Difference between revisions of "University of Central Arkansas"

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[[Image:UCALogo.jpg|100px|UCA Logo]]
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[[Image:UCABEARS.JPG|thumb|300px|UCA Bears mascot logo.]]
The '''University of Central Arkansas''' is a state-run institution located in the city of [[Conway]], the seat of [[Faulkner County]], north of [[Little Rock]] and is the second <!-- UCA is the second largest, ASU is not. If you count campuses in the system, then UALR and UAPB would be counted with the U of A, but they are not --> largest university by enrollment in Arkansas, and the third largest college system in the state. The school is most respected for its programs in Education, Occupational Therapy, and Physical Therapy. It is also the home of the [[UCA Honors College]] as well as four Residential Colleges.
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[[Image:Wingo-hall-postcard.jpg|thumb|300px|Historic postcard view of Wingo Hall.]]
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The '''University of Central Arkansas''' (UCA) is a comprehensive public higher education institution located on a 365-acre campus in [[Conway]]. The school lists 709 faculty members (510 full-time, 199 part-time). Fifty-four percent of instructors have terminal degrees.
  
==History and Mission [http://archives.uca.edu/uca_History/a_brief_history_of_uca.htm A Brief History of UCA<!-- Bot generated title -->]==
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The University of Central Arkansas was founded by the [[General Assembly]] in 1907 as the Arkansas State Normal School. The legislature established the school for the training of teachers. The school's name changed to Arkansas State Teachers College (ASTC) in 1925. The school became known as the State College of Arkansas (SCA) in January 1967 to better reflect newer missions to provide training in the liberal arts and health care. The [[Arkansas Department of Higher Education]] changed the name again to the University of Central Arkansas in 1975.
[[Image:GardensUCA.JPG|lright|thumb|250px|Flowers looking towards the south, central part of campus.]]
 
The Arkansas State Legislature created The Arkansas State Normal School (now known as UCA) in 1907. The purpose of The Arkansas State Normal School was to properly train students to become professional teachers and rid Arkansas of haphazard schoolteachers.  Classes began in 1908 with nine academic departments, one building on 80 acres, 107 students and seven faculty members.  Two faculty members taught in two departments and President Doyne taught pedagogy and Latin.  
 
  
In 1925, Arkansas State Normal School became known as Arkansas State Teachers College.  The change in names accurately reflected the main program of instruction and mission of the institution.  Arkansas State Teachers College was known for decades as the premier teacher training college in the State of Arkansas.
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====Academics====
  
By 1967, the mission of Arkansas State Teachers College had changed.  Though teacher training was still an important part of the institution’s mission, other fields began to expand in liberal arts studies and in the emerging field of health care.  To recognize the institution’s existing academic diversity another name change was in order.  In January 1967, Arkansas State Teachers College became State College of Arkansas.
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UCA offers a number of degree programs including the associate of arts, associate of applied science, bachelor of arts, bachelor of science, bachelor of science in education, bachelor of fine arts, bachelor of business administration, bachelor of music education, master of arts, master of business administration, master of music, master of music education, master of science in education, master of science in nursing, and specialist in education.
  
President Silas Snow, who championed the name change in 1967, organized State College of Arkansas along university lines in preparation for still yet another name change.  State College of Arkansas grew rapidly and offered an ever-widening range of degree programs. By January of 1975, Snow’s efforts were realized as the State Department of Higher Education recommended State College of Arkansas be known as The University of Central Arkansas (UCA).
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''[[UCA College of Business Administration|College of Business Administration]]''
  
==Enrollment==
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''[[UCA College of Education|College of Education]]''
  
UCA has a Fall 2008 enrollment of 12,959, the largest in its history, and an increase of 2.7 percent over its enrollment one year earlier, which was 12,619.
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''[[UCA College of Fine Arts and Communication|College of Fine Arts and Communication]]''
  
In the September 19, 2007 edition of ''The Echo'' (campus newspaper), the fall 2007 enrollment was listed at 12,619. [http://www.ucaecho.net/stories/index.php?id=618] In fall 2006, 12,330 students were enrolled at UCA. [http://www.uca.edu/research/cardfall2006.php]  UCA's enrollment has increased by over 30% in the past five years and 46% over the past four years. In fall 2002, UCA had an enrollment of approximately 8,500. [http://www.uca.edu/web/weblog/index.php?itemid=1473] In fall 2005, students come from 38 states and 55 countries. Full fall 2005 enrollment statistics can be found [http://www.uca.edu/research/factbook05.php here].
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''[[UCA College of Health and Behavioral Sciences|College of Health and Behavioral Sciences]]''
  
==Traditions==
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''[[UCA College of Liberal Arts|College of Liberal Arts]]''
[[Image:Oldmainuca.JPG|left|thumb|250px|Main Hall, the oldest building on campus.]]
 
<br />'''UCA Colors -''' The colors for UCA were decided the first year and according to an article in the November 24th, 1908 edition of the Log Cabin Democrat, were said to be purple and silver. President Doyne assigned the task of developing school colors to W.O. Wilson and Ida Waldran in 1908. Wilson was wearing a gray sweater and Waldran was wearing a purple scarf. They chose the colors based upon the color of the clothing they were wearing that day. Both Wilson and Waldran thought that purple and gray complemented each other. Today the official colors for all UCA sports teams are purple and gray.
 
  
'''UCA Mascot''' - It wasn’t until 1920 that the UCA athletic teams had a mascot.  According to Dr. Ted Worley, author of A History of The Arkansas State Teachers College, the UCA teams from 1908-1919 were referred to by many names, including: Tutors, Teachers, Pedagogues, Pea-Pickers and Normalites.  In 1920 the Bears became the mascot for the teams.  However, it wasn’t until April 7, 1921 that the teams were called “Bears” in print.  Dr. Worley also quoted sources as saying the Bear was an appropriate symbol for the school because Arkansas’ nickname was the “Bear State.” The women's teams were known as the Bearettes for several years. The name of Sugar Bear came later. Victor E. Bear came about in 1999 and Victoria E. Bear came soon after. Bruce D. Bear became the newest addition to the UCA family in 2006
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''[[UCA College of Natural Sciences and Mathematics|College of Natural Sciences and Mathematics]]''
  
'''Main Hall''' – is the oldest building on campus. This building was completed in 1919 and was built by George Donaghey, the man for whom Donaghey Avenue is named and a former governor of the State of Arkansas.  After the building was built it served a dual role as the administration building and as a classroom building.  It continued to serve as the administration building until the 1960s.
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[[Image:Mcalister-hall-sw.JPG|thumb|300px|McAlister Hall, home of the Honors College.]]
  
'''World War II Marker''' - UCA's World War II Memorial was dedicated in October 2003.  The memorial contains the names and branch of service of forty-six UCA Alumni who were killed during World War II. The memorial is a permanent reminder of those UCA Alumni who gave their lives fighting for their country.
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''[[UCA Honors College|Honors College]]''
  
'''Senior Legacy Walk Brick Campaign''' -The Senior Walk is located in the courtyard in front of the Student Center. Each year, graduates will have the opportunity to purchase bricks as part of their class year. For $100, graduates can purchase a brick that will be inscribed with his/her name or the name of a graduate that a purchaser want to honor.
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''[[University College]]''
  
==UCA Presidents==
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The Honors College was founded by president [[Jefferson Davis Farris Jr.]] and professor [[Norbert Oscar Schedler]] in 1982. Students in the program pursue their general education course of study in the first two years with other honors students in large groups and small groups. Students who matriculate into the junior year pursue a minor degree in Honors Interdisciplinary Studies. Regular co-curricular activities sponsored by the Honors College include Challenge Week, Issues in the Public Square, High Tables, and Soapboxes. The Honors College has a dedicated interdisciplinary studies faculty. The dean of the Honors College is [[Richard Scott]].
[[Image:Torreysonlibrary.JPG |left|thumb|250px|Torreyson Library, named after Burr Walter Torreyson.]]
 
