Scholarships - News - 糖心Vlog传媒 Little Rock /news/tag/scholarships/ 糖心Vlog传媒 Little Rock Tue, 16 Dec 2025 16:36:54 +0000 en-US hourly 1 https://wordpress.org/?v=6.9.4 Bizzell Family Honors Generational Commitment to 糖心Vlog传媒 Little Rock with $25,000 Enduring Opportunity Scholarship /news/2025/12/16/bizzell-family-honors-generational-commitment-to-ua-little-rock-with-25000-enduring-opportunity-scholarship/ Tue, 16 Dec 2025 14:40:51 +0000 /news/?p=93256 Dr. Jamie and J.R. Bizzell have established the Mary and Sean Glancy Enduring Opportunity Endowed Scholarship with a $25,000 gift to 糖心Vlog传媒 Little Rock, paying tribute to a legacy of ... Bizzell Family Honors Generational Commitment to 糖心Vlog传媒 Little Rock with $25,000 Enduring Opportunity Scholarship

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Dr. Jamie and J.R. Bizzell have established the Mary and Sean Glancy Enduring Opportunity Endowed Scholarship with a $25,000 gift to 糖心Vlog传媒 Little Rock, paying tribute to a legacy of service while helping future students overcome financial barriers to higher education.

The scholarship, created in honor of Mary and Sean Glancy, recognizes their decades of leadership and advocacy. Sean Glancy is a 糖心Vlog传媒 Little Rock alumnus, and he and Mary have long supported the university through their time, charitable giving and commitment to student success. Inspired by that example, the Bizzells said they saw an opportunity to continue the legacy.

鈥淲e chose to support Enduring Opportunity because we believe deeply in the importance of affordability and access to higher education,鈥 the Bizzells said. 鈥淭his gift is also made in honor of Mary and Sean Glancy. Their longstanding commitment to the university and their shared goal of making students鈥 lives a little easier inspired us to join them in that mission.鈥

The newly endowed scholarship supports the Enduring Opportunity Scholarship Program, which helps remove financial barriers and expand educational access for students.

鈥淥ur hope is that this gift, especially when paired with the strength of the broader program, will continue to grow and create more scholarship opportunities each year,鈥 they said. 鈥淲e want it to remove financial barriers, provide confidence and stability for students, and help the university attract and retain talented individuals who might not otherwise have the chance to pursue a degree.鈥

The gift also underscores 糖心Vlog传媒 Little Rock鈥檚 role in the local and statewide economy. 糖心Vlog传媒 Little Rock serves a unique student population, many of whom live, work and raise families in central Arkansas.

鈥淗igher education is one of the most important drivers of economic mobility, workforce development and long-term community health,鈥 the Bizzells said. 鈥淏ecause most graduates stay in the region, the impact is immediate 鈥 producing skilled professionals who contribute to our workforce, our businesses and the overall vitality of Arkansas.鈥

The scholarship also represents a personal connection for the Bizzells, who said honoring family and carrying forward shared values was central to their decision to give.

鈥淥ur family plays a central role in this gift,鈥 they said. 鈥淗onoring Mary and Sean Glancy was important to us because of the example they鈥檝e set through decades of involvement and support for 糖心Vlog传媒 Little Rock. Their commitment reflects the values we want to uphold and pass forward 鈥 service, generosity and investing in future generations. This gift is a way for our family to show appreciation for their leadership and to continue the work they鈥檝e championed for so long.鈥

As 糖心Vlog传媒 Little Rock continues working to keep college affordable for the next generation, the Bizzells said they hope their gift will encourage others to reflect on the university鈥檚 impact on lives and communities.

鈥淚nvesting in 糖心Vlog传媒 Little Rock isn鈥檛 just supporting a university 鈥 it鈥檚 strengthening the workforce, the community and the future of Arkansas,鈥 they said. 鈥淲hen people see the direct and lasting impact their dollars can have on local students and families, we believe they鈥檒l understand what a meaningful and rewarding commitment this is.鈥

To make a lasting commitment to student opportunity, contact Stephanie Purifoy at 501-773-6955 or email spurifoy@ualr.edu.

