News

College of Business Alumni Honored in 2026 Arkansas Business 40 Under 40

Each year, Arkansas Business presents its 40 Under 40 list to recognize intriguing business and political leaders under 40 years old. Three individuals with connections to UCA were recognized at the 2026 awards luncheon Wednesday, June 3, at the Statehouse Convention Center in Little Rock. They shared their secrets to success, especially their lessons learned and advice for their 18-year-old selves.


Ashton Collier ’09 is the chief financial officer for the Northwest Arkansas National Airport in Bentonville. She earned an accounting degree from UCA in 2009 and is an active CPA with 15 years of experience in public, corporate and nonprofit/governmental accounting.

First job and lesson learned

“I’ve always enjoyed earning my own money, so I started babysitting at 12. The biggest lesson I learned was responsibility. I understood that someone was trusting me to care for what mattered most to them, their children, and that pushed me to be dependable and attentive. It also taught me patience and communication, since every child is different.”

Advice for your 18-year-old self

“I would tell my 18-year-old self not to compare your path to others. I remember a time in school when my friends got into the gifted and talented program and I didn’t. I felt like a failure. But staying focused, working hard and believing in myself allowed me to achieve success later. That experience taught me that your path may be different, but determination and perseverance can turn early setbacks into lasting accomplishments.”

Learn more about Ashton Collier’s success from her ABPG interview.


Amir Deylami, who served as an Executive in Residence for the UCA College of Business last spring, was also a member of the 2026 class. Deylami is chief operating officer and associate center director for the NASA Ames Research Center. He leads teams to enable $2.5 billion-plus in private investment, accelerating public-private partnerships and innovation. He is the former NASA CFO/deputy CFO, overseeing financial portfolios up to $4 billion.

First job and lesson learned

“I began working in my family’s small business at the age of 5 and later assumed operational responsibility as a teenager. It taught me about the true meaning of hard work and dedication and that accountability is immediate — results reflect ownership. That foundation shaped how I lead today: setting clear expectations, driving disciplined execution, and taking full responsibility for outcomes.”

Advice for your 18-year-old self

“Work hard, stay disciplined and trust your instincts. You don’t need to have everything figured out. Step into the opportunity, grow and continuously add value. It’s all going to work out.”

Learn more about Amir Deylami’s success from his ABPG interview.


UCA Director of Athletics Matt Whiting is among the 2026 Class. He was named director of athletics at UCA in 2024 at age 36. Whiting oversees a department that includes 18 Division I sports, 13 head coaches and 450-plus student athletes. He has also led record fundraising efforts for UCA athletics, totaling more than $15 million in gifts since 2016.

First job and lesson learned

“My first professional job was as assistant athletic director for external relations at the University of Arkansas at Monticello. I learned the value of developing strong relationships with our constituents and working diligently to support the needs of our student-athletes, coaches and programs. This opportunity expanded my understanding of collegiate athletics administration and opened the door for my career in this industry.”

Advice for your 18-year-old self

“It is never as good as it seems, and it is never as bad as it seems. Bring a great attitude and great effort every day, and do your best to make a positive impact in whatever you are doing.”

Learn more about Matt Whiting’s success from his ABPG interview.

UCA Students Impact Community Through Free Tax Assistance Program

(from left): Lakoda Caldwell, Katie Boysen, Caitlin LaCerra, Erich Green and Preston Hessee were among students who participated in the University of Central Arkansas’s Volunteer Income Tax Assistance (VITA) preparers course during the spring 2026 semester. During the 2026 filing season, UCA students volunteered with the United Way of Central Arkansas to prepare approximately 450 tax returns for community members, resulting in more than $490,000 in tax refunds and an estimated $80,000 savings in tax preparation fees.

Students at the University of Central Arkansas made a significant impact on the Conway and Central Arkansas community during the 2026 tax season through participation in the Volunteer Income Tax Assistance (VITA) program. Dr. Ashley Phillips oversees UCA student participation each year.

Students enrolled in the VITA for Preparers course during the spring 2026 semester volunteered with the United Way of Central Arkansas, which serves as a local site for the Internal Revenue Service’s VITA program. Through the initiative, IRS-certified volunteers provide free, high-quality tax preparation services for qualifying low- and moderate-income individuals and families.

During the 2026 filing season, UCA students prepared approximately 450 tax returns for community members. Student preparers included Katie Boysen, Jetson Busbea, Lakoda Caldwell, Erich Green, Treavor Green, Preston Hessee, Asher Jackson and Caitlin LaCerra.

The financial impact of the students’ work is expected to exceed $490,000 in tax refunds returned to local families. In addition, by offering free tax preparation assistance, the students helped residents save an estimated $80,000 in tax preparation fees.

“These students are making a meaningful difference in the lives of families across Central Arkansas,” Associate Profressor of Accounting Ashley Phillips, who runs the VITA program at UCA, said. “Not only are they gaining valuable hands-on experience, but they are also helping individuals and families keep more of their hard-earned money for essentials such as housing, food and utilities.”