[[John James Doyne]]       1908-1917
 
  
[[Burr Walter Torreyson]]   1917-1930
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''[[UCA Residential Colleges|Residential Colleges]]''
  
[[Heber L. McAlister]]     1930-1941
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The Residential Colleges at UCA are housed in several of the residential halls on campus, but also serve commuter students. The colleges are designed to address the special academic and social needs of first-year college students. There are four unique residential living and learning communities in Residential Colleges: Hughes, State, STEM (Science Technology Engineering and Mathematics), Short/Denny, and Minton Commuter College. In each college students take some courses in the residence hall, have upperclass mentors, and attend specific programs. The Residential College also sponsors a "sophomore year experience" begun in 2003. The director of learning communities in this program is [[Jayme Millsap Stone]].
  
[[Nolen M. Irby]]           1941-1953
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''[[UCA University College|University College]]''
  
[[Silas D. Snow]]           1953-1975
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University College (UC) was organized to meet the needs of transitional students, including those who are nontraditional or have remedial needs. Students in the program may complete an Associate of Arts degree in General Studies, or enter a four-year UCA degree program upon completing transitional and general education course requirements. UC has a dedicated faculty and is directed by [[Julia Winden Fey]]. In addition to the general education courses required of all UCA students, University College offers University Studies (UNIV 1100), Transitional Writing (UNIV 1300), Transitional Reading (UNIV 1301), Beginning Algebra (UNIV 1330),  and Intermediate Algebra (UNIV 1340). Tutoring is provided through the Academic Success Center.
  
[[Jefferson D. Farris]]     1975-1986
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''[[UCA Academic Outreach|Academic Outreach]]''
  
[[Winfred L. Thompson]]    1988-2001
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Academic Outreach provides community education, community and professional training and development, online learning, and conference services. The division is a member of the Southern Regional Education Board's Electronic Campus.
  
[[Lu Hardin]]              2002-2008
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====Student Life====
  
After President Thompson resigned the presidency he was replaced on an interim basis on December 21, 2001 by Dr. John smith, vice-president of financial services.  Smith served in this capacity until September 22, 2002.  Hardin took the reins at UCA on September 23, 2002.  He has a Bachelor of Arts with high honors from Arkansas Tech University and a Juris Doctorate from the University of Arkansas Law School.  Hardin served as an Arkansas State Senator for 14 years and was chairman of the Senate Education Committee and also served on the Joint Budget Committee and Legislative Council.  He chaired the Arkansas Advisory Council for Vocational Education and served 12 years as a Professor of Legal Studies at Arkansas Tech University.  In addition, he was a trial attorney for 10 years.  Prior to becoming UCA’s eighth president, Hardin was Director of the Department of Higher Education for six years. [http://archives.uca.edu/uca_History/eighth_president.htm Eighth President<!-- Bot generated title -->] President Lu Hardin announced his resignation at the August 28, 2008 Board of Trustee's meeting and just before Tom Courtway, UCA Vice President and General Counsel, was named Interim President.
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''[[UCA Student Government Association|Student Government Association (SGA)]]''
  
==Academics==
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The Student Government Association ([[SGA]]) represents the student body in allocating and administrating student activity funds, advising the administration in regard to student-related policies, cooperating with faculty in determining student obligations and honors, considering all student petitions to SGA, planning and supervising all SGA elections, and approving charters or cancellations of Registered Student Organizations (RSOs).  
[[Image:Snowfineartscenter.JPG|right|thumb|300px|Snow Fine Arts Center]]
 
The University has 6 distinct colleges offering over 75 majors.[http://www.uca.edu/uca/acaddepts.php] These colleges are: The College of Business, the College of Education, the College of Fine Arts and Communications, the College of Health and Behavioral Sciences, the College of Liberal Arts, and the College of Natural Sciences and Mathematics.
 
  
The university is famous for its innovative Honors College, which has received national recognition for its excellence. Small classes, distinguished faculty, TAG and URGE grants for students, high ACT and SAT scores, and outstanding medical and graduate school admission rates are hallmarks of the College. The Carnegie Foundation said the UCA Honors College was "One of the most widely imitated programs in the country," and former U.S. Secretary of Education Terrell Bell described the Honors College as being "An Ivy League education at a bargain basement price."[http://www.uca.edu/divisions/academic/honors/index1.php?nav=p&sec=pro&pg=about]
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The SGA is composed of total of forty senators divided into an [[SGA Executive Board|Executive Board]] consisting of an executive president, executive vice-president, vice-president of operations, and vice-president of finance. SGA representation from each class is as follows: president, vice-president, and five representatives. Additional members: five senators at large, and three graduate senators.  
  
In 2006, ''U.S. News & World Report'' ranked UCA 61st in the South in academic excellence. This marks the first year that UCA has been ranked. UCA was the only public Arkansas university in that category. [http://www.uca.edu/web/weblog/index.php?itemid=1473]
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The full [[UCA SGA Senate|Senate]] meets every Monday at 5 pm in Student Center 208. All students are invited to attend. This is the time when all the classes and committees come together, under the direction of the Executive Board, to report on goals and projects that are being carried out by the body. Any student can be appointed to a committee.
  
==The Colleges==
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''Registered Student Organizations'':
The University of Central Arkansas in Conway, AR, comprises six colleges. In addition to the programs offered at the colleges, it has a study abroad program. Students may, for example, study Literature in Italy and U.K., healthcare in China or Sociology in Africa. Credits earned at several foreign universities may be credited towards a degree at UCA.
 
[[Image:Irby Court Yard.JPG|left|thumb|300px|The courtyard outside of Irby Hall.]]
 
'''College of Fine Arts and Communication'''
 
The College of Fine Arts and Communication offers five fields of study for a degree. Available disciplines include public relations, communications, art and writing. Many of the college's degrees enable graduates to work or teach in their chosen profession. The college offers both bachelor and graduate programs.
 
