Student Support - News - ��Vlog��ý Little Rock

Laptop Loan Program Supports ��Vlog��ý Little Rock Student Success

Sydney Ambrus — Mon, 26 Jan 2026 14:45:30 +0000

What began as a federally-funded emergency response has evolved into a long-term resource for ��Vlog��ý Little Rock students. The CARES Laptop Program provides loaned laptops to students for the duration of their enrollment on the main campus.

The program, initially supported by federal CARES Act funding, is now sustained through a collaborative effort between the Office of the Provost, the Academic Affairs Retention Office, IT Services, and the Ottenheimer Library. The partnership reflects the university’s ongoing commitment to expanding access to essential technology.

Any student enrolled at the ��Vlog��ý Little Rock main campus is eligible to apply for a laptop. The Academic Affairs Retention Office assesses applicants based on financial need and grade level. Undergraduate students are given priority, though graduate students are also supported through the program.

A total of 278 laptops are in circulation. Students checked out 132 of them for the first time this semester, while renewing 146. Brandon Sollars, Learning Commons coordinator at ��Vlog��ý Little Rock, said the program has an inventory of 348 laptops, though the number fluctuates as devices are returned and processed.

“The level of demand for technology has always existed at a steady level, and most students keep their laptops for multiple semesters,” Sollars said. “This program is integrated into the existing loan system the library uses, so we can scale as needed or as we acquire more laptops.”

The program plays a key role in student retention and academic success by reducing a significant financial burden.

“It’s one more thing off a student’s checklist,” Sollars said. “A new laptop can cost anywhere from $1,000 to $2,000, depending on the student’s program needs. By providing students with a laptop, we can carry that cost, provide them with reliable technology, and give them access to library and IT support.”

According to previous program surveys, 93% of students who responded said having a loaned laptop was “very important” to meeting their academic needs, while the remaining 7% indicated it was “important.”

“The majority of our feedback highlights that the process for obtaining a laptop was easy, accessible, and simple,” Sollars said. “Many students reported that having the laptop was very helpful for completing assignments, attending online classes, and supporting their overall academic success.”

Senior student Cornell Cornelius Jr. said the program has been critical to maintaining his academic progress.

“The CARES laptop provides a level of flexibility that is vital for me, especially when considering my disability and the recovery process from my previous surgeries. Having this technology available allows me to stay on track regardless of my physical constraint,” he said.

“In all honesty, I don’t believe my GPA would be where it is today without the resources provided by this program. It is an incredibly important initiative, and I truly hope it continues to support students like me,” Cornelius added.

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��Vlog��ý Little Rock Student Miesha Robinson Finds Opportunity and Support Through Corporate Partnerships Program

Fri, 21 Nov 2025 14:00:00 +0000

For Miesha Robinson, earning a college degree isn’t just about personal success—it’s about creating a brighter future for her two-year-old son, Malachi.

As a single mother balancing work, school, and parenthood, Robinson is pursuing a marketing degree with concentrations in professional sales and digital marketing at ��Vlog��ý Little Rock, thanks in part to the university’s Corporate Partnerships Program.

“I remember thinking that I could go through life without a college degree, but I want my son to have a better future,” Robinson said. “Going back to school is about having a better life and leaving a better legacy for my son. I want to reach my full potential.”

Through her job at , Robinson is one of more than 400 students receiving a 10-percent scholarship on tuition, a $25-per-credit-hour book scholarship, and a waived application fee through participation in the Corporate Partners Program. With almost 50,000 eligible employees in more than 100 companies across Arkansas, the Corporate Partnerships Program is making higher education more accessible for working professionals like Robinson.

Robinson’s college journey hasn’t been a straight path. She first enrolled in college in 2012 while still in high school, taking concurrent credit and AP courses. She later attended the University of Arkansas but faced overwhelming challenges. In 2015, a devastating car accident left her with serious, long-term injuries, making it difficult to keep up with coursework, and she eventually withdrew from school.

“When I left Fayetteville, I felt like no one cared about me,” Robinson said. “I was just another number. But when I came to ��Vlog��ý Little Rock, everything changed. They didn’t label me as disabled. They treated me like a student who needed support, and that made all the difference.”

