Voice of Our Leader
Greetings UAPB/AM&N Alumni!
MS. TANESHA WASHINGTON THOMPSON
Your UAPB/AM&N National Alumni Association started and is still going STRONG with our “UAPB Everyday: 365 Platform”. This endeavor is not for the weak or half-hearted because I have invited the Board of Directors and YOU (our alumni members) to consider Dear Mother EVERY SINGLE DAY of the year! Yes, I realize you are busy with your career! Yes, I realize some of you are winding down to retirement. Yes, I realize so many of you are out in the community connecting through service organizations, your church, and in politics. However, as an alumni group, we have to stop only loving on or paying attention to Dear Mother when we are together celebrating a classic weekend, during homecoming or when we are in the news. There is SO MUCH work to do, we need YOU to ask yourself EVERY SINGLE DAY: “What can I do to make our university better, create opportunities for our students, and leave a legacy as an alumni member?”
Your UAPB/AM&N National Alumni Association, Board of Directors, and staff are committed EVERY SINGLE DAY in addressing the following:
Student Recruitment & Retention: Through the board, there is a committee dedicated in working with the Office of Recruitment to train chapters in learning the skills to effectively recruit students within their own cities. This connection with the Office of Recruitment also allows the association to become ambassadors in supporting all alumni in developing new relationships within their communities to guide students in making UAPB their school of choice.
Alumni Voice: The Alumni Association, Board of Directors, staff, and I and need to hear from you! We want to address your concerns, we are here to answer questions, and we want to put your suggestions in place. Which brings me to my next point: Our Board of Directors and staff are inviting our alumni to partner with us to be SOLUTION BASED in our communication and direction. Continue to reach out to us with questions and/or concerns, but do so with a solution in mind. This is OUR association and it takes ALL of us to find the answers!
National Alumni Center Campaign: Have you heard that we are STILL dedicated to our biggest project in the history of our formation? YES! We are STILL working extremely hard to raise $2.8 million to construct a masonry and glass l 0,000 square foot state of the art Alumni Center! This facility will include an alumni hall, meeting rooms, a board room and much more. This campaign provides a tremendous opportunity for all alumni to unite to support the building of this new event center that will be a service to students and alumni for years to come. Please contact the Alumni Association Office to find out how YOU can be a part of history. There are giving levels and giving opportunities for every budget level.
Alumni/University Connection: The Alumni Association continues moving forward in its purpose of fostering an ongoing partnership between the alumni of UAPB and the University itself that ultimately gives our students the support they need to complete their education and then use what they’ve learned to make the world a better place. By doing so, we are also mentoring young alumni in chapter service work in an effort to have them lead chapters in their communities.
Giving: First, I want to invite all our alumni to read our UAPB Alumni Voices ROAR Newsletter, follow us on social media and look out for updates on our website. Collectively, the Board of Directors and local chapters are working to get the word out about events, ways to support, and membership. Secondly, the association supports two staff that handle the day- to- day operations of running a network. Our association is the liaison to the university’s leadership and alumni. We also directly support students in mentoring, volunteer opportunities, networking and scholarships, including the Dire Needs Scholarship.
Scholarship Challenge: Under the 365 Challenge, we are asking YOU to donate what you can under this theme whether it is $36.50, $365, or $3650. I need you to show up and show out with your desire to pay it forward and help students fulfill that dream of walking across the stage to obtain their degree!
Homecoming/Membership: we are EXCITED about Homecoming as we do Homecoming like no other HBCU! You are invited to the Alumni Awards Luncheon where we will crown the 2023 Alumni Queen, recognize our 2023 Hall of Fame Inductees, and acknowledge AMAZING individuals and chapters While we want you to enjoy seeing old friends, making new connections, and celebrating at all the festivities; we also want you to use this time to SUPPORT the association. You can still join at the base investment of $50 for the 2023 year or increase your membership level (Silver Life, Gold Life, Platinum Life or Diamond Life) and/or pay in advance for the 2024 year.