  
'''College of Natural Sciences and Mathematics'''
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*Addictions Studies Association
This college offers six fields of study in physical and natural sciences. Undergraduate programs include those in biology, chemistry, computer science, pre-medicine, pre-engineering and pre-veterinary science. The college offers both bachelor and master's degrees.
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*Alabaster Dance
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*All Greek Council
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*Alpha Kappa Alpha
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*Alpha Phi Alpha
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*Alpha Psi Omega
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*Alpha Sigma Alpha
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*Alpha Sigma Tau
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*American Association Family & Consumer Science
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*American Chemical Society Student Affiliates
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*American Institute of Graphic Design
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*American Society of Interior Design
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*AMSA Premedical Chapter
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*Anime & Manga Society
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*Apostolic Students for Christ
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*Arkansas Hall Council
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*Art Education Association
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*Art History Association
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*Association of Muslim Students
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*Baptist Collegiate Ministry
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*Baridon Hall Council
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*Bernard Hall Council
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*Beta Alpha Psi
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*Bike Club
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*Black Graduate Association
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*Black Men United
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*Business & Information Technologies (form. The Computer Club)
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*Carmichael Hall Council
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*Catholic Campus Ministry
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*Central Arkansas Student Athletic Training Association
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*Chi Alpha Christian Fellowship
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*Church of Christ Student Union
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*Circle K International
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*COLAO
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*College Republicans
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*Collegiate Middle Level Association
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*Computer Science Club
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*Conway Hall Council
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*Corps of Cadets
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*Delta Zeta
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*Diamonds
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*Ebony Models
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*Environmental Alliance
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*Fellowship of Christian Athletes
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*Friends of Christ Uniting Students (FOCUS)
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*Gamma Beta Phi
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*German Club
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*Graduate Association for Student Personnel
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*Graduate Association of Counseling & Psychology Students
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*Griot Society
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*Hispanic Pride
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*Honors Center Society
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*Horn Club of the International Horn Society
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*Hughes Hall Council
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*Humane Society
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*ICC
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*Insurance Society
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*Interdenominational Christian Council
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*Interfraternity Council
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*International Trade Association
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*International Tuba Euphonium Association
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*Iota Phi Theta
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*Judah Chorale Collegiate Choir
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*Kappa Alpha Psi
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*Kappa Delta Pi
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*Kappa Kappa Psi
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*Kappa Sigma Colony
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*K-Life Ministry
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*Ladies of Black and Gold
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*Lambda Pi Eta
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*Leadership Council
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*Local Harvest
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*Lutheran Student Fellowship
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*Minority Mentorship Council
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*Missionary Baptist Student Fellowship
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*Model United Nations
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*National Pan-Hellenic Council
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*National Science Teachers Association
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*National Society of Collegiate Scholars
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*New Hall Council
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*North American Saxophone Alliance
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*Omega Psi Phi
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*Panhellenic Council
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*Phi Beta Lambda
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*Phi Beta Sigma
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*Phi Mu Alpha Sinfonia
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*Phi Sigma Kappa
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*Phi Upsilon Omicron
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*Physical Therapy Club
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*Pi Kappa Alpha
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*Pi Sigma Epsilon
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*Pre-Physical Therapy Club
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*Prism Alliance
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*Psi Chi/Psychology Club
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*Public Administration Club
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*Public Relations Club
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*Residence Hall Association
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*Rotaract Club
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*Serving Central Arkansas Together
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*Sigma Alpha Lambda
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*Sigma Kappa
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*Sigma Nu
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*Sigma Phi Epsilon
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*Sigma Sigma Sigma
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*Sigma Tau Gamma
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*Speech Language Hearing Association
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*Stadium Park Apartment Council
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*State Hall Council
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*Student Activities Board
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*Student Dietetic Association
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*[[UCA Student Government Association|Student Government Association]]
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*Student Nurse's Association
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*Student Occupational Therapy Association
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*Student Support Staff
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*Students for Creative Anachronism
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*Students for Life
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*Students for Pre-Occupational Therapy
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*Students for the Propagation of Black Culture
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*Students In Free Enterprise
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*Tau Beta Sigma
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*Teachers United
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*The Bear Den
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*Track Club
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*Ultimate Frisbee Club
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*Umoja Wa Afrika
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*United Leftist Front
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*Up 'Til Dawn
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*Words of Wisdom
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*Writing Club
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*Young Democrats
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*Young Life Fellowship
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*Zeta Phi Beta Sorority
  
'''College of Business Administration'''
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====History of UCA====
Business students attending the University of Central Arkansas can pursue an associate, graduate, bachelor or MBA degree through this college. It offers four major fields of study, including accounting, finance, information systems and marketing.
 
  
'''College of Health and Behavioral Sciences'''  
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''Arkansas State Normal School'' (1907-1925)
This college offers bachelor and graduate degrees in health, education, counseling, military science, nursing, therapy and speech pathology. ROTC students at the University of Central Arkansas attend this college for training as a commissioned officer. Courses are also available in fitness and exercise.
 
  
'''College of Liberal Arts'''
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UCA was founded as the Arkansas State Normal School in 1907 under Arkansas Act 317. Five communities in the state were considered as a potential site for the new school: [[Benton]], [[Conway]], Fort Smith, Quitman, and Russellville. Conway's winning bid included a cash payment of $51,753 plus land and improvements to infrastructure. The city's location in a "dry" county also recommended it. The first building for the college's eight professors and nine academic departments was completed in September 1908. The first class of 107 students enrolled that same year. Successful students enrolled at the school originally received a two-year Licentiate of Instruction degree.
There are seven fields of study available at the College of Liberal Arts. The college offers graduate and bachelor degrees. Available fields of study include philosophy, foreign language, political science, geography and history.  
 
  
'''College of Education'''
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A dormitory for women, [[Doyne Hall]], was finished in 1913. (Women moved into [[McAlister Hall]] in 1934, and men were placed in Doyne.) To facilitate the teaching of teachers in context the school established a Model School where grade school students could be educated and master teachers could be observed. The Administration Building, now known as Main Hall, was constructed in 1919. Many students also participated in the agricultural education programs of the school, reflecting the rural foundation of the state. Each student tended school produce in a 500 square foot personal plot of land in the university garden. The school also raised livestock and other products for consumption in the school cafeteria.
The College of Education offers University of Central Arkansas students Ph.D., bachelor and master's degree programs. These programs provide the skills required to work in teaching, educational administration and curriculum development.
 
  
==Residential Colleges==
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''Arkansas State Teachers College'' (ASTC) (1925-1967)
[[Image:Studentcenteruca.JPG|left|thumb|300px|The Student Center. Went through a major remodeling in the summer of 2008..]]
 
There are currently four residential colleges[http://www.uca.edu/divisions/academic/undergradstudies/Residential/#advantage]at UCA. The four RC are Hughes Hall(97), State Residential College (99), Minton (05) and Short/Denny (2006).
 
  
Residential colleges are more than just places to live. They are co-educational learning communities in which students and their professors interact closely with one another. By living in the same residence hall as a faculty member, and taking classes with other college members, residential college students form academic connections which enrich the entire educational experience.  
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The campus began to take its modern shape under the federal works programs undertaken during the [[Great Depression|New Deal]]. Ten buildings were erected in the 1930s, including McAlister Hall, [[Wingo Hall]], Ida Waldran Auditorium, the Prince Center, Doyne Annex (Meadors Hall), the President's Home, Commons ([[McCastlain Hall]]), Bernard Hall, the National Youth Administration Building (Baridon Hall), the Home Management House, and a Heating Plant.
  
Any student admitted to UCA is eligible to apply for admission to the Residential Colleges. The program is open to students in all majors and programs. Students generally enter a residential learning community the first semester of their freshman year.  
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During World War II the college joined higher education institutions across the country in contributing to the war effort. Students enlisted in the armed services, and enrollment declined sharply. The Women's Auxiliary Army Corps (WAAC) trained 1,800 women for non-combat roles in the conflict. The Army Air Corps Cadets and Naval Cadets took specially-designed courses on the campus, training many aviators and navigators. Forty-six UCA alumni were killed in the war, each recognized by what are now tall oak trees lining Donaghey Avenue and sidewalks in front of Wingo, McCastlain, and Bernard halls.  
  