Robinson works as a front-of-house employee at Yellow Rocket Concepts, where she wears many hats. Yellow Rocket Concepts owns popular dining options like Lost Forty Brewing, Big Orange, Local Lime, Camp Taco, and ZAZA. She serves tables, trains new staff, models for company marketing, and is in the process of becoming a tour guide. A six-foot billboard featuring her smiling face even greets customers at one of the company’s locations.

She enjoys the job and the people she meets, especially those passionate about the craft of brewing.

“I didn’t know how much science goes into making beer,” Robinson said. “The people I work with are incredibly knowledgeable, and they’ve taught me to respect the industry.”

Yellow Rocket Concepts’ support extends beyond the workplace.

“They work with my schedule, encourage me to study when I have downtime, and even talk to me about future opportunities within the company once I graduate,” Robinson said. “They don’t expect me to serve tables forever. They are cheering me on, and they want me to succeed.”

Despite the challenges of balancing work, school, and motherhood, Robinson is determined to graduate in Spring 2026.

“Being a single parent makes it harder,” she admitted. “There are days when I feel overwhelmed. But my son motivates me. I want to build a better life for him.”

Robinson has big plans for her future. With a background in both marketing and insurance, she dreams of opening her own business that combines both fields—an advertising agency with an insurance component.

“I want to own my own business,” she said. “I have my life and health insurance license, and I want to merge that with my passion for marketing. It’s about creating opportunities, not just for myself, but for my son and others who come after me.”

She believes that earning her degree will open doors that would otherwise remain closed.

“College is about more than just education. It’s about discipline, networking, and setting yourself up for a better future,” she said. “��Vlog��ý Little Rock has put me in a place where I can make connections and grow in ways I never imagined.”

Overcoming Obstacles and Looking Ahead

Robinson’s path hasn’t been easy. She has faced health challenges, financial struggles, and the pressures of single parenthood, but she remains committed to her pursuit of success.

“It’s not for the weak,” she said. “There are sacrifices, and I do regret not getting back on track sooner. But I know that education gives me a chance at a better future. My son was born on Valentine’s Day, and he was my lifeline when I was struggling. Now, everything I do is for him.”

She also values the support system she has found through the Corporate Partnerships Program and the university.

“��Vlog��ý Little Rock has helped me with childcare, connected me with financial resources, and made sure I didn’t fall through the cracks,” she said. “They’ve given me the chance to keep going.”

As she continues her journey, Robinson hopes her story will inspire others facing similar obstacles.

“If you’re struggling, don’t give up,” she said. “Find the support you need and keep pushing forward. Education changes lives. I know because it’s changing mine.”

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��Vlog��ý Little Rock Student Broadens Horizons Through Study Abroad in Uruguay

Wed, 12 Nov 2025 14:00:00 +0000

��Vlog��ý Little Rock student Josh Wynne-Hudson spent part of his summer studying thousands of miles from home and came back with lessons that will shape his future career.

Wynne-Hudson, an ASL/English interpretation major from Joplin, Missouri and member of the Donaghey Scholars Honors Program, spent five weeks in Montevideo, Uruguay, studying Latin American history and culture, the social dimensions of health in Latin America, and experiencing the country’s vibrant culture firsthand. He participated in the summer program at Universidad ORT Uruguay, the country’s largest private research university, in May and June.

“When I started looking into study abroad programs, I didn’t have a specific destination in mind,” Wynne-Hudson said. “Because my major is in American Sign Language, my options were more limited, but I wanted something that was culturally relevant and interesting. The more I learned about Uruguay — from its renewable energy efforts to its high literacy rate and great quality of life — the more I wanted to experience it for myself.”

The university’s study abroad program combined academic coursework with rich cultural immersion. Wynne-Hudson and his classmates toured Montevideo’s Ciudad Vieja “Old City,” a historic area filled with art, architecture, and street vendors. They explored Sierra de Minas, where Wynne-Hudson faced his fears on a ziplining adventure and learned about Uruguay’s elaborate tea rituals by preparing yerba mate. Other excursions included visits to the Parliament building, the zoo, and several local food tastings.

“Montevideo is such a vibrant city,” he said. “You can walk around and find new events, new people, and new things to do every day. I especially loved the street markets, called ferias. I’m really into antiques, and I ended up finding a lot of antiques and vinyl records.”

Living in an apartment during his stay gave Wynne-Hudson a firsthand look at daily life in Uruguay as well as an opportunity to navigate language barriers.

