News

SAU inducts 2025 Educational Leadership Hall of Fame honorees

Published

3 months ago

March 24, 2025

MAGNOLIA – Southern Arkansas University proudly inducted the newest members into the Educational Leadership Hall of Fame on Monday, March 17, 2025. The evening honored outstanding leaders in the field of education, recognizing two building-level administrators, two district-level administrators, and two recipients of the Community Leadership Award, culminating with the prestigious Dr. Kenneth C. Booth Educational Leadership in Excellence Award.

Marilyn Marks (Hope, AR) – Building-Level Administrator Honoree

Marilyn Marks (Hope, AR) – Building-Level Administrator Honoree

Marilyn Marks is the principal of Hope Academy of Public Service in Hope, AR. Under Marks’s leadership, the campus completed the Highly Effective Schools Accreditation program in April 2024. This year, the Office of Educational Policy recognized Hope Academy of Public Service as one of the top five schools in the Southwest region for high overall high math and high ELA growth. Marks completed cohort one of Hope’s Aspiring Leaders Program. Additionally, Marks is enrolled in Leadership Hempstead County, a program geared toward innovative leadership training and community awareness. Marks holds a bachelor’s degree in Elementary Education and a master’s of Science in Education, K-12 Guidance, and Counseling, with building-level and district-level administrator licensure endorsements, all from Southern Arkansas University. Marks is married to Vincent Marks and has one son, Vincent Reese, and a stepdaughter, Shamyia. Marks is grateful for the opportunity to serve students, staff, and the community.

Curtis Black (Horatio, AR) – Building-Level Administrator Honoree

Curtis Black (Horatio, AR) – Building-Level Administrator Honoree

Curtis Black is the principal of Horatio High School in Horatio, AR. Under Black’s leadership, Horatio High School received a financial award from the Arkansas School Recognition Program for demonstrating high student performance, academic growth, and graduation rates. Black’s service to the community includes roles as a Hospital Board Member, former Horatio city councilman, Sevier County Coalition—Ready to Read by 3rd Grade participant, Chamber of Commerce member, Save the Children Federal Program 21st Century Grant coordinator, DHS liaison, and a contributing grant writer to city park improvement. Black was named the Belleville Lodge Sevier County Citizen of the Year in 2017 and received the Horatio School District Teacher of the Year award in 2015. Black holds a bachelor of science in Education from Henderson State University and a master’s in Curriculum and Instruction from Southern Arkansas University. Black also completed the principal/building-level licensure program at Southern Arkansas University in 2020. Black has been married to Jennifer Black for 31 years. They have two sons, Hunter Black, who is married to Allie Black, and Reece Black, who is married to Laney Black. Black has one grandson named Fenton Black.

Javana McCall (Camden, AR) – District-Level Administrator Honoree

Javana McCall (Camden, AR) – District-Level Administrator Honoree

Javana McCall is a retired assistant superintendent from the Camden-Fairview School District. McCall has worked in Lafayette County for 22 years and the Camden-Fairview School District for nine years. This tenure included serving as an assistant principal at the middle school and working in the district’s central office. At the district level, McCall was the special programs coordinator for three years and an assistant superintendent for four years. McCall holds a bachelor of science in Education and a master’s in Education, with endorsements from Southern Arkansas University for building-level and district-level administrator licensure. McCall is a member of the Delta Sigma Theta Sorority, Inc. McCall is married to Stephone McCall and has two children, TaRoya Lawson and Jerome Edwards Jr. McCall has six grandchildren and one great-grandchild.

