University Programs Wins Award at Virtual Regional Conference

University Programs was recognized with the "Best Sustainable Program" awards for its Swap Till You Drop program, a traditional spring semester event in which students trade in their unwanted clothes for an equal number of other clothing items, at the virtual National Association for Campus Activities central regional conference in October. Forty-six students attended the spring 2020 Swap Till You Drop event.

The National Association for Campus Activities is the recognized leader in higher education providing knowledge, ideas and resources for campus life. Its annual regional and national conferences provide students opportunities to preview talent and other events to potentially bring to campus.

Attending the conference from University Programs were Nayelli Garcia, UP Cultures and Concepts Chair; Abby Yaeger, UP Comedy Chair; Lauren Stephens, UP Daytime Chair; Fern Alcantara, UP President; Terri Smith, UP Vice President; Stephanie Nguyen, UP Visual and Performing Arts Chair; and Devon Feimster; UARK Cardinal Nights Volunteer Coordinator. Graduate student advisors Haley Boevers and Thomas Patterson also attended.

University Programs is a volunteer student organization responsible for coordinating and planning events annually for the campus community. University Programs provides UA students with cultural, educational, recreational, and entertainment experiences. Seven committees along with committee chairs and their executive officers select, schedule, and produce events such as concerts, movies, lectures, fine arts performances, and gallery exhibits. University Programs provides excellent opportunities to develop leadership skills and to gain practical experience in a variety of areas. Supported by an activity fee instituted in 1988, the events are free to the student body. University Programs is a program in the Office of Student Activities and is part of the Division of Student Affairs.

About the Office of Student Activities: The Office of Student Activities provides an environment for involvement, empowerment, and collaboration through student organizations, programmatic experiences, and shared governance. OSA maximizes the UA experience by advocating for all students, promoting intercultural understanding, and developing citizens who are prepared to positively impact their communities.

About the Division of Student Affairs: The Division of Student Affairs supports students in pursuing knowledge, earning a degree, finding meaningful careers, exploring diversity, and connecting with the global community. We provide students housing, dining, health care resources, and create innovative programs that educate and inspire. We enhance the University of Arkansas experience and help students succeed, one student at a time.