Stephan Dixon, Broderick Ganaway, Gregory Hamilton, Gail Harris, Kerrick Hartman, Gary Hogan, Joseph Lewis Sr., Sharon Linz, Patsy Martin, Lewis Moody, Veva Petty, Phyllis Roche, Timothy Porter, Gay Sanders, Larry Walker, and Clyde Wilkerson. Graduating staff members who have earned a degree or certificate in the past year include:

��Amber Bartolotta, School of Counseling, Human Performance, and Rehabilitation, Master of Education in counselor education
��Damian Berry, Donaghey Student Center, Bachelor of Arts in sociology
��Larry Blackmon, Department of Construction Management and Civil and Construction Engineering, Master of Science in construction management
��Valerie Breashears, Office of Admissions, Doctor of Education in higher education
��Ian Calder, Information Technology Services, Master of Science in business information systems
��Jacqueline Durr, Student Support Services, Master of Arts in higher education
��Kenneth Edwards, Donaghey Student Center, Bachelor of Arts in sociology
��Deona Elliott, ��Vlog��ý Little Rock Children International, Associate of Arts in general studies
��Timothy Frazier, Donaghey Student Center, Master of Science in sport management
��Colleen Godley, William H. Bowen School of Law, certificate of proficiency in business analytics
��Ashley Heath, Department of English, Master of Arts in interdisciplinary studies
��Michael Heavner, Department of Theatre Arts and Dance, Master of Arts in interdisciplinary studies
��Kimya Herd, Disability Resource Center, Bachelor of Arts in applied communication
��Jinson Kang, Little Rock Athletics, Bachelor of Arts in interdisciplinary studies
��James Robert Kashak, Facilities Management, Bachelor of Science in health, human performance, and sport management
��Christina Laurentia, Office of Research and Sponsored Programs, graduate certificate in data science
��Danielle Lee, Department of Mathematics and Statistics, Bachelor of Science in information science
��Kathleen Lewis, Department of Rhetoric and Writing, graduate certificate in online writing instruction
��Cynthia Nia Rieves, Human Resources, graduate certificate in human resources and organizational psychology
��Raymond Patey, Department of Chemistry, Master of Science in chemistry
��Stephen Roberson, Information Technology Services, Master of Science in business information systems
��Juanita Sherman, Office of Research and Sponsored Programs, Master of Education in adult and professional learning
��Jennika Smith, College of Education and Health Professions, Master of Arts in professional and technical writing
��Kimberly Thorton, Department of Rhetoric and Writing, Bachelor of Arts in professional and technical writing
��Lisa Williams, Department of Biology, Master of Science in biology

The 2019 Staff Achievement Award nominees include Ashley Beatty, Emily Bell, John Evans, Angie Faller, Cody Henslee, Wanda Hoover, Eureka Ice, Shannon Kardiak, Ann Marie Lott, Laura McClellan, Mark Pellegrini, Michael Seamon, Christina Smith, Dana Steele, Kelly Rigby, Sabrenna Rodgers-Lee, and Freta Rogers-Mason. The ��Vlog��ý Little Rock staff members who are being honored for the most years of service include Ophelia Dedner of Human Resources and John Eley of Printing Services, both celebrating their 40-year work anniversaries. Four staffers are celebrating their 35-year anniversaries, including Suzette Anderson, ��Vlog��ý Little Rock Children International; Diane Thomas-Holladay, Arkansas Economic Development Institute; Lenzo Turner, Facilities Management; and Angela Willis, Office of Research Compliance. Those celebrating their 30th anniversary include Sylvester Cartwright of Information Technology Services, Vinnie Francis of the William H. Bowen School of Law, and Charles Hancock of the Department of Engineering Technology. Additional staff members celebrating work anniversaries include: 25 years: Christal Aist-Farris, Verna Fleming, Tangie Jones, Merlene Love, Johnny Smith, Marilyn Thompson, and Minnie Walker. 20 years: Jerome Bailey, Ellen Binford, Darlene Bunt, Linda Czirr, Veronica Davis, Robin Dean, Catherine Hagemeier, Howard Jackson, Barbara Johnson, Vicki Plant, Daniel Spillers, Allen Stanley, and Regina Wade-Carter. 15 years: Paula Baker, Katresha Bell, Alexandru Biris, Brandy Cochran, Cynthia Dedner, Thomas Genz, Shannon Gwinn, Terry Harrison, Ganesh Kannarpady, Grainger Ledbetter, Jennifer Maxwell, Jennifer Moody, Virginia Oswalt, Russ Riegel, and Joshua Webb. 10 years: Brenda Alexander, Tyrone Barrow, Alicia Cash, Heyam Dannawi, Michael Dodson, Cynthia Evans, Karissa Graham, Alisha Harris, Gregory Hicks, Wanda Hoover, Jewel Johnson, Karin Jones, Lisa Layman, Gayle Lenard, Kaye Lundgren, Laura McClellan, Meaghan Milliorn, Demetrius Owens, Marian Payne, Nathaniel Roe, Daniel Shelton, Alveno Smith, Georgette Walker, and Robert White. 5 years: James Amick, William Buddenberg, Carlton Coleman, Colleen Dennis, Kristen Dickson, Creston Emory, Benjamin Fisher, Rejena Grotjohn, Ian Hadden, Jackelyn Hanner, Richard Harper, James Harrington, Cody Henslee, Kimberly Herron, Jeremy Laxton, Charles Mathews, Faith McMath, Michael McNerlin, Ashia Muhammad, Chuks Odor, Gigi Peters, Tugrul Polat, Cari Reeves, Felicia Rogers, Julie Shelby, Nicholas Thorton, Jonathan Timm, Amber Wolf, and Crenisha Wright. In the upper right photo, the 2018 Staff Achievement Award and scholarship winners celebrate at the Staff Awards Ceremony. Pictured (L to R) are Pamala Stanley, winner of Personal Growth Award, Celeste Watson, Crittenden Book Scholarship recipient, Tierra Hutley, Staff Senate Scholarship winner, and William Wagner, winner of Ben Fry Service to ��Vlog��ý Little Rock Award. Photo by Ben Krain.

