PINE BLUFF, Arkansas -- For the second straight year, University of Arkansas at Pine Bluff Director of Athletics Lonza Hardy, Jr., and the entire athletic department have gathered at the Pine Bluff Convention Center for a two-day staff retreat; geared at refocusing, re-energizing and building stronger alliances within the department as the university prepares for another exciting year of sports in Golden Lions Nation.On the first day of this two-day event, after a continental breakfast, opening remarks were made by Hardy, Jr. He reminded his staff of the successes from the past year and made sure that everyone answers the charge of promoting quality student-athletes with a strong emphasis on winning.
Following AD Hardy's opening remarks, UAPB's new chancellor Dr. Laurence B. Alexander unveiled his vision for the university; as faculty and staff alike have welcomed his leadership and embraces his changes.
"We need to emphasize the importance of giving back to the university and also focus on nurturing the entrepreneurial spirit within the university", said Alexander.
After Chancellor Alexander's uplifting address, Arkansas State Senator the honorable Henry "Hank" Wilkins IV took the podium to deliver a motivational speech that was centered around providing great customer service and reminding the real reason why those at the university have jobs: The students.
"It's not about you, too often our ego's get in the way of the real task at hand. We have to have better customer service when address the needs of the university", remarked Wilkins.
The staff broke for an hour lunch after Senator Wilkins wrapped up his speech. Following the intermission, Dr. Jewel Walker and her appointed panel members consisting of Dr. Mary Brently, Dr. Janice Coleman and Dr. Charles Colen, spoke to the staff about the importance of academics and the different resources available to current and potential student- athletes.
In a section titled Grants and Scholarship Opportunities, Mr. George Richardson and Ms. Constance Castle covered areas specific to funding the cost of educational obligations student- athletes may incur while attending the university.
Next on the agenda, was an assistant coach's forum with areas of interest consisting of community service projects, fundraising, academic and professional development. This was an hour long panel discussion session that paid special attention to the roles of assistant coaches and how they assist with the views and ideas of their respective head coaches.
As the first day drew to a close the first of two breakout sessions, which was a round table forum, that included academics, athletics training, media relations and athletics facilities led to the wrap-up portion of the first day with remarks from the AD brought the first day to close. A teambuilding exercise at the Thunder Lanes Bowling Alley fueled the competitive nature of all involved in athletics at the university.
Day two of the staff retreat has schedule full invigorating and inspiring speakers, including the Mayor of Pine Bluff the honorable Debe Hollingsworth, former chancellor Lawrence A. Davis, Jr., and many more. A community service event is scheduled for 6:30 pm with the residents of Whispering Knolls and The Gardens for an ice cream social and board games hosted by a Pastor Edna Morgan.
This event is open to media and coaches will be on hand to answer questions about the upcoming athletic seasons.
COURTESY UNIVERSITY OF ARKANSAS PINE BLUFF SPORTS INFORMATION
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