UA Fort Smith Young Alumni

Brooke Whitney Green '07

2011-03-22T09:46:00.001-05:00

In December of 2007, I graduated with a Bachelor of Science degree in Early Childhood Education. Still to this day, I believe some of my greatest memories come from my college experience. I was very lucky to have met wonderful people and to have been a part of great clubs and organizations as a student.

Here I am with my wonderful UA Fort Smith Gamma Phi Sisters

As soon as I graduated I decided to be a free bird and move to Lubbock, Texas. My sister and her family were the only people I knew in the Lone Star state, and with the wonderful chapter ending at UA Fort Smith, I decided to take a chance on a new journey. I moved after Christmas of 2007, and in March of 2007 I met the man that I would later call my husband.

Our Wedding - June 6, 2009

David is from Lubbock and he is finishing up his degree at Texas Tech University, where he is a Civil Engineering major. He is truly my best friend and greatest supporter.

David & Me

Even though I graduated with a Early Childhood Degree, I learned so much about working with people and how to manage different tasks by being at UA Fort Smith. I used that knowledge and put it into action when I moved into the business world. I currently work for Blue Ocean Innovative Solutions as their Retail Analyst.

I enjoy my job greatly and I'm able to travel throughout the USA and even back to Arkansas at least four times a year. I never dreamed that I would travel to New York, LA, and Minneapolis, especially since I only had been to 5 states in my whole life before I took this job. David and I also like to travel and we decided to celebrate our first anniversary in New York City.

David and I on our dream vacation!

When I'm not working I enjoy spending time with our families and friends. I also have managed to keep myself busy by being involved at our church as a children's choir leader and a cheer coach. In 2010, my sister and I also started a small business of baking and providing sweets for parties.

Sisters' Sweets: Famous Sugar Cookies

I'm extremely blessed to live this life and I know that a lot of doors wouldn't have been opened for me if I did not attend UA Fort Smith. I look forward to the next chapters in my journey and I can't wait to see the future success that UA Fort Smith will bring their students, community, and the state of Arkansas.

My Family: David, Brooke, and Barley

Read more about Brooke on her blog at http://thegreenlife-06-06-09.blogspot.com

Brockette Minnick '08

2010-12-03T10:45:00.000-06:00

After high school graduation, I decided to continue my education at the University of Arkansas – Fort Smith. That decision has profoundly affected my life—educationally, professionally, and personally. I received a high-quality education at UA Fort Smith through the College of Business. My professors were knowledgeable and many had been out in the business world themselves. Thanks to them, I was more than prepared for life after college.

On our way to get our diplomas!
I graduated college in May of 2008 with a Bachelor of Science degree in Marketing, along with my husband Mitch, who I met at UA Fort Smith during our freshman year. We were married the summer of our junior year in my hometown of Paris, Arkansas.

Trying to be nice…!!! I promise I didn’t smear it on his face too much!
Even though my time as a student was over, I wasn’t ready to be finished with my time at UA Fort Smith, so I accepted the Scholarship Coordinator position the summer after graduation! Now I spend my days helping students find funding so they can receive a high-quality education—just like I did at UA Fort Smith!

A year after graduation on May 26, 2009, Mitch and I welcomed our greatest accomplishment into the world, Luci Ava Minnick!

Luci Ava Minnick 5lbs 12 oz
Now instead of studying text books together, we spend our evenings chasing around a toddler, taking pictures of her every move, and just enjoying life together as a family.

Our family!

I love UA Fort Smith and it truly has been a blessing in every aspect of my life!

Introducing Luci to the Lion at a men’s basketball game…she is still a little unsure if you can’t tell!!! GO LIONS!!!!

Jessica Kursh '09

2010-11-29T09:57:00.000-06:00

“Third Time’s a Charm”

When I decided to go back to college in the fall of 2005 I was very nervous and felt a bit intimidated. I had been a teen mom, was a single mother of three small children, and had dropped out of college twice before. Despite my apprehensions I was determined not to allow any statistics to determine my potential for success in life. Ultimately, it was my non-traditional student status that really helped me to remain focused on achieving my goals that third time around because I was always fully aware of what I had at stake. In the end my commitment to success paid off and in the spring of 2009 I graduated Summa Cum Laude from the University of Arkansas-Fort Smith with a Bachelor of Arts degree in Psychology. As overjoyed as I was about finally beating the odds, graduating from college was only the beginning of the next step of my fun-filled journey.

My mother, daughter, and me at my UAFS graduation ceremony May 9, 2009

In the fall of 2009 I began furthering my education towards my true calling in life: Counseling. I entered into John Brown University’s graduate program and started pursuing dual Master of Science degrees in Community Counseling & Marriage and Family Therapy. Life at JBU has been an awesome experience for me thus far. I feel very proud to say that my undergraduate education at UAFS thoroughly prepared me for my transition into graduate school. I am currently maintaining a 4.0 cumulative G.PA. Recently, I was very excited to learn that I had been cleared to move forward in my counseling program into my first Practicum section. In the spring of 2011 I will start seeing individuals, couples, and families at the JBU Fort Smith Care Clinic. I am scheduled to graduate from JBU in the spring of 2012. After graduation I plan to sit for the national and state counseling board exams so that I can become a Licensed Professional Counselor (LPC) and Licensed Marriage and Family Therapist (LMFT).

My family has always been one of my biggest support systems and on December 5, 2009 me and my boyfriend, Julian, got engaged. We plan to get married on July 21, 2012.

My family’s 2009 Happy Holiday’s portrait

During my senior year at UAFS I had the incredible opportunity to become a charter member of the Upsilon Kappa Chapter of Delta Sigma Theta Sorority. After graduating from UAFS I joined the Fort Smith Alumnae chapter of Delta Sigma Theta Sorority. Becoming a member of Delta Sigma Theta has truly been a remarkable gift for me because it has taught me so much about responsible leadership, the importance of higher education, sisterhood, diversity, and giving back to my community.