“Living in a place where Spanish isn’t my first language was sometimes daunting, but it was also incredibly rewarding,” he said. “It pushed me to improve my communication skills and become more adaptable, which is really important in my future career.”

Wynne-Hudson said one of the most valuable parts of the experience was learning how to overcome communication challenges — a skill that’s essential for interpreters.

“This trip really helped me get more familiar with how to handle communication barriers,” he said. “That’s such an important part of interpreting, and it’s something I couldn’t have learned as effectively in a classroom.”

The experience also took Wynne-Hudson beyond Uruguay’s borders. He visited Buenos Aires, Argentina, where he toured museums and connected with Argentinian Sign Language interpreters.

“It was fascinating to see the similarities and differences in sign language use,” he said. “I recognized a lot of the signs, and talking with them gave me new insights into how sign language is used in other countries.”

For Wynne-Hudson, the trip was a transformative journey that expanded his worldview and prepared him for his future as an interpreter.

“Being immersed in another culture and navigating communication differences gave me tools that will help me throughout my career,” he said. “It would be amazing to go back someday with the benefit of hindsight and everything I learned on this trip.”

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Small but Mighty: How ��Vlog��ý Little Rock’s Kappa Sigma is Making a Difference in ��Vlog��ý, Service, and Brotherhood

Mara Crumby — Fri, 07 Nov 2025 14:17:22 +0000

The University of Arkansas at Little Rock’s Theta Eta Chapter of Kappa Sigma Fraternity is proving that size is no measure of success. With just over 20 active members, the fraternity has achieved remarkable growth over the past year. The chapter has earned national recognition for academic excellence, logging thousands of community service hours, and raising tens of thousands of dollars for charitable causes.

Their efforts culminated this summer when Kappa Sigma received two national awards from the fraternity’s international headquarters: the Academic Excellence Award and the Silver Bowl Award, recognizing chapters that maintain a GPA higher than the all-men’s campus average for three consecutive years.

A Year of Record Growth

Under the leadership of President Ryan Gillenwater, a junior finance and real estate major from Little Rock, the chapter has experienced one of its most successful years in recent memory.

“We’ve all worked really hard these past two years, especially on academics,” Gillenwater said. “We make sure every member stays on top of their classes. If someone falls behind, we create an action plan that includes study hours, tutoring, or pairing them with a study partner. We want to show that academics are just as important as leadership and service.”

The results speak for themselves. Kappa Sigma’s chapter GPA rose from 2.9 to 3.2, now standing 20 percent higher than the all-men’s campus average. Beyond the classroom, the fraternity more than doubled its community service from 883 hours to over 2,000 in a single year. Members participated in cleanup projects along Coleman Creek, volunteered at community festivals, and assisted with events like the Paul Dunn Classic golf tournament, which raises funds for ALS research.

The chapter also raised nearly $17,000 for charitable causes during the 2024-25 academic year, which is a giant leap from just a few hundred dollars raised the previous year. Much of this success comes from the fraternity’s commitment to the Kappa Sigma Military Heroes Campaign, a nationwide initiative supporting veterans and first responders.

“One of the organizations we support is Sons of the Flag, which helps revolutionize burn care for veterans and first responders,” Gillenwater explained. “We take pride in making sure the money we raise goes directly toward helping people who have served.”

The chapter’s spirit of service also thrives on collaboration. Members have partnered with groups like Keep Arkansas Beautiful, the ��Vlog��ý Little Rock Sustainability Club, and Delta Chi Fraternity to organize monthly volunteer projects.

“We just try to be better every year,” Gillenwater said. “It’s about branching out, building partnerships, and making a positive impact both on campus and in the community.”

Brotherhood that Builds Leaders

For Jeremy Laxton, the chapter’s advisor and a 2011 ��Vlog��ý Little Rock graduate who first joined Kappa Sigma in 2004, watching the fraternity’s growth has been deeply rewarding.

“I am so proud of the hard work our undergraduates have accomplished,” Laxton said. “They’ve set high goals for themselves and are achieving them. Out of all eight Kappa Sigma chapters in Arkansas, ��Vlog��ý Little Rock’s is currently outperforming them overall.”

Laxton, who served twice as chapter president and later as Interfraternity Council president, said the fraternity helped him develop leadership and organizational skills that continue to benefit him professionally. As the university’s undergraduate recruitment manager in the Office of Admissions, he now helps guide a new generation of Trojans; many of whom are discovering the same opportunities for personal growth that Kappa Sigma offers.