I am grateful and honored to serve as your president because this university set a beautiful foundation in my life.
Serving with PRIDE,
In Service and Support,
Tanesha Washington Thompson
President and Chair
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UAPB AM&N National Alumni Association
Alumni Voices Roar Newsletter
Did You Know?
The power of our alumni, as a collective voice, has been consistently demonstrated throughout the past 150 years. The Alumni Association marks its sesquicentennial; reflecting over the first century and a half of the University’s service to students, parents, communities, fellow alumni and the Nation shows just cause for celebration.
Will You Help Defend Our Legacy?
“Dear Mother”, The University of Arkansas at Pine Bluff, Arkansas is OUR legacy. It was authorized in 1873 by the Reconstruction-era legislature as the Branch Normal College and open in 1875. It is the ONLY land grant university/ college in the state of Arkansas.
Chapter Development Empowers Local Alumni Chapters
Alumni Chapters are the heart and soul of the UAPB/AM&N National Alumni Association. They not only represent University of Arkansas at Pine Bluff (UAPB) alums, but they help undergird “Dear Mother” in numerous ways.
The Pine Bluff/Jefferson County Alumni Chapter: A Beacon of Success and Community Engagement
In the heart of Pine Bluff, Arkansas, a remarkable group of individuals regularly devote their time, talent and treasure as members of the Pine Bluff/Jefferson County Alumni Chapter. Under the leadership of Chapter President Dr. Hazell Reed, this flagship organization has become a shining example of what can be achieved when a community works together with dedication and purpose.
Dire Need Scholarship Fund
The Dire Need Scholarship Fund was designed to help UAPB students who have a critical financial need. Students who have exhausted all means of financial aid, student loans and family support and do not have the capability of paying their outstanding college balance can apply for this scholarship.
Mark Evans II Drafted by the New Orleans Saints
Mark Evan II was drafted by the New Orleans Saints, April 2023.
Sports Spotlight – 2023 Southern Heritage Classic
The successful planning and organization of the classic would not have been possible without the outstanding leadership and organization from the Memphis Alumni Association lead by chapter president Mr. Johnnie Young and Southern Heritage Classic committee chair Mr. Jimmy Foxx (National Alumni Board Member and Memphis Alumni Chapter).
Alumni Highlight – Mr. Walker L. Fleming III
Mr. Fleming has a distinguished career spanning over 30 years of experience in Fortune 500 aerospace, telecommunications and energy companies.
Alumni National and International News – Dr. Charity Smith-Allen
Dr. Charity Fleming Smith (Allen) is the Principal Associate for Education at Fetterman and Associates serving with a proven track record for improving the performance of under-performing students and school districts.
Alumni Highlight – Quiana Pinckey
Comcast has announced the appointment of Quiana Pinckney as Vice President of Employee Communications at its Central Division Headquarters in Atlanta, Georgia.
Alumni Highlight – Authur Divers
This 94-year-old highly educated Detroiter remains turned on by serving his community. Arthur Divers, a 43-year Detroit school teacher and counselor remains passionately committed to helping his neighbors and city.
Sports Spotlight – Mr. Terron Armstead Current NFL Offensive Lineman for the Miami Dolphins
In his career, Armstead has been named to three Pro Bowls! A native of Cahokia, Illinois, Armstead attended Cahokia High School, where he was a letterman in football and track.
Sports Spotlight – Ms. Barbara Breedlove
Barbara Breedlove a native of Pine Bluff, Arkansas attended Dollarway High School where she was a three-year varsity athlete and standout guard for the lady cardinals, with record setting average for points per game.
Chapter News – Southern Heritage Classic
“Dear Mother” has been selected to play in this historic 34th SHC football game against Tennessee State University. Kickoff is scheduled for 6pm Saturday, September 9, 2023 at Simmons Bank/Liberty Stadium, Memphis TN. The Memphis Chapter is currently selling tickets.
Alumni Giving
We are striving to raise the $2.8 million for the construction of the UAPB/ AM&N Alumni Center. We need you help!
