For Grace Price, finding the right college wasn’t just about academics—it was about finding a place that felt like home.

After a difficult first semester at a large public university, Price knew something was missing. What she found at ����vlog���� wasn’t just a better fit—it was a community that would shape her future, fuel her ambitions, and ultimately change the course of her life.

It didn’t take long for her to realize she belonged.

“My first semester of college was difficult for me; I learned quickly that I needed to be in a school that felt like a community,” Price said. “My older brother, Isaac, was attending Ozarks at that point and I got to witness first-hand the great culture of the University. Interestingly enough, he was the ambassador on my tour and watching him interact with people encouraged me to apply. Not long after, I was accepted and began my journey here. I wouldn’t be here if it weren’t for the welcoming that I received, and I am grateful and proud to be graduating from the University.”

A native of Siloam Springs, Ark., Price will graduate in May with a major in political science and minors in environmental studies and English. In just three years, she has carved out a path defined by academic excellence, resilience, and a clear sense of purpose.

That purpose is already taking shape.

Price plans to attend law school this fall—having already earned acceptance into one of her top choices, UA-Little Rock, along with being offered one of the school’s most prestigious scholarships. Her long-term goal is to work in agricultural and environmental law, advocating for the communities and landscapes that shaped her upbringing.

“I grew up in rural Oklahoma and Arkansas and, ultimately, this experience inspired me and encouraged me to serve the communities that helped raise me,” Price said. “Farmers are some of the hardest workers I know, so I want to do my best to help protect them and guide them in legal settings. The other aspect of this is the land. Assisting farmers in taking care of their land is beneficial in more ways than one. Conservation practices not only help the environment, but also the farmer and the success of their yield. At the end of the day, I don’t just want to be their lawyer, I want to be someone who understands and supports their way of life.”

Price is also a member of the softball team this year—something that surprises even her.

Diagnosed with osteochondritis dissecans, a rare bone condition in her knees, Price has undergone 10 knee surgeries since high school, including a bone and cartilage transplant. Prior to this season, she hadn’t played softball since she was 15.

Now, she’s not just back—she’s thriving.

Price has started every game this season and ranks second on the team in hitting (.370), helping lead the Eagles to one of their best seasons in program history.

“It’s pretty amazing that here I am playing my senior year of college,” she said. “I’ve had to overcome a lot, and it hasn’t been perfect, but this season is a testament to God’s presence in my life. Doors have opened and doors have closed, but thanks to the opportunity that Coach [David] Kuhn has given me this year, I’ve been able to fulfill a big dream of mine—stepping out on that field again. Our softball season has been great. There have been many challenges, but we’ve worked hard through it all. Joining this team has been one of my greatest experiences here at Ozarks, and I wouldn’t trade it for anything.”

Kuhn said Price’s perseverance has made a lasting impact on the team. Affectionately nicknamed “The Senator,”  and “Counselor,” she has earned the respect of teammates and coaches alike. Her walk-up song in softball is “Born in the U.S.A.”

“She loves her country and her team,” Kuhn said. “Grace is an amazing person, great teammate, tremendous leader—who leads by example. She wasn’t even officially on the team at first, but she showed up for all the team meetings and participated in all the practices. She is a great example of perseverance and positivity. She has overcome so many challenges on and off the field—10 knee surgeries, gave up softball in high school, was a manager last season. She really has exceeded the expectations of the staff. She works hard every day and is a consummate professional in her approach. She is an outstanding student-athlete and has a huge caring heart.”

Off the field, Price has been equally driven in the classroom. She credits the University’s LENS program with pushing her to step outside her comfort zone and explore new academic interests.

“The LENS program was challenging for me at first, because it pushed me to search for minors outside of the social sciences,” she said. “I knew I loved science and I needed to be a good writer to get into law school, and that is why I chose environmental studies and English. This system has been one of the most helpful tools that Ozarks has offered as it has guided me toward the career that I am now working to build.”

Her experience within the political science program further solidified her path.

“I believe I’ve had Dr. Chris Sarver every semester of college, and his classes and his own personal story have inspired me a lot,” she said. “I was also fortunate enough to be placed with an amazing advisor, Dr. Daniel Fudge, who guided me throughout my experience here at the University. Most notably, he was able to place me in an internship program in Washington, D.C., called The Washington Center. This program gave me the opportunity to work for an agricultural non-profit, where I further developed professional interests, connections, and experiences. I even did a little lobbying on Capitol Hill.”

During her internship in Washington D.C. in the summer of 2025, Price served as a research and policy associate for the agricultural non-profit RIPE (Rural Investment to Protect our Environment). She analyzed legislation, supported lobbying efforts on Capitol Hill, worked directly with farmers and agricultural stakeholders, and authored a blog on Simmons Foods CEO Todd Simmons.

“The experience that I gained reinforced my interest in this field as I got to witness the balance that must exist between the government, the farmer, and the land,” she said.

Price is graduating with honors in just three years—a reflection of her discipline, focus, and unwavering commitment to her goals.