“The leadership experiences I gained through Kappa Sigma shaped who I am today,” Laxton said. “I see those same qualities in our current members. They’ve brought new energy, accountability, and pride to the chapter.”

Building for the Future

Today, Kappa Sigma boasts 21 active members and nearly 20 pledges in training. The fraternity’s momentum continues to build as it sets its sights on earning the Founder’s Award for Chapter Excellence, the highest honor a Kappa Sigma chapter can receive.

“We were just two points away from earning it last year,” Gillenwater said. “I’m confident we’ll get it this time. We tell ourselves that we’re always moving the goalpost. We’re always striving to be better than we were yesterday.”

Beyond the accolades, the fraternity’s greatest accomplishment may be the lasting impact it has on its members.

“Kappa Sigma has taught me what it means to make an impact—on campus, in the community, and in life,” Gillenwater said. “The brotherhood here is phenomenal. You gain a support system, lifelong friends, and connections that last well beyond college.”

For a small fraternity with big goals, Kappa Sigma’s story is a great example of what happens when dedication meets purpose.

“We may be small, but we’re proving every day that determination, leadership, and unity can make a huge difference,” Laxton said.

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��Vlog��ý Little Rock Receives $25,000 Gift from James and Carol Hendren to Support Enduring Opportunity Scholarship

Justin Bates — Tue, 28 Oct 2025 14:00:00 +0000

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

The new fund is named the Carol and James Hendren Enduring Opportunity Endowed Scholarship. It supports ��Vlog��ý Little Rock’s 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’s workforce.

“I strongly believe in the advancement of economic development in Arkansas and the growth of our city here in Little Rock,” Hendren said. “We 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.”

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

“We need the university to do well to help grow and support the local economy,” Hendren said. “This centennial goal is key to improving the university, so it makes sense to support programs and scholarships that help it succeed.”

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 ��Vlog��ý Little Rock Students

Mon, 20 Oct 2025 12:00:00 +0000

When ��Vlog��ý Little Rock’s esports team packs their bags for national competition this spring, they won’t just be bringing their controllers. Thanks to Trojan Champions, they’ll 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 ��Vlog��ý 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.

“Trojan Champions is more than a giving program; it’s 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’s exciting to see how these gifts are opening even more doors for current and future students. Together, we’re building a culture of support that will carry ��Vlog��ý Little Rock into its next century.”

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’s Annual Real Estate Challenge in Chicago, where they pitched a redevelopment plan for a 10-acre site in Bronzeville.

“These kinds of gifts are exactly what make Trojan Champions so impactful,” said Thomas Wallace, coordinator of ��Vlog��ý Little Rock’s Web Design and Development and Information Technology programs. “They 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.”

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

“After a 41-year career at ��Vlog��ý Little Rock, I recognize the ongoing need to support students striving to achieve their goals,” said Janis Brooke, a former faculty member. “Every contribution is targeted for this purpose.”

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

“As a Trojan Champion, I take pride in knowing my support helps fuel the mission of ��Vlog��ý Little Rock,” said alumnus Mario Wallace. “It expands opportunities for students to grow academically, professionally, and personally, while strengthening the programs and people who make that growth possible.”

For alumna Debra Baker, the motivation is personal.

“My mom always said, ‘your education is the key to your success,’” Baker said. “With her words, I have become a lifelong learner.”

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

“By becoming a Trojan Champion, I feel privileged to support the university’s mission to empower its students and prepare them for success in an ever-changing world,” he said. “Through 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.”

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’s 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’s 100-year anniversary in 2027.

“This is just the beginning,” Smith said. “Trojan Champions is helping us build a culture of opportunity. With continued support, we can take student success to the next level.”

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��Vlog��ý Little Rock Expands Student Safety Efforts Through ‘One Pill Can Kill’ Partnership

Fri, 12 Sep 2025 16:03:00 +0000

The University of Arkansas at Little Rock has joined forces with Arkansas Attorney General Tim Griffin to combat the growing threat of fentanyl and counterfeit prescription drugs through the “” Initiative. The statewide campaign combines education, training, and access to life-saving resources with the goal of preventing overdoses and raising awareness among college students.

