Misty Hughes was recently selected as the 2025 University of Arkansas Hope-Texarkana Outstanding Alumna. Hughes has been instrumental in helping students build bridges to brighter futures at UAHT for over 16 years. She has served in many roles at the college, including Power Plant Technology Advisor, Director of Testing, Student Services Specialist, Director of Advising & Title III Activity Director, and Dean of Institutional Effectiveness. In all her roles at UAHT, Misty has shown an unwavering dedication to improving the lives of students in the southwest Arkansas area. She is passionate about education and is a vital part of the college's success.
As a 2002 graduate of UAHT, Misty understands the transformative power of community colleges. She has seen firsthand how these institutions can break down barriers to a college education and set students on a trajectory for success. UAHT is proud to have Misty, among many other great women, as part of its team. Her dedication and hard work have played a significant role in making the college a place where students can succeed, and her journey is an inspiration to us all.
According to her Alum of the Year nomination letter, Misty is not just committed and dedicated, she is the embodiment of these qualities. She practices what she preaches, leading by example. Her genuine care for this institution and its mission is evident in every action she takes. Her kindness and respect for her colleagues have earned her their admiration. She has truly given back to the institution where she began her higher education journey, and her commitment is a shining example for all of us.
Please join everyone at UAHT in congratulating Misty Hughes as the 2025 UAHT Outstanding Alumna.
Jones Selected as Outstanding Staff Member of the Year at UA Hope-Texarkana
Each year, the University of Arkansas Hope-Texarkana honors an outstanding staff member. UAHT is proud to announce that this year’s winner is Wendy Jones. Wendy has served in the human resources department since 2021.
Her nomination letters stated: Wendy is the embodiment of this award’s purpose—demonstrating unwavering dedication, positivity, and a deep commitment to the UAHT community. She consistently goes above and beyond the call of duty. Whether stepping in as the Chancellor’s assistant during a transitional period or juggling multiple responsibilities gracefully and efficiently, Wendy does it all with a can-do attitude and a smile. She has reliably taken on additional roles, filled in during staff shortages, and still maintained excellence in her own duties. Her adaptability and commitment have kept operations running smoothly more times than we can count.
But Wendy’s impact isn’t just in what she does—it’s in how she does it. She brings contagious energy, warmth, and kindness to every interaction. She’s one of those people who light up a room and make others feel welcome, seen, and supported. Many of us can point to Wendy as the person who made us feel at home at UAHT.
Her service-minded approach extends beyond her daily responsibilities. Wendy is a driving force behind campus events and initiatives like the Holiday Forum Committee, Women of UAHT (Texarkana Casino Night), and the BBB Committee. She brings the same dedication and heart to these efforts, helping build a strong, connected community.
Wendy is not just a team player—she’s a team lifter. Her work ethic, generosity, and genuine care for her colleagues and the campus community make her indispensable. She exemplifies the spirit of excellence in every way. There is no one more deserving of this recognition.
Please join the UAHT family in thanking Wendy Jones for her dedication to serving students and colleagues at the University of Arkansas Hope-Texarkana.
Schroader Selected as Outstanding Faculty Member of the Year at UA Hope-Texarkana
HOPE/TEXARKANA, AR – May 14, 2025
Each year, the University of Arkansas Hope-Texarkana honors an outstanding faculty member. UAHT is proud to announce that this year's winner is Jessica Schroader. Jessica is the Director of the Practical Nursing program and has served as a member of the health professions faculty at the college since 2018.
Jessica’s nomination letters stated: Her leadership, compassion, and unwavering commitment to student and faculty success have transformed the nursing program and inspired everyone around her. Since stepping into her role as Director of the Practical Nursing Program, Jessica has been instrumental in improving the NCLEX pass rate to an impressive 100%. This achievement reflects not just her high standards but also her tireless support for students and instructors. She works one-on-one with students to help them master difficult material, ensuring no one is left behind. Her belief in every student’s potential is evident in her daily actions.
Her leadership creates a culture of excellence and unity. Jessica leads with empathy and purpose, motivating the entire team with her passion for nursing education. Her vision for success is clear, and she brings others along with her, not by pressure, but by example. When another teacher experienced a personal loss, Jessica didn’t hesitate to step in and cover her classes, showing the same compassion to colleagues that she shows to students.
As a mentor, she’s helped many of her colleagues grow—whether new instructors finding their footing or seasoned faculty developing new skills. Her support during transitions and challenges is unmatched. If someone is new to teaching and overwhelmed, Jessica patiently answers every question and ensures the right tools and guidance are always within reach. She’s the type of leader who never makes a person feel alone in their work.
Jessica also excels in communication. She keeps the team informed and connected, which fosters trust and collaboration. Her availability, clarity, and willingness to listen make a difference in the everyday experience of teaching at UAHT.
Jessica Schroader has elevated the Nursing Program through measurable outcomes like increased pass rates and by cultivating an environment where students and faculty alike are supported, challenged, and inspired. Her leadership, heart, and tireless efforts make her truly deserving of this recognition.
Please join everyone at UAHT in thanking Jessica Schroader for her dedication to serving students at the University of Arkansas Hope-Texarkana.