Barbara Lofton, director, Office of Diversity and Inclusion, Sam M. Walton College of Business, was named an Honorary Alumna during the Black Alumni Society Awards Gala on April 29 in recognition of her contributions to the University of Arkansas.

"To be recognized as a lifetime alumna made me proud as if I graduated from the university," said Lofton. "I was humbled that persons felt my work and commitment are worthy of such an honor.

Lofton manages Walton's diversity programs, oversees several scholarships, sponsors registered student organizations and teaches diversity classes. She supports student recruitment, retention and increasing graduation rates. Lofton also serves as a mentor, advisor and business competition coach for students.

"Dr. Lofton works tirelessly to recruit and retain minorities through several outreach programs, business competitions and student organizations," said Anne O'Leary-Kelly, senior associate dean for Walton. "I am proud of her work to advance the university and our college. Barbara is deserving of this prestigious award." 

"In the Office of Diversity and Inclusion, we work on behalf of many students, faculty, staff and sometime communities," said Lofton.  "For me, when I see a person realize the impossible is possible with persistence, it is like magic." 

Dean Doyle Z. Williams hired Lofton in 1994 to establish Walton's Office of Diversity and Inclusion, creating the oldest diversity office at a Southeastern Conference business school and one of the oldest in the nation.

Lofton holds a doctorate from Grambling State University, a master's degree from the University of Iowa and a bachelor's degree from Jackson State University.