Me and my Upsilon Kappa Sorors at the Southwest Regional Conference in Fort Worth, TX

Upsilon Kappa & Fort Smith Alumnae chapters of Delta Sigma Theta worshiping together

During my leisure time I enjoy traveling, photography, shopping, sightseeing, and trying new foods. This past March my fiancé’ received a big job promotion and relocated to Memphis, TN. Me and my children travel to Memphis often to visit him and it gives me the opportunity to combine all five of my favorite hobbies.

My family’s 2010 summer trip to the Memphis Zoo

I feel very proud to see how much I have accomplished over the last 5 years. Sometimes I think about how differently my life could have been if I had never taken the first steps towards going back to college that third time. I look forward to achieving many more of my dreams and also helping others to achieve theirs.

Katy Schrodt Prater '08

2010-11-19T08:44:00.001-06:00

Comfort Zone

“Where do you feel most comfortable?” This was the seemingly simple question that one of my college professors, Michelle Clifton, asked me in the midst of my near meltdown involving my indecision about what my degree should be. As a sophomore at UA Fort Smith, I found myself lost in respect to what I wanted to be when I grow up. I was confused. I was frustrated. I was exhausted. And honestly, a little scared. When Michelle asked me this question, the undeniable answer involved a gym. Michelle opened my eyes to the answer to a question that impacts every day of my life as a college graduate. It was people like Michelle Clifton that make me so grateful that I had the chance to attend UA Fort Smith.

I graduated from college with a degree in English with a Teacher’s Licensure. Currently, I teach ninth grade English and coach high school volleyball at Lavaca High School. Michelle’s guidance encouraged me to pursue my love of sports and become a coach, a decision that enriches my life on a daily basis. I feel that my education and leadership roles in college provided me with all of the knowledge and characteristics necessary to impact young people in a positive way.

Beyond all of this professional stuff, I will always look back on my time at UA Fort Smith as some of the happiest years of my life. UA Fort Smith not only provided me with professional skills, it also provided me with my husband! In June of 2010 I married one of the coolest guys I’ve ever known.

Our Wedding

Cody and I met as freshmen at UA Fort Smith through our involvement with the Chancellor’s Leadership Council. He is nothing like the man I ever imagined marrying and yet everything I could ever need or want in a husband. Currently, Cody and I live in Fort Smith with our two children.

Finny and Staley

We enjoy spending time with family and friends, watching sports, and traveling whenever we get the chance. Cody and I often times reflect on how much we enjoyed college and hope to remain connected with UA Fort Smith for years to come.

So, today when I think back on the answer to that question that shaped my life years ago, I realize that the answer is still very much the same and yet very different. I still feel comfortable in a gym coaching kids. However, I also feel comfortable in a classroom teaching English, in leadership positions outside of my job, in social situations meeting new people, and at home with my husband and my dogs. My comfort zone expanded because I was allowed to practice all of the skills necessary to be successful in any facet of my life in my time at UA Fort Smith. Oddly enough, when I consider answering where I feel most comfortable today, I can’t deny that one of the first places that pops into my head happens to be apartment 821 at Sebastian Commons or jogging on the campus green late at night or attending class in the Holt Building or dancing with all of my friends at Cub Camp. My time at UA Fort Smith might have ended in May 2008, but my experiences and lessons learned from those years will travel with me far beyond high school gymnasiums.

Katie Hurt '10

2010-11-16T08:00:00.000-06:00

In December of 2010, I graduated with a degree in Early Childhood Education from the University of Arkansas-Fort Smith. It amazes me think that almost one year has gone by since that date! I have nothing but great memories looking back at my time while attending UAFS. The education program prepared me to not only be knowledgeable in my career choice, but also gave me an even greater love and desire for teaching. I enjoyed the experience that was given to me, the people I was able to meet and build relationships with, and for the lasting memories I will always have!

At Graduation

After graduation, I stayed busy in local classrooms as both a temporary and long-term substitute teacher. I was also very active in an after-school program at Lavaca Elementary. In June, I was called about a position teaching Kindergarten in Lavaca. It could not have come at a better time! I was so excited to begin preparing for my first year as a Kindergarten teacher. I began in August, and it just keeps getting better. I have 16 students that brighten every day, and I love seeing them learn new things each and every week!

Along with teaching, I have also taken on the job as the Lavaca Jr. High cheerleading coach. I stay busy with cheerleading practices and attending ball games near and far. It has been a great and fun experience, and I love every minute I get to spend with those cheerleaders! Outside of work, I enjoy spending time with family and friends, being involved with my church, and playing with my dog, Gizzy, who is full of energy and is lots of fun!

Gizzy

I am so thankful for the education that I received as a student at UA Fort Smith. It prepared me to feel completely comfortable starting a new job in a career that I absolutely love! I am also thankful to the professors and everyone who held a part in helping get me to where I am today! I am forever grateful!

Emily Hurt Hill '09

2010-11-11T09:02:00.000-06:00

So many things have happened since my graduation from the University of Arkansas – Fort Smith in May of 2009. I was one of few students in my class to actually have a job already lined up for me. So, on June 1, I started my first position as a Registered Dental Hygienist, less than a month post-graduation. I would be working four days every week, doing what UAFS had prepared me for.

I was excited and completely nervous when I seated my first “real world” patient that morning, though I was also not surprisingly confident in the skills I learned as a student at UAFS. The Dental Hygiene program is definitely a difficult one, but, looking back, I am so grateful for the discipline it required of me. I use the terms and ideas that I learned as a dental hygiene student with different patients each and every day.

