She chose to pair a business minor with her major in Health Sciences (Concentration in Healthcare Administration) and a Certificate of Proficiency in Health Coaching. What a wise combination! Rebecca’s success at UCA as a student has helped her make an impact on our campus and our Central Arkansas community. We can’t wait to see her succeed in her career after she graduates in May. Here’s Rebecca’s story.

What drew you to the business industry?
From an early age, I was deeply interested in healthcare and initially envisioned a career in the clinical field. However, through various leadership experiences and exposure to healthcare professionals, I developed a strong appreciation for the administrative and strategic aspects of the healthcare industry. Observing how healthcare leaders drive innovation, enhance patient care, and navigate operational challenges inspired me to explore the intersection of business and healthcare.

2023-2024 Relay For Life Executive Board: Jacey Howerton Bishop, Judith Ramirez, Ashley Brink, Rebecca Thomas, Parker Wyatt, Will Hogue

How are you involved at UCA? 
– Director of and President of Colleges Against Cancer
– Outstanding Community Outreach Award | Colleges Against Cancer | Fall 2023 – Spring 2024
– Research Assistant Fall 2024
– Teaching Assistant Spring 2024 for a Chemistry II course in the Department of Chemistry and Biochemistry
– Teaching Assistant Spring 2025 in the Department of Marketing and Management
– Publication in Vortex Magazine
– Presidential Scholar
– Southwest Distinguished Science Institute 54th Annual Conference – Spring 2025 – selected to present research paper accepted for publication
– Career Services Merit Fellow
– Healthcare Innovation Sprint Participant | | Conway Regional Health System | May 2024
– Purple Society Inductee
– AR Kids Read tutor
– Health Science Club
– Bear Book Club

Why did you choose your major/minor?
I wanted to pursue a career that not only allows me to make a difference in healthcare but also enables me to shape systems and policies that can improve patient outcomes on a larger scale. My minor in Marketing and Certificate of Proficiency in Health Coaching further complement my major through providing me with the skills to approach healthcare challenges from a comprehensive, business-minded perspective.

Ultimately, I chose this major because it allows me to contribute to healthcare in a meaningful way, combining my passion for improving patient care with my interest in organizational management and business strategy.

Rebecca presenting with Dr. Chen

What did you learn from your research?
Through my research with Dr. Alex Chen on “Factors Influencing Artificial Intelligence Use Behavior Among Americans,” I have gained a deeper understanding of the factors that drive AI adoption and usage behavior. By utilizing the Unified Theory of Acceptance and Use of Technology 2 (UTAUT2) model, Dr. Chen and I examined how motivational factors, such as performance expectancy and social influence, alongside demographic variables that include age, gender, and education, influence American individuals’ decisions to adopt AI technologies. This research has provided valuable insights into the complexity of human behavior in the context of emerging technologies.

Dr. Chen and I presented our findings at the Southwest Decision Sciences Institute (SWDSI) 54th Annual Conference earlier this month, and this experience was an invaluable learning experience for me. Our paper was accepted for publication in the conference proceedings, and we are now preparing it for submission to a peer-reviewed academic journal. Additionally, Dr. Chen and I are currently working on another research project that explores the ethical implications of technology adoption in China.

students and CO faculty enjoying the SWDSI conference

As a Research Assistant since fall 2024 and as a current Teaching Assistant for Dr. Chen’s research class this semester (Spring 2025), I have refined my skills in data analysis, statistical methodology, and effectively communicating complex research findings. This experience has deepened my understanding of the various factors influencing technology adoption and has been instrumental in further developing my academic and professional profile and future career aspirations.

What experience are you gaining at your internship?
I learned about internships through my college at UCA and by proactively meeting with my college’s internship coordinator on campus to explore potential opportunities. After identifying several internship sites of interest, I reached out to each one, submitted my resume, and participated in interviews. I received multiple offers and ultimately accepted an internship at Baptist Health Medical Center – Conway, which was my top choice for an internship site. In this role, I work closely with the administrative and leadership team of Baptist Health Medical Center – Conway, including the President, Chief Nursing Officer (CNO), Vice President of Operations, and all department managers and leaders. This experience has given me firsthand insight into hospital administration, strategic decision-making, and leadership in a healthcare setting.