The UCA Residential College Program is a community of learners that was implemented in 1997 to educate the whole student. To do this, the program provides each student with opportunities to develop her or his academic, professional, and societal lives.  
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Agriculture disappeared from the curriculum in 1948. In 1956 the color barrier came down at the school when African American student [[Thomas Embry]] enrolled at ASTC. Embry did not graduate from the school. The first black graduate was [[Joseph Norman Manley]] in 1958. Manley went on to earn a master's degree from the University of Arkansas at Fayetteville and a doctor of optometry degree from Ohio State University.
  
Academically, the RC college program expects their graduates to: know themselves as discerning thinkers who are able to evaluate and interpret complex information from a variety of sources, have a strong commitment to making learning a life-long process, express themselves thoughtfully and with meaning in a variety of contexts
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Torreyson Library was completed around 1963.
[[Image:Studentcentercourtyard.JPG|right|thumb|300px|The courtyard outside of the Student Center.]]
 
Professionally, the RC college program expects their: work well in teams, including those of varied composition; building consensus and working with dissension; utilize learned technological skills in ways which further and enhance their careers; act creatively, ethically, and with initiative.
 
  
Socially, the RC college program expects their: demonstrate a sense of commitment to local and global concerns; contribute their time, talents, and efforts in service to the community; recognize themselves as part of a diverse and ever-changing world.
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''State College of Arkansas'' (SCA) (1967-1975)
  
Because "the end depends upon the beginning," the UCA Residential College Program dedicates its faculty and resources to making the transitions from high school to college and college-to-career both meaningful and successful. By offering a space for conversations about things that matter, we build the communalities and connections so essential to our education and our society.
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The first African American educator, [[Mable B. Anderson]] in childhood education, joined the faculty of the State College of Arkansas in 1969. They were followed a year later by [[Clyde Penny]] and [[Marian Ross]]. Ross established the [[UCA Department of Occupational Therapy|Department of Occupational Therapy]].  
  
==Drama and Theater Arts==
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''University of Central Arkansas'' (UCA) (1975-present)
  
The University of Central Arkansas is Arkansas's premiere dramatic school. The program promotes active student involvement in all areas of production including acting, stage management, scenery, costumes, lights, sound, props, and management. The theater program participates annually in the Kennedy Center American College Theatre Festival and has walked away with numerous awards. UCA also holds the annual Arkansas High School Audition Day which is a chance for any High School senior interested in majoring in theater to audition before most of the theater programs in the state of Arkansas. Also, UCA Theatre is accredited by the National Association of Schools of Theatre. This accreditation assures students and parents that the UCA Theatre program meets professional standards of quality in theater education and training as set forth by the Association.
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The first bid to elevate SCA to university status came in a 1969 bill that failed on a 44-16 vote in the [[Arkansas House of Representatives]]. A successful bid to university status came on January 21, 1975. Within a decade the school had founded ten graduate degree programs, seven more undergraduate programs, and the [[UCA Press]]. In the Fall of 1982 the school added an Honors College, only the fourteenth such institution in the country, to sustain "severely gifted" students. In 1986 the [[UCA Archives]] came into being under the leadership of [[Tom Dillard]].
[http://www.uca.edu/theatre/ www.uca.edu/theatre]
 
  
==Public Appearances==
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====[[UCA Athletics|Athletics]]====
  
UCA Public Appearances is a division of the University’s College of Fine Arts & Communication.  Its primary responsibilities are to manage the Donald W. Reynolds Performance Hall--a 1200-seat, state-of-the-art theater--and to develop and present performing arts programming in the hall.
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Since 2006 UCA has been a Division I school and a member of the Southland Athletic Conference. Other members of the conference are McNeese State, Nicholls, Northwestern State, Sam Houston State, Southeastern Louisiana, Stephen F. Austin, and Texas State. The head football coach is [[Clint Conque]].
  
The Reynolds Performance Hall opened on September 15, 2000, with a sold-out concert by the late Ray Charles.  Since then, the theater has hosted numerous celebrities, including the Temptations, Ms. Gladys Knight, the Irish tenor Ronan Tynan, The Golden Dragon Acrobats, Frankie Valli & the Four Seasons, mezzo-soprano Denyce Graves, Dallas Cowboys owner Jerry Jones, and many national and international touring companies.
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''History'':
  
A three-person full-time staff, two part-time staff, and numerous student workers are employed by Public Appearances.
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UCA is a former member of the Division II Gulf South Conference.
  
In 2004, UCA Public Appearances created UCA Ticket Central, which provides ticketing services for all ticketed events on the campus. UCA Ticket Central serves Public Appearances, Athletics (football & basketball), UCA Theatre, the Conway Symphony Orchestra, Student Activities events, and events sponsored by organizations within and outside the University.
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====University enrollment====
  
UCA Public Appearances is supported by State funds, funds generated by the UCA Performing Arts fees, grants, ticket sales, and donations.
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Fall term enrollment figures for UCA. Data prior to 1961 could not be verified.
  