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糖心Vlog传媒 Little Rock Engineering Student Earns Second AISC Scholarship While Building Experience in the Field /news/2025/11/20/aisc-scholarship/ Thu, 20 Nov 2025 14:00:00 +0000 /news/?p=92380 Tyler Burns, a senior civil and construction engineering major at 糖心Vlog传媒 Little Rock, is making the most of his college experience, all while balancing leadership roles, research opportunities, and hands-on ... 糖心Vlog传媒 Little Rock Engineering Student Earns Second AISC Scholarship While Building Experience in the Field

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Tyler Burns, a senior civil and construction engineering major at 糖心Vlog传媒 Little Rock, is making the most of his college experience, all while balancing leadership roles, research opportunities, and hands-on industry experience.

This fall, his hard work and dedication were recognized once again when he received a from the American Institute of Steel Construction (AISC) Education Foundation for the second year in a row.

A native of Van Buren, Arkansas, Burns is also pursuing a minor in mathematics and is a member of the Donaghey Scholars Honors Program. He plans to graduate in May 2026 and pursue a career in structural engineering after passing the Principles and Practice of Engineering (PE) Structural exam.

鈥淚鈥檓 deeply honored to receive this scholarship for the second year in a row,鈥 Burns said. 鈥淚t鈥檚 encouraging to know that my hard work is being recognized, and it motivates me to continue striving for excellence in my studies.鈥

The scholarship has allowed him to focus more on his coursework and campus involvement. At 糖心Vlog传媒 Little Rock, Burns serves as an officer in the American Society of Civil Engineers (ASCE) student chapter, where he contributes to student professional development and networking opportunities.

Outside the classroom, Burns has gained valuable industry experience through internships and research. For the past three years, he has interned with W&W|AFCO Steel, performing weld inspections, calculating project estimates, and drafting structural designs. Last summer, he traveled to Ontario, Canada, to conduct research under Dr. Khashayar Ghandi at the University of Guelph in collaboration with the Nuclear Waste Management Organization of Canada, where he studied materials used in nuclear reactors.

Burns credits his success to consistency and the support of 糖心Vlog传媒 Little Rock鈥檚 dedicated faculty members and his mentors at W&W|AFCO Steel.

鈥淪howing up every day and consistently putting forth the effort to succeed has been key,鈥 he said. 鈥淚t also helps having exceptional faculty at this university, such as Dr. Jessica Scott and Stuart Scheiderer, P.E., who have provided recommendation letters the past two application cycles. I would also like to extend a thank you to Rick Cooper, chairman and CEO, and Grady Harvell, president and COO, of W&W|AFCO Steel.鈥

The AISC Education Foundation awarded $235,000 in scholarships this year to 58 students nationwide. These awards support juniors, seniors, and graduate students studying civil engineering, architectural engineering, construction engineering, materials/metallurgical engineering, construction management, and architecture.

鈥淭hanks to the generosity of the industry and the AEC community, we were able to distribute roughly $35,000 more than last year, and we鈥檙e providing support for three more students,鈥 said Maria Mnookin, AISC director of foundation programs. 鈥淏ut these students are more than numbers, and the impact of our donors goes far beyond dollar signs. This generation will make a difference in the world, and it鈥檚 always an honor to help them get started.鈥

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糖心Vlog传媒 Little Rock Alumnus Joins Enduring Opportunity with $25,000 Scholarship Gift /news/2025/11/11/ua-little-rock-alumnus-joins-enduring-opportunity-with-25000-scholarship-gift/ Tue, 11 Nov 2025 14:00:00 +0000 /news/?p=93004 糖心Vlog传媒 Little Rock alumnus Rodney M. Abston has committed a $25,000 gift to establish the聽Rodney M. Abston Family Enduring Opportunity Scholarship, becoming the latest donor to join the growing wave ... 糖心Vlog传媒 Little Rock Alumnus Joins Enduring Opportunity with $25,000 Scholarship Gift

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糖心Vlog传媒 Little Rock alumnus Rodney M. Abston has committed a $25,000 gift to establish the聽Rodney M. Abston Family Enduring Opportunity Scholarship, becoming the latest donor to join the growing wave of support for the university鈥檚 Enduring Opportunity Scholarship Program.

His scholarship will support students who are balancing jobs, coursework, and financial challenges, and whose determination mirrors Abston鈥檚 own experience as a graduate student at 糖心Vlog传媒 Little Rock.