��Vlog��ý Little Rock joined the initiative on Sept. 8 during a at the Bailey Alumni and Friends Center. Griffin and Chancellor Christina Drale joined student leaders, faculty, and staff to announce the university’s participation, underscoring the importance of prevention and education at a time when opioids remain one of the nation’s most pressing public health crises.

“This continues our commitment to bring this initiative to college campuses across Arkansas,” Griffin said. “The education, awareness, and resources this initiative provides will no doubt save lives. “Chancellor Drale and the ��Vlog��ý Little Rock staff have been great partners in this effort, and I appreciate their commitment to keeping their students safe and addressing this nationwide crisis head-on.”

Griffin, who lost his brother to opioid addiction earlier this year, emphasized that prevention and education are critical steps in the fight against the opioid epidemic.

“Our goal is to educate campuses by working through student leaders, the media, and word of mouth,” Griffin said. “We are providing training here to ensure students are prepared, including in the use of Narcan if needed. We are making progress, but this is a fight we must continue.”

Chancellor Drale echoed those concerns, noting that universities have a unique responsibility to protect students and provide resources for wellness and safety.

“As an institution of higher education, we’re committed to being part of the solution,” Drale said. “That means sharing information, having difficult conversations, and connecting students to the resources they need. The reality is that it only takes one moment, one decision, one pill to change a life forever.”

The launch included the first campus training session, where more than 100 participants learned how to recognize the signs of an opioid overdose, administer Narcan, and use fentanyl test strips. Attendees left with prevention kits containing Narcan, testing strips, gloves, a medication disposal pouch, and information on counterfeit drugs.

Sharon Downs, assistant vice chancellor of student affairs – wellness and belonging, said the turnout reflects the urgent interest in addressing this issue on campus.

“The training was a great success with over 100 engaged participants who asked thoughtful questions,” Downs said. “We will continue to offer Narcan training each semester, and students can also pick up harm prevention kits at Health Services while supplies last.”

Additional support will soon be available through a new vending machine that will be installed in the Donaghey Student Center. Provided by the Attorney General’s office, the machine will dispense free Narcan alongside over-the-counter medications, offering students an anonymous and accessible way to obtain life-saving resources.

Student leaders say the initiative is already making an impact.

“I was very encouraged to see ��Vlog��ý Little Rock join the ‘One Pill Can Kill’ Initiative,” said Ainsley Kendall, a junior business administration major and president of the Student Government Association. “Addiction, particularly opioid misuse, is one of the most pressing issues facing college students today, yet many don’t know how to respond if a crisis occurs. This program is an important step in expanding education and equipping students to make a lasting impact.”

Braden Carr, a junior political science and criminal justice major, said he looks forward to continuing the conversation.

“I am extremely excited to see the university and the Attorney General come together to tackle this issue,” said Carr, who serves as legislative affairs officer for the Student Government Association. “This program is a great first step in educating students on the dangers of the opioid epidemic. As a student leader, I will continue to advocate for increased education and awareness, alongside supporting partnerships such as this.”

Students who need support can access resources through Counseling Services in SSC 118, by calling 501-916-3185, or by emailing counselingservices@ualr.edu. Online resources are also available at ualr.edu/wellness and .

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Leslye Shellam Continues Family’s Philanthropic Legacy with Gift to Support Art Students and Artists-in-Residence at ��Vlog��ý Little Rock

Mon, 11 Aug 2025 13:00:00 +0000

Leslye Shellam, a long-time supporter of the University of Arkansas at Little Rock and a member of a multi-generational family of donors, has made two new contributions to support the university’s arts programs. Shellam gave $90,000 to the Art Student Domestic Travel Fund and $14,000 to the Artist-in-Residence Housing Fund.

“I feel like many students, especially in the arts, haven’t had a lot of exposure to different places,” Shellam said. “Getting outside of your comfort zone is so important for artists. Exposure to new environments and ideas fuels creativity. These travel opportunities provide new stimuli that can transform a student’s work.”

These gifts continue a legacy of generosity that spans three generations of Shellam’s family and reflect her deep commitment to advancing education and the arts in Arkansas.

“What inspired me originally was to honor my mom and dad, Linda and Dickson Flake,” Shellam said. “My mom was a nationally recognized artist, and even though she didn’t pursue a degree at ��Vlog��ý Little Rock, she would take community art classes here to get reenergized. This was her home. My dad had a long legacy of leadership at ��Vlog��ý Little Rock, and I wanted to keep both of their names and passions alive in this community.”