After a few weeks into my career, I took a week to finish final preparations for the biggest day of my life. On July 18, I married my best friend, Drew.

Me and Drew

We dated through college and were very ready to tie the knot once graduation had passed. Now, we live in Lavaca, where we stay very involved in our church. Drew serves as the student pastor there, and in our free time, we love spending time with teenagers from the youth group, and, of course, our friends and family.

After about ten months of marriage, Drew and I were able to build our first home together. What a fun and exciting time! We stayed in the midst of the planning and decision-making for the duration of its construction, and we had such a good time picking out all the little details that made the house so much more “us.” Once settled, it didn’t take us long to realize we were ready to expand our little family. That’s when we brought Mollie home. She’s a long haired miniature daschund, and she is our baby!

Mollie

She is the sweetest little thing, and we just love her to pieces!

There is no denying the quality of education I received as a student at UA Fort Smith. It has completely prepared me for the career field I chose, and I use what I learned there each and every day. I am so grateful for a university so close to home, and one that allowed me to get the education that was right for me!

Ashley Beasley '10

2010-09-10T07:44:00.000-05:00

The Arkansas River Valley has always been my home. I love the history and strong sense of community that can be found in this area. After graduating from Southside High School, I decided to continue my education at the University of Arkansas at Fort Smith. This simple decision has impacted my life profoundly.

I graduated in May of this year with a degree in Organizational Leadership. The quality of education that I received at UAFS was exceptional. Professors genuinely care for each and every student and they work hard to ensure that classes are both challenging and engaging. Each day that passes makes me appreciate my college experience more and more. College also gave me the confidence that I needed to pursue my dreams outside of the classroom.

The Career Services Department helped me find a great job with a local company. I am currently the marketing manager for Cobblestone Homes in Fort Smith, Arkansas. I love my job because it exposes me to many different facets of the business world. One day I might be brainstorming ideas for an advertising campaign and the next day working with QuickBooks to manage our accounts payable and receivable. I am very proud of the work that I do for Cobblestone Homes. They are an exceptional company with an exceptional product. I am also happy to say that my husband and I are the proud new owners of a home built by Cobblestone Homes. The company builds much more than just a great home they build communities. Visit our website at www.cobblestonehomes.info to learn more.

My college experience also taught me the importance of giving back to the community. As a result, I have been very active in the Junior League of Fort Smith for the past two years. The Junior League is an organization of women committed to improving our community through volunteerism. I am currently a chairperson on the Holiday Market planning committee. The Holiday Market is our biggest event of the year and all proceeds are donated to the Children’s Emergency Shelter and our various community projects. This is a great event that supports an even greater cause.

My experience at the University of Arkansas at Fort Smith provided me with many rewarding opportunities. As I continue grow in my personal and professional life, I will always fondly remember my college experience. The last four years have been an amazing journey. Not only did I graduate from a great college, but I fell in love with and married my best friend.

My husband and I recently celebrated our one year anniversary. My greatest dream is to continue to live, work, and build a family in this part of Arkansas. Of course, I will always remember that these dreams were possible, in part, because of the education that I received at the University of Arkansas at Fort Smith.

Mitch Minnick '08

2010-09-02T07:00:00.000-05:00

LIFE, LOVE, and BEAUTIFUL CURVEBALLS

On June 2nd, 2007 I married my best friend, Brockette, one year prior to our “scheduled” graduation. It’s a funny thing getting married while in college. My mother and mother-in-law both had the “wait until you graduate” attitude. They were afraid we would get married and forget about that last year of college and just start living our life together.

Our Wedding Picture

Low and behold, in May of 2008 (that’s right, the “scheduled” graduation date) Brockette and I both graduated from UA Fort Smith with Bachelors of Science degrees in Marketing!

Brockette and I at Graduation

Also in June of 2007 I had been hired as the Property Manager at Sebastian Commons, the student apartments at the University. I had worked there since the spring semester of 2005 as a “part-time” employee, but it was a little more hectic juggling Senior-level classes, a full-time job, AND a new marriage; but I wouldn’t change the sequence of events even if I could. Brockette and I went to Myrtle Beach for our honeymoon and also got to take a trip to Seattle in July of 2007 for a Student Housing Conference; life was good.

The months of June 2008—September 2008 were the first months of married life, post graduation. It was very strange coming home from work, NOT having schoolwork to tackle, BIG adjustment. Brockette and I did our best to enjoy young married life (vacations, visiting family, and spending time together). Then our first curveball—baby on the way! (I love baseball and a GREAT curveball is a BEAUTIFUL thing)

Still managing the operations at Sebastian Commons, I had a vision of staying with the University for many years to come, but I did not think living in student housing was the place for our expanding family! Curveball number two—house hunting—we found one rather quickly; closed the last week of February and moved in over Memorial Day weekend—TWO (2) days before Brockette was scheduled to be induced (WE DO NOT RECOMMEND THIS TYPE OF TIMING)!

Luci Ava arrived early evening on May 26, 2009 weighing in at 5 lbs 12 oz. I like to think of her as a “Daddy’s Girl” and I think even my lovely wife would grudgingly agree. I hear these attitudes come in stages, so I’ll enjoy this stage as long as I can—which means she is SPOILED, and I am A-OK with that!

Me and Luci

Curveball number three also came at the end of May; a job offer from the Fort Smith Housing Authority, to be a Housing Development Officer. Sadly my time as a University employee was ending. I started at the Housing Authority the first week of July 2009 and love my job. It has quickly evolved; to the point that I am now the Development Officer, focused on Housing and Economic Development.

OK, RECAP! I love my family, I love my job, and I love the opportunities that my time at UA Fort Smith has given me thus far—both educationally and professionally.

