There is a noticeable increased pulse on campus that tells us the academic year is about to start. Traffic has increased. The Garland Avenue parking garage, which will also include new retail space for the University Bookstore, is under construction and restricting some of that traffic. Sororities are organizing their recruitment events. Fraternity men are moving into the houses. The Hogs are in two-a-day practices. And, we are all bracing ourselves for the start of our 138th year.
Last year, Chancellor David Gearhart made news by helping first-year students move into the residence halls. Perhaps inspired (or intimidated) by his example, many faculty and staff will be joining him as we welcome the Class of 2013 to The Hill. Several alumni staff members, including yours truly, will be helping on Move In Day. We will also be looking for Razorback Generations.
One of the new alumni programs, Razorback Generations, will identify multiple generations of University of Arkansas students. We know some, but are convinced that there are even more fourth and fifth generation Razorbacks represented on campus.
Be on the look-out for a special announcement next week surrounding the Razorbacks’ season opener in Little Rock on September 5.
If you are planning to attend a Hog game in Fayetteville, don’t forget to include the Pre-Game Rally at the Janelle Y. Hembree Alumni House. Early registration discounts end on August 28. Also, details for Razorback events surrounding the Southwest Classic versus Texas A&M in Dallas will be available shortly. I guess it is time to break out the Aggie joke books again!
Finally, the Alumni Association is about to welcome nearly 209 alumni scholars to campus. These outstanding students are supported by various scholarships funded by alumni contributions, Hog Tag license plates, chapter activities and membership dues. Robin January, the association’s scholarship coordinator, and I will be hosting a series of luncheons with 8-10 scholars throughout the fall. It is one of the most enjoyable duties of our job, and our thanks go to all of you for helping create these scholarships.