鈥淭he Enduring Opportunity Program resonates with me because it directly helps students working hard to pursue their dreams,鈥 Abston said. 鈥淔or students juggling a job while attending classes and struggling to make ends meet, this scholarship is a difference maker鈥攁llowing them to focus on their studies, make the most of their college experience, and obtain their degree.鈥

Abston, who earned his MBA while working full-time and raising an infant son, recalls the financial pressures he faced and the support that helped him succeed.

鈥淎t the time, money was especially tight for our young family. I borrowed my tuition payment at the start of every semester and paid it down as I could,鈥 he said. 鈥淚 worked a full-time job, took a full load of night courses, and was committed to being a present father. My goal was to provide my children with every opportunity my parents had provided to my three brothers and me.鈥

The newly established scholarship also honors his family鈥檚 vital role in his academic journey.

鈥淢y family served as a key driver when I enrolled in the MBA program, and they were instrumental in me finishing the program,鈥 Abston said. 鈥淚鈥檓 incredibly grateful to my parents and my wife, Tracy, for supporting my dreams. I鈥檓 also grateful to my Regions teammates for their support throughout my nearly 20-year career with the bank.鈥

Abston sees each scholarship as a way to support Arkansas and its workforce.

鈥淓ach scholarship is an investment in its recipient, and it鈥檚 also an investment in the lives that student will serve as a future teacher, nurse, civil engineer, or business leader in our community,鈥 he said. 鈥淭he lasting impact touches thousands of lives, including future 糖心Vlog传媒 Little Rock students.鈥

The Enduring Opportunity Scholarship Program began this spring with a transformational $7.5 million gift from the Windgate Foundation to create both an endowment and immediate-use funds that support access to affordable, high-quality education for Arkansas students forever.

Abston hopes his gift will inspire fellow alumni and community members to reflect on their own 糖心Vlog传媒 Little Rock experiences and consider giving back.

鈥淟ife changed dramatically for me following graduation,鈥 he said. 鈥淚 credit the outstanding academic programs, the connections I had with professors, and the lasting friendships I made while studying at 糖心Vlog传媒 Little Rock. Helping shape it for our next generation of students is my why. I invite and encourage others to join me in doing the same by lending their support.鈥

To make a lasting commitment to student opportunity, please contact Stephanie Purifoy at 501-773-6955 or email spurifoy@ualr.edu.

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糖心Vlog传媒 Little Rock Receives $25,000 Gift from James and Carol Hendren to Support Enduring Opportunity Scholarship /news/2025/10/28/ua-little-rock-receives-25000-gift-from-james-and-carol-hendren-to-support-enduring-opportunity-scholarship/ Tue, 28 Oct 2025 14:00:00 +0000 /news/?p=92947 The University of Arkansas at Little Rock has received a generous $25,000 gift from James and Carol Hendren to support the university鈥檚 Enduring Opportunity Scholarship Program. The new fund is ... 糖心Vlog传媒 Little Rock Receives $25,000 Gift from James and Carol Hendren to Support Enduring Opportunity Scholarship

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The University of Arkansas at Little Rock has received a generous $25,000 gift from James and Carol Hendren to support the university鈥檚 Enduring Opportunity Scholarship Program.

The new fund is named the Carol and James Hendren Enduring Opportunity Endowed Scholarship. It supports 糖心Vlog传媒 Little Rock鈥檚 Enduring Opportunity initiative, a major fundraising effort launched in spring 2025. The initiative began with a $7.5 million gift from the Windgate Foundation to create both an endowment and immediate-use funds that support access to affordable, high-quality education for Arkansas students forever.

James Hendren said he hopes this gift will help ease financial barriers for students pursuing a college education and help strengthen the state鈥檚 workforce.

鈥淚 strongly believe in the advancement of economic development in Arkansas and the growth of our city here in Little Rock,鈥 Hendren said. 鈥淲e need more college graduates to improve the ecosystem we live in. We know many people struggle with tuition, so we thought this was a great program to help expand access.鈥

The gift also helps propel the 糖心Vlog传媒 Little Rock Centennial Campaign, the largest fundraising effort in the university鈥檚 history, toward its goal. With this contribution, the university has raised more than $234 million 鈥 or nearly 94% of its $250 million goal 鈥 toward its 2027 centennial celebration.

鈥淲e need the university to do well to help grow and support the local economy,鈥 Hendren said. 鈥淭his centennial goal is key to improving the university, so it makes sense to support programs and scholarships that help it succeed.鈥

To make a lasting commitment to student opportunity, please contact Stephanie Purifoy at 501-773-6955 or email spurifoy@ualr.edu.