My Family

Ashley Buster '09

2010-08-06T07:04:00.001-05:00

I graduated in May 2009 with a Bachelor of Science - Marketing. Upon graduation I married in June 2009 and began an extensive professional journey.

Our Wedding June 6, 2009

Throughout my college years at UA Fort Smith, I worked at ABF Freight System, Inc as an intern. In October 2009, I became an Inside Sales Representative for the company and in March 2010 was promoted to an Account Manager in Birmingham, AL where my husband and I currently reside. Making the move from Fort Smith to Birmingham was definitely a challenge, but the experience in itself has been positive.

Moving to Birmingham!

Thanks to the Student Life at UA Fort Smith, I met wonderful friends and became a member of the Delta Gamma Sorority, which is a fantastic support system worldwide.

Now that I’m not a college student- I have found some free time! My husband and I enjoy traveling, spending time with our families, our 2 dogs – Roxie & Sadie, and spinning.

Cozumel, Mexico May 2010

My education from UA Fort Smith enhances my life daily. My job consists of selling a “service” and I often refer to my skills learned in Professor Peerbolte’s class, Selling Strategies. Although that class currently applies to my job the most, the entire business program truly prepared me for a successful business career. I’m a proud alum and looking forward to being a lion for life!!

Stephanie London '06

2010-07-30T07:54:00.001-05:00

I graduated from UA Fort Smith in 2006 with a degree in English, but my heavy involvement in student organizations is what really helped me get to where I am today. I loved being so involved with Campus Activities Board, Cub Camp, and so much more. Toward the end of my senior year, during a trip to Walton Arts Center with our Emerging Leaders Program through Student Activities, we met with several staff. In doing so, I learned of an event assistant position that was open. Soon after I decided to apply and was awarded the position. I served as an event assistant in the Production Department of Walton Arts Center working backstage at large productions, booking events, and helping coordinate special events.

One year of working at Walton Arts Center was a great experience, but I really wanted to stay in Fort Smith so when I was offered the position of Student Activities Event Coordinator at UA Fort Smith, I quickly accepted.

I absolutely love working back at my alma mater! I get to plan events and work with students every day. The best part about my job is seeing how much students grow throughout their time at UA Fort Smith. I’ve also had the opportunity to travel with students to places like Orlando, Washington D.C., and more.

Taking students to the National Conference on Student Leadership in Washington D.C.

Student Affairs staff acting as targets (literally) for a water balloon fight at Island Party

One of my favorite memories as a staff member at UA Fort Smith was being a namesake for Cub Camp 2009. As a founding member of the organization when I was a student, it is exciting to see the changes and impact this activity still has on incoming freshman. Being asked back as a namesake was a great honor.

Getting pied in the face as Cub Camp 2009 Namesake for London’s Lava Loving Lobsters

I am also the Vice Chair of Young Emerging of Fort Smith (YEL). Having been a part of this networking organization for young professionals in the area for the past few years has been a great experience and I love serving in this voluntary role. We have leadership and professional development events, as well as social networking opportunities like taking a group to see the Arkansas Naturals play baseball.

During a YEL trip to see the Arkansas Naturals

In my personal life, I enjoy reading (English degree in me) and spending time with my family and boyfriend of three and half years, John. We live in Fort Smith with our little family - a 2 year old “chiwennie,” half Chihuahua, half dachshund, that we adopted named Macy.

The now very spoiled Macy

Kevin Bowen '04, '09

2010-06-18T06:42:00.001-05:00

I graduated from the University of Arkansas - Fort Smith in 2004 with an Associate’s of Applied Science – Radiography degree, where I served as the president of the Lambda Nu Honors Society, and then obtained by my Bachelor’s of Science Imaging Sciences-Management degree in 2009. About six months before I graduated in 2004, I was offered a position as a radiologic technologist in the emergency department at Sparks Regional Medical Center. This job was the beginning of what has been a very successful career.

In 2005, I was approached with a job offer to work as a computed tomography technologist at the Medical Center of McKinney in McKinney, Texas. This was a great opportunity for me, but it would come at the expense of moving away from my entire family. After a lot of deliberation and prayer, my wife and I decided to accept the position, which turned out to be the best career decision of my life (so far). I began my career at MCM as a staff technologist, and I have since become the manager of our outpatient imaging services. I also serve as the chair of our outpatient product line committee, where I have headed up numerous projects including building and opening a new outpatient imaging center, and more recently, our ACR accreditation program.

UA Fort Smith completely prepared me for my career, and I cannot think Dr. Nancy Hawking enough for pushing me to better than what I thought I could be. She has been, and still is, a true inspiration to me!

Business Trip to LA

Me and the family

In May of 2004 my life was changed forever when my wife, Amanda, decided to take my hand in marriage. She has been there for me and supported me throughout my career, and I cannot thank her enough for that. Without her, I would not be anywhere close to where I am today. My wife and I now have two beautiful boys, Braxton and Ethan, to help keep our lives busy…as if we needed any help.

My oldest son Braxton

My youngest son Ethan

Our evenings are now filled with baseball practice, soccer practice, swim parties, and bedtime stories.

Me and Braxton at his baseball game

I cannot wait to see what will unfold in the next chapters of our lives!

Lacy Hopper Allen '06

2010-06-11T06:31:00.001-05:00

I always knew that I wanted to attend the University of Arkansas-Fort Smith. When I received the Chancellor’s Leadership Council scholarship in 2002, I knew that I was destined to get my education there. My original plans were to get my degree in biology and go to medical school. Although my love for science did not change, I fell in love with the teaching profession.

I graduated in the fall of 2006 with my degree in middle childhood education. Graduating in the fall gave me a semester to pursue a dream that I had for years. I applied for a College Internship at Disney World and set off on a new journey. It was one of the best experiences that I have ever had and gave me an opportunity to meet people from all over the world. Working for Disney allowed me to learn more about myself and gain an interest in communication and diverse cultures.