[http://www.uca.edu/publicappearances/ www.uca.edu/publicappearances]
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{| border="2" cellpadding="4" cellspacing="0" style="margin: 1em 1em 1em 0; background: #F9F9F9; border: 1px #aaa solid; border-collapse: collapse;"
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|- style="background: #F2F2F2;"
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! Year !! Enrollment
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|- align=center
 +
| 1908 || 105
 +
|- align=center
 +
| 1909 || 158
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|- align=center
 +
| 1910 || n/a
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|- align=center
 +
| 1911 || n/a
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|- align=center
 +
| 1912 || n/a
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|- align=center
 +
| 1913 || 312
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|- align=center
 +
| 1914 || n/a
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|- align=center
 +
| 1915 || 399
 +
|- align=center
 +
| 1916 || 476
 +
|- align=center
 +
| 1917 || 328
 +
|- align=center
 +
| 1918 || 301
 +
|- align=center
 +
| 1919 || 446
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|- align=center
 +
| 1920 || 482
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|- align=center
 +
| 1921 || 679
 +
|- align=center
 +
| 1922 || 771
 +
|- align=center
 +
| 1923 || 902
 +
|- align=center
 +
| 1924 || 847
 +
|- align=center
 +
| 1925 || 871
 +
|- align=center
 +
| 1926 || 854
 +
|- align=center
 +
| 1927 || 905
 +
|- align=center
 +
| 1928 || 873
 +
|- align=center
 +
| 1929 || n/a
 +
|- align=center
 +
| 1930 || 806
 +
|- align=center
 +
| 1931 || 685
 +
|- align=center
 +
| 1932 || 502
 +
|- align=center
 +
| 1933 || 589
 +
|- align=center
 +
| 1934 || 699
 +
|- align=center
 +
| 1935 || 730
 +
|- align=center
 +
| 1936 || 683
 +
|- align=center
 +
| 1937 || 715
 +
|- align=center
 +
| 1938 || 793
 +
|- align=center
 +
| 1939 || 832
 +
|- align=center
 +
| 1940 || 797
 +
|- align=center
 +
| 1941 || 596
 +
|- align=center
 +
| 1942 || 422
 +
|- align=center
 +
| 1943 || 291
 +
|- align=center
 +
| 1944 || 355
 +
|- align=center
 +
| 1945 || 498
 +
|- align=center
 +
| 1946 || 1,061
 +
|- align=center
 +
| 1947 || 1,428
 +
|- align=center
 +
| 1948 || 1,503
 +
|- align=center
 +
| 1949 || 1,587
 +
|- align=center
 +
| 1950 || 1,676
 +
|- align=center
 +
| 1951 || 1,288
 +
|- align=center
 +
| 1952 || 1,206
 +
|- align=center
 +
| 1953 || 1,137
 +
|- align=center
 +
| 1954 || 1,112
 +
|- align=center
 +
| 1955 || 1,221
 +
|- align=center
 +
| 1956 || 1,311
 +
|- align=center
 +
| 1957 || 1,334
 +
|- align=center
 +
| 1958 || 1,514
 +
|- align=center
 +
| 1959 || 1,629
 +
|- align=center
 +
| 1960 || 1,681
 +
|- align=center
 +
| 1961 || 1,798
 +
|- align=center
 +
| 1962 || 1,973
 +
|- align=center
 +
| 1963 || 1,968
 +
|- align=center
 +
| 1964 || 2,313
 +
|- align=center
 +
| 1965 || 2,707
 +
|- align=center
 +
| 1966 || 3,364
 +
|- align=center
 +
| 1967 || 3,887
 +
|- align=center
 +
| 1968 || 4,255
 +
|- align=center
 +
| 1969 || 4,513
 +
|- align=center
 +
| 1970 || 4,351
 +
|- align=center
 +
| 1971 || 4,380
 +
|- align=center
 +
| 1972 || 4,585
 +
|- align=center
 +
| 1973 || 4,535
 +
|- align=center
 +
| 1974 || 4,508
 +
|- align=center
 +
| 1975 || 4,759
 +
|- align=center
 +
| 1976 || 4,985
 +
|- align=center
 +
| 1977 || 5,190
 +
|- align=center
 +
| 1978 || 5,349
 +
|- align=center
 +
| 1979 || 5,538
 +
|- align=center
 +
| 1980 || 5,739
 +
|- align=center
 +
| 1981 || 6,001
 +
|- align=center
 +
| 1982 || 5,875
 +
|- align=center
 +
| 1983 || 5,993
 +
|- align=center
 +
| 1984 || 6,245
 +
|- align=center
 +
| 1985 || 6,452
 +
|- align=center
 +
| 1986 || 6,425
 +
|- align=center
 +
| 1987 || 6,614
 +
|- align=center
 +
| 1988 || 6,698
 +
|- align=center
 +
| 1989 || 7,477
 +
|- align=center
 +
| 1990 || 8,396
 +
|- align=center
 +
| 1991 || 9,057
 +
|- align=center
 +
| 1992 || 9,473
 +
|- align=center
 +
| 1993 || 9,567
 +
|- align=center
 +
| 1994 || 9,192
 +
|- align=center
 +
| 1995 || 8,882
 +
|- align=center
 +
| 1996 ||
 +
|- align=center
 +
| 1997 ||
 +
|- align=center
 +
| 1998 ||
 +
|- align=center
 +
| 1999 || 8,739
 +
|- align=center
 +
| 2000 || 8,481
 +
|- align=center
 +
| 2001 || 8,486
 +
|- align=center
 +
| 2002 || 8,553
 +
|- align=center
 +
| 2003 || 9,516
 +
|- align=center
 +
| 2004 || 10,069
 +
|- align=center
 +
| 2005 || 11,375
 +
|- align=center
 +
| 2006 || 12,330
 +
|- align=center
 +
| 2007 || 12,619
 +
|- align=center
 +
| 2008 || 12,974
 +
|- align=center
 +
| 2009 || 11,781
 +
|- align=center
 +
| 2010 || 11,444
 +
|- align=center
 +
| 2011 ||
 +
|- align=center
 +
|}
  
==Athletics==
+
====UCA Presidents====
[[Image:UCABEARS.JPG|thumb|right|Central Arkansas Bears logo]]
 
The University of Central Arkansas participates in 14 NCAA Division I Varsity Sports and one College Subvision (formerly I-AA football), supported by the efforts of a diverse group of over 300 male and female student-athletes. Its men's teams are called the Bears and the women's are the Sugar Bears.
 
  
UCA presently competes in seven men's sports (American football, basketball, baseball, soccer, golf, cross country and track) and eight women's sports (basketball, softball, volleyball, soccer, tennis, golf, cross country and track).
+
The University of Central Arkansas has had eight presidents and at least one interim president:
  
From 1993 to 2006, UCA competed in the West Division of the Gulf South Conference. In 2005-2006, UCA's men's athletic teams won the conference's All Sports Trophy. However, on July 1, 2006, UCA moved to the Southland Conference, which is Division I-AA in football and Division I in all other sports. UCA plans to be a full Division I member by September 10, 2010.
+
*[[John James Doyne]] (1908-1917)
 +
*[[Burr Walter Torreyson]] (1917-1930)
 +
*[[Heber L. McAlister]] (1930-1941)
 +
*[[Nolen M. Irby]] (1941-1953)
 +
*[[Silas D. Snow]] (1953-1975)
 +
*[[Jefferson D. Farris]] (1975-1986)
 +
*[[Winfred L. Thompson]] (1988-2001)
 +
*[[Lu Hardin]] (2002-2008)
 +
*[[Tom Courtway]] (interim, 2008-2009)
 +
*[[Allen C. Meadors]] (2009-present)
  
Prior to moving to Division II, UCA competed in NAIA Division I for most sports, winning the national football championship three times (1984 {co-champs}, 1985 {co-champs} and 1991) and finishing runner-up once (1976).  Between 1979 and 1992, UCA won or shared 13 out of 14 Arkansas Intercollegiate Conference championships (AIC) and went to the playoffs 12 times in that span. A number of former Bears have found success in the NFL, including [[Landon Trusty]], [[Willie Davis (wide receiver)|Willie Davis]], Tyree Davis, Dave Burnette, Curtis Burrow, Andre Collins, David Evans, and most notably [[Monte Coleman]].
+
====UCA Provosts====
  
The most famous athlete in school history is unquestionably [[Scottie Pippen]]. Pippen was a 6'2" walk-on his first year at UCA, but by the time his sophomore year rolled around, he had grown to 6'7", and would be a starter for the next three seasons. Scottie was drafted by the Seattle SuperSonics with the 5th pick in the 1987 NBA draft, and then traded to the Chicago Bulls for Olden Polynice. Polynice was never a major factor in the NBA, but Scottie won six world championships (1991&ndash;1993 and 1996&ndash;1998) while playing for the Bulls (1987 - 1998) alongside Michael Jordan. Not long after his retirement, Pippen was voted as one of the NBA's Top 50 Players of All-Time, and the Chicago Bulls retired his jersey number (#33). His jersey at UCA is also retired, and hangs in the rafters.  Pippen also played for the Houston Rockets (1998 - 1999) and the Portland Trail Blazers (1999&ndash;2003).  Pippen is retired, and lives with his family in Ft. Lauderdale, Florida.
+
*[[Robert McChesney]]
 +
*[[J. William "Bill" Berry]]
 +
*[[Gabriel "Gabe" Esteban]]
 +
*[[Keith Atkinson]] (interim, 2007-2008)
 +
*[[Lance Grahn]] (2008-present)
  
<gallery>
+
====Campus Buildings====
<!-- Unsourced image removed: Image:Farris_Center.jpg|Home to UCA's D-I basketball teams. -->
 
<!-- Unsourced image removed: Image:Estes_Stadium_2.jpg|Students cheer on the Bears at Estes Stadium. -->
 
