Dr. Blair Dean, professor of physical education, has received the Community Leadership Award for 2015 from the President’s Council on Fitness, Sports and Nutrition (PCFSN). Dean, who has chaired the Arkansas Governor’s Council on Fitness since 2005, is known for her expertise in physical activity for young children. She is one of only 47 recipients of the national award, which recognizes work toward improving the lives of others.

Billy Hogue, assistant controller, was named recipient of the 'Unsung Hero' award at the Distinguished Performance and Service Recognition Awards ceremony. A staff member since 1989, Hogue was recognized for his many positive contributions to A-State's success, including his dedication and extra hours to assist his colleagues and make sure the university meets its obligations as reflected in the yearly financial audits.

The new faculty athletics representative (FAR) is Dr. Karen McDaniel, assistant professor of management. She succeeds Dr. Nonie Wiggins, FAR since 2001, who is retiring this year. Appointed by Chancellor Tim Hudson, McDaniel will serve as a liaison between the university and the athletics department, and also will represent the university in conference and NCAA affairs. Before assuming her current duties, she directed the online MBA program.

Congratulations to Christine Perry, administrative specialist II in the Department of Accounting, who received the STAR Award during the staff Distinguished Performance and Service Recognition Awards ceremony. STAR is an acronym for "Service, Teamwork, Attitude and Reliability," positive performance characteristics that Perry exhibits each day. She has been an A-State staff member since 1999.

Leah Walker, instructor in engineering, was keynote speaker at the recent STEM Leadership Conference for Girls. Her address, "How to Thrive in a STEM World," included tips for success and details about A-State's undergraduate engineering programs in mechanical, civil and electrical engineering, along with two graduate engineering programs. The conference was funded through a grant from the Arkansas STEM Coalition.