Earning my Disney Ears!

When my internship was complete, I moved home and received a position in the Fort Smith School district teaching seventh grade math at Darby Junior High. I have been teaching there for three years now and am currently going to school through Arkansas Tech University to receive my Masters degree in Teaching English as a Second Language. Darby is a very diverse school, and I love the fact that I can apply everything that I am learning into my career everyday.

I also teach for an after school program called Ranger Recon at Darby Junior high. It is an awesome program where our students can learn math, literacy, cooking, karate, art, and much more. Building trust and getting to know my students is very important to me, and I enjoy getting to impact their lives even outside the classroom.

My sister and I

Last June I married my wonderful husband, Jack Allen. We just bought a home in Fort Smith in December and have been having fun remodeling it. In my spare time you can catch me gardening in my yard, visiting my family, or singing along to whatever is playing on the radio. My husband and I also enjoy traveling. We visited Cozumel and Belize last year after our wedding and will be going back to Disney World this June to celebrate our one year anniversary.

Jack and I

I believe that God has prepared me in several ways to live the life that I am now living. All of the training and experiences at UA Fort Smith have helped to mold me into the person I am today. UA Fort Smith’s education program definitely prepared me for this profession and I am thankful for that!

Breanne Gustin '08

2010-06-04T06:00:00.001-05:00

The day after receiving my Bachelor of Arts in English from UA Fort Smith, I drove to Dallas to get on a plane for the very first time – to the Philippines! My husband had lived there for two years as a missionary so I really wanted to go. We got to do several awesome things, like hike Mt. Makiling, go behind Pagsanjan Falls, eat at a floating restaurant, and feed monkeys. Although it was an amazing experience, I returned very grateful for my apartment that had air conditioning, a comfortable bed, and a real shower.

My husband and I in the Philippines

After returning from the Philippines, I worked part-time until my husband finished prerequisites for pharmacy school. After being so busy with school and extracurricular activities, I now had the difficult task of keeping myself busy! I got addicted to reading and started running regularly, and I got a super adorable friend to play with. Our dog, Marley, added a lot of fun to our lives and is just so darn cute!

Me and Marley

A year after graduating I started job hunting in Weatherford, Oklahoma where my husband hoped to attend pharmacy school. I applied for a position at Southwestern Oklahoma State University, and within a week I was hired as an Administrative Assistant to the Dean of the College of Professional & Graduate Studies. Our office is very busy, and I do a lot of paperwork, reports, and projects for the Dean as well as manage the graduate school applications. I get to spend a lot of time corresponding with students and applicants. Now instead of being the student worker, I have a few of my own. I love working for a university!

Me at SWOSU

One week after moving to Weatherford, my husband was accepted into the pharmacy school. It was meant to be! Also meant to be was the addition of Patchy to our family. We love our dogs!

Marley and Patchy

These days I keep busy with work while my husband works on obtaining his PharmD, and we really like our friendly town. Exploring western Oklahoma has been fun, though I am still not used to the wind. I still enjoy reading and running, and I have also taken up sewing. My husband and I hope to add to our family soon, only this time with one without fur. My years at UA Fort Smith were some of the most fun and exciting, and my education and experiences with organizations and student activities definitely had a positive influence on my life. I am happy to support the SWOSU Bulldogs, but I will always be a Lion at heart!

Kristi Thomas '05

2010-05-28T06:00:00.000-05:00

I graduated from UA Fort Smith in 2005 with a Bachelor’s degree in Early Childhood Education. Since I graduated in the fall, I assumed I would have to substitute in schools until the new school year rolled around. Well, one of the school districts I was working in needed a long term substitute to finish out the year. So, I worked as a fourth grade teacher in Mountainburg from January 2005 until May 2005. After my time was finished there, I moved to Tate Elementary in Van Buren where I taught third grade for two years.

In the summer of 2008, I attended ESL (English as a Second Language) Academy through Henderson State University where I obtained my ESL endorsement. That following school year, I moved from teaching third grade to teaching a pre-kindergarten classroom of four year-olds. Talk about a change! I have been in that classroom for two years now and I absolutely love it! Trust me…there is never a dull moment!

Throughout my career I have been asked to go to several workshops all across the United States. Last year I went to Rochester, New York for a pre-kindergarten writing conference. That trip was short, but we had a blast! Also last year, I went to Dallas, Texas for a national conference for pre-kindergarten, which was very educational! The most fun I have had was when a group of us went to Baton Rouge for a math conference. Our conference was five days long, but we had a little free time. While we were there, we went on a swamp tour where we got to hold all kinds of critters!

I'm on the far right

Outside of my career, I enjoy reading and singing. I am also very active in my church. Here recently I became engaged to Michael Bray, who is a current UA Fort Smith student.

The proposal!

Michael and I are the youth leaders at Van Buren Freewill Baptist. We also enjoy singing and worshiping the Lord together.

Michael and I

UA Fort Smith prepared me for all these great opportunities that I’ve had in my life. Starting from when I was a University Ambassador my sophomore year, all the way until my senior year, when I was the Assistant Director of Staff and Training for the first ever Cub Camp. The sense of leadership was instilled within me during my years at the university. That has helped me more than anything I can imagine. If I had not had these opportunities, I might not be where I am today. Thank you to all the professors who have helped me have this great life!

Megan Raynor '05

2010-05-21T06:00:00.000-05:00

It’s hard to believe I’ve been out of college for five years. I graduated in May 2005 with a Bachelor of Science-Business Administration. Since my time at UA Fort Smith, I’ve been able to travel, find the ideal job, and purchase my first home.