Zebulon Prothro (Mount Vernon, AR) – District-Level Administrator Honoree

Zebulon Prothro (Mount Vernon, AR) – District-Level Administrator Honoree

Zebulon Prothro is the superintendent of the Mount Vernon Enola School District. Under Prothro’s leadership, the district received a highly effective school accreditation rating and was recognized in the U.S. News & World Report’s Best Schools in the Nation. In 2018, Prothro received the Farm Bureau New Ag Education Teacher of the Year award and was the youngest superintendent in Arkansas from 2023 to 2025. Prothro holds a bachelor’s degree in Agricultural Education and a master’s degree in educational leadership in Administration and Supervision, with a district-level administrator licensure endorsement from Southern Arkansas University. Prothro is currently a doctoral student in the Rural and Diverse Educational Leadership program at Southern Arkansas University. Prothro has been married to Jessica Prothro since 2014. Together, they have built a loving family and are proud parents of two daughters, Kennedy and Korlee.

The Community Leadership Awards category includes SAU College of Education and Human Performance Graduate Program alumni who exhibit outstanding leadership and accomplishments in their field. This category was developed based on the recommendation of Dr. Kenneth Booth, who felt it was important to recognize a broader group of individuals for excellence.

Christy Canfield (Emerson, AR) – Community Leadership Award

Christy Canfield (Emerson, AR) – Community Leadership Award

Christy Canfield is the Special Education teacher at Emerson High School. Canfield has taught at Emerson for 11 years and is the cheerleader and student council sponsor. Canfield received the Teacher of the Year Award at Emerson High School for the 2018-2019 school year. Canfield earned a bachelor of business administration in Finance from SAU in 2002, a master of arts in Teaching from the University of Arkansas at Monticello in 2014, and a master of education and program administrator endorsement from Southern Arkansas University in 2020 and 2024, respectively. Canfield has been married to Chris Canfield for 24 years. They have two daughters, McKenzie and Chrissi. Canfield is dedicated to positively impacting students’ lives by helping them reach their full potential and being an advocate for them.

Kelly Ribble (Magnolia, AR) – Community Leadership Award

Kelly Ribble (Magnolia, AR) – Community Leadership Award

Kelly Ribble is the counselor at Magnolia Middle School. Ribble has served in public education for 33 years, working in Bearden Public Schools, Stamps High School, and the Mt. Holly School District. Ribble has worked in Magnolia ISD since 1999, where she received the Building Level Educator of the Month Award. In 2025, Ribble received the Chamber of Commerce Educator of the Year Award. Ribble is actively involved in the community through organizations such as the Circle of Friends for Arkansas Children’s Hospital, Magnolia Junior Charity League, First United Methodist Church, and the Magnolia Middle School food pantry. Ribble has also served as chair and board member at the First United Methodist Child Development Center. Ribble earned a bachelor of arts and master of education from Southern Arkansas University in 1991 and 1999, respectively. Ribble is married to Barry Ribble, and they have a son, Parker (who is married to Abbie). Ribble is passionate about helping young people navigate academic, social, and emotional challenges during critical stages of development.

Monty Harrington (Magnolia, AR) – Dr. Kenneth C. Booth Educational Leadership in Excellence Award

Monty Harrington (Magnolia, AR) – Dr. Kenneth C. Booth Educational Leadership in Excellence Award

Monty Harrington was born and raised in Magnolia, AR. Harrington graduated in 1993 from Southern Arkansas University with a degree in Finance. In 2006, Harrington graduated from the Barrett School of Banking in Memphis and later from the Southwestern Graduate School of Banking at Southern Methodist University in 2009. Harrington has been with Farmers Bank & Trust since 2000, serving as a consumer, mortgage, and commercial lender before becoming the Magnolia market president.

Harrington has been actively involved in numerous community activities and organizations, including:

40 Under 40 Member
Albemarle Community Advisory Chairman
Central Baptist Church
Columbia Christian School Board Member and Past Chair
Leadership Magnolia
Magnolia Blossom Festival
Magnolia Columbia County Chamber of Commerce Board Member
Magnolia Housing Authority Chairman
Magnolia Regional Medical Center Foundation Board Member
Mulerider Club Board Member
Southern Arkansas University Board of Trustees
Relay for Life Board Member
United Way Board Member
Leadership Arkansas

Harrington has been married to Janet Harrington for 29 years. Together, they have a son, Thomas (married to Karigan), and a daughter, Abby.

