08 Sep 2025 ASU-Beebe honors Buck Layne for service on Board of Visitors

BEEBE — Arkansas State University-Beebe recently recognized Buck Layne, longtime community leader and retiring President and CEO of the Searcy Regional Chamber of Commerce, for his years of service as a founding member of the ASU-Beebe Board of Visitors.

Layne, who has served on the Board of Visitors since its inception in 2017, concluded his service this year. At his final board meeting, he was presented with a plaque honoring his commitment, which reads: “Buck Layne, Board of Visitors Founding Member, 2017-2025 – Transforming Lives Through Quality Learning Experiences.” 

Dr. Jennifer Methvin, chancellor of ASU-Beebe, praised Layne’s contributions, “Buck has been a steady and trusted advisor for ASU-Beebe. From the beginning of the Board of Visitors, his insight, leadership, and dedication to education and community growth have helped strengthen our mission of transforming lives through quality learning experiences. We are grateful for his years of service and wish him the very best in his retirement.”

During his eight years of service, Layne was a passionate advocate for connecting education with community and workforce development. His perspective as a leader in economic development enriched discussions and decisions that have impacted students and the broader region.

While stepping away from formal board duties, Layne remains a strong supporter of ASU-Beebe and the communities it serves. His retirement marks the close of a distinguished career of leadership and service in Searcy and beyond.