“My academics have always been at the heart of my collegiate experience,” she said. “Education is a privilege and I always prioritized classes so that I could work toward my dream of becoming a judge. Softball was an unforeseen blessing. Joining our school’s team was an unexpected experience in my life, considering I hadn’t played since middle school until this year. However, my brother and family encouraged me, and I hope to live up to the legacy that Isaac left behind, both in academics and in baseball/softball.”

Looking back, Price said transferring to Ozarks proved to be one of the most defining decisions of her life.

“I’d say that my time at Ozarks has given me a new perspective and hope for my future,” she said. “I’ve always felt supported in everything I’ve done here, both as a student and a person.”

And as she prepares for law school and a future advocating for rural communities, farmers, and the land she holds dear, Price leaves Ozarks not only with a degree—but with a clear purpose and the confidence to pursue it.

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����vlog���� senior Kaleb Jacobs had to read the email twice to believe it was real.

Just moments after leaving class earlier this semester, Jacobs opened a message informing him that he had been selected for a prestigious graduate fellowship worth more than $60,000 annually to attend graduate school at the University of Alabama. For the political science major from Clarksville, the news was both surreal and deeply meaningful—a milestone that reflected years of perseverance and academic dedication.

Jacobs was one of just a handful of graduate students selected to receive Alabama’s competitive, merit-based Graduate Council Fellowship, which includes a stipend as well as full coverage of out-of-state tuition, academic fees, and health insurance.

“I paused for a moment and reread it to make sure it was real, and I had happy tears,” Jacobs said. “It was an overwhelming sense of joy, relief, and deep gratitude, knowing that this opportunity would allow me to fully devote myself to my graduate studies without the burden of financial stress. In that quiet moment, it felt both humbling and profoundly meaningful.”

Jacobs plans to pursue a Ph.D. in political science with an emphasis in the fields of American Politics and Public Policy and Administration.

He said that when he learned he had been initially accepted into graduate school at Alabama in December, he was working at his family’s downtown business, Brown’s Flowers. He said that moment made him reflect on his academic journey.

“I felt happiness and excitement, but more than anything, I felt a profound sense of validation,” he said. “I was diagnosed with Autism as a child and did not speak until I was in kindergarten, and my educational path required resilience from a very young age. Receiving that acceptance, along with a full-ride scholarship, was not just an academic milestone but a deeply humbling reminder of how far I had come despite the challenges of my early childhood.”

When Jacobs graduates from Ozarks in May with high honors, he will be the first in his family to obtain a college degree, something that makes receiving the fellowship even more meaningful.

“It is a sense of relief to know that I can pursue my master’s and Ph.D. without financial stress,” he said. “As a first-generation college graduate, I have always been mindful of the financial aspect of higher education, so receiving full funding brings both peace of mind and deep gratitude. It allows me to fully devote myself to my studies, mentorship, and long-term academic goals without distraction, which is a privilege I do not take lightly.”

He added that the distinction of being a first-gen college graduate “carries a deep sense of purpose and responsibility.”

“While my grandparents attended college and my parents worked hard in their own paths, none of them had the opportunity to complete a degree. Because of that, reaching this milestone feels larger than just a personal achievement; it feels like a generational step forward. It is a rewarding and emotional experience to know that my journey reflects perseverance, resilience, and the importance of never giving up. I see this accomplishment not only as something that changes my own life, but as a legacy I can pass on to my future children and generations of my family, demonstrating the value of hard work, education, and determination.”

Jacobs’ love of politics stems from middle school elections. 

“I remember being less focused on popularity and more fascinated by the reasoning people supported certain candidates,” he said. “Thinking as a young sixth grader, I found myself asking questions like, ‘What makes someone choose one candidate over another?’ That curiosity sparked a deeper interest in understanding decision-making, persuasion, and political behavior. From then on, that initial curiosity never left me. As a result, it grew into a lasting passion for political science, particularly how people think, vote, and engage with public issues.”

Jacobs, who transferred to Ozarks for his junior year, said the professors and staff at Ozarks helped strengthen his passion for politics.

“Dr. Chris Sarver had a particularly profound impact, as he not only guided me through academic decisions but also encouraged me to apply to the University of Alabama, a conversation that ultimately changed the trajectory of my future,” Jacobs said. “Dr. Daniel Fudge, Ms. Lori Wineland, and Ms. Vanessa Hollowell supported me throughout the graduate school application and GRE process, helping me refine my materials, calm my anxieties, and prepare for what lies ahead. Their mentorship was never transactional; it was thoughtful, steady, and rooted in genuine care, and it is a support I will carry with me long after I leave Ozarks.”

Jacobs called Fudge, assistant professor of political science, his “academic father figure.”

“When I transferred here and faced early obstacles and stress, he was consistently present, taking the time to listen, guide me, and help me think through my academic path and long-term goals,” Jacobs said. “He did not simply focus on my performance in the classroom; he genuinely cared about my growth, my aspirations, and who I am becoming as a scholar and as a person. During a very transitional period in my life, his patience, guidance, and willingness to truly listen gave me a stronger sense of direction and confidence. He has done more for me than I can fully express, and he is one of those rare mentors whose impact I will carry with me for the rest of my life. It is a mentorship I will never forget.”

