Build Your Own Business (BYOB) is designed for 糖心Vlog传媒 Little Rock students with entrepreneurial聽ambitions who want to learn how to bring their concept to life. The first free virtual session,聽“How to BYOB,”聽is Tuesday, Sept. 15,聽while the Oct. 6 session will feature Rhonda Aaron — an alumna, entrepreneur, and past president of the Alumni Association board — for a “Startup Story” program.听

“We all deserve to be poured into — it helps you grow — and it’s important for me to take any wisdom, knowledge, and experience I have and give back,” said Aaron, founder of BL Brand PR Agency and the non-profit Sister Friends United. “Blaze your own trail — what works for someone else may not work for you — educate yourself, use any resources, and get in every room you can to network, because you never know who might be able to help you.”聽

Aspiring聽entrepreneurs聽should also remember that passion alone won’t make them successful — nor will solely business acumen — both are necessary to flourish, added Aaron. “Be a lifelong learner so you’re always (adding more) tools to your toolkit.”聽

Sister Friends United Inc., a 501c3 non-profit organization of minority women with a mission to support, uplift, and empower its members to better serve the community, was founded and incorporated in the State of Arkansas in October 2007.

鈥淚 saw a need for women to have a space where we could connect, support one another, and grow together,鈥� Aaron said. 鈥淚 wanted to create something that not only strengthened women, but also allowed us to make a meaningful impact in our community through scholarships, service, events, and other initiatives.鈥�

Aaron was honored with the Just Communities Humanitarian Award for giving back to her community, and she received the Shelley Mehl Empowerment Award, which recognizes an individual woman or organization that champions female empowerment.听She has a Bachelor of Arts in Mass Communication with an emphasis in Strategic Communication from 糖心Vlog传媒 Little Rock.

At 糖心Vlog传媒 Little Rock, she was able to “connect with like-minded individuals, who were a boost and support for me,” she said. “I always had resources” at 糖心Vlog传媒 Little Rock, and “we uplifted, encouraged, and empowered one another.”

In addition to the live sessions, BYOB also encompasses consulting services.

Students who may simply want advice for their “side hustles” to those attempting to embark on聽entrepreneurial聽career paths can utilize BYOB, said Gwen Green, marketing and communications manager for ASBTDC. “We want to give them a hand.”

Consulting is free and available to help students plan and grow their business ventures. To request a meeting, contact ASBTDC Startup Specialist Ashley Murguia Topete at聽axmurguia@ualr.edu听辞谤听501-553-3644.

BYOB聽sessions聽can also fulfill certain requirements students may have for outside-the-classroom, career-readiness experience, like Career Catalyst for those in the School of Business, added Green. Students can register for and online.

For more information about BYOB, please contact Laterika Staton, ASBTDC education and event specialist, at聽lstooks@ualr.edu听辞谤听501-804-4530.听

The ASBTDC assists new, existing, and innovation-based small businesses across Arkansas. The center is a partnership program of the Small Business Administration and 糖心Vlog传媒 Little Rock.

The post Build Your Own Business Sessions Aim to Help 糖心Vlog传媒 Little Rock’s Aspiring Entrepreneurs appeared first on News.

The University of Arkansas at Little Rock alumna has established a career in public relations and strategic communications by building relationships, earning trust, and helping others succeed. Now, Nicholson has been recognized as one of the inaugural recipients of the Public Relations Society of America鈥檚 Women of Impact Awards in the Social Influencer category.

鈥淚 was genuinely surprised and incredibly honored,鈥� Nicholson said. 鈥淧RSA has been such an important part of my professional journey, so to be recognized as one of the inaugural Women of Impact recipients made it especially meaningful.鈥�

Nicholson, vice president of strategic communications at Little Rock-based marketing agency , said the recognition represents more than her individual accomplishments.

鈥淭he Social Influencer category reflects work our team has been building for years, helping organizations move beyond simply posting on social media to creating content that truly influences audiences, builds trust and drives business results,鈥� Nicholson said. 鈥淲hile my name is on the award, it really represents the talented colleagues and clients who have embraced innovation and trusted us to try new approaches together.鈥�

Nicholson earned bachelor鈥檚 degrees in journalism, with a public relations emphasis, and political science from 糖心Vlog传媒 Little Rock. She was drawn to the university in part because of its location in the state鈥檚 capital and its connections to Arkansas鈥� business and media communities.

Nicholson took classes alongside aspiring journalists who later became reporters, editors, and news leaders across the state. When she entered public relations, many of the journalists she worked with were already familiar faces.

鈥溙切腣log传媒 Little Rock didn鈥檛 just prepare me academically; it helped me establish a professional network that opened doors early in my career and continues to benefit me today,鈥� Nicholson said. 鈥淕oing to school in the capital city with the largest media market in our state was a major factor in my decision to study journalism and political science at 糖心Vlog传媒 Little Rock.鈥�

Nicholson also credits Amy O. Barnes, APR, now associate professor emeritus in the School of Mass Communication, with putting her on the path to a career in public relations. Barnes encouraged Nicholson to pursue her first internship, which gave her hands-on agency experience and confirmed her interest in the profession.

