Photography by Sarah Oden
Why UA Little Rock?
“I transferred to UA Little Rock and moved to Little Rock with the goal of attaining a professional job in the financial sector to ensure I would have a job upon graduation. UA Little Rock is the perfect school for this. My first banking job was in human resources at Union National Bank in 1989. I am so thankful that they hired me and allowed me to work as needed to accommodate my class schedule. They also had a tuition reimbursement plan which paid for part of my tuition. It was perfect! I wish more companies would have tuition reimbursement and think students should seek these employers.
Educating others about financial literacy is also important to me. Financial knowledge at a young age can change the trajectory of your life. I am a member of the Arkansas Jump$tart Financial Literacy Council and understand the need for financial literacy in our state. My love for all of this started at UALR.
My family loves attending events at UA Little Rock including basketball games, Taste of Little Rock, SpectacUALR , various concerts and lectures. It is a wonderful community center for all. My children have attended writing camps, math & science competitions, lectures and swimming events at the Donaghey Student Center. I consider UA LR an important part of my personal life as well as my business life.”
Affordable and relevant, a great metropolitan university is critical to the infrastructure of a vibrant city. It also requires a strong alumni association that’s engaged in civic and business leadership throughout the Capital City. UA Little Rock boasts both – with a shared vision for the future. As UA Little Rock celebrates the success of its alumni, the university and alumni reflect on the role the institution plays in the continued economic development of Central Arkansas and the wealth of knowledge is offer current students.
Ashley Carper
‘91, BBA Finance
Senior Vice President, Commercial Loan Officer, Bancorp South