With my family after my graduation

Being out of school allows me more time to spend enjoying my favorite leisure activities-reading and spending time with my family and friends. Traveling is at the top of my list, as well. My graduation gift to myself was a trip to Mexico. I enjoy the peace and quiet the beach and ocean offers. Another big trip I was fortunate enough to take was to Rome and Venice. Being away from Fort Smith when I travel makes me realize how much I love living here. It’s not too big or too small, just right for me!

At the Coliseum in Rome-April 2006

While going to school, I worked for the Accounting department at Sparks Health System. A little over a year after I graduated, the perfect job opportunity fell in my lap. I was told Hanna Oil & Gas Company had an opening in their Accounting department and needless to say, I have called it my “work home” ever since. At Hanna, I make sure the billings are sent out each month, I analyze our financials, assist with accounts payable and accounts receivable, and the list goes on! I enjoy the constant challenge my job brings. It’s hard for me to believe that this August I’ll have been here for four years, and I plan to be here many more!

Busy at work!

June 2008 I took a big step and purchased my first home. I continue to be grateful that I was able to do this at what I consider to be a young age, and I truly love being a homeowner.

Hanging out with some of my favorite people! I’m on the far left

Some other notably fun chapters in my life have included participating in the Citizens Police Academy (2005), the Citizens Academy (2007) and the Citizens Fire Academy (2008). These were all great experiences. I definitely gained a greater respect for the people and departments that work together to run our great city of Fort Smith.

I am currently involved in the 2009-2010 Leadership Fort Smith class. I have met a lot of wonderful people and am sad it is coming to an end soon. However, each end is a new beginning and I look forward to the next chapter in my life.

Lydia McDaniel '09

2010-05-14T06:00:00.000-05:00

Many changes have taken place both professionally and personally since graduating in May 2009. Before graduation I was one of the lucky few who could say they already had a career path lined up. Which I realize now just how much of a blessing that truly was. In April I proudly accepted a position with Acosta Sales and Marketing in Bentonville, AR. They had selected myself and two others from a series of extensive interviews held on campus at UA Fayetteville and in the Bentonville office. I can’t help but laugh when I think back to the whole process….I was a nervous wreck and I’m sure they could tell. Both sets of interviews were panel interviews of which I felt relatively prepared for thanks to the many mock interviews Ron Orick had helped me arrange for practice. The second interview consisted of a presentation and I so graciously used an “Organic Dog Food” business plan project we had been working on in my Integrated Marketing Communications class in Professor Peerbolte’s class.

(At work at Acosta)

In July I started my journey with Acosta as a Retail Coverage Manager. This phase allowed me to study the consumer packaged goods industry first hand and see how the Wal-Mart system operated at store level. In January, I transitioned into my second phase of the Leadership Development Program as a category analyst in their Marketing department. I’m in the process of getting more comfortable with my clients and adjusting to being in the office. I am now using databases that I learned about in courses at UA Fort Smith, such as Neilson, IRI and Spectra. In September I will transition into my third and final phase in the LDP program as a Business Manager where I will be focusing on brand marketing and building business.

On a more personal note, I decided upon moving to NWA I needed a hobby and have taken up tennis. I am currently planning team tennis at the Fayetteville Athletic Club, it has definitely been challenging yet fun. I also got engaged in August and will be getting married to Josh Holloway on July 31st, in Fort Smith, so I have been busy planning a wedding as well. In reflection, I can honestly say that UA Fort Smith has done an excellent job in preparing me for the business world. I use skills acquired at UA Fort Smith daily.

Andrea Altsadt '04

2010-05-07T06:00:00.000-05:00

I graduated from UA Fort Smith in 2004 with a bachelor’s in accounting, and served as President of the Business Society. For six months following graduation, I worked as an intern at the Fort Smith Ernst & Young office while obtaining the 150 hours I needed to sit for the CPA exam. I went on to work for Ernst & Young in Fort Smith for another two years on clients such as what was then Beverly Enterprises, Arkansas Best Corporation and Baldor Motor Generators.

(At work at Edward Jones)

Following this period, I transferred to the St. Louis Ernst & Young office. After a couple additional years there, focusing primarily on healthcare systems and property and casualty insurance clients I left public accounting to work at a broker dealer. Over the last two years I have worked at Edward Jones corporate headquarters in St. Louis. Currently I work with revenue strategies and analyses within the finance division.

The education I received at UA Fort Smith, along with quality one on one time with professors allowed me to make the most of my undergraduate experience eventually leading to success in my career. Since leaving public accounting, I take pleasure in spending time with family and friends and frequent traveling, such as trips through the UK, NYC, Chicago and repeat trips along the CA coast. The additional time I have out of work has also allowed me to volunteer with the women’s ministry at my church, for a regional animal rescue facility and for a local St. Louis VITA tax preparation program.

(With my aunt in Central Park in NYC)

(At St. Michaels Mount)

This year I plan to return to the UK and make a stop-over in France. As I write this I am sitting in Chicago, enjoying a weekend away visiting friends in town from San Diego, my home before Fort Smith.

(Buying art in Falmouth, UK)

Although life and work has taken me away from my four year stay in Fort Smith, my experience with the students and faculty (specifically Mr. Howard Puckett, Mr. George Schmidt and Mr. David Dearman) of UA Fort Smith and the town of Fort Smith will always recall pleasant memories for me.

Brock Girard '03

2010-04-30T06:00:00.001-05:00

I graduated from UAFS in the Spring of 2003 with an Associate of Applied Science in Graphic Design. We were the second class to finish the then very young program. The school was actually Westark Community College when I started, but switched to UA Fort Smith during my enrollment. It’s amazing how far the graphic design program has come since then!

