Launched during the 2024-25 academic year, the ALA is a cohort-based program designed to prepare new academic administrators and faculty members interested in leadership roles by offering skill-building workshops, retreats, and peer engagement opportunities.

鈥淭his is a pilot program funded by the provost鈥檚 office to provide in-house training for those starting leadership positions and those interested in leadership opportunities,鈥� said Dr. Tusty ten Bensel, associate dean of the College of Business, Health, and Human Services (CBHHS) and co-leader of the program. 鈥淚t鈥檚 a lot of skill-building on how to be a leader and how to be a leader on our campus specifically.鈥�

The ALA is led by Dr. Shannon Collier-Tenison, associate vice chancellor for academic affairs, Dr. ten Bensel, associate dean for CBHHS, and Dr. Laura Danforth, co-director of the School of Social Work, who were all drawn into administrative roles during their academic careers and wanted to create a more intentional pathway for emerging leaders.

鈥淭he inspiration for the Academic Leadership Academy stemmed from our own experiences as we transitioned into leadership roles,鈥� Collier-Tenison said. 鈥淓ach individual鈥檚 path to an academic administrative role is different, but there are commonalities in terms of necessary skills and resources that can ease that transition.鈥�

Participants meet monthly for three-hour workshops and attend two half-day retreats throughout the academic year. Sessions focus on topics such as conflict resolution, mentoring, team building, leadership styles, annual reviews, tenure and promotion, data-driven decision-making, and work-life balance.

The inaugural cohort includes nine faculty members from across the university: 

• Dr. Matthew Matusiak, associate dean of CBHHS
• Dr. Annie Childers, interim associate dean of the Donaghey College of STEM
• Dr. Joli Livaudais, interim director of the School of Art and Design
• Dr. Katie King, interim co-director of School of Human Inquiry
• Dr. Lindsey Gustafson, associate dean for academic support at the William H. Bowen School of Law
• Dr. Michael Cavanaugh, director of the School of Criminal Justice
• Dr. Neveen Amin, interim co-director of School of Human Inquiry
• Dr. Qingfang He, chair of the Department of Biology
• Dr. Yue Zhao, chair of the Department of Management, Marketing, and Technology

Dr. Annie Childers, an associate professor of mathematics, said she joined the program to intentionally develop her leadership skills as her responsibilities increased.

鈥淭he academy has helped me better understand my leadership style and how to leverage my strengths while being more mindful of areas for growth,鈥� Childers said. 鈥淥ne of the most valuable takeaways has been the emphasis on reflective practice鈥攖aking time to pause, evaluate, and adjust. This has allowed me to lead with more empathy, adaptability, and purpose.鈥�

The idea for the academy grew from the shared experiences of its founders, who saw a need for more intentional leadership development on campus.

鈥淎t most universities, the people who show what are considered leadership qualities are ushered into permanent or interim administrative positions,鈥� Danforth said. 鈥淔or us, we would have loved something like this earlier in our careers. We bring information we鈥檝e learned along the way, but we鈥檝e also learned a great deal from the participants. It鈥檚 been a transactional, collaborative experience.鈥�

Dr. Lindsey Gustafson, Nadine Baum Professor of Law at Bowen, said she valued the program鈥檚 structure and insights.

鈥淎ny leadership skills I鈥檝e developed have been through trial and error,鈥� Gustafson said. 鈥淭his training was thoughtfully conceived and executed to provide us with information and support. I also improved my leadership vocabulary鈥攗nderstanding better what is happening around me and why everyone involved may be responding in certain ways.鈥�

In addition to developing individual leadership skills, the program鈥檚 cohort model aims to create a supportive community that continues beyond the academy.

鈥淲hen you go into a leadership position, it can be a lonely transition,鈥� ten Bensel said. 鈥淥ur hope is that each cohort bonds and can share advice with each other throughout their careers.鈥�

Planning is underway for the 2025-26 cohort, which will focus on faculty who are not currently in administrative roles but are interested in academic leadership. Interested faculty should contact their college dean鈥檚 office for more information.

鈥淲e are all appreciative of the provost鈥檚 support,鈥� Danforth said. 鈥淚t鈥檚 been such an enriching experience for all of us, and we look forward to seeing how the program continues to evolve.鈥�

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鈥淎fter a national search, we have selected three finalists for the position of dean of the College of Business, Health, and Human Services (CBHHS) at 糖心Vlog传媒 Little Rock,鈥� said Dr. Brian Berry, dean of the Graduate School and chair of the search committee. 鈥淓ach candidate brings a wealth of experience and expertise, and we look forward to their upcoming visits to campus.鈥�

The finalists include Dr. Shannon Collier-Tennison, associate vice chancellor for academic affairs for faculty relations and administration and a professor of social work at 糖心Vlog传媒 Little Rock, who will visit campus on Oct. 31; Dr. Joshua Aaron, the Pam Wright Chair of Entrepreneurship and a professor of management at Middle Tennessee State University, who will visit campus on Nov. 4; and Dr. Myla Bui, professor of marketing at Loyola Marymount University, who will visit campus on Nov. 7.