The program is open to College of Business students who would like to volunteer or earn college credit in accounting. VITA volunteers receive training and can either prepare returns or do intake. Experienced CPAs then review each return.

The IRS requires all VITA volunteers to complete extensive annual certification training that includes tax law education, quality review procedures, and privacy and confidentiality standards. This training ensures returns are prepared accurately and securely while providing taxpayers with confidence throughout the filing process.

The United Way of Central Arkansas partners with community volunteers each year to provide trusted tax preparation services through the VITA program.

More information about the IRS Volunteer Income Tax Assistance program is available at irs.gov/individuals/free-tax-return-preparation-for-qualifying-taxpayers.

UCA College of Business Launches Coursera Career Academy for Students, Alumni, Faculty

Add Skills and Credentials to your resume with Coursera - now available to business majors and alumni

The University of Central Arkansas (UCA) College of Business has announced the launch of Coursera Career Academy, a career development platform that allows current UCA business majors and alumni to complement their UCA degrees with flexible, online training at no additional cost.

Coursera offers workshops, micro-credentials and professional certificates from industry giants like Google, Amazon, Microsoft, Salesforce, IBM, Meta and over 300 more partners. The online platform launched for UCA business majors, faculty and staff in spring 2026, and it is now available to College of Business alumni.

“In today’s competitive job market, employers are more likely to hire a graduate who has also earned a professional certificate or micro-credentials,” Dr. Tim Bisping, dean of the UCA College of Business and professor of economics, said. “We are excited to strengthen employment outcomes for our students and alumni by launching this tool at no additional cost to our college’s community.

“Going forward, our college faculty will also use Coursera to supplement our courses, enhancing the learning experience for our business students. By connecting our students and alumni with this platform, we are strategically addressing emerging skills in business and technology, inviting our students and alumni to drive innovation and continue to pursue the lifelong learning that is essential for career success.”

UCA business alumni are invited to explore key features of Coursera and enroll today:

  • Hundreds of opportunities to earn career-relevant credentials and certificates.
  • Flexible course schedules that work for the learner’s needs.
  • Interactive and AI-powered tools that give personalized feedback.
  • Verified certificates of achievement or micro-credentials.

Coursera’s 2025 Outcomes Report shows that 91% of its learners achieved a positive career outcome, and the university hopes to extend those benefits to its business students and alumni by making this platform available to them at no additional cost.

More information about the Coursera Career Academy at the UCA College of Business is available at uca.edu/business/coursera.

Coursera for Business Majors Coursera for Business Alumni Coursera for COB Faculty & Staff Get Help

Bartos Family Invites UCA Community to Attend Phil Bartos’ Celebration of Life Service

Screenshot

The Bartos family welcomes UCA alumni and faculty to celebrate the life of Phil Bartos this Saturday, May 16.

Phil served as a UCA marketing professor, mentored countless students, and impacted the UCA community from 1994 to 2015 – only part of his impact on individuals around the world.

Those who remember Phil with respect and affection are invited to attend his celebration-of-life service in Little Rock this weekend. Phil Bartos (1940-2026) passed away in January.

Service Schedule Memorial Service
Saturday, May 16, 2026 at 2:00 p.m.
Second Presbyterian Church Chapel
600 Pleasant Valley Dr.
Little Rock, AR 72227


More About Phil Bartos

Milan Philip “Phil” Bartos Jr., born May 18, 1940, in Waco, Texas, to Milan Philip Bartos Sr. and Ruth “Ruthie” Todaro Bartos, was a devoted husband, father, grandfather, educator, and community leader.

He was preceded in death by his parents and his brother, Russell “Rusty” Bartos. Phil is survived by his wife, Janet Bartos; his children, Philip Bartos (Tonya), Stacy Baugh, Christopher Bartos, Anne-Marie Braga (Michael), Benjie Bartos, and Jacquelyn Yarbrough (Kevin); his 10 grandchildren; and the mother of his five children, Darla Bartos. Family was the foundation of Phil’s life, and he took great pride in each generation.

Phil earned a business degree from Baylor University in 1962 and served six years as a First Lieutenant in the U.S. Army Medical Service Corps. He spent 25 years with Dun & Bradstreet, rising to President of Dun’s Marketing Services, including international leadership roles where he advanced equity and opportunity. He later served as a Vice President at Acxiom Corporation before retiring to a second calling as a professor of marketing at the University of Central Arkansas.

Over two decades at UCA, Phil mentored countless students, earned multiple student-voted awards, and extended his commitment to service through university and civic involvement and volunteer work.

Phil will be remembered for his integrity, kindness, moral courage, and the lasting impact he made on his family, students, colleagues, and communities around the world.

A Heavenly Birthday Celebration of Phil’s life will be held at 2 pm on Saturday, May 16, 2026, at Second Presbyterian Church, 600 Pleasant Valley Drive, Little Rock, Arkansas.