Alumni Center Update
We are pleased to announce the Alumni Center Building Campaign has resumed effective January 1, 2022.
Alumni Highlight – Mr. Walker L. Fleming III
Mr. Fleming has a distinguished career spanning over 30 years of experience in Fortune 500 aerospace, telecommunications and energy companies.
Alumni Highlight – Quiana Pinckey
Comcast has announced the appointment of Quiana Pinckney as Vice President of Employee Communications at its Central Division Headquarters in Atlanta, Georgia.
Alumni Highlight – Authur Divers
This 94-year-old highly educated Detroiter remains turned on by serving his community. Arthur Divers, a 43-year Detroit school teacher and counselor remains passionately committed to helping his neighbors and city.
In Memory of David Walters
David Wayne Walters, Sr., an amazing entrepreneur, mentor, published author of two books and an accomplished saxophonist, loved being a Golden Lion. One of his greatest joys was securing the crown as the UAPB/AM&N National Alumni King in 2016.
Alumni Highlight – Dr. Laquita Stribling
It's very rewarding to help people find jobs and advance their careers and help companies find the right employees to run their businesses.
Alumni Highlight – Mr. Tom Bennett
"To say I come from humble beginnings would be an understatement. It is a long way from an Arkansas farm to corporate offices. I owe much to UAPB."
Alumni Highlight – Congressman Danny K. Davis
Representative Davis is resolutely committed to preserving our democracy, protecting social security, maintaining our nation’s gains in civil and human rights, women’s rights, voting rights, protection of the environment, consumer, and labor protections, reducing inequality, and ensuring quality, affordable health care for all.
Alumni Highlight: Dr. Matt King ’92
The University of Arkansas, Pine Bluff beat out Morehouse and Howard for Dr. Matt King when he was looking into where to attend college. His family has roots in Arkansas and staying close to home with the support of family and community made all the difference for Matt.
Alumni Highlight – Dr. Ruth D. Jones ’94
Dr. Jones is acting deputy director at the National Aeronautics and Space Administration (NASA) Michoud Assembly Facility in New Orleans, LA. She is responsible for the day-to-day management of the multi-tenant manufacturing facility, where NASA’s Space Launch System (SLS) and Orion spacecraft are being built.
Alumni National and International News – Dr. Charity Smith-Allen
Dr. Charity Fleming Smith (Allen) is the Principal Associate for Education at Fetterman and Associates serving with a proven track record for improving the performance of under-performing students and school districts.
Four Honored as 2022 Compassionate and Committed Service National Award Recipients
Four outstanding individuals were presented with the 2022 Compassionate and Committed Service Award. Honorees included Diane Gentry Martin, Shannon Hendrix and Jackey Cason, and Don Andrews.
Attorney Ben Crump
Pine Bluff, AR — On Friday, December 9th, the University of Arkansas at Pine Bluff (UAPB) hosted its 166th commencement exercises. One hundred sixty-six graduates received bachelor’s and Master’s degrees from the five schools: School of Agriculture, Fisheries, and Human Sciences; School of Arts and Sciences; School of Business and Management; School of Education; and University College
Teamwork at its Best!
During this time that most of the nation is experiencing extreme summer heat and sweltering temperatures, it is the perfect time to remember the historic winter storm that occurred in February 2021.
UAPB/AM&N Alumni Center Partner Program
The Partner’s Program is a creative way for alumni to help raise funds for the Alumni Center while creating credits toward their desired donation amount.
Alumni Giving – The Data Speaks
Alumni giving is essential for the support and success of current and future students in institutions of higher learning and is the best way to express appreciation to the college life experience and education obtained while helping to ensure the institution’s ability to continue to serve students in the future.
Give to the Alumni Association when you shop at Amazon Smile
Sign up for AmazonSmile and select University of Arkansas Pine Bluff Ark Agri Mech & Normal Alumni as your preferred charity at https://smile.amazon.com/ch/71-0503764
Deadline for Advertising Spots in Hall of Fame Program
The deadline for reserving advertising space in the 2020 and 2021 UAPB AM&N National Alumni Association Hall of Fame Induction Ceremony Program is fast approaching!
