PINE BLUFF, Ark. — Homecoming festivities are well underway at the University of Arkansas at Pine Bluff this week.
Students and alumni are celebrating more than 150 years of academic achievement and cultural significance while highlighting the Renaissance of change happening on campus.
“Come enjoy UAPB because there will be a change, and a great change coming soon," said Interim Chancellor Dr. Andrea Stewart.
It's a special time for alumni and the community to return to pay love and respect to the school they call “Dear Mother."
But before the Marching Musical Machine of the Mid-South cranks up, the institution is under new leadership, with a familiar face leading the Pride for now.
Dr. Stewart currently sits as the interim chancellor after recently serving as the provost and vice chancellor, positions she does not take lightly.
“Stepping into this role and leading the institution means it's just an awesome opportunity," she said. "To really serve as a role model for young ladies that look like me, that come from first generation families, that can look upon persons such as I and say, oh, I can make a difference, and I can be successful just as well.”
Dr. Stewart is the second woman to serve in this position, and her success so far includes pushing current and new initiatives forward.
Millions of dollars have been poured into upgrading HVAC systems in dormitories and buildings around campus and even more amenities are being provided for students.
“The physical transformation on campus is going to be so exciting. We have a student engagement center that is going to be state-of-the-art. It would be a one-stop shop for students. It would include a mental health and wellness [center.] It's going to include our performing arts. It's going to include recreation for the students," Dr. Stewart said. “We also just renovated Larrison Hall, which is going to be one of our agriculture research centers, and it's going to have state-of-the-art labs, so we're looking forward to that from the School of Agriculture.”
While physical transformation is just as exciting, educating students is still at the forefront.
UAPB is proud of its cyber security and engineering programs. Plus, a new allied health center is in the works to give students immediate certification and licensure.
“We want to make sure that our students have the same opportunity to be successful and to come back to our communities," Dr. Stewart said.
If you’re making a trip down to Pine Bluff to enjoy homecoming festivities or need a taste of history from the past and in the making, the invitation is open to join "The Pride."