In lieu of flowers, donations may be made in Phil’s memory to the Bartos Family Scholarship Fund at the University of Central Arkansas Foundation, the Arkansas Food Bank, the Arkansas Hunger Relief Alliance, the Little Rock Compassion Center, Meals on Wheels through CareLink, The Alzheimer’s Foundation of America or Plant a Tree Memorial at www.alivingtribute.org or multiple trees at www.plantmemorialtree.com.

UCA College of Business Recognizes Outstanding Students of 2025-2026

At its annual Outstanding Student Awards Banquet, the UCA College of Business announced and celebrated the Outstanding Students selected for the 2025-2026 academic year.

The awards given celebrate students who stood out for their academic performance or their service to student organizations. The following students were selected because they have optimized their education by combining exemplary academic performance with internships, volunteerism, professional development, experiential education, and participation in clubs and other important experiences.

One student selected for an academic award is then chosen as COB’s Outstanding Student of the Year.

Outstanding Students of the Year

ACADEMIC AWARDS

College of Business Outstanding Student of the Year

Mason Smith
Also: Outstanding Finance Student of the Year

Future plans: “I have accepted a position as one of two banker foundation trainees at Simmons Bank. I will work at their headquarters in an 18-month training program rotating through departments such as corporate finance, retail banking, HR, and credit. I am excited to work with one of the best banks in Arkansas to learn how banks operate and contribute to helping communities.”

Outstanding Accounting Student

Lucas Hayes

Future plans: “I will assume an audit position at Ernst & Young in Rogers, Arkansas, starting in September.”

Outstanding Master of Accountancy Student

Jarrod Wheeler

Future plans: “Continue working at Landmark CPAs in the Tax Department.”

Outstanding Information Systems Student

Isaiah Kelly

Future plans: “After graduation, I intend to start my career as a data analyst and continue developing my technical and analytical skills. I plan on building experience with tools such as SQL, Python, and data visualization, with the long term goal being a senior data analyst.”

Outstanding Computer Information Systems Student

Wyatt Held

Future plans: “Work full time earning certifications, after experiencing work for a while I will consider grad school.”

Outstanding Data Analytics Student

Keegan Neeley

Future Plans: “Hopefully I’ll reach the job market with enough heat that they find me the best available candidate, but that’s not where I plan on stopping. I would love to go after my masters (or even my doctorate) in the future. Hopefully I can do both as me and my family move forward on our separate and joined journeys.”

Outstanding Master of Science in Applied Data Analytics Student

Katie Brown

Future plans: “After graduation, I plan to continue working in data analytics and use my skills to support data-driven decision-making and improve outcomes within my organization.”

Outstanding Economics Student

David Tooley

Future plans: “I intend to pursue my doctorate in economics at Florida State University.”

Outstanding Insurance & Risk Management Student

Macy Moring

Future plans: “After graduation, I plan to pursue a career in the insurance industry in the Central Arkansas area. I hope to work at an agency that offers a clear path toward becoming a producer. My goal is to continue building my knowledge of insurance and risk management while gaining hands-on experience in the field. I look forward to developing strong professional relationships, growing my skills, and establishing a long-term career helping clients protect what matters most to them.”

Outstanding Management Student

Ashlyn May

Future plans: “I am going to get my master’s in Information Management here at UCA and continue playing on the Women’s Soccer team.”

Outstanding Marketing Student

Rylie Melton

Future plans: “For the first 6 months after graduation, I plan to go through a 6-month online portfolio school program. So I will not immediately be applying for jobs after graduation. I will be going through an Art Direction program where I will learn everything about Art Direction in Advertising, including designing, creating campaigns, and working with Adobe. Once I complete that program, my goal is to pursue a full-time position in an Advertising Agency!”

Outstanding Innovation & Entrepreneurship Student

JoAnna Young

Future plans: “To find a job after graduation, connect with other entrepreneurs, and get started on opening my own business.”

Outstanding Logistics & Supply Chain Management Student

Angela Weng

Future plans: “I’ve interviewed for a job, and I’m in the onboarding process right now!”

Outstanding Master of Business Administration Student

Joseph Somervell

Future plans: “I aimed to begin teaching adjunct classes and take the next steps in my career. I started teaching the semester after I graduated. I use the skills I have gained in my current role and am exploring options for the right next full-time role.”

Outstanding Human Resources Student

Kierston Huff (not pictured)

Outstanding General Business Student

Drew Duckhorn (not pictured)

Outstanding Online Business Student

Savannah Smith (not pictured)

SERVICE AWARDS

Outstanding BUILD Student

Logan Redd

Future plans: ” I intend to become an auditor for a firm with the future hope of becoming a forensic accountant.”

Outstanding Beta Alpha Psi Leader

Alexandra L. Wayne

Future plans: “By utilizing my financial and healthcare administration skills, which I have developed over my academic career and will further develop through my internship, I want to pursue a career with a hospital or healthcare organization to make an impact on their long-term sustainability and achieve more favorable patient outcomes.”