鈥淪he didn鈥檛 just teach public relations. She inspired it,鈥� Nicholson said. 鈥淎my encouraged me to pursue my very first internship, and looking back, that single piece of advice changed the trajectory of my career.鈥�

Barnes said she recognized Nicholson鈥檚 potential early.

鈥淚 knew from the beginning that Kristen was going to have an important impact on the work, on the profession and, most importantly, on the people around her,鈥� Barnes said. 鈥淚 have never been more proud to be right.鈥�

After graduating, Nicholson began her career in nonprofit communications, where she gained experience across the profession. She wrote media releases, planned events, managed volunteers, developed marketing campaigns, created advertising copy and newsletters, updated websites, and served as a spokesperson.

鈥淚 rarely said no to an opportunity. I simply figured it out,鈥� she said.

That experience prepared her for the variety and pace of agency work. Nicholson joined in 2011 and has since helped launch its Content Studio, become a shareholder, and risen to vice president of strategic communications.

Today, she leads a team whose work includes strategic planning, crisis management, executive thought leadership, influencer marketing, social media strategy, and integrated campaigns.

Sharon Tallach Vogelpohl, president and CEO of , said Nicholson鈥檚 leadership goes beyond delivering results for clients.

鈥淚鈥檓 often quoted as describing the agency business as the ultimate team sport, and Kristen is truly an all-star player in terms of her exceptional skills, work ethic, and leadership,鈥� Vogelpohl said. 鈥淪he provides an environment of professionalism, trust, and access to help people grow and excel.鈥�

Nicholson has also adapted to a communications industry that looks considerably different from the one she entered after college. She graduated when Facebook was still in its infancy and before Instagram existed. Today, public relations increasingly intersects with social media, influencer marketing, search engine optimization, artificial intelligence, and digital marketing.

鈥淚鈥檝e always believed it鈥檚 important to embrace change early rather than resist it,鈥� Nicholson said. 鈥淭he channels will continue to change, but the goal remains the same: reaching the right audience with the right message in the most effective way.鈥�

Nicholson has earned her Accreditation in Public Relations, served as president of the Arkansas chapter of PRSA, spoken at PRSA ICON, and received multiple national PRSA Silver Anvil Awards. She has also advised CEOs and executive leadership teams at Fortune 500 companies, major healthcare systems, and other organizations across the country.

But as her career has progressed, so has the way she approaches success.

鈥淓arly in my career, I measured success by awards, campaigns, and big wins,鈥� Nicholson said. 鈥淭oday, I measure it by the people around me.鈥�

Nicholson credits mentors with challenging her, opening doors, and encouraging her to pursue new opportunities. As a leader, she now tries to do the same for others.

鈥淚f someone isn鈥檛 confident enough to speak up, I believe it鈥檚 my responsibility to help them find their voice,鈥� Nicholson said. 鈥淲atching someone gain confidence, step into leadership, or accomplish something they once thought was out of reach is far more rewarding than any award I鈥檝e received. That鈥檚 the kind of impact I hope to leave.鈥�

Barnes has seen that commitment extend to another generation of 糖心Vlog传媒 Little Rock students, referring several to Nicholson for internships and career guidance.

鈥淚鈥檝e sent several students her way for internships and counseling, and she has been more than willing to give them a boost up their own career ladders,鈥� Barnes said. 鈥淪he deserves any and all accolades the profession provides.鈥�

Nicholson鈥檚 connection to 糖心Vlog传媒 Little Rock has also come full circle through 鈥檚 work with the university. She returns to campus to speak with students and now helps tell the story of the university that helped launch her career.

鈥溙切腣log传媒 Little Rock invested in me early in my career, so having the opportunity to give back professionally feels very full circle,鈥� Nicholson said. 鈥淚t鈥檚 rewarding to help tell the university鈥檚 story while also seeing firsthand how it鈥檚 preparing the next generation of communicators.鈥�

For students hoping to build careers in public relations, marketing, social media, or strategic communications, Nicholson encourages them to take chances and remain willing to learn.

鈥淪ay yes to opportunities, even the ones that seem intimidating,鈥� Nicholson said. 鈥淓very internship, volunteer project, networking event, and stretch assignment teaches you something valuable. Don鈥檛 worry so much about having every answer; focus on being curious, adaptable and willing to learn.鈥�

She also encourages students to get involved with PRSA early. Nicholson joined 糖心Vlog传媒 Little Rock鈥檚 chapter of the Public Relations Student Society of America (PRSSA), the student organization affiliated with PRSA, and served in a leadership role.

鈥淭he professionals who thrive aren鈥檛 necessarily the ones who know the most today,鈥� Nicholson said. 鈥淭hey鈥檙e the ones who remain curious, embrace change, and never stop learning.鈥�

The post 糖心Vlog传媒 Little Rock Alumna Named PRSA Woman of Impact appeared first on News.

