PRESS RELEASE

HOPE/TEXARKANA, AR – May 19, 2022

Doug and Joelle Marcaida recently established the Doug Marcaida K.E.A.L. (Keep Everyone Always Learning) Club Scholarship at the University of Arkansas Hope-Texarkana James Black School of Bladesmithing and Historic Trades. The scholarship will be awarded to a student attending the James Black School of Bladesmithing and Historic Trades. Preference is given to a student pursuing a Certificate of Proficiency in Bladesmithing.

“It takes a spark to light a fire,” Marcaida said. “Sometimes, for different reasons, people do not have the initial spark. We hope this scholarship creates the spark to light the fire for those in need who otherwise would not pursue their passion or career due to financial issues. Be the spark!”

For every purchase made on Dougmarcaida.com, a donation will be made to the Doug Marcaida K.E.A.L. Club Scholarship Fund.

About the James Black School of Bladesmithing and Historic Trades:

The James Black School of Bladesmithing and Historic Trades celebrates, preserves, and promotes the art of bladesmithing and historic trades and the birth of the iconic Bowie Knife in Historic Washington. Students at the school study the art and science of Bladesmithing, Forging, Handles and Guards, Damascus Steel, and more.

The bladesmithing school is unique in the University of Arkansas System and reflects the same quality and commitment to excellence in student learning that is the centerpiece of the missions of both the University of Arkansas Hope-Texarkana and the University of Arkansas System. Become a part of a campus where history, art, and skill are celebrated and preserved.

The James Black School is located at Historic Washington State Park, 601 Lawrence Street, Washington, Arkansas. For more information, visit uaht.edu/bladesmithing.