Regarding COVID-19
During Homecoming 2021, the National Alumni Association will not be sponsoring any activities in person.
UAPB Alumni Association Elections
The UAPB/AM&N National Alumni Association recently held elections for executive officers and board of directors.
Chapter Development Empowers Local Alumni Chapters
Alumni Chapters are the heart and soul of the UAPB/AM&N National Alumni Association. They not only represent University of Arkansas at Pine Bluff (UAPB) alums, but they help undergird “Dear Mother” in numerous ways.
The Pine Bluff/Jefferson County Alumni Chapter: A Beacon of Success and Community Engagement
In the heart of Pine Bluff, Arkansas, a remarkable group of individuals regularly devote their time, talent and treasure as members of the Pine Bluff/Jefferson County Alumni Chapter. Under the leadership of Chapter President Dr. Hazell Reed, this flagship organization has become a shining example of what can be achieved when a community works together with dedication and purpose.
Dire Need Scholarship Fund
The Dire Need Scholarship Fund was designed to help UAPB students who have a critical financial need. Students who have exhausted all means of financial aid, student loans and family support and do not have the capability of paying their outstanding college balance can apply for this scholarship.
Chapter News – Southern Heritage Classic
“Dear Mother” has been selected to play in this historic 34th SHC football game against Tennessee State University. Kickoff is scheduled for 6pm Saturday, September 9, 2023 at Simmons Bank/Liberty Stadium, Memphis TN. The Memphis Chapter is currently selling tickets.
Chapter News – Phillips county
The Phillips County Alumni Chapter is working on rechartering the Phillips County Club, which would be a student-governed "hometown club" organization under the Office of Student Involvement.
Indianapolis UAPB/AM&N Alumni Chapter Awards Scholarship Funds to Two Graduating Seniors
The Indianapolis UAPB/AM&N Alumni is pleased to announce our 2022 scholarship recipients. Help us congratulate Ja’Vonn Gray and RaNetra Hamilton, who are both graduating seniors at the University of Arkansas at Pine Bluff! They were each awarded scholarships in the amount of $1,500.
UAPB Students Receive Scholarships
During the Fall 2021 and Spring 2022 semesters, 22 University of Arkansas at Pine Bluff (UAPB) students were awarded a total of $14,564.59 in scholarships for tuition, books and online educational access codes by the alumni. The students who received assistance reside in Arkansas, Georgia, Illinois, Missouri, Oklahoma and Tennessee. We thank everyone for their contributions, especially during the global COVID pandemic!
Did You Know?
The power of our alumni, as a collective voice, has been consistently demonstrated throughout the past 150 years. The Alumni Association marks its sesquicentennial; reflecting over the first century and a half of the University’s service to students, parents, communities, fellow alumni and the Nation shows just cause for celebration.
DID YOU KNOW Branch Normal History ?
The National Alumni Association continues our “Did You Know” segment. Trivia questions are posted that are related to AM&N/UAPB Alumni, Students, Faculty, Staff, Associates, Friends, Fans, and any Follower to answer. Here’s your chance to prove your knowledge of the past, present and future and win a prize by doing so!
How well do you know “Dear Mother” and her history?
The National Alumni Association continues our “Did You Know” segment. Trivia questions are posted that are related to AM&N/UAPB Alumni, Students, Faculty, Staff, Associates, Friends, Fans, and any Follower to answer.
Here’s your chance to prove your knowledge of the past, present and future and win a prize by doing so!
How Well Do You Know “Dear Mother” and Her History?
Here's your chance to prove your knowledge of the past, present and future and win a prize by doing so! Test yourself with the questions below!
Will You Help Defend Our Legacy?
