Dr. Valandra Receives 2022 'Beacon of Hope' Award from Northwest Arkansas Center for Sexual Assault

Gerrod Clarke

Dr. Valandra

Earlier this month, Dr. Valandra, associate professor jointly appointed in the School of Social Work and African and African American Studies, received the prestigious Roger Collins Beacon of Hope Award for her steadfast service and commitment to survivors of sexual assault.

The award is given out by the Northwest Arkansas Center for Sexual Assault as part of its annual recognition of Sexual Assault Awareness Month and its centering and celebrating the voices of survivors.

"The center could not think of a more deserving recipient of this award," noted Ashely Joyner, president of the board. "Dr. Valandra has dedicated her life's scholarship, research and service to advocating for and supporting survivors of sexual violence. Her contributions to this field, and to our center, have literally changed lives."

Founded as NWA Rape Crisis in 1982, the center offers free comprehensive and culturally responsive support to adult survivors of sexual violence or harassment and their loved ones. The center actively counters a culture that perpetuates sexual violence by addressing the individual and community hurts caused by those who commit these acts of violence. Celebrating those who champion the needs of survivors, like Valandra, is an important part of the center giving voice to this issue.

"Dr. Valandra is an invaluable member of the School of Social Work. Her work with the Northwest Arkansas Center for Sexual Assault embodies the core values of social work," said Johanna Thomas, director of the School of Social Work.

"Dr. Valandra lives the life of an advocate and doesn't just talk about advocating; she shows it in everything she does from advocating within the school to the university and in the community. I know her work with survivors is important to her and this award truly recognizes her dedication to survivors, our community, the state and to the social work profession."