I learned how hospital leaders navigate complex operational challenges, manage resources efficiently, and implement strategic initiatives to enhance patient care. Observing high-level decision-making processes deepened my understanding of hospital administration, financial management, and healthcare policy compliance.

Additionally, I developed strong problem-solving and leadership skills by assisting with administrative projects, attending executive meetings, and analyzing operational workflows throughout the medical center. This experience reinforced my passion for healthcare administration and provided a real-world perspective on the critical role that leadership plays in driving innovation, improving patient outcomes, and establishing a positive and goal-oriented culture in the workplace.

By gaining firsthand experience in financial management, resource allocation, and patient care initiatives, I feel more prepared to take on leadership roles in the future. This internship has confirmed my passion for improving healthcare systems and has given me the confidence to pursue opportunities where I can make a meaningful impact.

How do you plan to use your degree?
I plan to leverage my Bachelor’s degree in Health Sciences (with a concentration in Healthcare Administration) and minor in Marketing to pursue a career in healthcare leadership and hospital administration. My aim is to work in hospital operations, strategic planning, or healthcare management and to contribute to enhancing patient care, optimizing organizational efficiency, and improving overall healthcare delivery.

Through my academic coursework, research, internship experiences, and leadership roles, I have developed a strong foundation in healthcare systems, business strategy, and patient-centered care. I intend to apply these skills in hospital administration, healthcare consulting, and/or policy development to help healthcare organizations navigate challenges, implement innovative solutions, and achieve better health outcomes for patients.

Looking ahead, I am committed to continuing my education at a higher level, potentially pursuing a master’s degree in healthcare administration or business administration, and I ultimately plan on advancing toward doctoral studies. Additionally, I plan to stay engaged in academic research to further contribute to the field and remain involved in scholarly work throughout my career.

2023-2024 Relay For Life Executive Board & Relay For Life Committee

Has a volunteer position helped you gain skills?
Yes, volunteer positions on campus have assisted me greatly in obtaining skills! My involvement with Relay For Life and Colleges Against Cancer at UCA has been incredibly formative, both in terms of skill development and personal growth. I first joined the organization as a general committee member during my freshman year, and I quickly learned the importance of teamwork, communication, and event planning. After a year of volunteering, I applied for and was named the Vice President of Communication and Outreach role on the Executive Board, which expanded my responsibilities and allowed me to manage outreach initiatives, develop advertising strategies, and enhance community engagement. I served in this role for two years, which further aided me in refining my leadership and teamwork skills.

For nearly a year now, I’ve had the honor of serving as the President of Colleges Against Cancer and the Director of the Relay For Life event in Conway. This organization and its mission are incredibly meaningful to me, as we raise critical funds for the American Cancer Society. These funds directly support cancer research, advocacy efforts, and patient services. In my current role, I oversee the entire planning and execution of the Relay For Life event, from securing sponsorships to coordinating logistics and leading a dedicated team of 50+ student volunteers. The responsibility of managing a fundraising goal of $25,000+ each year has significantly strengthened my project management, leadership, and fundraising abilities — skills that I know will be invaluable in my future career in healthcare administration.

Being part of this organization has deepened my understanding of the power of advocacy and the impact of community engagement. Rallying people together to support a cause that directly impacts so many lives has been both humbling and motivating. The ability to manage multiple responsibilities, build relationships with sponsors and community members, oversee an Executive Board and large group of volunteers, and lead a large-scale event has helped me develop resilience, intention, and focus, especially when challenges must be overcome, which are essential qualities I’ll carry with me throughout my career.

What is a project you’re really excited about?
One of the most exciting and impactful moments I’m looking forward to is our upcoming Relay For Life event in Conway that is hosted on UCA’s campus at Estes Stadium (moved to UCA HPER due to weather), which I’m leading as the Relay For Life Event Director and the President of Colleges Against Cancer. This event, taking place this weekend on April 5th, holds deep personal significance for me because it directly supports the American Cancer Society’s mission to fund cancer research, advocacy, and patient services.