Finalists for Staff Achievement Awards announced

Ajani Oyindamola — Fri, 12 Apr 2019 20:07:47 +0000

The University of Arkansas at Little Rock Staff Senate has announced the eight finalists for the 2019 Staff Achievement Awards.�� A $1,000 cash award is given to the top staff member in each of three categories: Ben Fry Service to ��Vlog��ý Little Rock, community service, and personal growth. The winners will be announced at the Staff Awards Ceremony at 10:30 a.m. Friday, April 26, in the Schueck, McCarty, Lexicon Inc. Auditorium in the College of Engineering and Information Technology. “The staff members are a vital part of the success of ��Vlog��ý Little Rock,” said Staff Senate President Angie Faller. “The finalists for the Staff Achievement Awards highlight our staff members’ incredible commitment to the university and community through hard work, service, and dedication.” The winners of the Staff Senate Scholarship and Jerry Crittenden Employee Book Scholarship also will be announced during the awards ceremony. Staff members who are celebrating work anniversaries, have graduated in the past year, and retiring also will be recognized. Members of the university and community are encouraged to attend the awards ceremony and reception to celebrate the achievements of ��Vlog��ý Little Rock staff members and to wear ��Vlog��ý Little Rock colors and apparel to show school spirit. For more information, contact Angie Faller at 501-916-5905 or amfaller@ualr.edu. The finalists include: Ben Fry Service to ��Vlog��ý Little Rock

��John Evans, associate athletic director for facilities and events, Little Rock Athletics
��Shannon Kardiak, administrative specialist, Department of Sociology and Anthropology
��Michael Seamon, assistant director of operations, Facilities Management

Community Service

��Ashley Beaty, staff interpreter, Disability Resource Center
��Wanda Hoover, assistant dean for external relations, William H. Bowen School of Law
��Kelly Rigby, administrative projects coordinator, William H. Bowen School of Law

Personal Growth

��Ann Marie Lott, interpreter/transcriber coordinator, Disability Resource Center
��Freta Rogers-Mason, information technology coordinator, Ottenheimer Library

Nominations open for Staff Achievement Awards, Scholarships

Ajani Oyindamola — Wed, 13 Feb 2019 20:04:46 +0000

Nominations are being accepted for the University of Arkansas at Little Rock 2019 Staff Achievement Awards through Friday, March 15.�� A $1,000 cash award is given to the top ��Vlog��ý Little Rock staff member in three categories: personal achievement, service to the university, and community service. Eligible employees are full-time regular classified and non-faculty/non-classified employees holding no academic rank. The winners will be announced at the Staff Awards Ceremony at 10:30 a.m. Friday, April 26, in the Engineering and Information Technology Building Auditorium with a reception to follow. Staff members who are celebrating work anniversaries, have graduated in the past year, and retiring will also be recognized. The three categories for nominations are:

�� Personal Growth-Recognition will go to an individual whose scholarship, research, or creative talent has been particularly outstanding.
�� Ben Fry Service to ��Vlog��ý Little Rock-Recognition will go to an individual who is distinctive in service through committees, special events, implementation of creative ideas or support and encouragement of others.
�� Community Service-Recognition will go to an individual who has been particularly successful in organizing community events or had major achievements in civic, service, or specialty organizations/events.

Additionally, the Staff Senate will also award scholarships for employees who are furthering their education at ��Vlog��ý Little Rock. The Staff Senate Scholarship is a $250 scholarship, and the Jerry Crittenden Employee Book Scholarship is a $75 book scholarship. Both scholarships will be awarded to staff members. Applications can be filled out online.�� To fill out a nomination form for the Staff Achievement Awards, visit the Staff Senate website. For more information, please contact Angie Faller at 501-916-5905 or amfaller@ualr.edu. In the upper right picture,��Pamala Stanley, winner of 2018 Personal Growth Award, Celeste Watson, Crittenden Book Scholarship recipient, Tierra Hutley, Staff Senate Scholarship winner, and William Wagner, winner of the 2018 Ben Fry Service to ��Vlog��ý Little Rock Award, are honored at the 2018 Staff Awards Ceremony. Photo by Ben Krain.

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