Jacobs’ favorite class at Ozarks has been Fudge’s State and Local Politics class, “particularly because of the legislative simulation we conducted.”

“I represented Russellville and took the role very seriously, especially when a controversial ‘duck bill’ was introduced,” he said. “I opposed the bill with a detailed and theatrical speech, even placing it on a mock ‘most wanted’ poster to emphasize my argument. The debate became highly engaging, as we challenged one another’s positions and tested our understanding of policy and strategy. Dr. Fudge allowed me additional speaking time, and my remarks lasted nearly 10 minutes. At the conclusion, he humorously told me I deserved an Oscar for the performance. That moment perfectly captured why the class stood out to me: it was intellectually challenging, interactive, and incredibly memorable, blending my passion for politics, debate, and public speaking into a single experience.”

He plans to pursue a career in the corporate and public affairs sector following graduate school. He said he would also like be involved in teaching as well because of the “transformative power of education.”

I hope to stay involved in teaching, whether through higher education, mentorship, or academic engagement, so that I can support and inspire future generations just as my own mentors have supported me,” he said. 

Jacobs summed up his time as Ozarks as one of “a deep love of learning, mentorship, and personal growth.”

“This institution has provided me with opportunities to engage academically and to form meaningful relationships with mentors who have guided me along the way,” he said. “In many ways, my time at Ozarks reminds me of a book sitting on a bookshelf; it may seem quiet on the surface, but it holds layers of experiences, lessons, and moments of growth. There was never a dull moment, only continuous opportunities to learn, reflect, and engage with a community that truly values education and development.”

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Four ����vlog���� political science majors and their professor are helping pilot a new statewide program designed to shape the next generation of civic leaders in Arkansas.

Students Kaleb D. Jacobs, Vanessa Martinez, Isabel Shelton and Taylor Yates, as well as Dr. Daniel Fudge, assistant professor of political science, are all participating in the Arkansas Collegiate Civic Leadership Academy (ACCLA), a first-year program that will span the 2025-26 academic year. Presented by the Winthrop Rockefeller Institute, the academy is specifically designed for college students in their junior and senior years and is aimed “to empower them with the knowledge, skills, and experiences necessary to become effective community leaders.”

Participants will engage in education on dialogue, values-based action, the role and structure of government, journalism, elections, and service. In addition to being part of a pilot network of students dedicated to public service and professionalism, academy graduates will also receive the Civic Arkansas Credential. The program’s graduation ceremony is scheduled for April 10, 2026, at the Winthrop Rockefeller Institute on atop Petit Jean Mountain.

Fudge, who is on the academy’s advisory committee, said having Ozarks students involved in a civic leadership program will “only strengthen the impact Ozarks students can have on the civic health of their communities and the state of Arkansas.”

“With the excellent work the Winthrop Rockefeller Institute does in fostering meaningful conversations and creating a culture of collaboration, our students will engage with their peers from other Arkansas colleges and through networking, engagement, and learning—these students will be well prepared to go on to not just be better citizens, but will advance the true ideals of civic responsibility in their future,” Fudge said. “As an advisory member of the ACCLA, I knew that our students will greatly benefit from this program, and I look forward to seeing more of our students participate in the future.”

Yates, a junior political science and finance major from Ozark, Ark., said he hopes the experience will lead to him making connections and contacts throughout the state.

“So far it’s been great meeting the other participants and hearing their perspectives throughout our discussions,” Yates said. “I hope to gain many new connections, expand my ideas, and, as a future leader, learn from the experiences of others while developing my own approach to leadership and collaboration. My career goal is to attend law school and pursue a career in public policy or foreign affairs, where I can apply legal knowledge and diplomatic understanding to address issues that affect both Arkansas and the broader global community. I believe the leadership academy will benefit me by refining my communication and leadership skills, connecting me with mentors and peers across the state, and helping me develop the perspective needed to navigate complex civic and international challenges.”

Martinz, a senior political science and psychology major from Clarksville, said she learned about the academy from Fudge and decided to apply when she learned more about it.

“Dr. Fudge encouraged me to look into the program that he had helped coordinate and to consider being a part of the first cohort for this pilot program,” Martinez said. “The ability to influence change in society is one of the main reasons I chose to study politics, and this program aligns perfectly with that goal. It emphasizes the importance of developing the skills needed to find solutions to problems that affect not only us but our community as well.”

Martinez, who hopes to pursue a career in public policy, said she is particularly excited about the service-learning project that is part of the program.

“The academy requires us to develop a service-learning project throughout the duration of the program, which gives us the opportunity to develop a project centered around finding a solution to a problem that continuously affects our community,” Martinez said. “The positive change to my community that could result from a project like this is something I am looking forward to seeing. The skills and experience gained from a project like this is something I hope to bring to other future projects of my professional career since it allows me to understand how to begin to plan and execute real and impactful societal change. In addition, I am hoping that this experience will allow me to better connect with my community. Even though I am from Clarksville, I have always felt a form of disconnect related to the problems that many of the people within my community face. Through the leadership academy, I hope that I will be able to acquire the skills to more efficiently recognize and create solutions to these problems.”