As we approach the event, I am proud to share that we’ve raised over half of this year’s fundraising goal of $25,000 so far! What excites me most about this is seeing our community come together in support of a cause that has touched so many lives.

I am incredibly proud of the work we’ve done to bring this event to life. It has been an opportunity for me to hone my leadership, teamwork, and event planning skills while also making a tangible impact on the fight against cancer. I’m excited to see all of our hard work come together this weekend, knowing that it will not only honor those affected by cancer but also support critical cancer research and advocacy efforts!

What has helped you most as a student here at UCA?
During my time at UCA, the faculty has been one of the most valuable and impactful aspects of my college experience. Among the many exceptional professors and staff I’ve had the privilege of working with, Dr. Alexander Chen, Ms. Charlotte Strickland, and Dr. Robert Mauldin have had the most significant influence on my academic and personal journey.

Rebecca & Dr. Chen

Dr. Alex Chen, as my research advisor and professor in the College of Business, has played a pivotal role in both guiding me through research and academic projects, such as our paper on Factors Influencing Artificial Intelligence Use Behavior Among Americans, and helping me shape my career aspirations. He has been an incredible mentor in all things research and business, providing me with valuable insights that have fostered my growth both intellectually and professionally. His mentorship has been essential in refining my research skills and learning how to apply theoretical concepts to real-world scenarios. Dr. Chen’s guidance has been crucial in preparing for academic conferences, journal publications, and navigating career paths in business, healthcare, and beyond. He has had a major impact on my career aspirations and goals as I plan to continue advancing my education and conducting research as part of my long-term academic and professional goals.

2024-2025 Relay For Life Executive Board with Advisor Strickland

Ms. Charlotte Strickland, the Director of Employee Engagement & Enrichment and faculty advisor for UCA’s Relay For Life organization, has been an incredible influence on my leadership and mentor during my time at UCA. As the advisor for the organization I have led as director/president for the past year and have been involved in for all four years I have been a student at UCA, she and I have worked closely together throughout the event planning process. Ms. Char has been an unwavering source of support, offering guidance and encouragement as I managed UCA’s Relay For Life Committee. Her leadership style is one that I deeply admire, and I aspire to lead with the same passion, dedication, and vision that she demonstrates both professionally and personally. Her mentorship and guidance has inspired me to lead with integrity, ambition, and confidence and to also continue expanding my commitment to volunteerism and love for serving the local community. I am truly fortunate to have had Ms. Char’s guidance and mentorship throughout my time at UCA, and I am so thankful for the impact she has had on my life.

Dr. Mauldin

Dr. Robert Mauldin, one of my professors in the Department of Chemistry and Biochemistry, also played a significant role in my academic journey. As a Teaching Assistant for his Chemistry II course, I was able to engage with students and assist them in understanding scientific concepts in the chemistry laboratory. Dr. Mauldin’s mentorship helped ignite my passion for science, particularly chemistry. His guidance not only deepened my understanding of the subject but also sparked a greater appreciation for its real-world applications, reinforcing my desire to combine scientific knowledge with practical problem-solving in my future career. Dr. Mauldin’s teaching approach, both in the lab and classroom, emphasized the importance of effective teaching, patience, and fostering a passion for learning in others. His belief in my abilities has not only helped me grow as a student but also reinforced my commitment to pursuing a career that bridges my love for science and business alike.

To all the professors and faculty that have been part of my journey at UCA, specifically Dr. Chen, Ms. Char, and Dr. Mauldin, thank you for everything.

I highly recommend the College of Business at UCA to all students. The college offers a strong education that combines theory with practical skills, preparing students for diverse careers. Faculty members are exceptional mentors who provide valuable guidance, fostering critical thinking and real-world problem-solving. UCA also offers numerous networking opportunities, internships, and leadership roles to help students gain hands-on experience. Whether in healthcare administration, marketing, or entrepreneurship, the College of Business provides the foundation and support needed to succeed in a dynamic business world.