鈥淚 felt like the coolest kid,鈥� Bianchi recalled.

That experience shaped what he wanted next: to be the one asking questions, telling athletes鈥� stories, and helping others feel recognized. Years later, as a mass communication major preparing to graduate, Bianchi said that passion still guides the future he envisions beyond the mat.

Wrestling was already part of his life growing up, with a family of four older brothers who all competed 鈥� it was their way of life. One brother, Paul, especially influenced his path and first introduced him to the possibility of college wrestling.

鈥淢y four older brothers wrestled, and I wanted to do whatever they were doing,鈥� Bianchi said. 鈥淭hen my brother, Paul, began competing at a high level, and I wanted to follow the same path he was on.鈥�

Watching his brother navigate the recruiting process opened his eyes to the possibility of competing at the collegiate level himself. But when he arrived at 糖心Vlog传媒 Little Rock, the transition to Division I wrestling proved far more difficult than he expected.

鈥淚 was very naive,鈥� Bianchi said. 鈥淚 thought that because I had success in high school, it would instantly translate to college. But that was not the case for me.鈥�

Adjusting to college life while competing tested both his confidence and resilience. After going 1-3 in a competition his freshman season, Bianchi began questioning whether he belonged.

鈥淎t one point my freshman year, I almost quit, thinking, 鈥楳aybe this isn鈥檛 for me anymore,鈥欌�� he said.

During that difficult transition, his coaches became important mentors. He also credits the support of his family and teammates for helping him persevere through the demands of college athletics. Their support helped him work through the challenges of adjusting to college athletics and life away from home.

鈥淚f you are only wrestling for yourself, it can become lonely and meaningless,鈥� Bianchi said. 鈥淲hen you are wrestling for others who have supported you through ups and downs, you fight a lot harder.鈥�

Over time, Bianchi learned how to balance the demands of being both an athlete and a student. His schedule often stretched from early morning lifts, to classes during the day, and extra workouts in the wrestling room late into the evening 鈥� but balancing both roles became a source of pride.

鈥淲hen one area of your life is focused, it can make the others fall in line,鈥� he said. 鈥淲restling was a huge focus. But I can鈥檛 wrestle with bad grades. So I worked to improve physically, mentally, and spiritually daily.鈥�

Bianchi鈥檚 interest in storytelling continued to grow through his coursework, especially during a live audio course where he learned how to edit and produce audio content. The class introduced him to podcasting, inspiring his senior capstone project, Mindset With Matty 鈥� an eight-episode podcast focused on wrestling and the mindset athletes carry during and after a competition. Through the project, Bianchi interviewed wrestlers, coaches, and close friends, exploring how lessons learned on the mat continue shaping their lives long after the match has ended. The conversations not only strengthened his storytelling skills, but also deepened many of his personal relationships.

The guidance Bianchi received from his instructors and coaches shaped the kind of teammate, mentor, and person he wanted to become. As his confidence grew and his success followed, he focused on helping younger wrestlers navigate the same struggles he had faced.

鈥淚 have tried to be an open-door person,鈥� Bianchi said. 鈥淚f a teammate is struggling, I will hear what they have to say without making them feel bad, because whatever they might be going through, I have as well.鈥�

That growth transformed the uncertainty of Bianchi鈥檚 freshman season into some of the biggest accomplishments of his career. During the 2025 season, he captured a PAC-12 championship and earned NCAA All-American honors after enduring the demanding three-day NCAA Championships tournament. For Bianchi, though, the season鈥檚 most meaningful moments had less to do with medals and more to do with the people beside him.

鈥淭hat year was very special to me,鈥� Bianchi said. 鈥淓verything I did was with guys on the team who I have been around forever and my brother, Joey.鈥�

Joey became Bianchi鈥檚 primary training partner throughout the season, pushing him through practices, workouts, and the physical toll of competition. Together, the brothers won back-to-back PAC-12 titles and qualified for the NCAA Championship, sharing hotel rooms, training sessions, and the highs and lows that come with competing on college wrestling鈥檚 biggest stage.

鈥淭he best moments were not the matches,鈥� he said. 鈥淚t was the workouts in the middle of the night and us guys trying to laugh, make jokes, and somehow make something that is so intense, fun.鈥�

While wrestling shaped much of his college experience, Bianchi said the future he envisions still traces back to that brief interview after a high school wrestling match years ago. His work in mass communication allowed him to explore storytelling, broadcasting, editing, and media production, giving him a different way to engage with the sport he has always been part of. Now preparing to graduate, Bianchi said the moments he values most are not tied to championships or grades, but to the people and experiences that came with them 鈥� teammates pushing through late-night workouts, coaches who challenged him, and the relationships built throughout his four years on and off the mat.

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A Little Rock native, Miller has spent her time at 糖心Vlog传媒 Little Rock turning initiative into opportunity. A mass communication major with an emphasis in media production and a minor in digital marketing, she built her college experience around hands-on work that prepared her for life after graduation.