Outstanding Accounting Club Leader

Kady Harper-Morrison

Future plans: “After graduation, I intend to pursue CPA licensure as I work full time as an audit staff.”

Outstanding Gamma Iota Sigma Leader

Madelyn Neel

Future plans: “After graduating in December, I plan to start working full time in the insurance industry and continue my education through attaining insurance designations.”

Outstanding BASCOM Leader
(Bears for Advancing Supply Chain and Operations Management)

Grant Kemp

Future plans: “After graduation I hope to land an inventory management role here in Central Arkansas. I look forward to applying what I’ve learned here at UCA and my internships at the Allen Lund Company and Tractor Supply Company.”

Outstanding FBLA Collegiate Leader

Kaddie Bailey

Future plans: “Upon graduation, I will start my MAcc degree in the fall of 2026. I then plan to prepare and sit for my CPA licensure exam. One day in the future, I plan to open my own consulting firm, focusing my services on small and family-owned businesses. I also aspire to open my own foundation that focuses on youth financial literacy. I also plan to eventually go to seminary and do a two-year Journeyman program with the North American Mission Board.”

Outstanding Girls Who Code Leader

Jewell Callahan

Future plans: “Work as a software engineer for a couple of years before eventually transitioning into DevOps or cybersecurity.”

Outstanding Marketing & Sales Club Leader

Rylie Melton


see also: Outstanding Marketing Student of the Year

Outstanding Finance Club Leader

Payton Jarvis

Future Plans: “After graduation, I plan to pursue a career in finance while continuing to grow my business experience. As a licensed pilot, I also hope to explore opportunities in corporate aviation, combining my passion for flying with my professional goals. Long term, I hope to build a career that blends finance and aviation.”

COB’s BASCOM Club Visits Westrock Coffee, Hosts Several Guests

The Bears Advancing Supply Chain and Operations Management (BASCOM) club had a meeting and went on a Westrock tour. The club’s meeting featured a presentation by VP of Inside Sales, Blake Marchese and Josh from Priority1, a third-party logistics company. They provided an overview of their services, technology, and career opportunities. They explained their non-asset-based business model and discussed the range of transportation services they support, including LTL, truckload, expedited, and international shipping.

They also introduced their proprietary platform, Cabo, which allows customers to manage shipping needs through a single system. The presenters highlighted the company’s impressive growth—from $350 million to $1.6 billion over six years—and shared insights into their sales training process, emphasizing the importance of relationship-building in logistics.

The club also in March featured a discussion with Steven Bauer, Co-Founder of DBI Sales, at our meeting in March. Steven has almost 30 years of experience in Sales and Business Management working with companies like Cadbury, Jack Link’s Jerky, Kraft, Sweet Baby Rays, and HARIBO. Steven shared insights about retail operations and supply chain management. Steven explained his current role as a broker, helping small- to medium-sized manufacturers get their products into major retailers like Walmart and Sam’s Club, detailing the process from initial qualification through execution. The conversation covered various aspects of retail, including seasonal challenges, product placement strategies, and the importance of building trust with retailers. Students asked questions about getting started in the industry, handling international supply chains, and navigating the complexities of working with large retailers like Walmart. Steven emphasized the value of gaining corporate experience early in one’s career and stressed the importance of relationships and trust in the retail business.

Students Share Impacts of Donor Support

On March 12, we have 24 hours to come together and make a difference for students. Gifts that support students are truly life-changing.

Hear from our senior business students of all majors as they share how UCA’s Day of Giving contributes to scholarships and experiences that drive them toward success. Every gift matters!

You can make an impact right now by visiting uca.edu/go/DOGCOB and giving to any of our business funds. Current business students want you to know that all gifts, large or small, impact their success when you participate in UCA’s Day of Giving.

KIMBERLY NURICUMBO

UCA Economics major with a Finance minor, expected graduation in May 2026

Thanks to the support of our donors, it has been possible for me to dive into life-changing academic and personal growth opportunities, like pursuing my passion for Economics and Finance while studying abroad. As a first-generation student, that support makes a profound impact on my success, and that kindness inspires me to eventually give back to the community that has so generously supported me. I’m beyond grateful we have donors ready to invest in the future of our community, and I am truly honored to be a recipient of that support!

TYMERA MARSH

UCA major in Marketing with a minor in Computer Information Systems, expected graduation in May 2026

The scholarship I received has played an important role in my success as a student at UCA by significantly reducing the stress I experienced during my first two years of college. Before receiving it, my family had to contribute toward my tuition, which often caused anxiety—especially around class registration time when payments were due. Since receiving this scholarship, a financial burden has been lifted off me and allowed me to focus more on my academics, leadership roles, and overall college experience rather than worrying about how my education would be paid for. Beyond financial support, the scholarship has created meaningful opportunities for connection and growth. At the Scholarship Reception, I met other recipients, networked with faculty, and heard inspiring stories from panelists that reinforced the importance of perseverance, community, and giving back. This scholarship has not only supported my education financially but has also encouraged me to stay motivated, pursue opportunities, and continue working toward my goals as a marketing student. It makes me feel even more connected to and supported by the UCA community, reminding me that I am truly a part of the UCA family.