“Dear Mother”, The University of Arkansas at Pine Bluff, Arkansas is OUR legacy. It was authorized in 1873 by the Reconstruction-era legislature as the Branch Normal College and open in 1875. It is the ONLY land grant university/ college in the state of Arkansas.
Editorial – Lincoln Butler
During a lifetime, you may change careers several times. We would like to encourage UAPB Alumni to reinvent themselves and consider new challenges and seek out new horizons.
Editorial
Congratulations to all UAPB Alumni who were recently elected as public officials, as well as those who have remained in office and continue to serve these United States of America. The recent election was rewarding, as well as disappointing in several areas. Nevertheless, we continue to move forward as a people.
The Editorial
Vice President Harris charged us to be vigilant in our efforts this fall as we go to the polls, register others to vote and support our local and national democratic political action committees.
Solution to the HBCU Crisis: Alumni Must Give Back
I’m taking this time to send a critical message to HBCU alumni, and all who are connected to and have benefited from an HBCU: Our schools are in crisis, and they can’t be saved without an annual contribution from you.
Mark Evans II Drafted by the New Orleans Saints
Mark Evan II was drafted by the New Orleans Saints, April 2023.
Sports Spotlight – 2023 Southern Heritage Classic
The successful planning and organization of the classic would not have been possible without the outstanding leadership and organization from the Memphis Alumni Association lead by chapter president Mr. Johnnie Young and Southern Heritage Classic committee chair Mr. Jimmy Foxx (National Alumni Board Member and Memphis Alumni Chapter).
Sports Spotlight – Mr. Terron Armstead Current NFL Offensive Lineman for the Miami Dolphins
In his career, Armstead has been named to three Pro Bowls! A native of Cahokia, Illinois, Armstead attended Cahokia High School, where he was a letterman in football and track.
Sports Spotlight – Ms. Barbara Breedlove
Barbara Breedlove a native of Pine Bluff, Arkansas attended Dollarway High School where she was a three-year varsity athlete and standout guard for the lady cardinals, with record setting average for points per game.
Arkansas Sports Hall of Famer The Legendary Oliver Elders
Elders graduated from Arkansas AM&N College (now University of Arkansas at Pine Bluff) in 1954. He spent 36 years as Head Coach – breaking racial barriers in the middle of nationwide desegregation, 35 of which came with the Little Rock School District at Horace Mann and Hall High School.
Coach H. O. Clemmons, One of the Greatest in UAPB History
Coach Hubert. O. Clemmons served the University of Arkansas at Pine Bluff for 56 years in various capacities – Athletic Director, Head Basketball Coach and Assistant Professor in the Department of Health, Physical, Education and Recreation.
Bettye Avery Fields – UAPB/AM&N Letter Cheerleader, 1965-1969
Bettye was a Golden Lion Cheerleader from 1965 – 1969 and has continued to demonstrate her school spirit by advocating, donating her time and money to Dear Mother for the last 50 years.
Sports Spotlight – Why L.C. Greenwood Should Be in the NFL Hall of Fame
The UAPB AM&N National Alumni Association sent a letter to the Pro Football Hall of Fame encouraging one of AM&N’s own to be inducted into the NFL Hall of Fame.
Sports Spotlight – 1977-1978 Women’s Basketball
We look back upon University of Arkansas at Pine Bluff Women’s Golden Lions Basketball and its 1977-78 Championship Team.
Student Spotlight – Kalan Hooks
Hailing from Kansas City, MO, Kalan was interested in attending the University of Arkansas at Pine Bluff after hearing about their amazing band: Marching Musical Machine of the Mid-South! He auditioned and was awarded a band scholarship to play in the clarinet section, thus beginning his journey into the PRIDE.
Give to the Alumni Association when you shop at Amazon Smile
Sign up for AmazonSmile and select University of Arkansas Pine Bluff Ark Agri Mech & Normal Alumni as your preferred charity at https://smile.amazon.com/ch/71-0503764
If you know of an alumni news story that you believe should be featured on the National Alumni Association website and in the Alumni Voices Roar newsletter, let us know!