鈥淚鈥檝e always been the type of person where if you don鈥檛 ask, you don鈥檛 know,鈥� Miller said. 鈥淎nd the worst thing they can say is no.鈥�

That mindset paid off almost immediately. Just days after introducing herself to Krain, Miller was assisting on photography assignments, beginning a mentorship that would shape her creative voice and professional growth over the next four years.

鈥淗e鈥檚 not even just a mentor 鈥� he鈥檚 genuinely a friend,鈥� Miller said.

Through that experience, Miller developed a strong portfolio that helped her land an internship with Little Rock-based marketing and advertising firm Marian Agency. There, she creates content for clients, including South on Main (SoMa 501), gaining real-world experience working with brands and engaging with the local community.

After graduation, Miller will transition into a full-time role with the agency鈥攁n opportunity she credits in part to the work she began as a freshman.

鈥淚 feel like what I鈥檝e learned has already prepared me for the real world,鈥� she said.

Miller said 糖心Vlog传媒 Little Rock stood out not only for its opportunities but also for its accessibility. With the help of scholarships and campus support, she will graduate debt-free, allowing her to focus on building her future instead of worrying about financial barriers.

鈥淎nytime that I needed help, the school helped me,鈥� she said.

Beyond academics and career preparation, Miller found community through her involvement on campus. As a member of the Chancellor鈥檚 Leadership Corps, she participated in service, networking, and leadership development opportunities that connected her with mentors and peers. She also served on the board of the Rainbow Alliance, helping create an inclusive space for students and planning campus events.

鈥淚t allows you to connect with people and be part of a community,鈥� she said.

Those relationships extended into the classroom, where Miller said faculty support played a key role in her success.

鈥淭hey really care about the students and the work that you do,鈥� she said.

Now graduating cum laude, Miller reflects on her time at 糖心Vlog传媒 Little Rock with a mix of excitement and anticipation. While stepping into a full-time career marks a major transition, she says she feels ready.

鈥淚t鈥檚 a big change, but I feel prepared and hopeful for the future,鈥� she said.

For current and future students, Miller鈥檚 advice is simple: take initiative and make the most of every opportunity.

鈥淐ollege is what you make of it,鈥� she said. 鈥淧ut yourself out there, network and find ways to learn and create.鈥�

The post From a Simple Ask to a Full-Time Career: Sheranden Miller Makes the Most of Her Time at 糖心Vlog传媒 Little Rock appeared first on News.

“I have always been a big fan of school, for as long as I can remember,” she said. “I truly believe that school is both a challenge and a form of preparation that helps you grow into a disciplined human being.”

Martinez earned a double bachelor’s degree in business administration and communications with an emphasis in journalism from the University of the Cumberlands in 2024. For the Little Rock resident, education reflects the discipline, effort, and accountability required for success.

“A degree represents the hard work you鈥檝e invested in gaining knowledge and holding yourself accountable,鈥� she said. 鈥淭hat said, earning my master鈥檚 degree has always been a dream of mine.”

During her time in graduate school at 糖心Vlog传媒 Little Rock, Martinez has balanced multiple responsibilities. She is a full-time student and part-time graduate assistant. She also worked for the Arkansas Business Publishing Group during the summer and fall semesters.

“I鈥檝e been lucky enough to earn my master鈥檚 while having two jobs that not only helped pay for my education but also allowed me to meet extraordinary people,” she said.

Throughout a demanding schedule, Martinez said the support of others helped her stay grounded.

“I鈥檝e had incredible bosses, professors, family, and friends who made this juggle easier than I expected,” she said. “Easy? No, it wasn鈥檛, but nothing in life that is worth it is easy. Everything comes with challenges and struggles, but that is the beauty of life.”

One of her most meaningful experiences was coaching the university鈥檚 鈥� a role she initially stepped into without knowing how much it would shape her.

Before coming to Little Rock, Martinez had swum for four years as an undergrad on a scholarship.

鈥淚 wanted to explore coaching because my dad was my swim coach for 20 years, and I wanted to do the same thing he did for me 鈥� for other people,鈥� she said.

What began as exploration soon became one of the most rewarding parts of her graduate experience.

“Over the past two years, I have experienced firsthand how impactful it can be to coach someone into becoming the best version of themselves,” she said. “The fact that the 30-plus women I met along the way allowed me to be part of their growth is something I will always be grateful for.”

Nathan Townsend, the team’s head coach, said Martinez worked as a graduate assistant and has been a cornerstone of the swimming program. She has shown a top work ethic, professionalism, and commitment to excellence.

鈥淓milia is someone I trust deeply, not only because of how hard she works, but because of the insight and perspective she brings to every situation,鈥� he said. 鈥淒uring challenging moments, her steady presence and mindset helped guide our team forward and played a meaningful role in our success.鈥�

Martinez credits her parents, sister, and boyfriend with encouraging her to believe in herself and pursue her dreams while far from home. After graduation, she plans to work in FedEx鈥檚 sales enablement department, focusing on project management and communications content. 