The Educational Leadership Hall of Fame banquet celebrated the remarkable achievements of these individuals, recognizing their unwavering commitment to educational excellence and leadership. The evening was an inspiring tribute to those shaping the future of education in Arkansas and beyond.

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Details released in fatal wreck involving El Dorado native

Published

21 hours ago

June 6, 2025

Grant Merrill

MAGNOLIA — A Magnolia woman was killed Tuesday afternoon in a three-vehicle crash on U.S. Highway 79 in Columbia County, according to the Arkansas State Police.

The accident occurred around 1:15 p.m. on June 3, just outside the city of Magnolia. Authorities say a 2015 Chevrolet driven by 50-year-old Ronnie Dyer of Newport was traveling northbound on Highway 79 when it crossed the center turn lane and collided head-on with a southbound 2015 Nissan. Debris from the crash struck a third vehicle, a 2017 Mazda, which was also headed south.

The driver of the Nissan, Adrienne Long, 38, of Magnolia, was pronounced dead at the scene. Dyer was injured and transported to Ochsner LSU Health in Shreveport. No additional injuries were reported.

According to social media profiles, Long was a graduate of El Dorado High School and earned her degree from Southern Arkansas University in 2010. She was a longtime employee of Murphy USA and was well known in the Magnolia and El Dorado communities.

Weather and road conditions were clear and dry at the time of the accident. The Arkansas State Police identified Trooper Trey M. Williams as the investigating officer. The investigation into the crash is ongoing.

Services for Long are pending with arrangements entrusted to R.L. Reed Funeral Home in Magnolia.

News

Severe Storms Possible Through Saturday

Published

1 day ago

June 6, 2025

Grant Merrill

SHREVEPORT – The National Weather Service is warning residents across South Arkansas to prepare for the potential of strong to severe thunderstorms both today and again late Saturday into Saturday night.

According to the latest outlook from the NWS office in Shreveport, portions of the region, including areas near El Dorado and Camden, are under a Level 1 to Level 2 risk for severe weather. That means there is a marginal to slight chance of storms capable of producing hail, damaging winds, and heavy rainfall.

For Friday, storms are expected primarily during daytime hours, with hail and wind being the main threats. The risk increases again late Saturday, with storms expected during the afternoon, evening, and overnight hours. In addition to hail and strong winds, heavy rainfall is likely to accompany these storms Saturday night, which could lead to localized flooding.

Emergency officials encourage residents to stay weather-aware, especially during outdoor events or travel. Make sure to have multiple ways to receive severe weather alerts, including a NOAA weather radio or trusted weather apps.

The forecast will be updated as conditions develop. For the latest weather information, visit weather.gov/shv.

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Camden First Friday Event To Honor First Responders

Published

1 day ago

June 6, 2025

Grant Merrill

CAMDEN — Downtown Camden will come alive Friday evening with the sights, sounds, and smells of the First Friday Monthly Market, as the community comes together to honor first responders during a special “Heroes Among Us” celebration.

Scheduled for June 6 from 6:00 to 9:00 p.m., this month’s market is expected to be the largest yet, featuring a record number of vendors, live music, delicious food, and a variety of local artisans and authors.

Attendees can enjoy everything from fresh produce, sunflowers, and handmade jellies to hand-forged silver jewelry, woodworking, and hand-poured fish bait. A wide variety of food options will also be available, including Spud Love’s famous loaded potatoes and Smith’s Treats & BBQ serving brisket, ribs, nachos, and funnel cakes.

To beat the heat, guests can cool off with shaved ice, bubble tea, kettle corn, lemonade, freeze-dried candies, and more. Live music will be provided by the band “Saving Tuesday,” offering the perfect backdrop for an evening of strolling and socializing.

In a special highlight of the evening, four authors with Camden ties will be on hand to meet guests and sign copies of their books.

Downtown merchants will extend their hours for First Friday specials, making it easy for shoppers to browse and buy local well into the evening.

