How did you spend your summer? One answer for the College of Engineering: Continuing a campaign of alumni events and engagement.

The college gathered enthusiastic alumni groups for receptions in the Dallas Metroplex and Hot Springs Village in June and August, respectively, with more events planned this fall.

At both gatherings, Dean Kim Needy discussed highlights of the college's strategic plan, Vision 2035, a roadmap the college is developing with input from diverse groups of stakeholders, including college and university leadership, the college's advisory councils, industry partners, alumni and economic experts.

"Our state, region and nation need engineering colleges to drive economic growth, fuel innovation and educate the next generation of engineers, computer scientists and data scientists to address current and future societal challenges," Needy said. "The College of Engineering will be the destination of choice that maximizes success, building the premier STEM workforce of the future for Arkansas and the world."

Chemical engineering alumnus Stephen Jones, the Cowboys' chief operating officer, welcomed fellow alumni for the June 8 reception at The Star - Dallas Cowboys World Headquarters in Frisco, Texas, via a video greeting. He praised Needy's leadership and ideas.

"The University of Arkansas does an excellent job preparing engineers, whether that's for their next job or their next degree. I'm a testament to that," said Jones, who is a member of the Arkansas Academy of Chemical Engineers and has helped lead the Cowboys organization owned by his father, Jerry Jones, for three-plus decades.

Outside Arkansas, the Dallas Metroplex boasts the largest concentration of College of Engineering alumni in the country.

Industrial engineering alumnus Nathan Clark told the group he got hooked on engineering at a young age when his older brother sketched out the basics of operations research on a napkin. Now he's a senior consultant at the global boutique consulting firm Credera, which provides top-tier client service with the feel of a smaller firm. He said this echoes his experience in the College of Engineering, which supported him through the unexpected death of his father when he was a junior.

"I can honestly say that I would not have graduated if not for the support from the College of Engineering through the industrial engineering department. I am incredibly grateful for the impact that the staff and leadership has had on me and the many students who have passed through the college. As fellow alumni, I'm sure you have felt some of this impact," he said to the group.

At the Hot Springs Village reception, Needy reconnected with a former student who studied project management in one of her classes - and now works as a project manager for Sigma Supply of North America. Chase Farnell described Needy as a great teacher and is thrilled she is leading the college.

Per tradition, Needy ended each reception by leading the groups in — what else? — a Hog Call.

See photos.