UA Hope-Texarkana Marks 60 Years with Diamond Jubilee Celebration
November 11, 2025 — The University of Arkansas Hope-Texarkana (UAHT) commemorated six decades of educational excellence Tuesday evening with a Diamond Jubilee Celebration filled with music, memories, and tributes to the institution’s enduring legacy.
The program opened with a stirring prelude of patriotic selections — My Country, ’Tis of Thee, America the Beautiful, and God Bless America — performed by vocalist Haley Thompson. The Hempstead County Sheriff’s Honor Guard, Deputies Michael Bradock and Jacob Wayne, presented the Arkansas and American flags, followed by the Pledge of Allegiance led by Dennis Ramsey. Thompson returned to lead the audience in the Star-Spangled Banner, accompanied by The Sound of Hope Band, featuring Allison Yhoss and Kevin Nava on trumpet, Khalab Salazar on euphonium, Kaitlynn Toliver on trombone, and Juan Arroyo on tuba, under the direction of Woody Boyd and Chris Davis.
Freddie Smith offered an invocation, setting a tone of gratitude and reflection.
Interim Chancellor Laura Clark welcomed attendees, joking that the event’s title was “a mouthful to get out,” before emphasizing the significance of the milestone.
University of Arkansas System President Lt. Gen. Jay Silveria and Chris Thompson, Vice President for Strategic and Community College Partnerships, shared words of encouragement and pride in UAHT’s role within the UA System.
A video tribute, A Legacy of Learning: 60 Years of UA Hope-Texarkana, produced by April Lovette of SWARK and Casey Curtis, highlighted the college’s journey from its founding to its present-day impact. Alumni speakers added personal testimony to that legacy: Dr. Kristopher Gage Burns, Class of 2019, recounted overcoming early academic challenges with the support of UAHT faculty and peers, calling the college “the foundation and bridge” to his success.
Richard Ware, Class of 2022, delivered the keynote address on “The Importance of Education and Public Service,” underscoring the transformative power of learning.
The evening also honored inductees into the Alumni and Faculty/Staff Halls of Fame, with heartfelt acceptance speeches and tributes to mentors past and present. Tears and laughter mingled as guests reflected on decades of dedication and achievement.
Closing remarks came from Student Government Association President and Academic All-Star Aubrey Ferguson, joined by “Spike,” UAHT’s beloved mascot, who posed for selfies as guests departed.
The celebration concluded with expressions of gratitude to organizers and supporters, and a shared sense of optimism for the next 60 years of opportunity and growth.
Write to Rollie Thomas Mullins