With a heartfelt theme of gratitude, “Heroes Among Us” invites the public to recognize the strength, courage, and service of Camden’s first responders.

Come stroll, sip, nibble, and chat — and stay awhile this Friday night in Downtown Camden.

News

Martin Lubricants to Host Job Fair June 26 in Smackover

Published

1 day ago

June 6, 2025

Grant Merrill

SMACKOVER— Martin Lubricants is inviting job seekers to explore new career opportunities at an upcoming job fair on Thursday, June 26, from 10 a.m. to 2 p.m. The event will be held at the Arkansas Museum of Natural Resources, located at 4087 Smackover Highway.

The company is actively hiring for positions at its Smackover facility, including production workers, operators, forklift drivers, and skilled trade roles. Recent high school graduates, college students entering the workforce, and experienced job seekers alike are encouraged to attend.

“We’re excited to meet individuals ready to begin a career with a company that values hard work and community,” said representatives from Martin Lubricants.

Job fair attendees will have the opportunity to meet the hiring team, learn more about available shifts—including day shifts in the packaging plant and second and third shifts in the plastics department—and explore the benefits of joining the Martin Lubricants team.

The company is offering competitive pay, a full benefits package including paid vacation, sick time, and 401(k), and starting wages ranging from $17 to $18 per hour. Shift differential pay is available for select positions.

Applicants are encouraged to bring a resume or come prepared to fill out an application onsite.

For more information, visit www.martinlubricants.com.

News

SAU Rider Residency Program Reaches $2 Million Milestone

Published

2 days ago

June 5, 2025

Staff Reports

MAGNOLIA – In just two years since launching its innovative Rider Residency model, Southern Arkansas University and its six partner school districts have reached a major milestone—providing over $2 million in direct support to aspiring teachers through paid, year-long residencies.

This groundbreaking approach to teacher preparation is made possible through strong collaboration with Ashdown School District, Camden Fairview School District, El Dorado School District, Hope School District, Magnolia School District, and Texarkana Arkansas School District. These districts not only fund paid positions for residents training to become teachers but also invest in experienced mentor teachers through stipends for their yearlong commitment to co-teach, support, and develop the next generation of educators. In addition, Hampton School District has committed to joining Rider Residency in the fall of 2025.

“Our partner districts believed in this vision from the beginning,” said Dr. Neelie Dobbins, chair of the Department of Teacher Education, “and their investment in the Rider Residency model is directly impacting teacher quality, retention, and—most importantly—student learning.”

Long before the state of Arkansas mandated yearlong residencies for teacher licensure, SAU and its district partners recognized the value of immersive, sustained classroom experience. In the Rider Residency model, teacher candidates are hired by districts, embedded full-time in classrooms, and mentored by veteran teachers throughout the school year.

The benefits are already clear: not only are future educators receiving extensive hands-on preparation, but K–12 students are thriving. Data from partner schools indicate that student achievement in classrooms with resident/mentor teacher pairs is outpacing the state average, countering national trends that often show a decline in student performance during traditional student teaching models.

“This partnership isn’t just about preparing teachers—it’s about building strong school communities,” said Melissa Powell, Assistant Superintendent of El Dorado School District. “We’re seeing the impact every day in our classrooms.”

The success of Rider Residency has also been bolstered by strategic support from Forward Arkansas, a nonprofit organization focused on improving educational outcomes across the state. With funding from a transformative innovation grant, SAU rapidly expanded the program by adding district-embedded site coordinators and targeted professional development for mentor teachers.

Since launching in January 2023, more than 100 residents have participated in the Rider Residency program across the six districts. An overwhelming majority—91%—have been hired into full-time teaching roles within the same district where they received their training, reinforcing the model’s effectiveness in supporting long-term retention and local workforce development.

“Thanks to our district partners and Forward Arkansas, we’re not just preparing teachers—we’re transforming the teacher pipeline,” said Dr. Lynze Greathouse, assistant professor of Education. “This is what real collaboration looks like, and we’re just getting started.”