During her college experience, Martinez gained insights she wants to share with other students.

“Don鈥檛 let fear stop you from doing the thing that scares you the most,” she said. “That is how I approached these last two years while pursuing my master鈥檚. I stepped out of my shell to build real connections with my professors and allowed them to challenge me through different classes and assignments.”

The post First in Her Family, Emilia Martinez Turns a Dream Into a Master’s Degree appeared first on News.

Storytelling has always been close to home for her. Inspired by her father, a passionate writer who spent years balancing creativity with a demanding career, she found her voice early through poems, songs and short stories.

鈥淭hat鈥檚 really what pushed me,鈥� Wilson said. 鈥淗e loved storytelling, but didn鈥檛 always have the time to pursue it. That made me want to see if I could take it somewhere.鈥�

Her passion for storytelling blossomed in high school journalism classes, but it was at 糖心Vlog传媒 Little Rock that Wilson found her niche. Media courses, along with opportunities in radio and TV journalism, ignited her interest in broadcast journalism.

Through an internship at KATV, Wilson turned classroom experience into hands-on work in producing and reporting within a fast-paced newsroom, gaining valuable insight into the world of news production.

鈥淚t definitely broadened my knowledge in so many different things,鈥� she said. 鈥淚n school, you learn a little bit of everything,鈥� she said. 鈥淏ut at the station, you see how it all comes together in real time. At KATV鈥ou really get the nitty gritty of their job and what goes into it. So it鈥檚 definitely broadened my personal skills, because now I have more real-world experience.鈥�

Her work at KATV has already begun to open new doors. Following her internship experience, she has been invited back, this time as a paid intern, giving her the opportunity to continue building on the skills she developed in the newsroom.

Balancing the roles of student, intern and mother is no simple task. Wilson has faced her share of challenges, but she approaches them with resilience. She acknowledges that some days are more difficult than others, yet her motivation remains constant鈥攈er daughter.

鈥淥ver anything else, this little person is looking up to me and seeing what I鈥檓 doing, and I want her to look back and be able to say, 鈥榤y mom did that.鈥欌�� 

Her perspective on higher education is deeply tied to her journey. While she recognizes that many in her generation and younger question the value of a college degree, Wilson sees her experience as proof of its impact.

鈥淭here鈥檚 a growing skepticism around college, but for me, it鈥檚 made all the difference. I wouldn鈥檛 be where I am today without it.鈥�

That perspective has become a message Wilson hopes to share with others, particularly those who may feel discouraged by the demands of pursuing a degree later in life or alongside other commitments.

鈥淵ou have to do it, and you have to do it tired,鈥� she said. 鈥淭here鈥檚 nobody else that鈥檚 going to do it for you鈥攜ou have to do it for yourself and for the life you want.鈥�

As Wilson prepares to walk across the stage, she is looking ahead to what comes next, carrying with her the experience she鈥檚 gained both in the newsroom and in her everyday life. From balancing classes and an internship to raising her daughter and building a future for her family, her journey reflects the determination it takes to keep going. Now, as she steps into the next chapter of her career, she hopes her story shows others that even with competing responsibilities, reaching your goals is possible.

The post 糖心Vlog传媒 Little Rock Student Grace Wilson Balances Motherhood, Broadcast Journalism on Path to Graduation appeared first on News.

For 糖心Vlog传媒 Little Rock alumna Erica Sweeney, that mindset has led to a prolific writing career with bylines in The New York Times, The Washington Post, TIME, Business Insider, and many more national publications.

But her path to journalism was not always clear.

鈥淚鈥檝e enjoyed reading and writing ever since I can remember,鈥� Sweeney said. 鈥淚n high school, I started considering writing as a career, but I didn鈥檛 get any encouragement until I got to 糖心Vlog传媒 Little Rock.鈥�

It was in a freshman writing class that someone first recognized her talent.

鈥淭he first person to ever tell me I was a good writer was my instructor,鈥� she said. 鈥淭hat stuck with me.鈥�

Later, a conversation with her father pointed her toward journalism.

鈥淚 remember looking through the old paper course catalog with my dad,鈥� she said. 鈥淗e saw the journalism major and said, 鈥榊ou could work at the newspaper.鈥� I thought it sounded like a cool job.鈥�

That decision set her on a new path.

Sweeney began her college career undecided, but once she entered the journalism program, she found her footing.

鈥淚 started really learning the craft once I got into the journalism program,鈥� she said. 鈥淚 wrote for The Forum, 糖心Vlog传媒 Little Rock鈥檚 student newspaper, and seeing my byline in print for the first time was so exciting. It still is.鈥�

She points to former professors Sonny Rhodes, Bruce Plopper, and Frank Fellone as key influences during her time at 糖心Vlog传媒 Little Rock.

In a feature writing class, she developed a strong foundation in storytelling, learning how to structure stories, craft strong ledes, and use quotes effectively.

Her coursework also emphasized research and critical thinking. One exercise, known as 鈥渃osmic questions,鈥� encouraged deeper inquiry and is something she still uses today.

