University of Arkansas Alumna to Focus on Central Arkansas Initiatives

Photo Submitted

Kathy Edgerton

FAYETTEVILLE, Ark. – Kathy Koontz Edgerton, a 1982 alumna of the J. William Fulbright College of Arts and Sciences, has been named the director of regional advancement programs at the University of Arkansas.

Focused on initiatives in the Central Arkansas region, Edgerton will work with several offices within the institution’s Division of University Advancement to enhance visibility and awareness of the university, promote activities of the Arkansas Alumni Association and Capital Chapter, support fundraising efforts throughout the region and serve as a liaison for enrollment services. She will also work closely with the university’s Central Arkansas Advisory Council to facilitate their continued support and engagement.

Edgerton reports to Bruce Pontious, associate vice chancellor for university development.

“We are thrilled to welcome Kathy to the advancement team,” said Pontious. “It has been a priority of the division to add a staff representative in the Little Rock area, and Kathy’s broad experience in communications and fundraising makes her the ideal person to further involve our alumni and friends in Central Arkansas. Her passion for the university and understanding of the advancement fields are certain to strengthen the university’s efforts across the state.”

Edgerton brings 28 years of leadership experience at the national, regional and statewide levels for corporate, government and non-profit organizations. Most recently, she served as the director of marketing and communications for the Winthrop Rockefeller Institute on Petit Jean Mountain. There, she led and developed all aspects of communications including a new brand identity and strategy for the institute. Edgerton’s previous roles include fundraising positions for St. Vincent Morrilton, Easter Seals Arkansas in Little Rock and Easter Seals North Carolina in Charlotte. She also has experience as a radio news and traffic anchor for Metro Networks in Charlotte, N.C., and as the director of external relations for Catawba College in Salisbury, N.C.

“I never imagined that at the apex of my career I would have this extraordinary opportunity to further the mission of my alma mater,” wrote Edgerton. “As a member of the advancement team, I intend to heighten the visibility of the university in the Central Arkansas region and help connect alumni, donors and potential students to their YOU of A.”

In addition to an impressive employment history, Edgerton has extensive community and professional development experience. She has held leadership positions with several community organizations including the Arkansas Commission on Obesity Prevention, the Morrilton Chamber of Commerce, the Rialto Players Community Theater, the Conway County Christian Clinic and the Arts Council of Conway County.

Edgerton and her husband, Lynn, the director of marketing at Petit Jean Meats, live on Petit Jean Mountain.