FAYETTEVILLE, Ark. — Today the Sam M. Walton College of Business, University of Arkansas, welcomes more than 55 alumni who serve as faculty and staff or retired from institutions of higher education in 16 states and Indonesia.

The college is hosting its first Academic Alumni Reunion with the theme of "Return, Renew, Rekindle, Rewind," which is being held May 19-21 at Business Building on the University of Arkansas campus.

“As I have traveled to academic meetings around the world during my twelve years as dean of the Walton College, it has been my pleasure and source of pride to meet the many Walton College alumni dedicated to educating the next generation of business leaders,” said Walton College Dean Doyle Z. Williams. “I look forward to hosting our academic colleagues at this first reunion. We believe we will have an outstanding program.”

After the alumni hear about the college’s newly revised curriculum and tour the Walton College facilities, Celia Swanson, executive vice president, Change Management, Wal-Mart Stores Inc., will address the group at a dinner tonight at the Arkansas Alumni House. Other program highlights include updates on the programs and initiatives of the Walton College. Friday night’s keynote speaker at the dinner at Ella’s is Bill Muse, MBA 1961, Ph.D. 1966, former president, Auburn University. On Saturday morning, participants may choose to attend the Wal-Mart Saturday Morning meeting or tour Northwest Arkansas. They may also attend the Razorback-Ole Miss. baseball game.

“We hope our alumni will be delighted at the changes that have taken place at the Walton College and will renew their bond with the University of Arkansas,” added Williams.