My life is a lot different than it was in 2003. I’m a husband, a father of two, an experienced graphic designer and most importantly a Christian. In my spare time (ha!) I love watching sports. Especially, my childhood favorite team the Chicago Cubs. I’m also a Dallas Cowboys and Arkansas Razorbacks fan. When I’m not watching sports, but probably more accurately during time-outs, I’m using my iPhone or reading rumors about the next great Apple invention. Surprising for a graphic designer, I know.

My family and I are greatly involved in our church – Heritage United Methodist Church in Van Buren. I run sound in our contemporary service, serve on the Lay Leadership Development Team and occasionally usher. Heritage is an amazing church and I recommend it to anyone looking for a place to worship in the River Valley.

(My wife and I with our two kids)

Since graduating I’ve worked at some really great places in Fort Smith. I got my feet wet in the marketing department at Riverside Furniture. My projects ranged from creating a simple logo for a new line of furniture, to designing my share of a 120 page “magalog”, to flying to High Point, NC to shoot photography of our newest furniture in the showroom.

Since the fall of 2005 I’ve been the art director at Williams/Crawford & Associates, by far the oldest advertising agency in the River Valley. Our clients include nationally-know companies like Taco Bell, KFC and Golden Corral, as well as, local entities including First Bank Corp., Van Buren Advertising and Promotion and the University of Arkansas – Fort Smith. I returned to Williams/Crawford full-time after originally interning in 2002.

I really did leave school with the knowledge and even experience needed to enter the workforce. But, unlike a lot of graduates, I didn’t leave with any debt. I truly do feel that I’ve received a first-class education right here at home and have been able to give back by serving on the UAFS Graphic Design Advisory Board and by working with interns. I’ve been extremely fortunate to have had a great college experience at UA Fort Smith and who knows, maybe I’ll even go back to further my education!

Brook Lang '05

2010-04-23T06:00:00.001-05:00

My name is Brook Lang and I graduated from the University of Arkansas – Fort Smith in May of 2005 with an Information Technology – Web Development Bachelors degree. I was hired by ABF Freight System, Inc. as a Web Analyst in March of 2005. My duties included monitoring project schedules and timelines to ensure customer needs were met, project management between Director request(s) and programmers/customers, and lead projects until the end result was complete. In November of 2008, I was laid off due to budget cuts.

(My family)

I looked for jobs for 9 months and repeatedly was told I was over qualified, frustrating to say the least. Yet, He had a plan for me and in August of 2009, my dream was realized and I opened Ultimutt Dog Care, LLC in Fort Smith with my best friend.

(At the ribbon cutting of Ultimutt)

Since then I spend my days grooming, watching dogs in day care, and overseeing the daily functions of a business.

Jeremy Lynch '06

2010-04-16T05:00:00.002-05:00

In 2006 I was the first student at the University of Arkansas Fort Smith to graduate with a bachelor’s degree in historical interpretation. A semester after graduation, I enrolled in a graduate program at the University of Oklahoma. After my first semester there, I was inducted into the Golden Key International Honor Society for my academic achievements. While seeking a graduate degree in museum studies I worked at the Fort Smith National Historic Site under the student career experience program.

(I'm 3rd from the left)

While working at the park, my supervisor sent me to a historic weapons training course. Since I enjoy reenacting and shooting Civil War artillery, I was overjoyed to attend. The training was held at Fort McClelland, Alabama for two weeks in February. There were one hundred students from National Parks all over the country, giving me the opportunity to meet like minded people. Every day we practiced musket and artillery drill while modern recruits performed their drill nearby. At times we were a distraction because of the variety of historical uniforms we wore. I witnessed recruits getting yelled at because when they paid attention to us rather than their drill. On the last day of the training we fired cannon balls from reproduction artillery pieces which made all the hard work worthwhile.

A few months later, the Park Service sent me to a different training at the Grand Canyon where I lived in the park for two weeks. My first day there it snowed seven inches. Afterwards, the snow melted and it remained around seventy degrees for the rest my visit. Most of the days there were spent in a classroom with fifty other students. Fortunately, when I had the weekends off I hiked both the Bright Angel and Kaibab Trails down into the canyon. On the last day of the training all the students put their money together for a large cookout and three rangers from Hawaii made a fabulous the barbecue. At each of these classes, I made great friends and met interesting individuals.

(On a trail down into the Canyon)

In the winter of 2008, I bought my first house with six acres. Buying my own home was one of the main accomplishments I wanted to achieve in life. Because I managed to find a house with land, I started a new hobby by planting a garden. It is my plan to learn how to successfully grow heirloom plants.

(graduating with my master's degree)

Finally, in the spring of 2009, I graduated with my master’s degree. Soon after, The Park Service gave me a permanent job at the historic site. Each of these events was a completion of goals set before I graduated with my bachelor’s degree. Overall, it has been an exciting three years since I graduated from UA Fort Smith. Obtaining a bachelor’s degree in historical interpretation gave me the building blocks to achieve many of my goals in life. I wish to thank all of my professors from UA Fort Smith who helped prepare me for such a great life.

Ray Malouf '05

2010-04-09T08:00:00.001-05:00

Five years ago, when I graduated from UA Fort Smith, I couldn’t have imagined what I’d be doing today. My journey has been one of adventure, challenge and fulfillment.

Photo from latest edition of the Walmart World Magazine

After graduating from UA Fort Smith with a business degree, the pace of my life accelerated, or at least it seemed that way. Two weeks after graduation, I married by best friend Monica. A few months later we moved to northwest Arkansas so I could attend John Brown University (JBU) for graduate school. The choice to attend JBU was easy for me because I received a Soderquist Fellowship that paid for my tuition and provided me with the opportunity to gain two years of professional experience. This was an incredible experience.