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Trojan Champions Expands Opportunities for 糖心Vlog传媒 Little Rock Students /news/2025/10/20/trojan-champions-2/ Mon, 20 Oct 2025 12:00:00 +0000 /news/?p=92541 When 糖心Vlog传媒 Little Rock鈥檚 esports team packs their bags for national competition this spring, they won鈥檛 just be bringing their controllers. Thanks to Trojan Champions, they鈥檒l also carry new jerseys, ... Trojan Champions Expands Opportunities for 糖心Vlog传媒 Little Rock Students

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When 糖心Vlog传媒 Little Rock鈥檚 esports team packs their bags for national competition this spring, they won鈥檛 just be bringing their controllers. Thanks to Trojan Champions, they鈥檒l also carry new jerseys, branded backpacks, and the confidence to represent their university on a national stage.

That confidence is at the heart of Trojan Champions, a giving initiative launched in 2023 that turns community support into unique opportunities for students to thrive academically, professionally, and personally. Donors pledge an annual gift to the 糖心Vlog传媒 Little Rock Annual Fund for three years or more, and because the funds are unrestricted, the university can quickly respond to student needs and provide high-impact experiences that otherwise might not be possible.

鈥淭rojan Champions is more than a giving program; it鈥檚 a movement that reflects the strength of our Trojan community,” said Kristi Smith, associate vice chancellor for alumni and development. “As an alumna, I know the value of the opportunities I had here, and it鈥檚 exciting to see how these gifts are opening even more doors for current and future students. Together, we鈥檙e building a culture of support that will carry 糖心Vlog传媒 Little Rock into its next century.鈥

There are now more than 170 Trojan Champions helping to make opportunities possible across campus. Over the past year and a half, their support has funded projects ranging from esports to business competitions.

This fall, esports competitors received equipment stipends, branded gear, and league fees to help them take on teams nationwide in Rocket League, Smash Bros., and Valorant. Another project outfitted a group of real estate students with custom business attire for the Harold E. Eisenberg Foundation鈥檚 Annual Real Estate Challenge in Chicago, where they pitched a redevelopment plan for a 10-acre site in Bronzeville.

鈥淭hese kinds of gifts are exactly what make Trojan Champions so impactful,鈥 said Thomas Wallace, coordinator of 糖心Vlog传媒 Little Rock鈥檚 Web Design and Development and Information Technology programs. 鈥淭hey give students the resources and confidence to compete at the highest level, whether in esports, business competitions, or other arenas. That kind of support makes a real difference.鈥

For donors, becoming a Trojan Champion is rooted in both pride and purpose.

鈥淎fter a 41-year career at 糖心Vlog传媒 Little Rock, I recognize the ongoing need to support students striving to achieve their goals,鈥 said Janis Brooke, a former faculty member. 鈥淓very contribution is targeted for this purpose.鈥

Brooke鈥檚 perspective is echoed by alumni who see Trojan Champions as a way to give back to the institution that shaped their own success.

鈥淎s a Trojan Champion, I take pride in knowing my support helps fuel the mission of 糖心Vlog传媒 Little Rock,鈥 said alumnus Mario Wallace. 鈥淚t expands opportunities for students to grow academically, professionally, and personally, while strengthening the programs and people who make that growth possible.鈥

For alumna Debra Baker, the motivation is personal.

鈥淢y mom always said, 鈥榶our education is the key to your success,鈥欌 Baker said. 鈥淲ith her words, I have become a lifelong learner.鈥

Shaun Addison echoed the transformative power of education as the reason he joined.

鈥淏y becoming a Trojan Champion, I feel privileged to support the university鈥檚 mission to empower its students and prepare them for success in an ever-changing world,鈥 he said. 鈥淭hrough my contributions, I can help ensure that future generations have access to the same opportunities and resources that have shaped the lives of so many before them. Together, we can inspire and equip students to achieve their dreams and make meaningful contributions to society.鈥

As Trojan Champions continue to grow, so does its impact. From helping students present themselves professionally on national stages to creating new opportunities for competition and collaboration, the initiative shows what鈥檚 possible when a community invests in education.

The generous contributions from Trojan Champions is set to make a lasting impact by empowering students to build their dreams and construct a brighter future for themselves and their communities. This program is a part of the Centennial Campaign, which has a goal to raise $250 million in celebration of the university鈥檚 100-year anniversary in 2027.