Shannon Collier-Tenison

Dr. Shannon Collier-Tenison serves as associate vice chancellor for academic affairs for faculty relations and administration at 糖心Vlog传媒 Little Rock, where she oversees faculty support, academic personnel processes, and student support initiatives. A professor of social work, she also serves as the Provost Office liaison for a team of licensed social workers who provide student support and resources for emotional/mental health concerns, financial stress, academic support, and personal difficulties.

Collier-Tenison earned her bachelor鈥檚 degree in psychology from Hendrix College and her master鈥檚 degree and Ph.D. in social work from Washington University in St. Louis. Her career spans over 20 years in higher education, including roles as associate dean, interim dean, and program coordinator. Her research focuses on interpersonal violence, social welfare policy, and student success. Active in the community, she serves on the boards of directors for Women and Children First DV Shelter and Arkansas Advocates for Children and Families.

Joshua Aaron

Dr. Joshua Aaron, the Pam Wright Chair of Entrepreneurship and a professor of management at Middle Tennessee State University, has led record growth in the Business Innovation and Entrepreneurship program鈥檚 enrollment and external support. A University of Alabama alumnus with a Ph.D. in strategic management, Aaron joined MTSU in 2014 after teaching at Georgia State and East Carolina University.

Aaron serves on the boards of the Small Business Institute, the Tennessee Small Business Development Center, and the Finance Committee for the United Way of South Central Tennessee, and his research focuses on executive compensation, leadership, and small business strategy. He has published extensively in peer-reviewed journals, including Journal of Business Research, Journal of Small Business Strategy, and Journal of Business & Entrepreneurship.

Myla Bui

Dr. Myla Bui is a professor of marketing at Loyola Marymount University with a Ph.D. in marketing from the University of Arkansas and an MBA from Loyola University New Orleans. At LMU, she held leadership roles including chair of the Department of Marketing and Business Law, cabinet associate to the Executive Vice President and Provost, and academic chair to the program development of the Doctor of Business Administration.

Bui has published more than 30 articles in journals such as the Journal of Marketing and Journal of Marketing Research, with interests in consumer decision-making, social marketing, and emerging technologies. She served as the associate editor for the Journal of Business Research, co-chair of the 2020 Marketing and Public Policy Conference, and co-chair of the 2024 Summer American Marketing Association Conference. She also brings industry experience in marketing and business development across sectors like fintech and health tech.

Visit this website to find out more information about the candidates.

The new dean is expected to start during the spring semester and will replace Thomas Clifton, who has been serving as the interim dean since 2023.

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This resounding success not only showcases the collective spirit that defines the university but also highlights the enduring commitment of its community to invest in the institution’s mission and future.

鈥淭his accomplishment is a testament to the dedication and generosity of our campus community,鈥� said Dr. Aresh Assadi, director of Counseling Services and chair of the Campus Campaign. 鈥淩eaching this participation level is not only a numerical success but also speaks to the sense of unity and commitment among our employees. I believe that boosting internal participation is crucial as it positively impacts our external fundraising efforts, creating a strong foundation for the university’s growth and development.鈥�

Reaching this goal speaks to the shared belief in the transformative power of education and the collective impact of small acts of giving. Altogether, nearly 350 university employees donated to 糖心Vlog传媒 Little Rock during 2023.

“The spirited engagement of our dedicated faculty and staff in the Campus Campaign goes beyond monetary contributions,鈥� said Christian O鈥橬eal, vice chancellor for university advancement. 鈥淭his wholehearted internal support significantly fortifies our university’s standing as we approach external donors for major gifts. It communicates a compelling message 鈥� that those intimately connected to the university are wholeheartedly committed to its mission. This collective investment not only enhances our credibility but also amplifies our appeal when seeking external funds. I want to extend my sincere gratitude to the staff, faculty, and administrators who played instrumental roles in organizing this year’s campaign. With the capable assistance of Laterika Tooks and Kristi Smith, it became a total team effort. Witnessing such collaboration makes me immensely proud to be a Trojan.”

The university owes a special thanks to the dedicated employees who helped lead the Campus Campaign effort across campus. Campus Campaign Steering Committee members included Assadi, Mark Baillie, Shelia Brooks, Sikia Brown, Jessie Burchfield, Anthony Buttrum, Katrina Christopher, Reed Claiborne, Shannon Collier-Tenison, andre cummings, Joe Felan, Tyler Harrison, Carrie Phillips, Derek Slagle, Judy Staley, Joanne Matson, Brandy Dixon, and Emily Bell.