</gallery>
 
  
<gallery>
+
*[[Baridon Hall]]
<!-- Unsourced image removed: Image:Prince_Center.jpg|The Prince Center. Home to UCA volleyball. -->
+
*[[Bernard Hall]]
<!-- Unsourced image removed: Image:UCAField.jpg|UCA Field is home to the university's baseball team. -->
+
*[[Brewer-Hegeman Conference Center]]
</gallery>
+
*[[Buffalo Alumni Hall]]
 +
*[[Burdick Business Administration]]       
 +
*[[Carmichael Hall]]
 +
*[[Christian Cafeteria]]
 +
*[[E. E. Cordrey Hall]] (historic)
 +
*[[Denney Hall]]
 +
*[[Doyne Hall]] (historic)
 +
*[[Doyne Health Science Center]]
 +
*[[Estes Stadium]]
 +
*[[Farris Center]]
 +
*[[Farris Hall]]
 +
*[[Ferguson Chapel]]
 +
*[[Green Building]] (Irby Demonstration School) (historic)
 +
*[[Harrin Hall]]
 +
*[[Hughes Hall]]
 +
*[[Irby Hall]]
 +
*[[Irby Training School]] (historic)
 +
*[[Laney Hall]]
 +
*[[Lewis Science Center]]
 +
*[[Mashburn Hall]]
 +
*[[McAlister Hall]]
 +
*[[McCastlain Hall]]
 +
*[[Meadors Hall]]
 +
*[[Minton Hall]]
 +
*[[New Hall]]
 +
*[[UCA President's Home|President's Home]]
 +
*[[Reynolds Performance Hall]]
 +
*[[Stanley Russ Hall]]
 +
*[[Schichtl]]
 +
*[[Short Hall]]
 +
*[[Snow Fine Arts Center]]
 +
*[[Student Center]]
 +
*[[Thompson Hall]]
 +
*[[Torreyson Library]]
 +
*[[Ida Waldran Auditorium]]
 +
*[[Wingo Hall]]
  
===Fight Song===
+
====Notable former students or graduates====
''UCA Fight Song''
 
  
Go-Go-Fight Bears
+
*[[Kris Allen]] - ''American Idol'' winner
 +
*[[James Bridges]] - Hollywood writer and director
 +
*[[Dee Brown]] - author of ''Bury My Heart at Wounded Knee''
 +
*[[Gil Gerard]] - actor best known for role as Buck Rogers
 +
*[[Hiroyuki Nishimura]] - founder of 2chan, the largest bulletin board system in the world
 +
*[[Scottie Pippen]] - former six-time NBA championship player
  
You will lead us on to victory
+
==References==
  
Hey, go-fight-win team
+
*Jimmy Bryant, ''The Centennial History of the University of Central Arkansas'' (Virginia Beach, VA: Donning Company, 2008), 9-19, 42-53, 62-104.
 +
*Debra Hale-Shelton, "Dip Seen in UCA Student Numbers," ''Arkansas Democrat-Gazette,'' August 9, 2009.
  
Bears will charge the field and never yield
+
==External links==
 
 
So, GO BEARS, GO!
 
 
 
We've got the spir-it, and we'll show our colors
 
 
 
Here tonight-so let's cheer
 
 
 
The Purple and the Gray Team
 
 
 
The Mighty BEARS will win the FIGHT!
 
 
 
==Greek Life==
 
Approximately 10% of UCA's students are members of one of the 20 Greek organizations hosted by the campus. Greek life was established on 1915. The organizations also devote thousands of man-hours and dollars to local charities each year.
 
 
 
List of Greek Organizations at UCA
 
 
 
'''Interfraternity'''
 
Pi Kappa Alpha,
 
Phi Sigma Kappa,
 
Sigma Tau Gamma,
 
Kappa Sigma,
 
Sigma Nu,
 
Sigma Phi Epsilon,
 
and Phi Lambda Chi
 
 
 
'''Panhellenic Council'''
 
Alpha Sigma Alpha,
 
Delta Zeta,
 
Alpha Sigma Tau,
 
Sigma Kappa,
 
Sigma Sigma Sigma
 
 
 
'''National Pan-Hellenic Council'''
 
Alpha Phi Alpha,
 
Kappa Alpha Psi,
 
Omega Psi Phi,
 
Phi Beta Sigma,
 
Iota Phi Theta,
 
Alpha Kappa Alpha,
 
Delta Sigma Theta,
 
Zeta Phi Beta,
 
Sigma Gamma Rho
 
 
 
==Registered Student Organizations==
 
The University is home to more than 200 registered student organizations, with more forming every year.
 
 
 
Notable other RSO's include Young Democrats, College Libertarians, College Republicans, Sigma Alpha Lambda Honors Society, Student Council for Exceptional Children, PRISM, Business and Information Technology (BIT), Computer Science Club, Model UN, Campus Dialogue, Pre-Med Society, and a myriad of religious organizations.
 
 
 
Also, there are minority-focused organizations such as Griot Society, Minority Mentorship, Students for the Propagation of Black Culture (SPBC), S.U.A.A.W., Black Men United (BMU)
 
 
 
==Student Government Association==
 
 
 
The [[Student Government Association]], SGA, represents the student body at all times and in all circumstances, in areas such as: allocating and administrating student activity funds; advising the administration in regard to student-related policies; cooperating with faculty in determining student obligations and honors; considering all student petitions to SGA; planning and supervising all SGA elections; and approving charters or cancellations of RSOs.
 
  
The SGA was created to represent student interests on campus and push for initiatives that are beneficial for the student body. We are here to make sure that students are the number one priority in every decision made at UCA. The Slogan of SGA is: Students First!
+
*[http://www.uca.edu UCA homepage]
 
+
*[http://www.ucasports.com UCA Sports homepage]
The SGA is composed of total of forty senators divided into: "The Executive Board" consisting of a Executive President, Executive Vice-President, Vice-President of Operations, Vice-President of Finance.
+
*[http://honors.uca.edu UCA - Honors College]
SGA representation from each class shall be as follows: President, Vice-President, Five (5) Representatives.
+
*[http://www.uca.edu/residential/ Residential Colleges at UCA]
Additional Members: Five (5) Senators at Large, Three (3) Graduate Senators.
+
*[http://www.uca.edu/ucollege/ UCA - University College]
 
 
The full Senate meets every Monday at 5 pm in Student Center 215 and all students are invited to attend. This is the time when all the classes and committees come together, under the direction of the Executive Board, to report on goals and projects that are being carried out by the body. Any student can be appointed to a committee.
 
 
 
==External links==
 
===Administration & programs===
 
* [http://www.uca.edu/ University of Central Arkansas]
 
* [http://www.ucasports.com/ UCA Sports]
 
* [http://www.uca.edu/honors UCA Honors College]
 
* [http://www.ucaecho.net// ''The Echo''], the official UCA student newspaper
 
* [http://www.uca.edu/bands/ UCA Bands]
 
* [http://uca.bncollege.com/webapp/wcs/stores/servlet/BNCBHomePage?storeId=29051&catalogId=10001&langId=-1 UCA Bookstore]
 
  
===Student organizations & outreach===
+
[[Category:Higher Education]]
* [http://www.ucafans.com/ UCAfans.com, Where to talk about the Bears & Sugar Bears]
+
[[Category:UCA]]
* [http://www.ucakappasigma.com/ Nu Kappa Chapter of Kappa Sigma]
 
* [http://www.ucaphisig.com/ Epsilon Mu Chapter of Phi Sigma Kappa Fraternity]
 
* [http://www.lambdaphi.net/ Lambda Phi Chapter of Sigma Nu Fraternity]
 
* [http://www.ucasigep.com/ AR Zeta Chapter of Sigma Phi Epsilon]
 