Jacobs, a senior political science major from Clarksville, said the academy aligns with his interests in American politics and civic engagement.

“When this opportunity came up, Dr. Fudge and I both agreed that it would be an excellent fit for me, not just academically, but also in strengthening leadership skills that can aid me in the future,” Jacobs said. “I see the Arkansas Collegiate Civic Leadership Academy as a chance to build on that passion and prepare for the responsibilities that I am prepared to take on later in life.”

Jacobs, who plans to pursue a Ph.D. In political science, said the academy “has given me an excellent opportunity to connect with other students across the state who all share the same passion, and it inspires me to keep growing as a leader.”

“I hope to deepen my understanding of the media’s impact on politics while also becoming more fluent in local, state, and national issues,” he added. “Most importantly, I value the chance to engage in meaningful conversations across differences, which is something that’s increasingly rare but vital in today’s world.”

Shelton, a junior political science major from Scranton, Ark., said she became interested in applying to the academy as soon as Fudge told her about it. 

“I am grateful to Dr. Fudge for telling me about the leadership academy because I have truly enjoyed it so far,” Shelton said. “I have already started to make the connections I was hoping for, and it has also been pretty inspiring. The faculty has done a wonderful job balancing learning and fun activities that correlate to that learning. One of the main things I’m hoping to gain is connections that I can utilize after graduation. I am also hoping to learn more about how I can be more civically engaged, and how I can inspire others to be as well.”

Shelton said she plans to attend law school after graduating from Ozarks.

“I will hopefully work for a non-profit that focuses on helping underprivileged people,” she said. “A large part of the work I would do involves civic engagement and leadership. I want to improve in those areas as much as I can so that I can do the best job possible when helping others.”

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Seven ����vlog���� students recently attended the National Model United Nations (NMUN) conference in Washington D.C.

Those students from U of O who attended were, Estefanía Bautsista Lopez, Maksym Maliutenko, Chandler Mullinax, Grace Price, Arely Saucedo, Keren Dona Vallecillo, and William Rivas Guillen. The group’s advisor, Dr. Chris Sarver, assistant professor of political science, also attended the conference, which was held Nov. 8-10 in D.C.

Sarver said the U of O contingent represented the Arab Republic of Egypt in various UN committees throughout the conference.

“The students spent countless hours of research, writing, and practicing their public speaking and diplomatic skills in preparation for a very intense but educational experience,” Sarver said. “I am very proud of all the time and effort they put into the experience.”

Bautsista Lopez, a sophomore political science and communication studies major from Managua, Nicaragua, served as the head delegate for the Ozarks contingent.

“In each committee, we all applied our leadership and diplomacy skills to negotiate with other countries and find solutions to world problems that include environmental sustainability, immigration and refugees, weapon systems, etc.,”  Bautsista Lopez said. “We all had the opportunity to contribute to the debates by using our previous research on the topics and practice speeches that could impact positively to the debate and negotiation.  As a head delegate, I believe that every member of our delegation did an outstanding job in each committee; everyone gave a lot of effort in every step of the preparation, and during the conference we stood out as a united delegation, with spirit of cordiality.”

Bautsista Lopez said that since high school, she has had a passion for Model UN and debating.

“Attending the National Model United Nations in D.C. was a dream come true for me,” she said. “NMUN impacted my life completely because I felt truly engaged in my role as a diplomat and a leader who has a desire to create change and justice by first listening to others’ needs and then creating solutions that benefit everyone.”

Bautsista Lopez said the most memorable part of the experience was “discovering my potential as a leader and improving my skills in areas such as listening, teamwork, public speaking, writing, and international relations knowledge.”

“I will always be thankful for the people I met who came from different parts of the world and shared their knowledge,” she said.

In addition to the conference, the group had an opportunity to explore some of the sights around Washington D.C.

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A group of civic-minded ����vlog���� students have rejuvenated the Political Science Club on campus this semester, and their first event was a hit.

The seven founding members of the club are (pictured from left) Cristhel Mejia (finance director), Estefania Bautista (secretary), Vanessa Martinez (public relations director), Fernanda Aguilar (logistics director), Dr. Daniel Fudge (faculty advisor), Eduardo Munguia (president), Fernanda Maya Arista (social media manager), and Josue Garcia (vice president).

The Political Science Club is planning a series of events, projects, and initiatives in the field of political science that would pursue the objective of enriching the political knowledge of the students and community in general at the University, as well as promote well-informed global citizens.

“We aim to create a space where students can express their political interests and our first event was evidence of this,” Mejia said.

The first event presented by club was held last month and was a panel discussion featuring several U of O faculty members. The discussion was titled, “The Electoral College: 2024 Elections and the Taylor Swift Phenomenon,” and it examined the institution of the electoral college and how public figures such as Taylor Swift could potentially change the popular vote. The event drew approximately 40 attendees.

