Join the Division of Student Affairs in Honoring Evelyn Fuller at Her Retirement Reception Dec. 18

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Evelyn Fuller

The U of A community is invited to a retirement reception honoring Evelyn Fuller, a proven leader, educator and alumna who has dedicated more than 42 years of service to the university.

Fuller will retire on Jan. 2, 2025, after a career devoted to serving under-resourced pre-college students through the U of A's TRIO Talent Search programs.

"With over 42 years of service, Evelyn has been an inspiring leader, mentor and advocate for countless students, helping them navigate the path to higher education and achieve their academic and personal goals. Throughout her tenure, Evelyn has been a tireless champion for student success, working closely with students and staff to create a supportive and empowering environment," said Laura James, assistant vice chancellor for Student Support. "Her leadership and passion have made an indelible impact on the lives of many, and the Talent Search program will continue to reflect her vision and commitment to excellence." 

Fuller earned a Bachelor of Arts in zoology and a Master of Science in human and environmental sciences from the U of A. She began her career at the university in 1982 as an administrative assistant and then a program coordinator in the Academic Development Office. In 1991, she was hired as one of the first staff members for the newly funded TRIO Talent Search programs. Talent Search is a federally funded TRIO college access and success program sponsored by the U.S. Department of Education. In 2007, Fuller was appointed as the director of the newly awarded University Access Talent Search program. During Fuller's tenure with Talent Search, the programs grew from one grant to three grants with an annual award of over $1 million and serving more than 2,200 potential first-generation and low-income sixth-12th grade college-bound students across six counties in Northwest Arkansas, the Arkansas River Valley and southwest Missouri.

"I first met Evelyn when I was in the seventh grade and a new Talent Search student. I learned a lot from her and her colleagues and teams about college and the gateway opportunity it would be," said Leslie Yingling, associate vice chancellor for Student Success. "She helped to facilitate my first visit to a college campus. Years later, she helped teach and mentor me in my first campus job as undergraduate student. For me she is an institution of her own, and I am profoundly grateful for the way I learned and grew under her leadership."

A retirement reception will take place 2:30 to 4:30 p.m. Wednesday, Dec. 18, at the U of A Uptown Campus (East Building - UPTE 279). The event is open to all members of the campus community, and attendees are welcome to drop in at their convenience. Light refreshments will be served.

This is a wonderful opportunity to celebrate Fuller's remarkable career, offer best wishes and reflect on her lasting contributions to the U of A.

We hope you can join us in honoring Fuller as she embarks on the next chapter of her life!

Fore more information, please contact:
Nathan Brown, director of Talent Search Programs
Division of Student Affairs
479-575-2625, ncbrown@uark.edu