The Art Student Domestic Travel Fund will support travel for students to attend professional conferences, visit major U.S. cities known for cultural and artistic institutions, and engage in opportunities that expand their exposure to the broader art world. The Artist-in-Residence Housing Fund will support visiting artists who mentor and engage with students and in the Windgate Center of Art and Design.

“Leslye Shellam’s generosity has a real and lasting impact on our students,” said Joli Livaudais, director of the School of Art and Design at ��Vlog��ý Little Rock. “Because of her continued support, they’re able to experience art and culture in ways that go far beyond the classroom. I’m truly grateful for her belief in what we do and for the opportunities she helps create for our students.”

Shellam hopes the support helps students grow beyond their perceived limitations.

“I want students to feel free to explore new media or creative paths that may not have been financially feasible otherwise,” she said. “Talent isn’t static. It should always be evolving. That evolution needs inspiration, and I hope this gift helps spark it.”

Her gift also reflects confidence in ��Vlog��ý Little Rock’s direction and its role in shaping the future of Arkansas.

“What keeps me coming back is that ��Vlog��ý Little Rock is not stagnant,” Shellam said. “It’s constantly evolving and deeply rooted in the community. When I see projects like the Windgate Center and major supporters investing here, it reaffirms my belief that this is a good bet. We’re investing in our future.”

Shellam’s family has long supported ��Vlog��ý Little Rock across disciplines. She is a major contributor to the L. Dickson Flake Scholarship in honor of her father, one of the original partners of the firm that would become Colliers International (now Colliers Arkansas). He served on the ��Vlog��ý Little Rock Board of Visitors for 12 years, including a term as chairman. Shellam’s father was a No. 1 Trojans fan who rarely missed a game.

“He bought his granddaughter, Sarah Shellam, a Trojan cheerleader uniform when she was about five, and the kind cheerleaders would welcome her to accompany them on court,” Shellam added.

Shellam also established the Linda Blaine Flake Scholarship in memory of her mother, a respected Arkansas watercolorist and former president of Mid-Southern Watercolorists, who studied and created art around the world, including in China, Guatemala, and Switzerland.

Even earlier, Shellam’s grandmother established a scholarship in the education department, inspired by a desire to advance training for special education teachers following her experiences raising a son with Down syndrome.

For Shellam, giving is not about recognition. It’s about impact.

“Philanthropy is most meaningful when you expect nothing in return,” she said. “And yet, when you give to ��Vlog��ý Little Rock, you do get something back. You get the joy of helping students achieve something bigger. I hope my support inspires students to push beyond their limits and maybe even pay it forward one day. That’s what philanthropy should be—helping someone move forward, with heart and purpose.”

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Retired ��Vlog��ý Little Rock Professor Donates $10,000 to Support Future Educators

Thu, 24 Jul 2025 15:29:20 +0000

Dr. Melville Fuller, professor emeritus of education at the University of Arkansas at Little Rock, has donated $10,000 to the School of Education to support the Trojan Teachers Residency Program, an innovative teacher training initiative entering its third year.

The Trojan Teachers Residency Program provides year-long, paid residencies for teacher candidates who are paired with experienced mentor teachers in local schools in central Arkansas. The immersive program gives aspiring teachers the opportunity to gain hands-on experience in the classroom throughout an entire school year, preparing them to be day-one ready as educators when they graduate.

“I was excited to hear about this new residency program,” said Fuller, who taught at ��Vlog��ý Little Rock from 1974 until his retirement in 1995. “It’s a big step forward from what I did for 22 years at ��Vlog��ý Little Rock, when I would visit student teachers four or five times a semester. Now they get to spend a full year with a teacher and learn the ins and outs of the profession. That makes a real difference.”

The donation will directly support student residents by helping offset the costs associated with their training and participation in the program.

Dr. Rachel Eells, Windgate Foundation Endowed Director of the School of Education, expressed her appreciation for Fuller’s gift.

“We’re so grateful to Dr. Fuller for this generous support of the Trojan Teachers Residency Program,” Eells said. “His gift will help ensure that our teacher candidates are well-prepared and supported as they develop into the next generation of outstanding educators.”