鈥淭his is just the beginning,鈥 Smith said. 鈥淭rojan Champions is helping us build a culture of opportunity. With continued support, we can take student success to the next level.鈥

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Anonymous Donor Gifts Little Rock Public Radio with $400,000 /news/2025/10/16/anonymous-donation/ Thu, 16 Oct 2025 15:30:00 +0000 /news/?p=92296 An anonymous donor has made a transformative $400,000 gift to Little Rock Public Radio, providing critical support for equipment upgrades and infrastructure improvements that will enhance the station’s ability to ... Anonymous Donor Gifts Little Rock Public Radio with $400,000

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An anonymous donor has made a transformative $400,000 gift to , providing critical support for equipment upgrades and infrastructure improvements that will enhance the station’s ability to serve its listeners across central Arkansas.

The donation will fund the purchase of a new transmitter for K糖心Vlog传媒R FM 89.1, as well as a backup transmitter to be housed at the studio. This backup will help minimize potential downtime during severe weather or other emergencies, ensuring that K糖心Vlog传媒R can continue to deliver timely news, music, and programming when listeners need it the most.

“This extraordinary gift is a testament to the power of public radio and the generosity of those who believe in its mission,鈥 said Jonathan Seaborn, general manager of Little Rock Public Radio. 鈥淩eplacing our aging transmitter and equipment ensures that we can continue delivering quality programming to our listeners for years to come. We are deeply grateful for this anonymous donor鈥檚 investment in the future of our station and the vital role it plays in our community.”

In addition to replacing the transmitter, the funds will be used to upgrade equipment in the station’s studio, particularly in the rack room, which serves as the operational hub of the facility. These upgrades are especially timely as Little Rock Public Radio prepares to move into a new studio space in Stabler Hall later this year.

鈥淢oving to a new location is the perfect opportunity to modernize our equipment and ensure that we鈥檙e set up for long-term success,鈥 Seaborn said. 鈥淲ith this generous support, we鈥檒l be able to provide our staff and interns with the tools they need to continue producing top-quality programming and reporting for our community.鈥

This gift marks the second major anonymous donation to Little Rock Public Radio in recent months. Earlier, another anonymous donor contributed $50,000 for essential repairs at KLRE鈥檚 transmitter site. That donation funded the replacement of a transmitter damaged by a 2023 lightning strike, as well as the purchase of a refurbished building to better protect KLRE鈥檚 equipment.

Housed within the College of Humanities, Arts, Social Sciences, and Education, Little Rock Public Radio, home of K糖心Vlog传媒R FM 89.1 and KLRE Classical 90.5, is a public service unit of 糖心Vlog传媒 Little Rock. University students gain professional experience by working as interns and part-time staff members who take part in all aspects of KLRE and K糖心Vlog传媒R operations with a specific focus on news reporting and broadcast production.

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糖心Vlog传媒 Little Rock Alumna and Husband Establish Endowed Scholarship for Biology Students /news/2025/09/25/biology-scholarship/ Thu, 25 Sep 2025 13:05:00 +0000 /news/?p=92302 The University of Arkansas at Little Rock has received a generous $30,000 donation from alumna Zongping Yu and her husband, Tianmiao Hu, to establish an endowed scholarship that will support ... 糖心Vlog传媒 Little Rock Alumna and Husband Establish Endowed Scholarship for Biology Students

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The University of Arkansas at Little Rock has received a generous $30,000 donation from alumna Zongping Yu and her husband, Tianmiao Hu, to establish an endowed scholarship that will support biology students for generations to come.

The Zongping Yu and Tianmiao Hu Endowed Biology Scholarship will benefit both full- and part-time students majoring in biology. The funds can be used for tuition, books, fees, and room and board, and recipients may be selected based on financial need and/or academic merit.

Yu, a 2000 graduate of 糖心Vlog传媒 Little Rock with a master鈥檚 degree in computer science, said the gift was her way of giving back to the university that helped her pursue a new career while raising a young family.