IZZY SAETELLE

Current Master of Accountancy student with expected graduation in May 2026, BBA in Accounting in ’25

With the help of generous donations to the UCA College of Business, I have been able to supplement my education with trips to student conferences and competitions to gain real world experience and expand my professional network beyond central Arkansas.
The scholarships I received have allowed me to keep my education at the front of my mind by helping alleviate the financial pressures of college, but a scholarship can do so much for a student beyond just helping pay the bills. It can be a vote of confidence that someone believes in you, and that extra reassurance that you deserve to be here.

MASON SMITH

UCA double major in Finance and Insurance & Risk Management, expected graduation in May 2026

Being a recipient of scholarships has provided me with the stability and confidence to excel within the College of Business. This generous support has allowed me to participate in opportunities that have bridged the gap between the classroom and the real world. Instead of focusing on financial constraints, I’ve had the time to engage deeply with my coursework and secure internships that are preparing me for a career in finance. I am honored to share my story to ensure future students have access to the same life-changing resources, and I’m incredibly grateful to the donors who invest in our success and make these opportunities possible.

ABBY BOUNDS

Current Master of Science in Data Analytics Student, BBA in CISA ‘ 25

Being a part of the College of Business has been one of the greatest blessings of my college career. My classmates have become close friends and my professors have become mentors through my time here. Because of generous donations to the college, I have also been on 3 life-changing trips. The first was the chance to compete at Manhattan College, and the second and third trips were there WECode Conference at Harvard University (2025, 2026). In my time here, I have been able to teach 11,000+ Arkansas students about computer science and technology, and the college has more than supported me on this dream. I never imagined that my college would become one of my greatest cheerleaders. These experiences gave me experiences, insights, and connections that have directly led to me pursuing a higher degree and being competitive in the job market. I am so grateful for the growth I have seen in myself over these past few years, and it is special to look back and see how the College of Business was a part of that journey. When you give, it makes a difference, and we get to grow.

On March 12, Bears across the country will come together to support scholarships, academic programs, and the organizations that help students thrive. It’s one day to show what this community can do when we stand together.

Your participation matters. Every gift. Every voice.

Take it directly from these students – By giving to the UCA College of Business, you can help students reach their educational goals and impact their lives for the better. Stay tuned for more student stories as we build toward UCA’s Day of Giving on March 12!

If you want to learn more about UCA Day of Giving or give to other UCA funds, visit uca.edu/go/DOGCOB.

 

Senior NASA Executive to Serve as Executive in Residence

The University of Central Arkansas (UCA) College of Business will host Amir Deylami, chief operating officer (COO) of NASA’s Ames Research Center, Tuesday, Feb. 17, for the first of three Executive in Residence Leadership Series presentations. The UCA campus is invited to attend, and the events are free and open to the public.

Deylami is the COO of NASA’s Ames Research Center in Silicon Valley, where he oversees $8B in assets and leads enterprise operations, infrastructure modernization and strategic transformation across a $1B annual portfolio supporting more than 3,200 employees, 160 NASA projects and 100 partner agreements.

Deylami’s UCA Leadership Series will include:

  • Tuesday, Feb. 17, at 1:40 p.m.: Lessons in Leadership, Purpose, and Resilience.
  • Tuesday, March 31, at 1:40 p.m.: Building People-Centric Cultures of Innovation and Trust.
  • Thursday, April 16, at 3 p.m.: Leading Transformative Vision in Complex Organizations.

All events will be held in the UCA College of Business Auditorium in Conway, Arkansas.

“Amir Deylami is recognized as one of NASA’s top-performing executives,” Dr. Tim Bisping, dean of the UCA College of Business, said. “We are thrilled he will engage with our students, faculty and staff, and community partners and share his successful strategies on innovation, operations and technology.

“We asked Amir to serve as our Executive in Residence because he is deeply committed to mentorship and leadership development. He is a successful Arkansan with two decades of executive experience at NASA, and we look forward to his visits to our campus.”

The Executive in Residence program connects successful industry experts with students, faculty and local business professionals. The college maintains an innovative curriculum that provides real-world experiences and engagement to prepare UCA students for the global business environment.

 

COB Bulletin: Fall 2025


The COB Bulletin shares news and highlights from the recent success of our students, alumni, faculty, and staff. Each semester, we send a newsletter highlighting some accomplishments, but this is a more extensive list of accomplishments.

These are just a few of the success stories from fall 2025. To hear more good news, follow us on social media or on our websiteIf you have any good news, please send it to us. We enjoy sharing the success of our alumni, students, faculty/staff, and community partners.

