Linda Bedford-Jackson is a life member of the Arkansas Alumni Association and a member of the association’s National Board of Directors. She is director of the Center for Civic Engagement and Community Outreach at Hutson-Tillotson University in Austin, Texas. She graduated with a Bachelor of Arts in journalism from the University of Arkansas in 1980.
The following interview was conducted by association member Collin Brunner B.S.H.E.S.’10, assistant director of membership experience. The interview transcript has been edited.
What does membership in the Arkansas Alumni Association mean to you?
Membership in the Arkansas Alumni Association has been a journey from receiving a complimentary membership when I graduated to paying for a discounted membership to maintaining the connection now as a life member. My passion for the association’s work was made clear when I connected with the Black Alumni Society. It was there that I was able to make “giving back” meaningful. The ability to tell prospective students the U of A story from my experiences makes the road easier for them. Providing scholarship funds, reading scholarship applications, and engaging in leadership or mentoring opportunities connect my life to a greater purpose.
Why is membership important?
I view the importance of membership as, “what if.” What if the association did not exist? What if there were no alumni giving toward scholarship opportunities for students? What if U of A graduates around the world had no connection other than the fact that they are graduates? Membership is our existence.
What are your favorite memories or places to visit on campus?
I usually return to Fayetteville about three times a year, and I take the opportunity to attend events, groundbreakings, senior walk ceremonies, football games, or track and field meets. I also enjoy activities that extend beyond campus such as a UA gospel choir (Inspirational Chorale) performance at the Walton Arts Center or the opportunity to visit jewels in the area such as the Crystal Bridges Museum of American Art. I am awed at the fact that I can still walk those hills to just stroll around campus to familiar places such as the building where journalism is housed where I spent so much time as an undergraduate, and other familiar places such as the student union, Greek theater, and the Pomfret residence hall.
What experiences during your time at the University of Arkansas prepared you to accomplish your goals?
I walked across the stage on a Saturday to receive my diploma and reported to work on Monday as a reporter at what was then the Arkansas Democrat. The faculty resources aided in networking and job opportunities. Working at the Arkansas Traveler newspaper as a reporter prepared me for my career choice. Working in the journalism computer laboratory piqued my interest in graphic design that allowed me to build it into a career that complemented my writing abilities.
Did you have a mentor, class, or activity that enhanced your campus experience?
Earning a college degree is a challenging, painstaking process with many ups and downs, twists and turns. However, I made my experience memorable during my four years at the U of A. My life centered around track, journalism, work and the social experience. I remember working as a work-study student in the Mullins Library, starting my journalism interest as a campus reporter and later as a sports writer and editor. Serving as the Razorback Yearbook organization’s editor allowed me to meet many classmates and highlight the vast organizations. Although there were few blacks enrolled at the time, I found family with my track team and sorority members. I was part of a few firsts such as the first African American female track athlete and sports editor of the Arkansas Traveler, in addition to serving as a charter member of Zeta Phi Beta Sorority, Incorporated, Phi Theta Chapter. These experiences solidified life-long relationships that bring memories and excitement.