Jacey Howerton Bishop (2023-2024 Director) & Rebecca Thomas (2024-2025 Director)

What advice do you have for students who may (or may not) be considering an internship?
My advice for students considering an internship, whether they’re certain or still undecided, is to take the leap! Internships offer invaluable hands-on experience that allows you to apply classroom knowledge in a real-world setting. Even if you’re uncertain about a particular career or field, internships can help you discover your interests and strengths. Don’t be afraid to step outside your comfort zone. It’s normal to feel nervous or unsure, but internships are designed to help you learn and grow professionally.

I also recommend exploring different internship sites. Reach out to various sites you’re interested in, whether through professors, internship coordinators, or networking events. Establishing relationships early on can open doors to a variety of opportunities.

Finally, be proactive while interning — ask questions, take initiative to be as involved as possible, and contribute wherever and whenever you can! Whether the internship perfectly matches your career goals or not, you’ll gain valuable experience, connections, and a better understanding of what you want in your future career.

What tips or advice would you give to new, current, or prospective business students?
For new, current, or prospective business students, my biggest piece of advice is to embrace a mindset of continuous learning. The business world is constantly evolving, so stay curious and proactive in seeking opportunities beyond the classroom. Get involved in internships, research, and extracurricular activities to gain real-world experience that complements what you learn in your courses. These experiences will help bridge the gap between theory and practice and make you a stronger, more well-rounded professional.

I also feel that it is equally important to build relationships with your professors. Go to office hours, ask questions, and seek their guidance. Establishing these connections can open doors to mentorship, research opportunities, and professional development. Professors can offer insights beyond the textbook and may even connect you with industry professionals, internships, and other career opportunities.

Polishing your communication, leadership, and teamwork skills is also crucial. Whether you’re working on a team project for a class, presenting ideas, or networking with professionals or fellow students, the ability to articulate your thoughts effectively will set you apart. Also, don’t hesitate to take on leadership roles or challenging projects outside the classroom — I know from personal experience that stepping into unfamiliar territory can be intimidating, but those moments of discomfort are where the most growth happens.

Most importantly, don’t let fear hold you back. Step outside your comfort zone, even when something feels daunting. Dive in headfirst — you’ll eventually learn to tread the water! Growth comes from taking risks, making mistakes, and learning along the way. By staying adaptable, engaged, and willing to push yourself, you’ll set yourself up for long-term success in the business world.

2024-2025 Relay For Life Executive Board (Photo Taken: October 2024) Pictured From Left To Right: Izzy Bishop (VP of Sponsorships), Kate Hale (VP of Communication & Outreach), Katie Boysen (VP of Fundraising), Rebecca Thomas (Director/President), Blake Braswell (VP of Logistics), Laney Sellers (VP of Recruitment & Retention), Judith Ramirez (Executive VP)

After a few opening remarks, Dr. Tracy Suter, Chair of the Marketing and Management Department, interviewed the guests.

The Mahans shared about their entrepreneurial venture called where they produce all-natural beef, pork, and poultry. The Mahans are experts on supply chain, shipping and logistics, tourism, social media, farming, land conservation, and more.

Before they began this venture together, Alan spent 28 years as a general contractor and Angela was a college professor. They enjoyed their careers, but after they married and blended their families, they were led to farming, a long-time family tradition for both.

“The defeats are tough, but the victories are sweet. One victory will propel us past ten defeats, and having a partner to share it with is even better,” Alan Mahan told students. “She [Angela] has her lane, and I have mine. We’re together every day all day, and I never get tired of it.”

Rabbit Ridge Farm is unique in their philosophies. In their pastures, they begin with the grass that feeds their animals because they believe, “we are ‘what we eat’ eats.” The micronutrients from the grass are transferred to the animals as they graze and wander. The Mahans believe in complete transparency and welcome people to come to the farm, including the “Venue” where they serve Rabbit Ridge home-grown food on site and offer rooms that allow people to stay overnight on the beautiful, peaceful farm. Rabbit Ridge also supplies restaurants with Rabbit Ridge Farms meats and sells online orders to individuals.