  • 7 students pose after winning first at the Beta Alpha Psi annual conferenceLucas Hayes, Rebecca Gaither, and Izzy Saettele won first prize in the Deloitte Best Practices competition for their creative presentation at the Beta Alpha Psi annual conference; also, the chapter was recognized as ”Gold” status.
  • Gamma Iota Sigma officers Amecia Ellis, Madelyn Neel, Mason Smith, & William Van Asche and Insurance faculty member, Ivan Hudson, travelled to the 2025 conference, where our COB chapter was recognized as “Excellent.”
  • Many thanks to the Conway Chamber for allowing some of our Student Ambassadors and Girls Who Code Officers to attend the Women in Business ceremony this fall.
  • The Girls Who Code chapter has officially impacted over 10,000 Arkansans through its outreach programming, thanks to its participation in the Launch Conway Career Expo! At this high-impact community event, student mentors from UCA introduced hundreds of K–12 students and families to coding, robotics, and technology career pathways.
  • The Arkansas Trucking Association’s “Arkansas Trucking Report” (p. 38) magazine recently ran a feature on the 10th anniversary of the Arkansas Commercial Truck Safety and Education Program (ACTSEP). UCA’s College of Business was significantly involved in creating ACTSEP, which subsequently provided funding for the Scott E. Bennett Arkansas Highway Commission Endowed Chair in Motor Carrier Management.
  • Six FBLA Colliegiate students in our COB competed against over 2,000 from across the nation in business-related events at the FBLA Collegiate National Conference in Dallas, TX the following placed in competition: Kaddie Bailey,  also elected as National Vice President of Development; Laney Bounds; and Melany Valesquez.
  • Dr. Leah Boustan, Economic History Program Director at Yale University, was invited by COB’s Arkansas Center for Research in Economics to deliver a public talk entitled “America’s Untold Story of Immigrant Success.” She also spoke to classes and networked with students.
  • Many thanks to the COB Advisory Board for setting aside a day to spend time with our students and share their expertise with us!
  • Faculty and Staff were honored with 2025 Excellence Awards (pictured L to R): Engaged Teaching – Benjamin Garner, Associate Prof. of Marketing; Research – Bob Fang, Associate Prof. of Accounting; Innovative Teaching – Anthony McMullen, Associate Prof. of Business Law; Service – Joe Thomas, Associate Prof. of CISA; Boundary Spanner – Mike Casey, Prof. of Finance; Societal Impact – Connie McKnight, Prof. of Accounting; COB Impact – Jacob Bundrick, Lecturer II of Economics; COB Impact – Harrison Downs, Administrative Assistant.

ACCOUNTING

  • Our Beta Alpha Psi chapter received a commendation from the IRS for UCA’s commitment to VITA (Volunteer Income Tax Assistance), led each year by tax professor Ashley Phillips.
  • Eight firms competed bowled with students and networked while they had fun at the 11th annual Fear the Strike event.UCA Accounting held the 11th annual Fear the Strike. Eight firms bowled with UCA accounting students: Frost PLLC/Facta, Fair & Company CPAs, HCJ CPAs & Advisors Hudson Cisne, HoganTaylor, Forvis Mazars US, Landmark CPAs, Bell and Company PA, and Rasco Winter Thomas. Team Frost had the highest team score and won the bowling pin trophy. On top of the fun and networking, $1000 will also be donated to Haven Conway.
  • UCA’s Theta Lambda Chapter of Beta Alpha Psi was recognized as a Bear CLAWS recipient at the October UCA Board of Trustees meeting. Representing the chapter were Izzy Saettele, vice president of membership, and Lucas Hayes, chapter president.
  • Dr. Stephanie Watson provided her expertise twice to WalletHub on the subject of budgeting.
  • Dr. Stephanie Watson has performed Continuing Professional Education Opportunities for schools across Arkansas this semester.

COMPUTER INFORMATION SYSTEMS & ANALYTICS (CISA)

  • Susan Shaw of Conway, Arkansas, was recently awarded a Love of Learning Award from The Honor Society of Phi Kappa Phi, the nation’s oldest and most selective collegiate honor society for all academic disciplines. Shaw, a doctoral candidate at Marymount University and lecturer, will use the funds from the award to travel to the Academy of Management Annual Conference in Copenhagen, Denmark.
  • Instructor Susan Shaw presented at the DSI Conference in Orlando and participated in the Best Student Paper Award Showcase.
  • Dr. Saif Bhuiyan had three papers published, authored with his COB colleagues.
    • Bhuiyan, S., & McKinzie, K. (2025). Engagement and satisfaction in OS software development: The impact of job characteristics. The Journal of Applied Business and Economics, 27(3), 64-90.
    • Bhuiyan, S., Lyons, L., & Thomas, J. (2025). The role of fairness in retaining open source software contributors: An organizational justice framework for platform engagement. The Journal of Applied Business and Economics, 27(5), 100-123.
    • Julies, M., Bhuiyan, S., & McMurtrey, M. (In Press). Hotel Supply Chain: Enhancing Operational Efficiency, Sustainability, and Resilience. The Journal of Strategic Innovation and Sustainability, 20(4).