“As president of the Political Science Club, I was excited about the realization of our first event,” Munguia said. “I believe that this event is taking place at a crucial moment when it is important for students to understand their electoral system and start getting informed for the upcoming elections. We had a great participation from the community, and that excites us for the organization of future events. Likewise, we want to express our gratitude to the panelists, Dr. Minami Nishioka, Dr. William Gorton, and Dr. Nathan Eric Dickman.”

“We’re incredibly grateful to the professors who joined our panel and shared their insights and experiences on the electoral college and the 2024 elections,” said Aguilar. “Their expertise and passion for the topic made the event truly engaging and informative. We appreciated hearing not only their knowledge but also their personal perspectives, adding depth to our understanding of the issues discussed. Their contribution was truly invaluable. It is truly an honor to work with them as well as my fellow students in the executive team of the Political Science Club.”

Garcia said he was confident the first event would go well, considering the time that the group put into planning it, but that the team was “encouraged even more by the interest that the audience presented.”

“Each one of the contributions that the panelists shared were tremendously educational and enriching, focusing on the details of how the U.S. election process works with well-rounded research for international students to understand,” Garcia said. “Furthermore, we are proud to have brought a new representation of formality and professionalism as a club, and we are excited to organize more enriching events.”

Fudge, assistant professor of political science, said he is thrilled to see the students take the initiative to restart a club that has been dormant for several years.

“I am honored to be the advisor for the Political Science Club and this great group of students,” Fudge said. “This new organization will place a focus on civic engagement and be a welcoming organization to all students across the political spectrum and across nationalities. In the coming months, we will hope to plan several events related to civic education – through panel discussions and debates, experiential learning – in the form of trips to the Arkansas State Capitol and the Clinton Presidential Library, and in community engagement. Underlying the purpose of the organization is the idea that while people may have rights in a democratic society, they must also realize their own obligations – to country, to state, and to their community. This organization takes that idea and fosters growth in political knowledge and will help aide in understanding of the political world around us.”

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The students made up a University delegation that was awarded an honorable mention for Best Delegation at the National Model United Nations (NMUN) in Washington D.C. in November. It is believed to be the University’s first NMUN recognition.

The students included (pictured, from left) Roberto Castro, Fernanda Aguilar, Alejandro Gutierrez, Cody Williamson, Eduardo Munguia, Josue Garcia, Valeria Estrada, and Cristhel Mejia. Dr. Chris Sarver, assistant professor of political science, was the group’s advisor.

The delegation represented Syrian Arab Republic and competed against students from nearly 100 colleges and universities.

“This was a very disciplined, hardworking, and energetic group of students,” Sarver said. “They worked hard to prepare for what is one of the largest Model UNs in the country, drawing students from all over the country and the world. I was very proud to see our delegation of eight students win the ����vlog����’ very first award.”

NMUN is the world’s largest, most prestigious and oldest ongoing university-level Model UN. The annual event draws participants from more than 100 UN Member States to address current global issues and provides students with a forum to hone skills in diplomacy, negotiation, critical thinking, compromise, public speaking, writing, and research.

Mejia, who served as a head delegate, said the event provided her with “real-life situations in the world of politics.”

“Me and my delegation had the opportunity to apply our problem-solving, time-management, and critical-thinking skills, as well as meeting new people from all around the world with the same interests as us,” said the political science and sociology major from Matagalpa, Nicaragua. “I was able to gain knowledge and expertise in areas that were new to me, and I would definitely say that I am not the same person that walked into the salon that first day of conference, since I have now been equipped with tools that allow me to see opportunities when I did not see them before, or even create my own. I support expanding the National Model United Nations Program at the ����vlog����, so that more students are impacted in the same diplomatic and unique way I was. I look forward to continuing to cultivate experiences in this field and proudly represent the University in upcoming conferences.”

Garcia, a business administration and political science major, said, “I cannot find the words to express my gratitude for this unforgettable experience where I was allowed to apply many of the theories learned in class. I was able to interact with students from all over the world, work together with multinational coalitions to formulate resolution papers resolving global issues, and step outside of my comfort zone to grow personally and professionally. I am extremely grateful to the Ozarks community for supporting us on this dreamed opportunity.”

Gutierrez, a business administration and political science major from Dolega, Panama, said, “Participating in NMUN was enriching, especially because of the exposure it gave me to address global issues and to challenge my leadership skills, which stimulated my critical thinking.”

Castro, a political science and finance major from San Salvador, El Salvador, said participating in NMUN made him realize the importance of the United Nations in the world.

“When you are the delegate of a nation whose people are being displaced, and you see the pictures of people trying to help each other with the little that they have, and you see them starving and dying, you realize that this ‘simulation’ means more than a mere role-play, and it goes beyond that,” Castro said. “We represented The Syrian Arab Republic, a nation facing crisis in many aspects that just exhaustive research could give you, and that is what NMUN leaves in you, the knowledge of a broader perspective, that most of the time is too different with that belief of what the real world is. I had an enriching experience, as I had the opportunity to meet and work with amazing people that understand the goal of politics in real life. It helped me realize why they are so important and how they shape the world we live in.”