Campus Campaign Ambassadors included Katie Helms, Dawn Johnson, Sadie Lea, Monica Meadows, Leisa Myles, Vanessa Whitman, Angela Willis, April Chatham-Capenter, Mercades Parker, Bobbie Handcock, Salina Ables, Reteisha Byrd, Morgan Leyenberger, Mohammad Goodarzi, Keith Harris, Mary French, Rachel Mercado, Belinda Nix, Cynthia Dedner, Al Baker, Jennifer Lampkin, Anne Turner, Grace Zafasi, and Mary Tillman.

鈥淭he dedication of our Steering Committee and Campus Ambassadors was evident throughout the campus, and I had the opportunity to observe the effort they invested behind the scenes,鈥� said Laterika Tooks, director of annual giving at 糖心Vlog传媒 Little Rock. 鈥淚 feel fortunate to collaborate with numerous faculty and staff members who are enthusiastic about their roles and committed to the development and achievement of this university.鈥�

A total of 18 campus departments achieved 100 percent giving in 2023, which is 50 percent more than 2022.

Those departments include Alumni and Development, Applied Communication, the Bursar鈥檚 Office, the Chancellor鈥檚 Office, Concurrent Enrollment, Counseling Services, Disability Resource Center, Financial Aid and Scholarships, Financial Services, Institute of Chief Data Officers, Mail Services, Marketing and Communications, Office of Military Student Success, Sequoyah National Research Center, Study Abroad, Student Retention Initiatives, Testing and Student Life Research, and the Trojan Transition and Assistance Center.

Bobbie Handcock, a web content specialist who served as a campus ambassador, said that she likes to donate to causes like the Trojan Food Pantry or to help buy caps and gowns for graduating students.

鈥淚 work at 糖心Vlog传媒 Little Rock, and I鈥檓 also a graduate student,鈥� Handcock said. 鈥淚鈥檝e been able to see things from a student鈥檚 perspective and talk with my classmates about challenges that they may face. I know how important it is to have support 鈥� both financially and academically. The Campus Campaign generates funds to help students succeed and reach their goals.鈥�

As a campus campaign ambassador, Handcock explained how a gift to the university is an investment in future leaders, innovators, and professionals.

鈥淏y donating, you can help provide scholarships, financial aid, and resources to students who might not otherwise have the means to pursue a college education,鈥� Handcock said. 鈥淏y contributing, you can help feed someone who is hungry or clothe someone who needs business attire for a job interview. I shared ways that they could support the campaign, including purchasing a legacy brick, giving to an area that means the most to them or giving a gift-in-kind such as to the Trojan Career Closet. I encouraged them to remember that it doesn鈥檛 matter what you give, as long as you give.鈥�

The gifts are a part of the Centennial Campaign, 糖心Vlog传媒 Little Rock鈥檚 fundraising campaign to raise $250 million in celebration of the university鈥檚 100-year anniversary in 2027. The Campus Campaign was part of a cumulative fundraising year that netted more than $22 million for 糖心Vlog传媒 Little Rock. Visit to learn more about the Centennial Campaign.

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Social work is one of the university鈥檚 most popular majors, currently ranking fifth in most undergraduate students at 糖心Vlog传媒 Little Rock. The School of Social Work is the home to approximately 425 students and 18 full-time faculty and staff. The school has been growing steadily over the years, up from 365 students five years ago.

Its programs include the Bachelor of Social Work and Master of Social Work degrees with both online and on-campus options, a graduate certificate in gerontology, and minors in gerontology, human services, and social work.

Danforth and Jones became the school鈥檚 co-directors on July 1, 2022, upon the retirement of Dr. Stephen Kapp. After nine months on the job, they are dedicated to expanding the School of Social Work to become the top social work higher education destination in the state!

How did you both come to work at 糖心Vlog传媒 Little Rock?

Danforth 鈥� I was a master鈥檚 student in the Social Work department at 糖心Vlog传媒 Little Rock, and I had such a good experience. It鈥檚 actually the first time at a university that a professor had informed me there was something beyond the MSW. I ended up applying to a Ph.D. program at Mizzou (University of Missouri) and had my professors here write recommendation letters for me.

When I was in the market for an academic position, I was interviewing all over the country and I loved the balance that 糖心Vlog传媒 Little Rock strikes with teaching, research, and service. No other university that I interviewed with had the community-engaged metropolitan university designation, or was as involved in the community as 糖心Vlog传媒 Little Rock was. It was nice to land somewhere where that was a priority. I started at 糖心Vlog传媒 Little Rock in 2017.

Jones 鈥� My wife and I moved here from Cincinnati, Ohio, in 1997 because of her job as a psychologist at 糖心Vlog传媒MS. I then started here as an adjunct instructor and started full time as an assistant professor in 1999, and I鈥檝e been ever since.

When did you know that you wanted to be social workers?

