FAYETTEVILLE, Ark. – Alumni and friends of the University of Arkansas will take higher education’s most critical issues to the state’s legislators during Razorback Day at the Capitol, a new initiative, to be held Wednesday, Feb. 11.

The day will begin with registration starting at 11 a.m. at Next Level Events in Little Rock’s Historic Union Station followed by a luncheon and remarks. From there, participants will walk or shuttle to the Capitol building for personal visits with individual legislators around the House and Senate Chamber.

“There are critical issues affecting higher education,” said Chancellor G. David Gearhart, “and we want to provide vital information to those who hold the power to make a difference in Arkansas. Increasing tuition costs result in financial struggles for our students, and the decline in state funding creates an even greater challenge. As the state’s flagship institution, we are committed to providing access to education. State support is necessary to make that happen.”

The luncheon will include remarks by Gearhart, Gov. Mike Beebe, Jeff Long, vice chancellor for intercollegiate athletics and director of athletics, Bobby Petrino, head football coach, Richard Hudson, vice chancellor for government and community relations, and Mike Macechko, executive director of the Arkansas Alumni Association.

“We must reinforce the broad reach of the University of Arkansas,” said Gearhart. “From Bella Vista to El Dorado, and from Texarkana to Jonesboro – and everywhere in between – the educational experience we offer and the research we conduct has a direct impact on the future of this state. Legislators need to be involved in our decisions, and they play a very important role as we strategize for the future.”

The day will be one filled with Razorback pride, as the marching band and cheerleaders bring red and white excitement to the Capitol building. Tusk, the university’s official live mascot, will also be in attendance, along with other uniformed mascots.