Munguía, a political science and philosophy major from Nuevo León, Mexico, called the event a “unique opportunity to connect with university students from all over the world, where we immersed ourselves in research, writing, and negotiation processes to address the most important challenges of the contemporary global agenda. I believe that the delegation that attended incorporated very outstanding profiles, enabling the participation of the delegation that covered different critical areas of the debate in a holistic manner. And with immense joy, this allowed us to receive the honorable mention recognition among all the other present delegations.”

Williamson, a political science major from Fayetteville, Ark., said the event was a bit intimidating initially.

“At first it was scary, but then I finally got the hang of it by day two,” Williamson said. “I met some amazing people along the way, and I also formed lifelong friendships with my group. This is an experience that I hope that every student that wants to can participate in.”

Aguilar, a political science major, called the NMUN an eye-opening experience.

“It provided an incredible opportunity to engage with students from various colleges and universities, which broadened my perspective on global issues,” Aguilar said. “Through collaborative discussions and debates, I had the chance to interact with peers who offered diverse viewpoints, enriching my understanding of complex issues our countries are facing nowadays. One of the most significant aspects of NMUN for me was stepping out of my comfort zone. Whether it was delivering speeches or negotiating resolutions, NMUN pushed me to confront challenges and develop essential skills like public speaking, critical thinking, and teamwork. It was an amazing experience that helped me grow personally and professionally.”

Estrada, a political science and finance major from Turrialba, Cartago, Costa Rica, said she was grateful to have been a part of the experience.

“This opportunity not only provided me with a means to engage in a debate about issues of global importance but also helped me to interact, exchange views, and collaborate in a diplomatic environment with students from all over the world and from diverse backgrounds,” Estrada said. “I am extremely proud and grateful for the student delegation I was a part of. Each one of my classmates was fully committed to the project, and their participation in each committee was undoubtedly outstanding. I am sure that thanks to this talented team and our collaboration we were awarded the honorable mention recognition.”

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Dr. Daniel J. Fudge, assistant professor of political science at ����vlog����, has been selected to participate in the prestigious Leadership Arkansas Class XVIII.  

The Leadership Arkansas program was established in 2005 and is presented by the Arkansas State Chamber of Commerce and the Associated Industries of Arkansas. The nine-month program, which begins in September, will include 53 men and women in various fields and professions from throughout the state in its 18th class.  

“I am humbled to be selected as a member of the Leadership Arkansas Class XVIII,” Fudge said. “This program will allow me to travel the state, learning from and alongside incredible leaders from across Arkansas. I’m excited to dedicate the next nine months – and years to come – to representing Ozarks and introducing new audiences to the superior higher education experience our faculty and staff provide our students. My dedication to Ozarks and our students will not stop when these sessions end, as I am committed to returning after each session with valuable information and relationships that will benefit my students and the university as a whole.”  

According to the program’s website, the participants are “leaders within their respective communities and industries and are interested in expanding that involvement across the state of Arkansas. Over the course of nine months, these individuals will work together to become better acquainted with the issues facing Arkansas, experience the best that the regions and communities have to offer, network with some of the best and brightest in the state, and honor their already-demonstrated leadership capacities.”  

Fudge joined the U of O faculty in 2022. He grew up in the Arkansas River Valley communities of Dover and Russellville before graduating high school in Van Buren, Ark. He earned his bachelor’s degree from University of Arkansas Fort Smith (UAFS) before going on to receive his master’s and Ph.D. from University of Mississippi.  

Before coming to Ozarks, Fudge served as an adjunct professor and associate director of development at the University of Arkansas at Fort Smith (UAFS). He also was an assistant professor of political science at Tulsa Community College and an instructional assistant professor at the University of Mississippi.  

Two of Fudge’s grandparents attended Ozarks — his late paternal grandfather, J.W. Fudge, and his maternal grandmother, Mary Bean. J.W. Fudge attended pharmacy school at Ozarks in the early 1950s before the pharmacy school was relocated, and Bean graduated in 1970 with a degree in elementary education.  

Fudge lives in Fort Smith with his wife, Meagan Bowling Fudge, a Leadership Arkansas alumna and director of student information systems at the UAFS.  

U of O alumna Mary Zunick ‘92, cultural affairs manager for Visit Hot Springs, was also selected for the Leadership Arkansas class.  

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A group of students from the ����vlog����’ Model United Nations Class had the opportunity to put their classroom lessons into practice recently when they attended the National Model United Nations Conference in New York City, April 10-14.

The students included, sophomore Gustavo Alejandro Lugo Medrano of Diriamba, Nicaragua; junior Paulina Lukini Magloire of Port-au-Prince, Haiti; senior Raquel Ramos Soriano of San Salvador, El Salvador; junior Mileidy Espinoza of Santa Cruz, Costa Rica; senior Colby Dorcély of Port-au-Prince, Haiti; senior Jose Arias of Perez Zeledon, Costa Rica; junior Christopher Perez Fallas of San Rafael Abajo, Costa Rica; and sophomore Marifer Mendoza of Danville, Ark. Dr. Chris Sarver, assistant professor of political science, led the group.