Fuller, who now lives in Franklin, Tennessee, remains deeply passionate about education. Since retiring, he has continued teaching young students about science and paleontology, his favorite subject, through summer programs like the Young Scholars Institute, where children affectionately call him “Dr. Dino.” He even has a fossilized tooth from a T-Rex, estimated to be from around 66 million years ago, that he found in Montana that is a big hit among his young students.

Reflecting on his time at ��Vlog��ý Little Rock, Fuller called it “the best time of my life.”

“We had so many wonderful education students,” Fuller said. “Some of them drove 75 miles a day just to come to class. Supporting this new generation of teachers is one way I can continue to give back to the university and the profession I love.”

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��Vlog��ý Little Rock School of Business Golf Tournament Raises $84K for Student Support

Thu, 29 May 2025 21:34:36 +0000

The ��Vlog��ý Little Rock School of Business celebrated a successful day on the greens with its 14th Annual Golf Tournament, held May 19 at Pleasant Valley Country Club in Little Rock.

This year’s double shotgun scramble brought together 41 teams and raised more than $84,000 to benefit students in the School of Business. The proceeds will go to support the School of Business student ambassadors, student professional development and placement, student organizations, and book scholarships.

Team Entergy celebrated some victories on the course! Photo by Nelson Chenault.

“We very much appreciate the individuals and companies who sponsored the tournament or a team in support of our students in the School of Business,” said Dr. Mark Funk, director of the School of Business at ��Vlog��ý Little Rock. “The energy at the tournament was strong, and we’re proud of the fact that the business community realizes and appreciates the importance of the work that takes place in our classrooms. Our students are their future employees and leaders, so we are thankful for this collaboration.”

In addition to raising funds for student success initiatives, the tournament also gave student ambassadors the opportunity to network with participating companies, share their academic experiences, and explore potential internship opportunities.

The tournament was made possible through generous support from a wide range of sponsors. Chick-fil-A on Cantrell provided breakfast, while Taziki’s served lunch and offered participants a free appetizer during after parties at Petit & Keet or Waldo’s in Breckenridge Village. Beverage sponsors included Pepsi, Golden Eagle of Arkansas, and Tito’s Handmade Vodka.

Key sponsors included:

Golf Cart Sponsors: Stephens and Priority1

Contest Sponsors: Ted Bailey III Family, Deloitte, Legacy Termite & Pest Control, and Segra
Practice Area Sponsors: Arvest Bank, Ifrah Financial, Pulaski County Title, and TMB Capital Partners
Beverage Cart Sponsors: Bryan Hosto of Haybar Real Estate and Hosto Cardis Law and Relyance Bank
Hole Sponsors: ACE Glass, CHI/St. Vincent, David Pickering/Marshall Schuster “Studio West,” Deloitte, Dyke Industries, FIS, MHP/SI, Natural State Private Wealth Group, Platinum Drywall, Inc., and USAble

Christian O’Neal, Bill Dillard, Dan Snider, and Bob Denman enjoy the golf tournament. Photo by Nelson Chenault.

The winners of the first flight with a score of 56 were Team Stephens, which consisted of Joe Doramus, Adam Glasier, Andrew Mayes, and Preston Simpson.

The Ifrah Financial team won second place during the first flight with a score of 61. Team members included Bobby Harris, Michael Barre, Kevin Baker, and Dane Glover.

Joe Doramus and Team Stephens won first place in the morning flight! Photo by Nelson Chenault.

The Jenkins Agency came in first place for the afternoon flight, with team members Chris Jenkins, Larry Golden, Wes McNulty, and Bob Butler scoring a 56. Second place in the afternoon flight went to Team Segra, which included Austin Harmon, Nic Jenkins, Scott Pinney, and Dan Roberts with a score of 57.

First place winners of the second flight include Chris Jenkins, Bob Butler, Larry Golden, and Wes McNulty. Photo by Nelson Chenault.

The School of Business extends sincere thanks to all the teams, sponsors, and volunteers who made this event possible.

“This was, quite possibly, our best tournament yet!” said Ginger Daril, director of development for the ��Vlog��ý Little Rock College of Business, Health, and Human Services. “We’re extremely grateful to the individuals and companies from across Central Arkansas who joined us to play golf and network – all in support of our students and to help us build meaningful connections between the classroom and the business community. We’re already looking forward to next year!”

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