Danforth 鈥� I realized some time in high school. That鈥檚 when I realized the important role that social workers play both in a macro and micro sense. Our responsibility as social workers is to not only provide mental health and case management services to clients, but also to  advocate for equity and fairness and large-scale change that allows everyone to meet their full potential. I went to U of A, and they had an orientation on the major and I was sold.

Jones 鈥� It was in junior college in Illinois when I took my first psychology class. That was my favorite subject, and I did the first two years in a community college outside of LaSalle, Illinois. It was during the last semester of junior college that I realized social work is what I wanted to do.

What are your major fields of research?

Danforth 鈥� Mine has been education equity, or using qualitative methodology to tease out the experiences of populations that have been marginalized or historically silenced. Because of this role Kim and I have taken over, I am also interested in the preparedness of future social workers and whether we are doing a decent job of educating them for the field.

Jones 鈥� My main focus is clinical social work practice. I am chair of the advanced practice concentration 鈥� clinical track. I also research case-based teaching in the social work curriculum and issues related to father absence.

What has it been like becoming co-directors of the School of Social Work?

Danforth 鈥� You can probably tell by our interests and backgrounds that we balance each other pretty well. We make a pretty good team. It鈥檚 especially helpful to us since we are so large of a school. It鈥檚 nice to have a teammate to tag team big stuff

For me, it鈥檚 been such a great learning experience. It鈥檚 really been beneficial for someone who just got tenure. It was a really big shift moving from faculty to administration. It鈥檚 been really challenging, but really eye opening as it relates to what it takes to keep a department running. You are managing the budget, student enrollment, and strategic planning. You are also learning to be in a leadership position for your colleagues and trying to help them reach their full potential as faculty. It鈥檚 also been nice to meet other chairs of departments and those in administration positions across campus.

Jones 鈥� I had been the MSW program coordinator for 16 years, so I had that administrative experience. I also served as the interim co-director in 2017 with Shannon Collier-Tenison, so I鈥檓 in this role for the second time.

What are your plans now that you are co-directors? What鈥檚 new and up and coming in the School of Social Work?

Jones 鈥� Enrollment is up, so we are managing the growth of the school and getting new resources to accommodate that growth. We are continuing to expand our online offerings throughout the state. We are the only BSW program with an online option in the state of Arkansas. We have strong concentrations in the MSW program 鈥� advanced direct practice clinical work or management and community practice. We are one of the only programs that offer both those concentrations in the state. We are positioning ourselves to be a leader in social work education in the state of Arkansas.

Danforth 鈥� Because Kim and I are in a position to really take stock of the number of students and faculty, we have been able to help faculty really understand their specific roles in the school, which feels like a luxury now. Now everyone is focused on their particular position and what they can do for the school and for students. Because there are two of us, we have the bandwidth to work on more than just the day-to-day running of the program. It鈥檚 a very well-oiled machine now.

With it being Social Work Month, what would you say to students who want to become social workers?

Jones 鈥� It鈥檚 a very fulfilling profession in terms of having a meaningful career and being able to help others. There is also the issue of job growth. It鈥檚 about 13 percent right now, so it looks good for the future. There is a tremendous amount of mental health issues in America. Social workers can now operate independently, which they couldn鈥檛 until recently. They currently provide 75 percent of the mental health needs in the United States.

Cooler opportunities, job growth, job satisfaction, and increased salaries 鈥� all of this goes along with high demand for social workers. The versatility of the social work degree allows people to work in school settings, hospitals, mental health fields, and micro and macro sectors. I want to emphasize the diversity of positions that are out there for social workers.

Danforth 鈥� A lot of social workers end up in clinical positions, which is amazing. My advice would be to continue to pay attention to the macro issues going on in the work and state and federal policies that are coming out. All of those things will affect individual clients and their ability to meet their potential.

Can you describe the variety of careers that people can have as social workers, especially the ones that aren鈥檛 commonly known?

Danforth 鈥� There is a mental health sector. Within that, there is direct clinical practice. There is school-based social work, residential and outpatient treatment. You can work in hospital settings and be a hospital social worker and do therapeutic support work, making sure people get the resources they need. You can work in drug rehabilitation, the aging adult arena or geriatrics where you help with hospice care and end of life planning. You can also do policy analysis, community organizing, legislative research and advocacy. We have graduates who have formed their own nonprofits and do a lot of grant writing. It鈥檚 so broad. You can do so much with this degree.

Is there anything else you鈥檇 like to add?

Danforth 鈥� The degree of social work is a very gratifying, stable, and impactful degree to have. You will always have job security. Individuals and communities will always need assistance and intervention. The world is a complicated place. As much as we would love to work ourselves out of jobs, the demand for social workers is always going to grow. You will also have the ability for professional licensure, and there is always an opportunity to move from one area to another because social work is so broad.

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