The Mahans were upfront about the challenges of entrepreneurship and the value of the mentors that have contributed to their journey. Angela said, “we started some revenue streams to pay the light bill. It wasn’t like ‘If you cook it, they will come.'” They shared about the many relationships they have made with visitors and other farmers, saying relationships are their favorite part of the work.

“Being an entrepreneur is a life choice, a life commitment that requires sacrifice,” added Angela.  

The College of Business was thrilled to welcome the Mahans to bring their vast expertise to our business students and allow them to ask practical questions.

Learn more about these sixth generation farmers and Rabbit Ridge Farm from the , , the . Also be sure to check out as well as .

This event was sponsored and originally founded by Mr. Bunny , a former chair of the 51ÇàÂ¥ Board of Trustees, a long-time supporter of the UCA College of Business, a known prominent business and government leader in Arkansas, and a previous Allison Series speaker himself.

The Entrepreneurial Speaker Series was created to expose UCA College of Business students to successful men and women who have distinguished themselves in business by their entrepreneurial abilities. All speakers are Arkansans that have been meticulously selected to inspire the next generation of entrepreneurs. The series is designed for a small group of select students to allow for greater interaction between the speaker and the students. Speakers for the series has previously included business and community leaders such as: John Allison, Governor Mike Beebe, Kristian Anderson, Governor Mike Huckabee, Todd Ross, Steve Strange, Alex Lieblong, Sheffield Nelson, and others.

Dr. Tracy Suter, Mr. Bunny Adcock, Alan Mahan, and Angela Mahan

pictured: I&E Professor Dr. Ron Duggins, Ally Loter, Bo Cunningham, and Dr. Tracy Suter, UCA Chair of Marketing & Management

“The Arkansas Governor’s Cup was a phenomenal way to speak with other likeminded, entrepreneurial spirited people while being able to take a deep dive into my business by developing both a 10+ page business plan and a pitch. We also were able to receive great feedback from a wonderful panel of judges,” Cunningham stated. “It was so encouraging to see this many people come together, in the name of entrepreneurship, in our great state of Arkansas!”

Loter echoed that she enjoyed seeing so many other entrepreneurial students from Arkansas and surrounding states. She added, “it was empowering to see how devoted many major Arkansas businesses and business leaders are to providing both financially and physically to helping make this event happen.”

The small business that Cunningham and Loter presented at the competition involves  (Arkansas Real Estate Media, LLC), which performs real estate photography, videography, and drone work in both Central and Northwest Arkansas.

Proud of his students’ win, Duggins said, “this competition brings together in a real world event all of the thinking and doing skills that are taught in UCA’s Entrepreneurship major and minor. Beginning with creative thinking and ending with a real business plan and professional pitch, Ally and Bo have exemplified how our students are equipped to move into a startup of their own or take their entrepreneurship skills into an existing business.” In addition to sponsoring this team, Dr. Duggins is an Associate Professor of Innovation & Entrepreneurship (I&E) in the UCA College of Business and teaches New Venture Creation and Small Business Management, among other courses.

over two decades ago to encourage college students to be innovative and think like entrepreneurs. As part of the rigorous competition, students are immersed into what it takes to launch a startup from the ground up, and they get feedback from judges who are successful entrepreneurs, small business owners, and current or former large corporation executives.

Dr. Tracy Suter, Chair of the UCA Marketing and Management Department and Marketing Professor, was also present to celebrate the team’s award. “The Arkansas Governor’s Cup, like entrepreneurial endeavors themselves, changed and evolved this year.  Student teams from border states were welcomed with both Oklahoma and Mississippi teams present.  Student teams from two-year institutions were also welcomed so the competition was tougher than ever,” said Suter. “Even so, Bo and Ally represented Arkansas REM and UCA very well as evidenced by winning the small business category.  We are happy for these risk-takers and change-makers.  We know that their fellow UCA Innovation and Entrepreneurship students were fully behind them.”

