18 Feb 2012 UCA announces 'Night of Distinction' plans, honorees

An elegant gala that celebrates the “past, present and future” of the University of Central Arkansas is planned during the second annual “Night of Distinction” on Saturday, May 12.

The formal gala and awards ceremony will be held at 7 p.m. at the UCA HPER Center. It will feature a celebration dinner, award presentations and entertainment vignettes. There will be performances by Wayland Holyfield, Suzanne Bannister (soprano), Lawrence Hamilton (baritone), the Central Arkansas Children’s Choir under the direction of Dr. Ryan Fisher and the Conway Jazz Orchestra.

“We intend to make a bold statement of UCA’s legacy, which in many ways has shaped the Conway community into what it is today: a thriving community of caring families and individuals, a hub of business and industry, a cultural destination and a society dedicated to educational advancement,” said UCA Foundation President Shelley Mehl.

Proceeds from the evening will support the renovation efforts that are under way in conjunction with the 75th anniversary of Ida Waldran Auditorium on campus. In particular, a $46,000 fundraising goal has been set to purchase a new electric projection screen and video/computer projector. The equipment has been identified as a top priority by students.

Don Bingham, director of special events at UCA, points out that Ida Waldran Auditorium has been the setting for many UCA and high school band, orchestra and choral concerts, plays, dance recitals, political gatherings, pageants and numerous other events. “It has also hosted many well-known and even famous artists, speakers, writers, politicians and celebrities.”

Some of the most noteworthy performances will be re-created during the gala.

In addition, event sponsors and special guests will be treated to a VIP reception on the stage at Ida Waldran Auditorium, where they will get a sneak peek at the completed work.

During the event, three individuals will be recognized for their contributions to the university.

Two individuals will be honored with the 2012 Distinguished Alumnus Award, the most prestigious award presented by UCA to an alumnus. This year’s recipients:

Stanley Russ, a former student who attended in 1951. He is a former state senator and longtime community volunteer.

The late James Bridges, who attended in 1956, and was a movie producer, director and screenwriter.

The 2012 Alumni Service Award will also be presented to Karen Sullards, who earned degrees in 1972 and 1975. She is a retired educator and longtime alumni association volunteer and member.

Sponsors for the event include: Production sponsor – Tokusen; Staging sponsor – 501 LIFE; Gold Heritage – Nabholz Construction Services and Smith Ford; and Bronze Heritage – Risk Services of Arkansas and Lindsey Management.

Tickets are $100 each for the gala and awards ceremony.

For more information on the event as well as sponsorship opportunities, please visit uca.edu/gala or call 501.450.3197.