Photography by Lori Sparkman Photography
Why UA Little Rock?
UA Little Rock is more than a school; it’s where I found a home. After many, many, many different career programs I took a sabbatical and worked until I was inspired to go back and finish my degree. I found hope working in business and managing teams; when I got back in the game, I chose the marketing department because it finally felt right. I was in classes about strategy development, research, consumer behavior and advertising that were brought to life by the faculty. Dr. Geissler asked us to come up with a new flavor for Pringles. Rather than come up with the best pizza or nacho inspired taste, I said, ‘why not keep the current flavors and make the product out of cauliflower.’ Keep in mind, cauliflower as a substitute was on the rise so I felt so smart about paying attention to trends and Dr. G looked at me and said, ‘now that’s marketing.’ That moment changed my life. I finally felt like I was in the right place, at the right time, and doing the right thing.
Beyond the classroom, I was selected as the president of the Student Marketing Association and worked alongside my classmates to launch the Carnival of Clubs with the goal to increase engagement and recruitment for all the organizations within the UA Little Rock College of Business.
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.
Whitney Burgess
‘13, BBA Marketing
Vice President of Strategy & Client Services, Mangan Holcomb Partners/Team SI