鈥淚f 糖心Vlog传媒 Little Rock didn鈥檛 give me a scholarship at the time, it would have been hard to finish my degree,鈥 Yu said. 鈥淚 was an international student, and it was expensive for us. I got support from 糖心Vlog传媒 Little Rock as a graduate assistant, and I want to give it back to someone who also needs financial help.鈥

Originally from China, Yu now lives in Frisco, Texas, where she works as a computer programmer at JPMorgan Chase. Her husband, also a computer programmer, graduated from Tulane University. After previously creating a scholarship for computer science students in 2019, the couple decided to create a second scholarship to help more students in need.

Yu鈥檚 time at 糖心Vlog传媒 Little Rock was filled with both challenge and purpose. She arrived in 1998 and juggled full-time coursework, a graduate assistantship, and the birth of her two oldest children during her time as a student. Support from her professors, neighbors, and the university community helped her succeed.

鈥淚t was a very busy time,鈥 she said. 鈥淚 had two kids while I was in school, and the graduate assistantship made a big difference financially. I鈥檓 grateful for the people, including my husband, who helped and supported me along the way.鈥

Yu hopes the scholarship will ease the burden on students who might otherwise have to work long hours to pay for school.

鈥淚 knew students who had to work full time while going to school, and they couldn鈥檛 spend as much time studying,鈥 she said. 鈥淚 want to help students focus on learning so they can do better in school. If they are in school, that means they want to learn, and I want to help them learn to the best of their ability.鈥

Now a proud mother of three, Yu said that giving back to students is a meaningful way to invest in the next generation.

鈥淢y kids are grown now, and I don鈥檛 need to worry about their future. If I have money, I want to invest in other people鈥檚 children who need help,鈥 she said. 鈥淢y husband supported me in this, and we鈥檙e happy to help others get the kind of opportunity we had.鈥

The scholarship is part of 糖心Vlog传媒 Little Rock鈥檚 Centennial Campaign, which is working to expand access to higher education, create more scholarships, and support student success across campus.To learn more about supporting scholarships at 糖心Vlog传媒 Little Rock, visit .

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Sean Riggin Honors Parents with Endowed聽 Scholarship in Nursing at 糖心Vlog传媒 Little Rock /news/2025/07/07/sean-riggin-gift/ Mon, 07 Jul 2025 13:00:00 +0000 /news/?p=91996 The University of Arkansas at Little Rock surprised longtime supporters Dee and Don Riggin with the announcement of an estate gift from their son, Sean Riggin, to establish an endowed ... Sean Riggin Honors Parents with Endowed聽 Scholarship in Nursing at 糖心Vlog传媒 Little Rock

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The University of Arkansas at Little Rock surprised longtime supporters Dee and Don Riggin with the announcement of an estate gift from their son, Sean Riggin, to establish an endowed scholarship in nursing in their honor.

Though Sean Riggin, a retired healthcare administrator from Florida, could not be present, a letter he penned was read aloud during a May 29 luncheon held at the Bailey Alumni and Friends Center, where the announcement was made during the same week as both of his parents鈥 birthdays. The event was attended by the Riggin family, including Sean鈥檚 sister Ashley Coldiron, as well as university leaders and nursing faculty.

鈥淭his planned gathering is to announce my estate gift that will establish the Dee and Don Riggin Endowed Scholarship for students studying nursing in the School of Nursing at the University of Arkansas at Little Rock,鈥 Sean wrote. 鈥淭his honorary gift is a tribute to my mom and dad who, through endless examples, demonstrate there is no higher purpose in life than to love and support others.鈥

Provost Ann Bain read the letter to the family and praised the Riggin family鈥檚 decades-long support of the university.

鈥淭he Riggins have been associated with 糖心Vlog传媒 Little Rock for many years,鈥 O鈥橬eal said. 鈥淚t鈥檚 not only our institution they support, but other wonderful organizations across the city. We鈥檙e thrilled to be associated with the Riggin family. Don鈥檚 legacy goes back to his time as a student body president at Little Rock University, and Dee鈥檚 career in the health profession makes this scholarship especially meaningful.鈥

Don Riggin earned his bachelor鈥檚 degree in 1962 from what was then Little Rock University. He later served as president of the 糖心Vlog传媒 Little Rock Alumni Board of Directors and was deeply involved in shaping the institution鈥檚 development initiatives. Speaking at the event, he reflected on how much the university has meant to his life.

