As part of ongoing efforts to connect students with employers and strengthen the state's workforce, the U of A hosted an Employer Career Studio Takeover in partnership with Westrock Coffee.

The event invited students to envision their post-college futures in Arkansas, combining practical career preparation with a look at what it's like to live and work in Central Arkansas.

Through the collaboration between the university, Westrock Coffee and the Little Rock Chamber of Commerce, students learned about career paths, professional networks and community life in the region.

"Our partnership with Westrock Coffee and the Little Rock Regional Chamber demonstrates what's possible when employers, communities and higher education work together," said Donna Graham, director of industry engagement. Westrock Coffee is a leading integrated coffee, tea and extract supplier serving the worlds most iconic brands through a global supply chain that spans from crop to cup. With operations across 35 origin countries and a deep commitment to ethical sourcing, Westrock empowers smallholder farmers while delivering innovative beverage solutions at scale. Headquartered in Little Rock, the company's mission is to be the world's most competitive and innovative provider of beverage solutions to enhance lives globally.

Held in the Schmieding Foundation Major and Career Studio, housed within the Cordia Harrington Center for Excellence, or the CORD, the event allowed students to receive resume and cover letter reviews, engage in career conversations and hear from Blair Peterson, Westrock Coffee's director of marketing and communications, during a talk titled "Living and Working in Central Arkansas With Westrock Coffee."

The studio provides drop-in, peer-led career preparation support for students, including resume and cover letter reviews, mock interviews, headshots and LinkedIn profile consultations. In the fall 2025 academic term, the studio already served more than 700 students, helping Razorbacks translate their classroom experience into professional readiness.

Peterson, director of marketing and communications at Westrock Coffee and a U of A alumna, shared insights on career development, community life in Central Arkansas and how graduates can thrive personally and professionally while contributing to the state's growth.

"Visiting my alma mater, the University of Arkansas, was such a rewarding experience," Peterson said. "From the classroom to the Career Studio, every part of the day was a joy. The students I met were smart, motivated and full of potential. I have no doubt this next wave of talent will help Arkansas and companies like Westrock Coffee continue to grow."

Building on this model, the university will continue the Employer Career Studio Takeover series to expand opportunities for employers and students to connect, advance career readiness and support Arkansas' workforce needs.

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