The University of Central Arkansas[1] (UCA) in Conway announced Monday (Oct. 27) the launch of a Northwest Arkansas Advisory Council to “deepen the university’s connection” to Northwest Arkansas.
The council comprises a group of UCA alumni who will serve as strategic partners and advocates, helping to connect the university’s people, programs, and resources with the region.
“Northwest Arkansas is one of the most influential regions in the South, and UCA needs to be part of that story,” said Paul Gatling, UCA’s senior director of Northwest Arkansas engagement. “This council is how we start treating it like a partner in shaping the university’s future.”
The council’s mission is to strengthen UCA’s presence and impact in Northwest Arkansas “by unlocking untapped potential and deepening alumni engagement,” according to a news release. The council’s members “will advise university leadership, identify opportunities for collaboration and help shape initiatives that enhance UCA’s visibility and influence in the area.”
The council met for the first time Sept. 22 at Hunt Tower in the Pinnacle Hills area of Rogers. UCA President Houston Davis attended. In the meeting, members discussed the university’s vision for the region, shared ideas for partnerships and engagement, and explored ways in which UCA can support the region’s growth.
“UCA has more than 4,000 alumni in Benton and Washington counties, but we haven’t fully tapped into the opportunity that represents,” Davis said. “This council is how we begin to change that – by building stronger relationships, opening new doors and ensuring UCA plays a visible, lasting role in this region’s future.”
The council will meet twice annually with university leaders to share insights, provide feedback on engagement and help identify potential partners. According to the release, the focus is on “influence, not fundraising – creating meaningful bridges between the university and a region that continues to shape the future of Arkansas.”
“We were very intentional about who we asked to be part of this founding group,” Gatling said. “Each member is a proud UCA alum and has a real stake in the region.
“They’re here because they believe the university should have a stronger presence in Northwest Arkansas.”
Following are the founding members of the UCA Northwest Arkansas Advisory Council.
• Jennifer Martinez Belt (’99), Bentonville – chief philanthropy officer, Scott Family Amazeum.
• Jonathan Bricker (’01), Rogers – vice president, commercial banking, Regions Bank.
• Chris Brown (’00), Bentonville – owner, Signs of Good.
• Jeff Clifton (’93), Rogers – executive broker and land director, True North Realty Group.
• Kristin Daniel (’06), Bentonville – founder, Parity Financial Group.
• Ben Maddox (’11), Fayetteville – chief strategy officer, Acres.com.
• Michael McCullough (’11), Rogers – commercial director, Delta Systems & Automation.
“This is just the beginning,” Gatling said. “There are many Bears in Northwest Arkansas whose voices belong in this effort. If you’re a UCA alum or friend in the region and want to plug in, I’d love to hear from you.”
The council will continue its work through 2026 and beyond, building a framework to sustain partnerships and engagement “that reflect the shared growth and ambition of both UCA and Northwest Arkansas,” the release shows.
Related
References
- ^ University of Central Arkansas (uca.edu)