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First Generation Student stoles from UAFS
First GenerationStudents

First-To-Go Offer Advice to First Years

First-generation students from the University of Arkansas - Fort Smith who are gearing up for graduation offer advice to incoming students to succeed.

May 08, 2026
Portrait of Dr. Susan DeWoody
AlumniBell Tower

Borrowing Belief: The Leadership Journey of Susan DeWoody

Susan DeWoody came to the University of Arkansas - Fort Smith, then Westark College, as a first-generation student. She left with the tools needed to succeed and help others, eventually becoming the first female provost at Oklahoma Baptist University...

May 01, 2026
Portrait of Hannah Seal from the UAFS Campus Green
Business and IndustryFirst GenerationHealth Education and Human SciencesLion Voices

First-Generation Student Spotlight: Hannah Seal

Hannah Seal, a dental hygiene student, overcame the death of her mom while in elementary school to become the first member of her family to attend college right after high school. By attending the University of Arkansas - Fort Smith, she can stay...

December 02, 2025
Sarahi Ibarra (center) is surrounded by family and friends during her spring 2025 graduation from UAFS
AlumniArts and Sciences

Upward Bound to Law School

University of Arkansas - Fort Smith alum, Sarahi Ibarra, class of 2025, found success through programs and community on her way to law school.

August 21, 2025
Troy Rodriguez smiles in front of the lion mural at the UAFS Alumni Center
Business and IndustryLion Voices

Delayed but not Defeated, Troy Rodriguez Earns UAFS Degree

First-generation student Troy Rodriguez will graduate from the University of Arkansas - Fort Smith on May 10 with a degree in business administration. The accomplishment comes after stepping away from school before returning two years later.

May 05, 2025
Nigel Otero, advising coordinator, College of Business and Industry, stands outside of his office on the second floor of the Flanders Building
AlumniBusiness and IndustryFirst GenerationLion Voices

Nigel Otero: Turning Opportunities into Inspiration

When Nigel Otero came to the University of Arkansas - Fort Smith, he did so knowing it was an opportunity he wouldn't squander. Now, as an advising coordinator for the College of Business and Industry, he's working to inspire students to achieve...

March 31, 2025

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The UAFS Office of Communications fields all media inquiries for the university. Email Rachel.Putman@uafs.edu for more information.

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Rachel Rodemann Putman

  • Director of Strategic Communications
  • 479-788-7132
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