The U of A community is invited to celebrate the service and contributions of former Associate Vice Chancellor for Human Resources Debbie McLoud from 2-4 p.m. March 1 at the Janelle Y. Hembree Alumni House, 491 N. Razorback Rd. in Fayetteville. 

Debbie joined the Human Resources office in 1991 before serving in various roles, including most recently as chief transformation officer. After more than 30 years at the U of A, she announced her retirement at the end of 2023. 

She developed many friendships during her time at the university and also earned multiple degrees while advancing her HR career. Debbie accomplished countless milestones for the U of A, some of which include her work leading the Workday implementation process, spearheading the staff classification and compensation study and her mentorship with a significant number of HR professionals. 

Those she worked with appreciated her institutional knowledge and dedication to supporting and furthering opportunities for her staff — and they gravitate toward her due to her kindness, generosity and infectious laugh.  

"I have been a loyal fan of the University of Arkansas all my life, and I am grateful for the opportunities I was given to contribute to the university's success and growth," she said. "I could not have dreamed of a more meaningful and rewarding career for myself. I thrived on advocating for our employees — our greatest asset — through HR guidance, services and programs that allow them to do their best work to support the campus and our students. Working with great people and feeling the energy of a growing enrollment kept me engaged for over three decades. While I will miss that, it was time for a new chapter in my life. I plan to spend more time with my family, travel and do whatever I want to do, but I will always be a fan of the University of Arkansas." 

Faculty and staff are invited to join in the celebration of McLoud's incredible accomplishments and best wishes for a future filled with family, fun and happiness.