In a news writing class, she grew more confident as a reporter and pushed past her natural shyness.

鈥淭hat class really forced me to move past that and develop a thick skin,鈥� she said.

That resilience has served her well in a competitive industry.

鈥淚t鈥檚 always great to see a 糖心Vlog传媒 Little Rock journalism student succeed, especially as a freelancer,鈥� Fellone said. 鈥淚t鈥檚 a tough business, and Erica鈥檚 list of publications is impressive.鈥�

Today, Sweeney鈥檚 work appears in some of the most recognizable publications in the country, like The New York Times, The Washington Post, and TIME, but breaking into those outlets took time.

鈥淧eople think there鈥檚 a secret handshake,鈥� she said. 鈥淏ut it鈥檚 really just about pitching ideas.鈥�

For years, she pitched story ideas to editors, often facing rejection, but she kept going.

In 2019, she finally broke into The New York Times and has been writing for the publication ever since.

鈥淚 just kept pitching,鈥� she said. 鈥淥nce I got my foot in the door, I focused on doing a really good job and building relationships.鈥�

That focus paid off. Today, she has regular bylines in The New York Times and contributes to about a dozen other publications, many of which she has worked with for years.

鈥淎 lot of my work now comes from editors reaching out to me,鈥� she said. 鈥淚 try to make their lives easier by filing on time, sending clean copy, and pitching strong ideas.鈥�

Sweeney always wanted to write about health and wellness, but she didn鈥檛 start there. When she began freelancing in 2016, she pitched whatever ideas she could.

Her entry into health journalism came in 2018 after connecting with an editor at HuffPost, where she began writing about food, nutrition, and trends.

鈥淭hat helped me build clips in health and wellness,鈥� she said. 鈥淚 still write for that editor today.鈥�

Now, much of her work focuses on health, healthcare, and wellness, along with business and lifestyle topics. Her stories often explore emerging trends, new research, and timely issues.

鈥淚 love learning new things or finding different angles on familiar topics,鈥� she said.

That curiosity has been one of her biggest influences as a writer.

鈥淚 read a lot, including books, magazines, and newspapers. I listen to public radio and watch documentaries,鈥� she said. 鈥淲hen I read, I pay attention to structure and word choice. It makes you a better writer.鈥�

As her career has evolved, so has her freelancing approach.

One of the biggest lessons she has learned is the importance of building strong relationships with editors.

鈥淚 didn鈥檛 realize early on how important that was,鈥� she said. 鈥淣ow it鈥檚 a huge part of my work.鈥�

She has also embraced new challenges, including fast-paced, deadline-driven assignments.

鈥淚 used to be afraid of quick turnaround work,鈥� she said. 鈥淣ow I actually enjoy it.鈥�

For students interested in journalism or freelance writing, Sweeney emphasizes persistence, along with the ability to develop strong ideas, meet deadlines, and find reliable sources.

She also encourages students to think beyond writing and develop business skills, especially if they plan to freelance.

鈥淵ou have to manage everything yourself, including your schedule, your income, and your marketing,鈥� she said.

Her most important advice is to keep writing and not let rejection define your path.

鈥淜eep writing. Get published wherever you can. Learn how to pitch,鈥� she said. 鈥淎nd don鈥檛 be afraid. You鈥檒l get rejected. I still do. You just have to move on.鈥�

The post From 糖心Vlog传媒 Little Rock to The New York Times: How Erica Sweeney Built a National Writing Career appeared first on News.

The South Side of Chicago native now helps shape communication strategy for one of the Air Force鈥檚 largest commands 鈥� a role she credits, in part, to her graduate education.

While on active duty, Kealy-Machella earned her master鈥檚 degree in mass communication in 2018 from the University of Arkansas at Little Rock. Her degree focus was on strategic communication/public relations.

鈥淒uring my degree program, I was working as a communications professional in the United States Air Force Public Affairs office at Little Rock Air Force Base,鈥� she explained. 鈥淎s a public affairs officer, I鈥檝e continued to use my degree throughout my career. In strategy and assessments, I rely daily on the core principles I learned in the program.鈥�

Today, Maj. Kealy-Machella is chief of the U.S. Air Force Air Combat Command (ACC) Public Affairs Strategy and Assessments Division, headquartered at Langley Air Force Base, Va.

She develops communication strategies for ACC leadership and its 36 wings, helping them engage both internal audiences (Airmen and families) and external audiences (the American public). She also creates and uses assessment tools to measure the effectiveness of those communication efforts.

Her path to leadership began with a desire for purpose and structure, which the Air Force offered.

鈥淚 saw the bigger picture, the structure it provided yet opportunities for problem solving and creative thinking, and the solid benefits and I was all in,鈥� Kealy-Machella said. 鈥淎t first, I felt in over my head…Over the past 12 years, I鈥檝e grown personally and professionally and found myself at home with the people and the mission. It鈥檚 truly been the adventure of a lifetime.鈥�

Her assignments have taken her from Arkansas to Idaho to Hawaii and beyond. A month-long deployment to Australia remains a highlight, where she led a team working alongside Royal Australian Air Force counterparts during Exercise Talisman Sabre, one of the largest multilateral exercises in the region.