The U of O students were selected to represent the country of Bhutan. They wrote working papers in coordination with other students and also took part in forums and meetings addressing current global issues. They honed their skills in diplomacy, negotiation, critical thinking, compromise, public speaking, writing, and research.

The group also had the opportunity to meet the 77th President of the UN General Assembly, Csaba Korosi, and visit the UN National Headquarters.

During their free time, the students visited Times Square, Manhattan, the Brooklyn Bridge, the Empire State Building and Grand Central Terminal.

“This was my second time participating in a Model UN conference, however, it was the first time I was representing a country,” said Lugo. “I am happy I was able to meet different people from all around the world. It was a good networking experience, but also, a great time to practice my public speaking and conflict resolution skills. In addition to this, having the opportunity to be in the United Nations Headquarters was such a dream. Imagine getting to sit where actual diplomats make the world decisions. It was a priceless experience.”

The trip was funded in part by the Clayton G. Russell Memorial Endowment for Political Science. The Clayton Fund was established in 2000 by the Mary I. Rogers Trust to broaden the scope of the political science program.

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A trio of ����vlog���� alumni from the Class of 2021 are thriving at some of the top law schools in the country and they credit their undergraduate education at Ozarks for helping them succeed.

(Pictured, from left) Haley Grace Clark, Braxton Leding and Riki Haase are completing their second years of law school this spring. Clark is in an accelerated two-year program at Southwestern Law School in Los Angles and will graduate next month. Leding is attending the University of Arkansas School of Law in Fayetteville and Haase is finishing up her second year at Baylor University School of Law in Waco, Texas.

Clark has shined in her two years at the West Coast law school. She served as the communications chair on the Trial Advocacy Honors Program Board of Governors and has also been a peer mentor and a member of Consumer Law Society, Entertainment Law Society, OUTLaw, and Intellectual Property Law Society. She has also been a teaching assistant.

Clark said she’s proud to be on track to earn her juris doctorate by age 23 and she plans to pursue a career in civil litigation, particularly plaintiff personal injury. She has already received numerous post-bar job offers from firms in the Los Angeles area, where she plans to practice.

“Law school can give many students imposter syndrome, where a student will think they aren’t good enough, smart enough, or that they don’t know enough starting out compared to all the other students around them,” said Clark. “I didn’t know it at the time, but I was well-prepared when I started law school. Looking back at my undergraduate and legal schooling as I am about to graduate, I am so thankful for my education at Ozarks.”

A theatre and communications major at Ozarks, Clark said her unique academic path to law school worked to her advantage.

“I came to law school in Los Angeles thinking I wanted to do entertainment law, but I could not escape my desire to perform,” she said. “My theatre classes, taught by Bruce Brown and then subsequently Rebecca Bailey, gave me incredible public speaking skills. When I tried out for the Trial Advocacy Honors Program, in a competition between over 30 students, I placed second, right behind a student who was also a performer — an actress on Broadway in the musical ‘Chicago.’ My performance skills learned from U of O served me well in my ambitions of becoming a litigator and advocating for clients in the courtroom setting.  I also gained valuable skills in teamwork and team building while in the media production track of my communications major while learning under professors Susan Edens and Dr. Rhonda Shook. That concentration teaches you about leadership strategies and efficient ways to use a large group of individuals to complete a task. I only recently noticed that working at a law firm requires teamwork and task delegation on virtually every case. I feel confident working in group settings and offering suggestions and ideas, even when I am the only intern in a meeting full of lawyers.”

Clark said she was also fortunate to be mentored by the late Dr. Stewart Dippel.

“I had the privilege of being in his pre-law classes, including classes in criminal and constitutional law,” she said. “We learned about many of the same cases that were taught in my graduate-level law classes on the same subjects. It was so rewarding to have a strong bedrock of legal analysis and familiarity that most other students in my law school didn’t have.”

Leding, who plans to return to the River Valley and practice family law following graduation, said his professors at Ozarks helped him decide a career path that eventually led to law.

“Coming to Ozarks, I had no plans on attending law school,” Leding said. “I initially thought about going the route of pre-med and attending medical school, but plans changed pretty drastically. I had some thinking to do in that case, and because of the professors at Ozarks, I was able to talk to a few of them, weigh my options, and see what career path would fit me best. After deep thought and consideration, I chose law school and a career in law as my path. My classes throughout my time at Ozarks let me see a lot of different areas of thought, and the professors were great in structuring to be the best undergraduate student I could be. That structure they helped me build has carried along with me into law school.”

He also credits Dr. Dippel as well as the English faculty for preapring him for the rigors of law school.