鈥淚t鈥檚 mutual,鈥 Don said. 鈥淚 had some great instructors, great mentors, great friends. We didn鈥檛 have a strong alumni association at that time, and then we made a decision that development was very important to this institution. Dee and I both think we have two of the greatest children you could ever want. If you look at what Ashley and Sean have done, we are extremely proud of both of them.鈥

Dee Riggin, a retired labor and delivery nurse, added, 鈥淲e love the university. Don has loved it a very long time since he was here as a student. It鈥檚 a part of our family. Sean and Ashley will be the next people to support the university too.鈥

Sean, whose 36-year career in healthcare spanned both clinical and administrative roles, wrote of his admiration for the nursing profession and the vital role nurses play in healthcare systems.

糖心Vlog传媒 Little Rock Director of Development Ginger Daril and donor Sean Riggin capture a photo together before Riggin鈥檚 tour of the university鈥檚 School of Nursing.
糖心Vlog传媒 Little Rock Director of Development Ginger Daril and donor聽Sean聽Riggin聽capture a photo together before聽Riggin鈥檚 tour of the university鈥檚 School of Nursing.聽

鈥淚n every capacity, and at all levels, nursing professionals are the fulcrum of the care matrix,鈥 he said. 鈥淭he demands require delegation, diligence, and integrated knowledge at every level. I believe healthcare is the future for the jobs marketplace, with nurses filling roles that general practice gatekeepers traditionally held.鈥

Dr. Sloan Davidson, director of the School of Nursing, expressed gratitude for the gift.

鈥淭his is outstanding news,鈥 Davidson said. 鈥淥ur student population includes many first-generation college students, and they need support to succeed. We are deeply appreciative of this gift.鈥

Joanna Hall, director of simulation and assistant professor of nursing, added that it鈥檚 a full-circle moment.

鈥淲e have already received support from the Riggins for simulation equipment and now for scholarships, it feels like they鈥檝e been woven into 糖心Vlog传媒 Little Rock鈥檚 culture for a long time,鈥 Hall said.

Provost Ann Bain said the planned scholarship is 鈥渁 fabulous tribute to both of you and your family. We appreciate it so much.鈥

Provost Bain also announced that Sean will be inducted into the 糖心Vlog传媒 Little Rock Heritage Society this fall, recognizing donors who have made planned gifts to the university.

After the luncheon, Dee and Don Riggin toured the School of Nursing and the Center for Simulation Innovation, where they saw the Echo masks and virtual reality technology that had so impressed their son on his earlier visit.

In his letter, Sean thanked his sister Ashley for her support in establishing the gift and praised the university鈥檚 planned giving team and nursing faculty for their professionalism and dedication.

鈥淚 was amazed and inspired during my tour of the School of Nursing and the experience-based training demonstrated through virtual reality technology,鈥 Sean wrote. 鈥淭heir commitment to an innovative and quality learning environment is palpable and exciting.鈥

The endowment ensures that future nursing students at 糖心Vlog传媒 Little Rock will receive vital financial support while honoring the legacy of a family whose love for the university spans generations.

鈥淚 wish all future graduates a purpose-driven career that fulfills and inspires them to provide dedicated care to countless individuals in Arkansas and beyond,鈥 Sean concluded.

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Julie Brown Donates $60,000 for New 糖心Vlog传媒 Little Rock Accounting Scholarship /news/2025/06/16/count-von-count-scholarship/ Mon, 16 Jun 2025 13:00:00 +0000 /news/?p=91893 The University of Arkansas at Little Rock has received a generous $60,000 donation from alumna and longtime supporter Julie Brown to establish a new endowed scholarship for accounting students. The ... Julie Brown Donates $60,000 for New 糖心Vlog传媒 Little Rock Accounting Scholarship

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The University of Arkansas at Little Rock has received a generous $60,000 donation from alumna and longtime supporter Julie Brown to establish a new endowed scholarship for accounting students.

The Count von Count Endowed Scholarship, named after the beloved number-loving character from Sesame Street,鈥 will provide financial support for students majoring in accounting at 糖心Vlog传媒 Little Rock.

鈥淚 already have one scholarship in my name, so I wanted to do something different and a little more lighthearted,鈥 Brown said. 鈥淎ccounting is a serious field, and I figured people might get a kick out of a scholarship named after a character who loves numbers. It鈥檚 a fun way to support a very worthy cause.鈥

Brown, a 1993 graduate of 糖心Vlog传媒 Little Rock with a bachelor鈥檚 degree in history, now resides in De Queen, Arkansas. Though she ultimately pursued a degree in history, she considered studying accounting early in her college career and used those skills as the owner of her family business, Southern LP Gas.