* [http://www.geocities.com/uca_alphas/ Theta Psi Chapter of Alpha Phi Alpha Fraternity]
 
* [http://www.ucadeltazeta.com/ Epsilon Xi Chapter of Delta Zeta Sorority]
 
* [http://www.epsilonphi.com/ Epsilon Phi Chapter of Pi Kappa Alpha]
 
* [http://www.conwaybcm.com/ Baptist Collegiate Ministry]
 
* [http://www.uca.edu/org/prism UCA PRISM Gay-Straight Alliance]
 
* [http://www.salhonors.org/uca Sigma Alpha Lambda Honors Society]
 
* [http://www.geocities.com/kkpsiepsilonbeta/  Epsilon Beta Chapter of Kappa Kappa Psi Fraternity]
 
* [http://www.uca.edu/org/tbs/  Gamma Tau Chapter of Tau Beta Sigma Sorority]
 
* [http://www.arkansasiotas.com/ Gamma Upsilon Chapter of Iota Phi Theta Fraternity]
 

Latest revision as of 10:06, 1 February 2012

UCA Bears mascot logo.
Historic postcard view of Wingo Hall.

The University of Central Arkansas (UCA) is a comprehensive public higher education institution located on a 365-acre campus in Conway. The school lists 709 faculty members (510 full-time, 199 part-time). Fifty-four percent of instructors have terminal degrees.

The University of Central Arkansas was founded by the General Assembly in 1907 as the Arkansas State Normal School. The legislature established the school for the training of teachers. The school's name changed to Arkansas State Teachers College (ASTC) in 1925. The school became known as the State College of Arkansas (SCA) in January 1967 to better reflect newer missions to provide training in the liberal arts and health care. The Arkansas Department of Higher Education changed the name again to the University of Central Arkansas in 1975.

Academics

UCA offers a number of degree programs including the associate of arts, associate of applied science, bachelor of arts, bachelor of science, bachelor of science in education, bachelor of fine arts, bachelor of business administration, bachelor of music education, master of arts, master of business administration, master of music, master of music education, master of science in education, master of science in nursing, and specialist in education.

College of Business Administration

College of Education

College of Fine Arts and Communication

College of Health and Behavioral Sciences

College of Liberal Arts

College of Natural Sciences and Mathematics

McAlister Hall, home of the Honors College.

Honors College

University College

The Honors College was founded by president Jefferson Davis Farris Jr. and professor Norbert Oscar Schedler in 1982. Students in the program pursue their general education course of study in the first two years with other honors students in large groups and small groups. Students who matriculate into the junior year pursue a minor degree in Honors Interdisciplinary Studies. Regular co-curricular activities sponsored by the Honors College include Challenge Week, Issues in the Public Square, High Tables, and Soapboxes. The Honors College has a dedicated interdisciplinary studies faculty. The dean of the Honors College is Richard Scott.

Residential Colleges

The Residential Colleges at UCA are housed in several of the residential halls on campus, but also serve commuter students. The colleges are designed to address the special academic and social needs of first-year college students. There are four unique residential living and learning communities in Residential Colleges: Hughes, State, STEM (Science Technology Engineering and Mathematics), Short/Denny, and Minton Commuter College. In each college students take some courses in the residence hall, have upperclass mentors, and attend specific programs. The Residential College also sponsors a "sophomore year experience" begun in 2003. The director of learning communities in this program is Jayme Millsap Stone.

University College

University College (UC) was organized to meet the needs of transitional students, including those who are nontraditional or have remedial needs. Students in the program may complete an Associate of Arts degree in General Studies, or enter a four-year UCA degree program upon completing transitional and general education course requirements. UC has a dedicated faculty and is directed by Julia Winden Fey. In addition to the general education courses required of all UCA students, University College offers University Studies (UNIV 1100), Transitional Writing (UNIV 1300), Transitional Reading (UNIV 1301), Beginning Algebra (UNIV 1330), and Intermediate Algebra (UNIV 1340). Tutoring is provided through the Academic Success Center.

Academic Outreach

Academic Outreach provides community education, community and professional training and development, online learning, and conference services. The division is a member of the Southern Regional Education Board's Electronic Campus.

Student Life

Student Government Association (SGA)

The Student Government Association (SGA) represents the student body in allocating and administrating student activity funds, advising the administration in regard to student-related policies, cooperating with faculty in determining student obligations and honors, considering all student petitions to SGA, planning and supervising all SGA elections, and approving charters or cancellations of Registered Student Organizations (RSOs).

The SGA is composed of total of forty senators divided into an Executive Board consisting of an executive president, executive vice-president, vice-president of operations, and vice-president of finance. SGA representation from each class is as follows: president, vice-president, and five representatives. Additional members: five senators at large, and three graduate senators.

The full Senate meets every Monday at 5 pm in Student Center 208. All students are invited to attend. This is the time when all the classes and committees come together, under the direction of the Executive Board, to report on goals and projects that are being carried out by the body. Any student can be appointed to a committee.

Registered Student Organizations:

  • Addictions Studies Association
  • Alabaster Dance
  • All Greek Council
  • Alpha Kappa Alpha
  • Alpha Phi Alpha
  • Alpha Psi Omega
  • Alpha Sigma Alpha
  • Alpha Sigma Tau
  • American Association Family & Consumer Science
  • American Chemical Society Student Affiliates
  • American Institute of Graphic Design
  • American Society of Interior Design
  • AMSA Premedical Chapter
  • Anime & Manga Society
  • Apostolic Students for Christ
  • Arkansas Hall Council
  • Art Education Association
  • Art History Association
  • Association of Muslim Students
  • Baptist Collegiate Ministry
  • Baridon Hall Council
  • Bernard Hall Council
  • Beta Alpha Psi
  • Bike Club
  • Black Graduate Association
  • Black Men United
  • Business & Information Technologies (form. The Computer Club)
  • Carmichael Hall Council
  • Catholic Campus Ministry
  • Central Arkansas Student Athletic Training Association
  • Chi Alpha Christian Fellowship
  • Church of Christ Student Union
  • Circle K International
  • COLAO
  • College Republicans
  • Collegiate Middle Level Association
  • Computer Science Club
  • Conway Hall Council
  • Corps of Cadets
  • Delta Zeta
  • Diamonds
  • Ebony Models
  • Environmental Alliance
  • Fellowship of Christian Athletes
  • Friends of Christ Uniting Students (FOCUS)
  • Gamma Beta Phi
  • German Club
  • Graduate Association for Student Personnel
  • Graduate Association of Counseling & Psychology Students
  • Griot Society
  • Hispanic Pride
  • Honors Center Society
  • Horn Club of the International Horn Society
  • Hughes Hall Council
  • Humane Society
  • ICC
  • Insurance Society
  • Interdenominational Christian Council
  • Interfraternity Council
  • International Trade Association
  • International Tuba Euphonium Association
  • Iota Phi Theta
  • Judah Chorale Collegiate Choir
  • Kappa Alpha Psi
  • Kappa Delta Pi
  • Kappa Kappa Psi
  • Kappa Sigma Colony
  • K-Life Ministry
  • Ladies of Black and Gold
  • Lambda Pi Eta
  • Leadership Council
  • Local Harvest
  • Lutheran Student Fellowship
  • Minority Mentorship Council
  • Missionary Baptist Student Fellowship
  • Model United Nations
  • National Pan-Hellenic Council
  • National Science Teachers Association
  • National Society of Collegiate Scholars
  • New Hall Council
  • North American Saxophone Alliance
  • Omega Psi Phi
  • Panhellenic Council
  • Phi Beta Lambda
  • Phi Beta Sigma
  • Phi Mu Alpha Sinfonia
  • Phi Sigma Kappa
  • Phi Upsilon Omicron
  • Physical Therapy Club
  • Pi Kappa Alpha
  • Pi Sigma Epsilon
  • Pre-Physical Therapy Club
  • Prism Alliance
  • Psi Chi/Psychology Club
  • Public Administration Club
  • Public Relations Club
  • Residence Hall Association
  • Rotaract Club
  • Serving Central Arkansas Together
  • Sigma Alpha Lambda
  • Sigma Kappa
  • Sigma Nu
  • Sigma Phi Epsilon
  • Sigma Sigma Sigma
  • Sigma Tau Gamma
  • Speech Language Hearing Association
  • Stadium Park Apartment Council
  • State Hall Council
  • Student Activities Board
  • Student Dietetic Association
  • Student Government Association
  • Student Nurse's Association
  • Student Occupational Therapy Association
  • Student Support Staff
  • Students for Creative Anachronism
  • Students for Life
  • Students for Pre-Occupational Therapy
  • Students for the Propagation of Black Culture
  • Students In Free Enterprise
  • Tau Beta Sigma
  • Teachers United
  • The Bear Den
  • Track Club
  • Ultimate Frisbee Club
  • Umoja Wa Afrika
  • United Leftist Front
  • Up 'Til Dawn
  • Words of Wisdom
  • Writing Club
  • Young Democrats
  • Young Life Fellowship
  • Zeta Phi Beta Sorority