“We were doing some amazing work communicating about our collective interoperability and alliance,鈥� she said. 鈥淎nd of course, we got to experience the culture and explore the Outback.鈥�

Her daughter was especially impressed by stories about wildlife. The family later returned for vacation, which Kealy-Machella calls 鈥渢he trip of a lifetime.鈥�

Before joining the Air Force, Kealy-Machella earned a bachelor鈥檚 degree in political science from the University of Illinois at Urbana-Champaign. While stationed at Little Rock, she pursued a hybrid graduate program that offered in-person and online classes — a good fit for military life. She used Air Force tuition assistance and university military discounts to cover most costs.

“There were many late nights doing homework, and the rush to get to class in person…but at the end of the day, it was a short time of working hard to earn my degree, a time that was well worth it,” she said, adding that she valued being able to apply classroom lessons to real-world projects immediately.

Throughout the program, Kealy-Machella leaned on the support of her husband, Mike, whom she met in Little Rock. The couple often studied together as he pursued his own degree at a different university.

“He didn鈥檛 just support me through my degree program, but continues to support me through this crazy military life,” she said. “We got married during this program, and throughout the whole time, he supported me and encouraged me even when it was tough.”

Kealy-Machella said her graduate education built a foundation for thoughtful, responsible communication.

“As we continue into our future, there are many uncertainties,” she said. “One thing that is certain, however, is that information will continue to play a massive role in society and daily life. We need to continuously evolve and learn how to leverage information to make decisions and remain informed instead of letting that information own our emotions and our actions.”

The post 糖心Vlog传媒 Little Rock Alum Leads Strategic Communications for Major Air Force Command appeared first on News.

Originally from Akwa Ibom State, Nigeria, Okon graduated in December with a master鈥檚 degree in mass communication. During her time at 糖心Vlog传媒 Little Rock, she served as a graduate assistant in the School of Mass Communication and as a senator in the Student Government Association.

Okon鈥檚 passion for public health advocacy began at a young age. When she was eight years old, she witnessed her grandfather suffer from a stroke 鈥� a traumatic experience that would shape the course of her life. Following the stroke, he was unable to perform many daily activities independently. While her family was fortunate to have a doctor in the family who could provide medical advice and support, the experience revealed the reality about the healthcare disparities in Nigeria.

鈥淢y grandad was blessed to have a son who could give him medical advice and counseling,鈥� Okon said. 鈥淏ut what about people who do not have anyone to support them? What happens to them? That was where my passion started.鈥�

Growing up in Nigeria, Okon saw how limited access to healthcare, emergency response systems, and public health education often turns preventable conditions into life-threatening crises. Many communities lack basic resources such as ambulances, CPR training, or reliable medical guidance, leaving families unprepared when emergencies occur.

Cedar and Ruby Health Alliance (CRHA) was founded to address those gaps. The nonprofit organization focuses on reducing the burden of cardiovascular disease, preventing and managing diabetes, and equipping underserved communities with life-saving skills. Through health screenings, education on nutrition and physical activity, CPR training, and interactive workshops, the organization emphasizes prevention, awareness, and timely emergency response.

Okon said the organization鈥檚 work is rooted in the belief that every life matters. By combining advocacy, hands-on training, and community engagement, CRHA aims to reduce preventable deaths in communities across African communities where access to emergency care and health education remains limited.

CRHA grew out of Okon鈥檚 experience as a graduate student at 糖心Vlog传媒 Little Rock, where she merged her academic training in mass communication with her passion for advocacy. She founded the nonprofit in September 2025 while completing her master鈥檚 degree and marks her time serving in SGA as pivotal for the creation of CRHA.

鈥淏eing a senator in the Student Government Association really opened my eyes,鈥� Okon said. 鈥淚鈥檝e always cared about helping people, but SGA helped me see how that passion could turn into something bigger. Being part of those conversations about solutions and advocacy made me realize I could create impact not just on campus, but in communities both in the U.S. and in Nigeria.鈥�

Okon identified cardiovascular disease and diabetes as central focuses of CRHA based on both lived experience and observed patterns in Nigerian communities. She noted that demanding labor conditions, limited access to preventive care, and the absence of reliable emergency response systems contribute to rising mortality rates from hypertension and stroke.

鈥淚n Nigeria, we don鈥檛 have a working 911 system or emergency ambulances,鈥� Okon said. 鈥淲hen someone collapses, there is often no immediate medical aid, and we keep losing people before help can arrive.鈥�

She added that hospitals continue to record increasing cases of hypertension that often progress into stroke, while symptoms associated with diabetes frequently go untreated or undiagnosed. Compounding the issue is a lack of CPR and basic life support training, leaving bystanders unprepared to respond during emergencies. These gaps directly informed CRHA鈥檚 emphasis on community-based CPR education and emergency preparedness.

