This letter to alumni is difficult to write.

We should be sky-high in our anticipation of what some are saying is the most important football game in 40 years.  Friday’s game can finally make Arkansas a full-fledged member of the SEC. In spite of being a conference member for 20 years, the Hogs still, in my opinion, are not fully respected.  Friday is that turning point – a statement game.  But…

Instead, we have heavy hearts as a young man is taken from the campus and his teammates in a tragic, non-explainable passing. As an emotional Bobby Petrino said at Monday’s vigil, it’s not about football anymore, but people.

The entire University community grieves at this loss and Garrett Uekman will be remembered for a long time, not only as a promising football player, but as the kind of son that any parent would be proud to hug – a quality student, engaging personality and value driven young man.

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At this time of year, the staff of the Arkansas Alumni Association always reflects upon the wonderful people we meet over the course of the year. We are thankful for all of you who continue to support our efforts through your membership in the Association. Many of you also contributed your valuable time to help as volunteer leaders at the chapter and national levels. This year in particular, volunteers helped us initiate the “Helpin’ Like a Hog” program that helped tornado victims in Denning and Joplin, Mo. The Association’s success is directly related to all of you out there who love your alma mater and continue to keep it great through your support.

Personally, I am additionally thankful for the wonderful colleagues that I work with daily. During the past 15 months, we have lost 12 staff members. The time and energy required to bring the new folks up to speed are monumental, especially as we continue to provide service and create programs to connect and serve alumni. Thank you for being patient while we work to get there.

The “surviving” staff has served double duty in the absence of staff.  I can never express my appreciation enough for their loyalty and dedication.

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And now another staff member is departing.  Michelle Bell, who for the past 11 years has organized all of our athletic-related programs to key away games, bowl games and SEC basketball tournaments, is leaving to become a tour director in Southeast Asia. She has always fought to provide the highest quality product and included an unexpected event in each of these road trips. In addition, she has coordinated all of our international travel programs, helped establish Arkansas’ first international alumni organization in Panama, and shepherded the Latino Alumni Society from an idea to chartering as an official organization of the Association.  We thank her for her service and wish her well.

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Finally, many of you know that I have announced my retirement after 24 years in this position. Kris and I were attracted to Arkansas because of the enthusiasm and kindness we felt in Arkansans. There will be many opportunities between now and June to offer my personal thank you, but, at this time of year, I am especially moved knowing how you helped and encouraged me to make the Association one of the nation’s very best. Thanks!