“First and foremost, Dr. Dippel was key in helping me decide that law school was a good fit for me,” he said, “We spent countless hours talking about my future, and all of his classes were so important to me. I was able to not only learn about political science from him, but I was able to learn about life from him as well. Also, the entire English faculty at Ozarks made a huge impact on me as well. As primarily an English major, I spent a lot of time with each English professor, and their classes brought me into a new way of thinking about specific works. This realm of critical thinking is important in law school because there is always a need to think critically about problems that face the real world daily. Dr. Brian Hardman was a key figure for me in the English faculty. He walked alongside me as I wrote my senior thesis. He helped me in my law school application process. And, like Dr. Dippel, he taught me a lot about life. His classes were an ever-evolving discussion in the problem-solving process, and I really did enjoy his take on the different periods of American literature.”

“At Ozarks, I learned lessons that I will carry with me for the rest of my life, and for that I will forever be grateful.”

Haase recently received Baylor’s Outstanding Student Achievement in Family and Juvenile Law and Outstanding Student Organization President for her efforts with Women’s Legal Society. She is also serving as a law clerk for Ryan Law firm in Waco, where she plans to practice following graduation from law school.

A softball standout at Ozarks, Haase said her experience at Ozarks helped lead her to where she is today.  

“����vlog���� helped in a variety of ways,” she said. “I spoke with a number of professors and President Dunsworth concerning my law school applications. All of these people provided immense guidance and encouragement as I traversed an unknown path. U of O provides a diverse group of students with diverse cultures and mindsets. In philosophy classes, I didn’t even realize I was learning the art of advocating, a vital part of the legal field. Also, the U of O softball team allowed me to play a sport I loved and provided a team that I miss every day. My time as an Eagle made me appreciate the importance of teamwork and diversity.”

She found that one class at Ozarks was especially helpful when she took the Law School Admission Test (LSAT).

“One class that greatly helped me get into law school was Logic taught by Dr. Bill Eakin,” Haase said. “The LSAT and law school are based on deductive reasoning. This class provided a leg up in my LSAT prep and law school classes. Another, and the most vital aspect of my experience at U of O, was the late, Professor Dippel. He not only pointed my eyes toward the legal field, but he also inspired me as a human. He challenged the status quo, pushed the limits, and welcomed a healthy debate. He helped me see the world, in the classroom and abroad, he pushed me academically and professionally. Professor Dippel was one of the biggest impacts on my life. Also, he required case briefs which are an important part of studying in law school.”

Haase has advice for students considering law school.

“Law school is hard; it will push you mentally, emotionally, and as a result, physically,” she said. “Law school is completely different than the environment at Ozarks. U of O is a community full of people supporting one another. Law school is individualistic. The first three weeks will push you to a breaking point, but you have to keep going. Find a ‘why.’ Why do you want to go into the legal field? Once you have your ‘why,’ hold onto it, post it on your wall, and remind yourself of it. The legal field is full of potential and joy if you look for it. Also, as one of my professors said, get a hobby and get a dog.”

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����vlog���� senior Colby Dorcély’s summer internship experience in Washington, D.C. was so successful that the company offered him a position once he graduated in May of 2022.

The business administration and political science major from Pétion-Ville, Haiti, interned with Infineon Technologies Americas Corp. through The Fund For American Studies (TFAS) program. Headquartered in Munich, Germany, with locations in more than 15 countries around the world, Infineon designs and manufactures semiconductors.

Dorcély worked with the company’s government relations team in its D.C. office from May through July.

“I worked in public policy and dealt with internal information that needs to stay confidential,” he said. “On the side, I tracked relevant tech/chips legislation, met with members of congress, attended meetings with people from different departments of the company and was responsible for briefing company executives during their Washington visits.”

Following the completion of his internship, the company was so impressed with Dorcély that he was offered a position once he graduated.

“I was very excited to receive a post-graduation opportunity,” he said.

With help from a couple of his professors, Dorcély applied last December for the internship through TFAS.

“TFAS took care of finding potential internship placements and sending out resumes based on my fields of interest; my only worries were the interviews,” he said. “Infineon was the second company I interviewed for, and I got the offer the following day.”

Along with the internship, Dorcély took a class at George Mason University in Virginia and also had time for training and sight-seeing.

“Being a part of the cross-country and track teams at Ozarks, I had to put in the most summer training possible,” he said. “But other than that, I got to visit a lot of museums, the Library of Congress, the U.S. Botanic Garden and a lot of places in Maryland and Virginia as well. I stayed in Foggy-Bottom, an area in downtown Washington, which facilitated exploring because everything was close. I went on random strolls through Georgetown, Shaw, the National Mall and ate at many different places.”

The internship reaffirmed Dorcély’s desire to pursue a career in public policy and finance.

“Those who know me know how indecisive I had been regarding my career path,” he said. “I have two majors and two minors, with so many options to look at without having enough time to analyze them. I had multiple conversations with different people trying to get help because I used to feel like I hit a dead-end not knowing what I wanted to do next. My time in D.C. totally put me back on track. I definitely know what I do not want to do, and thanks to the countless networking events I went to, I have a clear idea of what I want to get into after graduation.”

Following graduation from Ozarks, he plans to obtain a master’s in public policy or administration with a concentration in finance.

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