10 May 2026 Laurels & Stripes celebrates Distinguished Alumni at UCA

The University of Central Arkansas hosted its annual Laurels & Stripes gala on March 7, at the Windgate Center for Fine and Performing Arts in Conway. The evening honored the university’s 2026 Distinguished Alumni and brought together alumni, friends and supporters of the university for a night of celebration and philanthropy.

Guests began the evening with a social hour featuring hors d’oeuvres, drinks and live music in the Win and Carmen Thompson Atrium before moving into the Concert Hall for the awards program co-hosted by Dr. Spencer and Leslie Gordy. The program recognized this year’s Distinguished Alumni, Col. Addie Morris and Dr. Jeff Standridge, while also highlighting the impact of private support on scholarships and student success at UCA.

Col. Addie M. Morris has built an extraordinary career defined by leadership, resilience and service. From her early beginnings in Alabama, where she overcame barriers to pursue nursing, Morris went on to earn advanced degrees—including a Master of Science in Nursing from UCA—and serve 27 years in the U.S. Army Reserve, retiring as a colonel. Alongside her military service, she led in health care, business and state government, holding key roles in nursing education, hospital administration and numerous Arkansas boards and commissions. 

Dr. Jeff Standridge is widely recognized for his impact across business, education and entrepreneurship in Arkansas and beyond. A UCA graduate, he began his career in health care before moving into global leadership roles at Acxiom, where he led operations and innovation efforts around the world. Today, he serves as managing director of The Conductor and Innovation Junkie, helping drive entrepreneurial growth across the state. A veteran, educator and investor, Standridge remains deeply connected to UCA through teaching, mentorship and philanthropy, playing a key role in developing future leaders and advancing opportunities for students.

One of the evening’s most memorable moments featured UCA Freshman and foundation scholarship recipient Emma Kesterson who shared how scholarship support shaped her experience and future goals. The program also included remarks from university leadership celebrating recent campus achievements.

Following the program, guests continued the celebration at an after-party in the James Bridges Black Box Theatre, where Tyler Kinchen & The Right Pieces provided live music.

Laurels & Stripes serves as one of the university’s signature events, celebrating alumni achievement while raising support for students and programs across the university.