鈥淭here was a need, and I was glad to help,鈥 she said. 鈥淚 know how challenging it can be to juggle school, work, and life, especially when finances are tight. I hope this scholarship eases some of that burden for students who might otherwise struggle to finish their degree. If it helps just one student cross the finish line, earn their diploma, and take the next step toward building a better future, then it鈥檚 done exactly what I hoped it would.鈥

The Count von Count Endowed Scholarship marks Brown鈥檚 latest contribution to 糖心Vlog传媒 Little Rock. In 2022, she created the university鈥檚 first Chancellor鈥檚 Student Excellence Endowment, which gives the chancellor flexibility to fund high-impact student experiences and urgent needs. She also established a scholarship in memory of her grandmother, Lou Ellen Gray, for students from Sevier County, and supported an emergency student fund during the COVID-19 pandemic.

鈥淛ulie Brown has been a truly remarkable friend and advocate for our university,鈥 said Dr. Mark Funk, director of the School of Business at 糖心Vlog传媒 Little Rock. 鈥淗er gift to support accounting students reflects her deep understanding of the financial challenges students face today and her ongoing commitment to empowering their success. We are incredibly grateful for her generosity and creative spirit that continues to serve as an inspiration to our students and community.鈥

Brown鈥檚 generous gift is a part of the Centennial Campaign, a historic effort to raise $250 million for scholarships, student support, academic programs, and campus enhancements by the university鈥檚 100th anniversary in 2027. Visit ualr.edu/centennial to learn more about the Centennial Campaign.

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Catherine Weiss Creates New Fund to Support Jewelry and Metalsmithing Students at 糖心Vlog传媒 Little Rock /news/2025/05/19/jewelry-metalsmith-fund/ Mon, 19 May 2025 13:06:00 +0000 /news/?p=91753 Catherine Weiss has donated $10,000 to establish the Jewelry and Metalsmith Equipment Fund at the University of Arkansas at Little Rock. The new fund will provide annual support to purchase ... Catherine Weiss Creates New Fund to Support Jewelry and Metalsmithing Students at 糖心Vlog传媒 Little Rock

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Catherine Weiss has donated $10,000 to establish the Jewelry and Metalsmith Equipment Fund at the University of Arkansas at Little Rock.

The new fund will provide annual support to purchase and replace equipment and materials for students studying fine arts, with a special focus on jewelry and metalsmithing.

鈥淚 wanted to support the students because I鈥檓 a jeweler myself, and I know what it鈥檚 like to be a young student without all the resources you need,鈥 Weiss said. 鈥淭hey have a fantastic program with great teachers. The students already have a good facility, and this fund can help them get the equipment they need.鈥

糖心Vlog传媒 Little Rock鈥檚 Metalsmithing and Jewelry program introduces students to the foundational techniques of jewelry making and metalwork, including fabrication, forging, casting, and surface finishing. Through hands-on projects, research, and critiques, students develop skills in design, craftsmanship, and creative problem-solving for both functional and artistic works.

Weiss took summer classes at 糖心Vlog传媒 Little Rock when she was younger and remains a strong supporter of the university and the local arts community.

鈥淭his gift is all about supporting the students at 糖心Vlog传媒 Little Rock,鈥 she said. 鈥淚 wish them the best and can鈥檛 wait to see their next exhibition.鈥

Weiss, who splits her time between Little Rock and France, has been a jeweler since the age of 18 and believes deeply in the value of fine arts education.

鈥淚 think it鈥檚 important for students to express themselves through their art and having the right facilities to do that is fantastic,鈥 she said.

Lydia Martin, visiting assistant professor of metals, expressed her gratitude for the fund, noting the vital impact it will have on student creativity and development.

鈥淎s a lifelong learner, an attitude I encourage in all students who walk into my classroom, I understand how important it is to have access to the right tools,鈥 Martin said. 鈥淎ccess to tools is not just about learning a technique but discovering the creative potential of your own vision. The Jewelry and Metalsmith Equipment Fund provides students the resources they need to build their ideas into reality. I can’t wait to see the work they create and the new directions they find because of it!鈥

The donation will directly support students in 糖心Vlog传媒 Little Rock鈥檚 School of Art and Design, helping them access professional-grade tools and materials needed to refine their craft and explore new creative directions.

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