Through CRHA鈥檚 outreach efforts, Okon aims to confront the stigma that often prevents people from seeking medical care. The organization鈥檚 campaigns are designed to create awareness and encourage people to speak up about their health challenges. 

鈥淭he health system has positioned people going through medical challenges in a way where they feel as if they cannot speak up for themselves for fear of being looked down upon, especially in the workplace,鈥� Okon said. 鈥淲e are trying to break down these barriers to make those suffering feel seen and know they will still be valued regardless of what they are going through.鈥�

CRHA measures the effectiveness of its programs through community participation,  engagement, and follow-up. Okon pointed to recent outreach efforts surrounding World Diabetes Day, which included market visits, street campaigns, and digital media engagement. She said many participants are motivated by personal loss, often sharing stories of loved ones who died during preventable emergencies.

鈥淥ne person will tell you about a neighbor, another about a family member who has been a victim of an emergency situation,鈥� she said. 鈥淭hose stories show us the impact and why people want to learn the skills we are providing.鈥�

Early outcomes have already demonstrated the organization鈥檚 impact. During one of CRHA鈥檚 first CPR training sessions in a rural Nigerian community, participants with no prior medical training learned life-saving techniques. Weeks later, Okon received news that a community member had successfully used CPR skills learned in the training to revive someone who collapsed while working on a farm.

Building trust in communities where faith in healthcare systems is low requires consistency, Okon said. CRHA maintains regular community presence through free health screenings, education sessions, media campaigns, and continued outreach.

One of CRHA鈥檚 most significant initiatives to date took place during World Diabetes Day, when the organization hosted a free health screening in Nigeria. Working alongside local medical professionals, CRHA provided screenings and distributed free medications to approximately 150 individuals at high risk for diabetes, as well as community members managing hypertension and stroke-related conditions.

鈥淲e worked with medical experts to provide free medications to about 150 people,鈥� Okon said. 鈥淏ecause access to medication in Nigeria does not require insurance in the same way it does in the United States, we were able to respond quickly and reach people who needed care. That outreach was one of the largest and most impactful initiatives we鈥檝e completed since the organization was founded.鈥�

Looking ahead, Okon hopes to establish a subsidiary of Cedar and Ruby Health Alliance, such as an urgent care clinic, within the next five years. She is also collaborating with a team of app developers to create a blood donation app for Nigerian residents that she plans to use in partnership with hospitals to conduct blood drives.

In addition to her work in public health advocacy, Okon is preparing to release a memoir centered on healing through self-acceptance. 鈥淔inding Healing in Self Acceptance: Battle Against Rejection, Anxiety, and Self-Esteem鈥� will be published through Amazon KDP and released on Jan. 31, 2026. 

Drawing from her own experiences with early childhood rejection, trauma, and mental health struggles, the book explores how personal healing can emerge from within rather than through external validation. Okon describes the project as both deeply personal and community-minded  鈥� written not only as part of her own healing journey, but as a resource for others who have experienced adversity.

鈥淔inding healing is not something you look for outside of yourself. It鈥檚 something you discover within. I want people to know that their background does not define their future, and that even through rejection, they can still become who they want to be,鈥� Okon said.

Through her academic journey at 糖心Vlog传媒 Little Rock, Okon transformed personal experience into purposeful leadership. By combining her training in mass communication with hands-on involvement in student leadership, she developed the skills needed to advocate effectively for underserved communities beyond campus. Today, that foundation continues to shape her work through Cedar and Ruby Health Alliance, where she turns knowledge into action and ensures more communities are prepared when it matters most.

The post From 糖心Vlog传媒 Little Rock to Global Impact: Graduate Launches Life-Saving Health Nonprofit appeared first on News.

Collins brings more than 20 years of professional experience working in Little Rock and will oversee University Television while teaching courses in non-linear video editing and studio production.

Having lived and worked in the Little Rock community for more than two decades, Collins envisions University Television becoming a valued community partner that highlights the people, programs, and stories that define both the city and the 糖心Vlog传媒 Little Rock campus.

鈥淚 know there are so many wonderful stories to tell, and 糖心Vlog传媒 Little Rock is a big part of that community,鈥� Collins said.

During the spring semester, Collins will assess the current state of University Television and collaborate with campus partners to develop a strategic plan for its future. His goal is to shape the station into a central content hub that tells the stories of 糖心Vlog传媒 Little Rock while providing students with hands-on experience that prepares them for careers in the industry.

Collins said he hopes to build students鈥� skills by emphasizing strong storytelling and maintaining a clear point of view, noting that evolving technologies 鈥� from new camera systems to artificial intelligence 鈥� are tools that support, rather than replace, effective storytelling.

鈥淚 hope we can develop student-led projects that give them real-world experience while also building portfolio work they can be proud of,鈥� Collins said. 鈥淗aving worked in Little Rock for more than 20 years, I also hope to use my connections to help students secure internships and jobs.鈥�

Collins will help expand hands-on learning opportunities for students while strengthening University Television.

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