Give a Golden Tusk

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What’s black and gold and Hog all over? The Golden Tusk.

The Golden Tusk, a recognition program from the Division of Student Affairs, is designed to award those members of the University of Arkansas community who are going the extra mile to do the right thing for students.

"We were searching for a way to allow members of our community to catch people doing the right things, for going above and beyond, and helping to make campus life a little better for everyone who lives and works here," said Danny Pugh, vice provost for student affairs and dean of students.  “The Golden Tusk is an easy, online way for people to provide a piggy-pat on the back to well deserving staff and faculty.”

Each winner receives a letter stating they have been recognized by someone for their excellent, students-first work and will also receive a coveted “Golden Tusk” pin. These beautiful black and gold lapel pins are emblazoned with the words “Golden Tusk” and a gold Razorback that symbolizes the spirit of teamwork, hard work and the value of doing the right thing.

Aisha Kenner, associate dean of students, nominated James Gamble, instructor in composition, literature and mythology, for his outstanding work with students.

“Dr. Gamble frequently refers students who are struggling in some way to remain in school. These students are often unaware of the services available to them,” said Kenner. “His actions exemplify Students First.”

“As professionals, we are bound to do our best to serve our students, be it in setting high standards or offering help and resources. Students are why we are here,” Gamble said. “It is to everyone's advantage that they succeed to the greatest degree possible. We never know which day might be the day that we make a significant difference in even one student's life.”

Posters promoting the award are being spread across campus in break rooms, academic buildings and residence halls. The poster campaign is geared to two different audiences – faculty and staff, and then students. The faculty-staff posters feature past winners and a quote from those winners about working with students. The student posters feature graphics and language that call a student into action to nominate someone they feel is deserving of the award.

There are no limits on the number of Golden Tusks an employee can receive, and the award can be granted at anytime during the year. It really only takes a short moment to nominate someone, but the recognition could last a lifetime.

Winning a Golden Tusk “means a lot,” Gamble said. “Teachers, colleagues and staff at the University of Arkansas have inspired me to the highest level of achievement, and encouraged me when the going got rough. The Golden Tusk suggests that I have tried to pass on to my students the generosity passed on to me.”

The process to nominate an individual for Golden Tusk could not be easier. Simply visit the website at goldentusk.uark.edu and follow the instructions.