History of UCA

Arkansas State Normal School (1907-1925)

UCA was founded as the Arkansas State Normal School in 1907 under Arkansas Act 317. Five communities in the state were considered as a potential site for the new school: Benton, Conway, Fort Smith, Quitman, and Russellville. Conway's winning bid included a cash payment of $51,753 plus land and improvements to infrastructure. The city's location in a "dry" county also recommended it. The first building for the college's eight professors and nine academic departments was completed in September 1908. The first class of 107 students enrolled that same year. Successful students enrolled at the school originally received a two-year Licentiate of Instruction degree.

A dormitory for women, Doyne Hall, was finished in 1913. (Women moved into McAlister Hall in 1934, and men were placed in Doyne.) To facilitate the teaching of teachers in context the school established a Model School where grade school students could be educated and master teachers could be observed. The Administration Building, now known as Main Hall, was constructed in 1919. Many students also participated in the agricultural education programs of the school, reflecting the rural foundation of the state. Each student tended school produce in a 500 square foot personal plot of land in the university garden. The school also raised livestock and other products for consumption in the school cafeteria.

Arkansas State Teachers College (ASTC) (1925-1967)

The campus began to take its modern shape under the federal works programs undertaken during the New Deal. Ten buildings were erected in the 1930s, including McAlister Hall, Wingo Hall, Ida Waldran Auditorium, the Prince Center, Doyne Annex (Meadors Hall), the President's Home, Commons (McCastlain Hall), Bernard Hall, the National Youth Administration Building (Baridon Hall), the Home Management House, and a Heating Plant.

During World War II the college joined higher education institutions across the country in contributing to the war effort. Students enlisted in the armed services, and enrollment declined sharply. The Women's Auxiliary Army Corps (WAAC) trained 1,800 women for non-combat roles in the conflict. The Army Air Corps Cadets and Naval Cadets took specially-designed courses on the campus, training many aviators and navigators. Forty-six UCA alumni were killed in the war, each recognized by what are now tall oak trees lining Donaghey Avenue and sidewalks in front of Wingo, McCastlain, and Bernard halls.

Agriculture disappeared from the curriculum in 1948. In 1956 the color barrier came down at the school when African American student Thomas Embry enrolled at ASTC. Embry did not graduate from the school. The first black graduate was Joseph Norman Manley in 1958. Manley went on to earn a master's degree from the University of Arkansas at Fayetteville and a doctor of optometry degree from Ohio State University.

Torreyson Library was completed around 1963.

State College of Arkansas (SCA) (1967-1975)

The first African American educator, Mable B. Anderson in childhood education, joined the faculty of the State College of Arkansas in 1969. They were followed a year later by Clyde Penny and Marian Ross. Ross established the Department of Occupational Therapy.

University of Central Arkansas (UCA) (1975-present)

The first bid to elevate SCA to university status came in a 1969 bill that failed on a 44-16 vote in the Arkansas House of Representatives. A successful bid to university status came on January 21, 1975. Within a decade the school had founded ten graduate degree programs, seven more undergraduate programs, and the UCA Press. In the Fall of 1982 the school added an Honors College, only the fourteenth such institution in the country, to sustain "severely gifted" students. In 1986 the UCA Archives came into being under the leadership of Tom Dillard.

Athletics

Since 2006 UCA has been a Division I school and a member of the Southland Athletic Conference. Other members of the conference are McNeese State, Nicholls, Northwestern State, Sam Houston State, Southeastern Louisiana, Stephen F. Austin, and Texas State. The head football coach is Clint Conque.

History:

UCA is a former member of the Division II Gulf South Conference.

University enrollment

Fall term enrollment figures for UCA. Data prior to 1961 could not be verified.

Year Enrollment
1908 105
1909 158
1910 n/a
1911 n/a
1912 n/a
1913 312
1914 n/a
1915 399
1916 476
1917 328
1918 301
1919 446
1920 482
1921 679
1922 771
1923 902
1924 847
1925 871
1926 854
1927 905
1928 873
1929 n/a
1930 806
1931 685
1932 502
1933 589
1934 699
1935 730
1936 683
1937 715
1938 793
1939 832
1940 797
1941 596
1942 422
1943 291
1944 355
1945 498
1946 1,061
1947 1,428
1948 1,503
1949 1,587
1950 1,676
1951 1,288
1952 1,206
1953 1,137
1954 1,112
1955 1,221
1956 1,311
1957 1,334
1958 1,514
1959 1,629
1960 1,681
1961 1,798
1962 1,973
1963 1,968
1964 2,313
1965 2,707
1966 3,364
1967 3,887
1968 4,255
1969 4,513
1970 4,351
1971 4,380
1972 4,585
1973 4,535
1974 4,508
1975 4,759
1976 4,985
1977 5,190
1978 5,349
1979 5,538
1980 5,739
1981 6,001
1982 5,875
1983 5,993
1984 6,245
1985 6,452
1986 6,425
1987 6,614
1988 6,698
1989 7,477
1990 8,396
1991 9,057
1992 9,473
1993 9,567
1994 9,192
1995 8,882
1996
1997
1998
1999 8,739
2000 8,481
2001 8,486
2002 8,553
2003 9,516
2004 10,069
2005 11,375
2006 12,330
2007 12,619
2008 12,974
2009 11,781
2010 11,444
2011

UCA Presidents

The University of Central Arkansas has had eight presidents and at least one interim president:

UCA Provosts

Campus Buildings

Notable former students or graduates

References

  • Jimmy Bryant, The Centennial History of the University of Central Arkansas (Virginia Beach, VA: Donning Company, 2008), 9-19, 42-53, 62-104.
  • Debra Hale-Shelton, "Dip Seen in UCA Student Numbers," Arkansas Democrat-Gazette, August 9, 2009.

External links