ECONOMICS, FINANCE, and INSURANCE & RISK MANAGEMENT (EFIRM)

  • The EFIRM Department launched a new minor program, Economics and Insurance of Healthcare Administration, to help students understand the business of wellness.
  • The Arkansas Insurance Hall of Fame held its annual induction banquet on campus on October 16. Six Arkansans were inducted, and five scholarships were awarded to UCA insurance students.
  • The UCA Finance Club was established this semester under the leadership of Sarah Campbell. Its first meetings invited speakers including Chris McClanahan, Head of IB Recruiting; Anna Grace Mills, Associate in the Financial Institutions Group and Head of IB analyst program; and Evelyn Griffith, UCA grad and Associate in Private Wealth Management.
  • Internships are an important way to get experience before graduation. Just ask junior insurance major Madelyn Neel! Check out this UCA Career Services video where Madelyn shares about her internship at Berkley Southwest and the ways she’s gaining experience.
  • Insurance major Connor Black received a $1,000 scholarship from PIA. PIA is the Professional Insurance Agents (PIA) of Arkansas. PIA is on campus a couple of times each academic year hosting The Forum, in partnership with UCA’s Gamma Iota Sigma (the insurance student club). The goal of the forum is to maximize networking opportunities and career readiness for students, especially students that have chosen Insurance & Risk Management as major or minor. This is a campus-facing event, and industry professionals will also be in attendance.
  • Encore Banks’s Erin Simpson shared expertise with Dr. Huiqiong Duan’s Money and Banking class.
  • Dr. Mavuto Kalulu published a journal article with economics major David Tooley. The paper is titled, “Ethics Committees and Corruption: Do Ethics Committees Reduce Corruption Cases within State Legislatures?” When faculty coauthor with students, the faculty give these students valuable experience and increase the students’ chances of getting into graduate school.
  • Ivan Hudson, Director of the UCA Center for Insurance, was recently sworn in as the Treasurer for the Arkansas Association of Realtist, the local Board of National Association of Real Estate Brokers. Ivan has been a member of NAREB for about 8 years.
  • Students in our insurance program had the opportunity to hear guest speakers from one of the fastest-growing independent agencies and companies in the Inc 5000. G&G Independent Insurance guest speakers, Zane Harrod and Luke Koenigseder, shared some incredible insights on the industry, gave an account of a day in the life of an independent insurance agent, and explained why their organization is poised for growth. It wasn’t just the classroom presentations that impressed, but the conversations that continued afterwards. They are committed to investing in the next generation of insurance and risk management talent.
  • Dr. Jeremy Horpedahl is busy as always making everyday economics more accessible for scholars and citizens. Here are a few of his publications in the news, on blogs, and on social media.
  • Dr. Stephen Yao also contributed his expertise to WalletHub.
  • Justin Long, CFO of Restaurants at FoxDen Capital, spoke to Sarah Campbell’s Student Managed Investment Fund class on October 27. With a 14-year career as a Research Analyst at Stephens before he joined the private equity firm FoxDen Capital, Justin brought a wealth of insight into evaluating investment ideas and opportunities.
  • Granger Davis from Edward Jones put his whiteboard skills to the test for Sarah Campbell’s Student Managed Investment Fund class. Bringing decades of experience advising clients on investing for their futures, Granger provided a terrific perspective on how to bring finance skills to bear on behalf of clients.
  • Representative David Ray had a discussion with Thomas Snyder’s Law/Econ class.  He talked about the job of a legislator, the role of government, lawmaking, and economic policy.
  • Justice Rhonda Wood from the Arkansas Supreme Court talked to Dr. Snyder’s Law and Economics class, sharing about recent relevant cases.
  • Dr. Snyder Thomas invited David Friedman to talk (via zoom) to his Law and Economics Class. David Friedman has had a distinguished career, including authoring the textbook used in Dr. Snyder’s class (“Law’s Order”).  During class, David Friedman talked about “Legal Systems Very Different from Ours,” which is the title of another book he wrote.
  • Sarah Campbell invited Jay Strickland from Legacy Capital talk to her Student Managed Investment Fund class. Jay gave a wide-ranging talk that touched on how to build a portfolio and how to manage clients’ biases. Jay is a UCA alum, and we were thrilled to have him back.
  • Dr. Horpedahl spoke to students at Samford University in Alabama on September 18th, discussing trends in the wealth of recent generations and previewing some of the results that will appear in his book on that topic. He was hosted by Samford professors Art Carden and Joy Buchanan.
  • Dr. Collin Hodges’ research was published, “Prescription opioid spillovers: Retail pharmacy level analysis,” in the Journal of Substance Use and Addiction Treatment.
  •  Alumni Ryder Pierce is an investment manager for the Bank of the Ozarks and was recently included on Arkansas’s prestigious 40 under 40 list.

