Myanmar Alumnus Gifts U of A with Razorback Sculpture

Photo by Matt Reynolds

The Nyunt family and University of Arkansas officials gather around the Myanmar Razorback sculpture.

University of Arkansas alumnus Raphael Sein Tin Nyunt has gifted the university with a Razorback sculpture that was crafted in Myanmar. Though Nyunt graduated 55 years ago, his love for his alma mater still runs deep.

Nyunt graduated from the U of A with a bachelor's degree in electrical engineering in 1960. He was the first U of A graduate to come from the country then known as Burma, now known as Myanmar.

After finishing his degree, he returned to his home country and served 33 years in the nation's military. He spent an additional 10 years serving as a military consultant before finally retiring.

However, the former Fulbright Scholar was not idle in retirement. He helped develop a plastic recycling business in Yangon and operates the machinery for the business from his home.

Nyunt had always intended to return to the United States to visit Arkansas after he completed his bachelor's degree, but because of the political climate in Myanmar, he was unable to do so for half a century.

At 78 years old, Nyunt made his first return to the U of A campus in 2010 to celebrate the 50th anniversary of his graduation. During his visit, he promised then-chancellor G. David Gearhart that he would visit again — this time with a gift.

True to his word, Nyunt returned to campus last week with a specially commissioned, hand-carved Myanmar Razorback in tow. He presented the sculpture to Provost Ashok Saxena and Brandy Cox, vice chancellor and executive director of alumni at the University of Arkansas Alumni Association.

During the presentation, Nyunt was also inducted into the Golden Tower Society, as he graduated 50 or more years ago. He was awarded a certificate, a golden 50-year medallion and a lapel Golden Tower Society pin.

In addition to the sculpture, Nyunt gifted his military uniform and accompanying medals to the Office of International Students and Scholars, along with a pair of hand-crafted Myanmar marionettes.

Nyunt was accompanied on his return to campus by his wife and daughter. The family spent four days in Fayetteville before returning to Myanmar. However, before leaving campus Nyunt had one wish for his gift.

"I hope the sculpture brings the Razorbacks good luck," he said.