As a student, I learned so much and had the opportunity to study in Belfast, Northern Ireland. As a project coordinator at the Soderquist Center, I had the opportunity to work with leaders and organizations all across the world. In May 2007, I graduated at the top of my class with an MBA from John Brown University.

Belfast, Northern Ireland. Bobby Hoffmann and I June 2006.

During my last semester at JBU, I accepted a Communications Manager position with the Walmart Global Ethics Office. Before starting, Monica and I travelled through Europe for two weeks to celebrate a new chapter of our lives. My favorite part of the trip was standing at the foothills of the Zugspitze in Garmisch-Partenkirchen, Germany. Incredible.

Garmisch-Partenkirchen, Germany. May 2007.

I accepted the position at Walmart because I want my life to be measured by impact. I’ve been able to accomplish this goal. My first role at Walmart was to communicate Walmart’s ethical standards and the importance of working with integrity to Walmart associates around the world. Walmart employs more than 2 million associates! This was a challenge, but one that I was able to achieve. This past August I was recognized for my work and promoted to manage our ethics communication and education program that is designed to sustain Walmart’s ethical culture.

Walmart photo shoot. Photo can be found on the front page of the business section of the New York Times on January 25, 2009.

Through my experiences, I’ve learned that if I’m proactive and seek opportunities, I’ll usually find them. Maybe not as soon as I hope to, but when the timing is right. You can do the same. Live life to the fullest. That’s what my wife and I are doing. We’re expecting our first child in September.

Amanda Hargrave '04

2010-04-02T08:00:00.001-05:00

I graduated from UA Fort Smith in the spring of 2004 with a Bachelor of Science in Accounting. My last year at UAFS, I got a co-op position at Rheem in Fort Smith. I stayed there until I got a job at Beverly Enterprises (Golden Ventures), also in Fort Smith. I made it through my first job shake-up when Beverly was sold to a private equity firm. Due to the instability and my short term employment at Beverly, I decided it was in my best interest to pursue other career opportunities. I went to work for AIG, who at the time was ranked Number 9 (in 2009 it was ranked 245) in the list of Fortune 500 companies.

I knew that the job I was taking at AIG was not what I wanted my career to be, but it was interesting. I got to go to a few places that I probably wouldn’t have gone if I hadn’t been working there.

Below is a pic from a trip to NYC when my husband came up to see me on the weekend

When the demand of travelling eventually came to be too much and threatened to interfere with my plans for my destination wedding (total deal-breaker), I again decided to switch jobs. In 2007 I moved up the road to Rogers and began working for the world’s largest retailer. My now-husband (a 2005 UAFS graduate) also got a job at Walmart, and most importantly, my wedding in San Jose del Cabo went great!

My husband, my three cats, my greyhound, and I are all still up in Northwest Arkansas, and I am still employed at Walmart. Currently I am a manager of an accounting team and am getting ready to go through my second system conversion since 2007. I am in my second semester of the Managerial MBA program at the University of Arkansas in Fayetteville and am looking forward to going to India next winter for a few weeks as part of the study abroad program.

I would just like to end by saying that I loved my experience at UA Fort Smith. I believe the University did a great job in preparing me for the real-world by provoking problem solving, decision making, and analytical reasoning that is very much what is required in the business world. I think that that has a lot to do with the knowledge and high expectations of the students that the professors brought with them to every class.

Rachel Solley '06

2010-03-26T06:00:00.001-05:00

I graduated from the University of Arkansas-Fort Smith in May of 2006 with a Bachelor's of Science in Business Administration. Attending the University of Arkansas-Fort Smith was a wonderful experience for me. I learned many skills from the College of Business that I currently use in my job as a Branch Manager for ABF Freight System, Inc. I made lasting friendships from the being in the inaugural Chancellor's Leadership Council Scholar program. Living at Sebastian Commons was a blast and being a part of the many on-campus organizations such as: University Ambassadors, Student Senate, Student Activities, and Baptist Collegiate Ministry.

After graduation I was ready to leave my hometown for Fort Smith and move to a "Big City", so I relocated to Chicago two weeks after graduation. I have been working for ABF Freight System, Inc. in Chicago since June of 2006. I began my career as a Management Trainee. Then I was promoted to a field Account Manager in October 2006. The most recent change was my promotion to Branch Manger of our La Salle, IL terminal in February of this year. My life the past 4 years has been remarkable. I love working for an Arkansas based business in Chicago. I have the challenging joy of growing retained accounts and bringing on new business. With my new position as Branch Manager I am also managing the operational side of the business.

Outside of my career, I have fully adapted to the city life. During my free time I go to the Chicago Theater district to attend the Broadway shows. Then I have to make the tough decision of which Chicago Deep Dish pizza or a Famous Chicago Hot Dog I should have for dinner! I spend my spring and summers at Wrigley Field cheering on my Cubbies

(me on left)

hanging out at North Avenue Beach on Lake Michigan,

playing sand volleyball, and going to a wide arrange of concerts. Fall and winter are spent at Solider Field with "Da Bears",

(me on left)

the United Center rooting the Chicago Bulls and Blackhawks, shoveling a lot of snow, and trying to stay warm!

I still invest a large amount of time volunteering and working with my local church, Willow Creek. I am part of the Generation Axis ministry. A group of 20-25 people gather at my condo every Tuesday to share a meal and to share our life. We also serve at the local food pantry called Bright Hope. Through Willow Creek I became aware of an organization called World Vision. This has become one of my biggest passions. I ran the 2009 Chicago Marathon as charity runner for World Vision.

Life has been wonderful living in Chicago, but I still enjoy coming back home to Fort Smith and spending time with all my friends and family there. I firmly agree with the saying, "There is no place like home."

Thank you University of Arkansas-Fort Smith for the education, guidance, and life experiences to allow me to pursue my dreams.