MARKETING & MANAGEMENT (M&M)

  • As this fall’s Allison Entrepreneurship Series Speaker, Jakob Michaelis, a partner at Dave Creek Media, shared lunch and his extensive experience identifying timely solutions, including a new app, with students and faculty.
  • Dr. Benjamin Garner led a new “Speed Selling” event this semester involving 10 companies and 24 marketing and sales students. Each student completed 3-4 interviews and received feedback on their performance from potential employers. Huge success – connections were made; internships and jobs discussed. See a video of the event.
  • The Introduction to Business (BUAD 1300) students gave presentations this semester, and the top 7 groups presented in front of a full auditorium. Professor Ben Britton got a shout-out by the group presenting on Best Buy. Professor Tracy Suter got shout out by the group presenting on Amazon. Joe Cangelosi advised the group that reasearched Fedex.
  • Undergraduate students, Oluwadamilola Osundolire (Economics) and Robert Walker (Finance), mentored by Dr. Alex Chen presented their artificial intelligence research at the DSI conference in Orlando, FL. Dr. Ming Li also presented her research.
  • Dr. McKenzie’s Project Management class completes service-learning projects each semester. One of those projects included a group of students who organized a clean-up of the Stone Dam Creek to assist in preserving the natural beauty of the UCA campus.
  • Drs. Jamila Maxie, Ben Britton, David McCalman, and Tracy Suter had their case study about Rhea Lana’s Children’s Consignment conditionally accepted for academic journal publication.  This was part of a strategic effort to tie the John W. Allison Entrepreneurial Speaker Series to clearer, longer-term teaching and research outcomes by showcasing and highlighting local firms in global outlets.
  • Our Conway-area 75Strong group met with our local coalition at the Conway Chamber to build out an even stronger entrepreneurial ecosystem locally and statewide.
  • Conductor hosted a widely attended series of workshops throughout the semester, including a student pitch competition. Local CPAs Zee Barfoote and Austin Malone discussed handling a startup’s early finances in their Conductor session called “Your Startup’s First CFO: YOU!” as part of the Conductor series.
  • Dr. Steve Schlachter’s class, MGMT 3346 Strategic Human Resource Management, hosted guest speaker Moriah Bruner, Manager of Health and Well-Being at Arkansas Blue Cross and Blue Shield.
  • Kaddie Bailey was honored with the Postsecondary ACTE Region IV Outstanding Business Student Award, issued by Association of Career and Technical Education. The Postsecondary ACTE Outstanding Business Student Award recognizes outstanding business students at the postsecondary level. To be eligible, students must be nominated by a member of the Business Education Division of the Association for Career and Technical Education (ACTE) and must demonstrate leadership potential through business courses and involvement in career and technical student organizations. The award is designed to honor five postsecondary students from each region, including Region IV, who have made significant contributions to their field.
  • A few years ago, Dr. Garner created a Content Marketing course at UCA to help students blend creativity, storytelling, and strategy in today’s digital landscape. As part of the class, students completed service-learning projects with Arkansas TV and other Central Arkansas organizations — gaining real-world experience while giving back. His research on the process was just published in Industry and Higher Education (2025).
  • The Bears Advancing Supply Chain and Operations Management (BASCOM) club invited several guest speakers this semester, including J.B. Hunt’s Jasmine John — Early Career Recruiter, Corporate; Bryan Epperson — Capacity Procurement Representative; and student Brody Patterson — Integrated Capacity Solutions Intern.
  • Dr. Tracy Suter was invited to join the Editorial Review Board of the Business Case Journal. It is one of three journals affiliated with the Society for Case Research.

MASTER OF BUSINESS ADMINISTRATION

  • Dr. Mark McMurtrey was honored this evening as an MVP, most valuable professor, for his impact on UCA’s student-athletes. He was nominated by Sugar Bear Samantha Cousins, who attends Dr. McMurtrey’s MBA Operations & Supply Chain Management course this semester.

It’s nearly impossible to highlight all the wonderful accomplishments of our students, alumni, faculty, and staff. If we missed yours, please let us know!

Four Students Represent COB in Miss UCA 2026 Pageant

14 UCA students pose in evening gowns as they compete in the Miss UCA 2026 Scholarship CompetitonHeld on Sunday, November 16, 2025, the Miss University of Central Arkansas Scholarship Competition showcased the talent, intelligence, and leadership of remarkable UCA students. The College of Business was proudly represented by four outstanding women who not only participated but also earned recognition for their efforts and excellence. We are proud of you all!

Congratulations to:
Izzy Saettele: Graduate Student in Accountancy and Data Analytics, COB Student Ambassador, Awarded Academic Achievement Award
Gabrielle Russell: Accounting Major, Awarded Bear Spirit Award
– Kierra Collier: Marketing Major, COB Student Ambassador
Abby Bounds: Information Systems Major, Awarded Third Runner Up, Producers Award, Miss Congeniality, Overall Evening Gown Award, and People’s Choice Award