The Arkansas Research Alliance announced new appointments to its Academy of Scholars and Fellows, including Dr. Jianfeng (Jay) Xu, research professor in the Arkansas Biosciences Institute (ABI) and College of Agriculture. Each Fellow receives a $75,000 grant to advance their research vision. Xu’s research focuses on the genetic engineering of plants and plant cells to produce therapeutic proteins and biofuels. Details about Xu and his work are in a news release.

Congratulations to our campus neighbor, Dr. Shane Speights, dean of the New York Institute of Technology College of Osteopathic Medicine at A-State. The American Association of Colleges of Osteopathic Medicine (AACOM) announced that Speights is the newly elevated chair of its Board of Deans. Speights, a graduate of the University of Health Sciences College of Osteopathic Medicine in Kansas City, is board certified in family medicine and a founding faculty member at NYITCOM.

Jill Clogston, director, A-State Advanced Placement Summer Institute (APSI), was selected to participate in the College Board's APSI Advisory Panel policy meeting in New York City. The meeting participants reviewed, discussed and developed potential policy and operational procedure changes that will help improve the APSI model for all sites. Clogston has been the director of A-State's APSI, which provides professional learning experiences for AP teachers, since 2017.

Students in the Honors College selected Dr. Andrew Sweet, assistant professor of evolutionary biology, as Honors Professor of the Year. Sweet, who taught “Honors Biology of Animals,” was chosen from among seven individuals nominated for the award, announced during the Honors Recognition Ceremony Friday. Sweet’s nominators emphasized his thorough explanations of course material, passion for the subject, and encouragement for students to become more engaged and think critically.

Dr. Deborah Chappel Daniel, who retired as associate professor of English, was recognized during Faculty Honors Convocation for her 31 years of service and contributions to A-State. She joined the English faculty in 1991 after completing her Ph.D. in American literature at Duke. She taught a variety of undergraduate and graduate literature courses, mentored doctoral candidates in the heritage studies program, directed many Honors theses, and served for a time as associate dean.