The Senior Honor Citation award, established in 1965 honors the top undergraduate senior man and 
woman. Andrew Cole received this award in 1988 and his son, Austin Cole followed in his footsteps receiving the award in 2014. Andrew and Austin Cole are the only father and son to both receive the award in its 50 years.
“I cannot believe I have the privilege to hold the Senior Citation award along with my father. It is extremely humbling,” Austin Cole said. “I know how smart and successful people are on campus and I am just unspeakably thankful I was chosen among so many. It’s something my father and I both can cherish. It grows our bond even further.”
Austin said he’s been a die hard Hog fan since he ‘came out of the womb,’ his entire family has attended the U of A—parents, grandparents, aunts and uncles on both sides. He grew up hearing endless stories about his father’s times on campus and his family has had season tickets to Razorback games for as long as he can remember.
The father and son said they’ve gotten to enjoy tailgates, pep rallies and other athletic events together and they continue to create memories and share things involving the U of A.
“Watching my son accept the award at the close of his senior year is one of my favorite memories we have together. Getting to share stories and reminisce together about the campus is really great,” Andrew Cole said.
Austin was a member of many organizations and activities while at U of A including Lambda Chi Alpha fraternity, New Greek Council, honor societies, intramurals and Associated Student Government. He is currently attending University of Arkansas for Medical Sciences. “Like my father I was selected for that award, and like my father, maybe not the exact same kind, I’m pursuing medicine too,” Austin said.
“I’m also trying to just keep enjoying life including attending every home Razorback football game and marrying the most angelic young lady on the planet this summer,” Austin said.
Part of the award involved a lifetime membership for Austin and he said the Arkansas Alumni Association has helped him in his work as a postgraduate through the updates about news and events.
“We are so blessed. What are the odds both my son and I would receive the award. It’s somewhat of an overwhelming feeling of being humbled to get to share this award,” Andrew Cole said.
Continuing the U of A legacy, the Cole’s daughter and Austin’s sister Madison Cole, currently serves on the Student Alumni board as the membership chair.