Keep a lookout for these movers and shakers who are making an impact in our state even before graduation. We can’t wait to see what they do next.

Why did you choose the subject you teach?
I enjoy marketing and sharing my passion for this area with students. I love doing research and film projects that allow me to meet people in the community and help solve real-world challenges.

What tips or advice would you give to new, current, or prospective business students?
One of the best pieces of advice I can give students is to be curious and learn as much as possible about different career fields to find the best fit for you. This includes job shadowing, interviewing potential employers, and doing internships.

Share about your research.
Recently with Dr. Candice Hollenbeck at UGA on how the concepts of authenticity and scarcity work at a local farmers’ market. Our goal was to develop a theoretical understanding of how factors like natural scarcity influences consumers’ behavioral shopping patterns and attitudes. I have done research on farmers’ markets and consumer behavior for many years, and I also find the concept of authenticity very interesting.

What have you learned from doing this research?
We found that when people go shopping in a place like a farmers’ market, consumers tend to trust vendors when they talk about products being scarce. This is because fruits, vegetables, and agricultural products are influenced by the weather and growing conditions. In other words, the products may be limited that year because of a drought. This is different from, say, Gucci handbags or limited edition Pokemon cards that are artificially limited because the company wants to increase the value of each product.

What do you hope others will learn or gain from your research?
We hope through this project, businesses can understand the relationship between authenticity and scarcity, and then amplify scarcity messages that are true and trustworthy.

Related Article: Garner Leads Marketing Students to Learn & Serve Community During Project for Arkansas PBS

Last fall, Dr. Garner’s class got some hands-on experience with sales cold-calling, a project that also served the community. This spring, Dr. Garner is teaching two web classes on Principles of Marketing and an in-person class on Content Marketing. During the summer he will teach Basic Marketing online and Content Marketing in person. Next fall, he will teach two in-person Principles of Marketing courses and an in-person Advanced Selling course.

In his personal life, Dr. Garner also recently released his documentary which will air on Arkansas PBS on April 11. Based on his childhood experiences and using his professional skills, he created a piece that he hopes will inspire others to conserve natural resources like the Little Red River.

Apply here:

Outstanding students are those who take advantage of educational opportunities and show exemplary academic performance through internships, professional development and experiential education, volunteerism, and participation in clubs and activities.

The following students were awarded an outstanding status, chosen from over 1600 undergraduate and graduate students:

• Ashley Phipps, Outstanding General Business Student
• Bethany Arnold, Outstanding Insurance & Risk Management Student
• Brandon Scott Phipps, Outstanding Master of Business Student
• Claire DeBusk, Outstanding Accounting Student
• Daryl Adopo, Outstanding Finance Student
• Devin Gilbert, Outstanding Master of Accountancy Student
• Elsa Mattson, Outstanding College of Business Student ²¹²Ô»åÌýOutstanding Economic Student
• Emma McKnight, Outstanding Marketing Student
• Jack Bornhoft, Outstanding Logistics & Supply Chain Management Student
• Kayla Dean, Outstanding Management Information Systems Student
• Lucas Southard, Outstanding Management Student
• Laura Lane, Outstanding Marketing Student
• Logan Tribble, Outstanding Innovation & Entrepreneurship Student
• Rohan Saxena, Outstanding Information Systems Student

ABOUT THE COLLEGE OF BUSINESS

The UCA College of Business includes:

• Over 1600 Majors and Graduate Students
• 62 Total Faculty
• 15 Undergraduate Degree Programs
• 3 Graduate Degree Programs (MBA, MAcc, and Graduate Certificate in Data Analytics)

The goal of the UCA College of BusinessÌý¾±s to provide a hands-on, experience driven, education that prepares graduates to take on global issues. Through our diverse programs of study and distinguished faculty and staff, we take creative, engaged students and give them the tools to succeed when they earn their degrees. Our students travel the world, start their own innovative businesses, and join established businesses across the country.  Whatever their next step, our students are ready to make a positive impact.

Learn more about our programs of study and distinguished faculty and staff.