News

SAU Announces Commencement Details

Published

1 year ago

May 5, 2025

Grant Merrill

MAGNOLIA – Southern Arkansas University will come together to honor over 700 spring 2025 graduates during three undergraduate ceremonies on Friday, May 9, and two graduate ceremonies on Saturday, May 10. The ceremonies will be held in the W.T. Watson Athletic Center.

Friday, May 9 – Undergraduate Ceremonies
8:00 a.m. – Department of Nursing Pinning Ceremony, Grand Hall
10:00 a.m. – College of Science and Engineering
2:00 p.m. – College of Education and Human Performance
4:00 p.m. – Rankin College of Business of Dempsey College of Liberal and Performing Arts

Saturday, May 10 – Graduate Ceremonies
9:00 a.m. – Rankin College of Business, College of Education and Human Performance, and Dempsey College of Liberal and Performing Arts
11:00 a.m. – College of Science and Engineering

Each ceremony should last approximately 60-90 minutes. There will be no guest limits or tickets required for guests to attend the commencement ceremonies. The commencement ceremonies will be streamed live on the SAU Facebook page for those who wish to attend virtually.

Commencement Address – Friday, May 9 at 10:00 a.m.
David Bethea graduated from SAU with a BS in Mathematics in 2001. Following the September 11 attacks, David felt a strong sense of duty to his country and believed his unique set of skills would be beneficial during a time of such turmoil and uncertainty. He enlisted as a commissioned Officer in the United States Air Force, where his initial assignment was as a Combat Weapons, and Tactics Analyst 2nd Lieutenant with the 86th Fighter Weapons Squadron Currently an Air Force Reservist, David has served in the Air Force on active duty and in the Reserves for more than 20 years.

As a Combat Weapons and Tactics Analyst, David gathered data and worked alongside Joint Tactical Air Controllers to determine the optimal process and weapon choices for Close Air Support, especially during firefights where troops were in close contact with the enemy. As a mathematician, he played a key role analyzing the weapons used by his unit, many of which were powered by Aerojet Rocketdyne’s Camden site.

In 2006, David was selected for the Air Force’s Graduate Degree Program at the Air Force Institute of Technology (AFIT), earning his MS in Applied Mathematics in 2008. After graduation, he was reassigned as a Weapons, Tactics and Combat Analyst to the Air Force Wargaming Institute. During his time in active duty, David deployed in support of Operation Iraqi Freedom and Operation Enduring Freedom on three separate deployments as a Weapons, Tactics and Combat Analyst.

Having seen first-hand how critical safe and reliable weapons are in combat, David transitioned from active duty to the Reserves and moved back to Arkansas to begin his career at Aerojet Rocketdyne. He is now the Senior Manager of Manufacturing Engineering for many of the nation’s strategic programs, including PAC-3 MSE (Patriot Advanced Capabilities Missile Segment Enhancements), ATACMS (Army Tactical Missile System), GMLRS (Guide Multi-Launch Rocket System), and multiple upcoming Aerojet Rocketdyne Research and Development programs. David and his team improve manufacturing processes for these programs and ensure the company’s products are safely built to the highest quality standards and delivered on time.

Commencement Address – Friday, May 9 at 2:00 p.m.
Juanita I. Harris is an accomplished educator, Teacher of the Year, founder/CEO, published author, and devoted servant of the Most High God. Through her work, she inspires and shapes the hearts and minds of students, teachers, and the community.

A native of Texarkana, Arkansas, Juanita is the daughter of Virgina Harris and the late Willie Harris. With over a decade of experience in education, she holds a BSE in Early Childhood Education (2010) and an MEd in Curriculum and Instruction (2013), both from SAU. As the founder of Teachers Support Teachers, Juanita champions educators by providing resources and recognition through an annual gala, alongside a remarkable board and team of ambassadors.

Juanita’s career has been marked by prestigious accolades, including the Early Career Award from Kappa Delta Pi (2013) and the Bessie B. Moore Economics Educator Award (2017). She was named Union Elementary Campus Teacher of the Year (2017) and Texarkana Arkansas School District Teacher of the Year (2018), which led to her selection as one of 14 regional finalists for the 2019 Arkansas Teacher of the Year. She was honored at a special ceremony by Governor Asa Hutchinson and Education Commissioner Johnny Key. In November 2021, Juanita received the Civic Award from the Arkansas Education Association for her outstanding contributions to education and her advocacy for staff and students. In 2024, Juanita was recognized by the National Education Association with the Travelers Award for Teaching Excellence.

Beyond the classroom, Juanita has made a lasting impact in various capacities. She served as a Senior Policy Fellow for Teach Plus Arkansas and tutors children within her district and the broader community. She is also a member of Christ Nations Church in Texarkana, Texas. In addition, Juanita continues to give back to SAU by serving as an Alumni Board member.

Commencement Address – Friday, May 9 at 4:00 p.m.
Lucas Melott is the Chief Financial Officer (CFO) of Pecan Deluxe Candy Company in Dallas, Texas. His professional journey began at Merrill Lynch in 2000, where he served as a financial advisor and banker in downtown Fort Worth, Texas. After 10 years, he traded in his fancy suits for some boots and jeans to work in the world of food manufacturing. He spent the next decade as the CFO of Texas Meat Packers before joining Pecan Deluxe.

While growing up in Irving, Texas, and excelling as a five-sport athlete, it is fair to state Lucas never dreamed of wearing a Mulerider jersey. Thankfully, a random visit to SAU in Spring 1995 served as the precursor to an athletic scholarship offer and, ultimately, a historic ride as a member of the 1997 Gulf South Conference Championship football team. Lucas was also fortunate to be named as a First Team All-Conference cornerback for the Muleriders in 1997 and 1998.

Despite his original intent to pursue athletics, Lucas quickly figured out the academic landscape at SAU was just as competitive as its football field. It was at the David F. Rankin College of Business where Lucas forged friendships with both classmates and faculty that have lasted a lifetime. He graduated in 1999 with a BBA in Finance, then went on to earn his MBA at the University of Texas at Arlington. He often brags that graduate school was just a review course compared to his undergraduate education at SAU.

Today, Lucas lives in Prosper, Texas, with his wife, Jill. He can relive his youth through the various sports and activities of his five children: Campbell, Caiden, Lawson, Holt, and Channing. Whether it be subliminal messaging or an array of incentives, Lucas is doing his best to ensure his household has at least one second-generation Mulerider.

Commencement Address – Saturday, May 10 at 9:00 a.m.
Dr. Connie Wilson currently serves as the SAU Vice President for Advancement. Her dedication to higher education and deep commitment to the SAU community are inspired by her own experience as a student, which began in 1995. She holds a BSE in English Education and an MEd in Secondary Education, both from SAU. She later earned an EdD in Educational Leadership from Louisiana Tech University. Prior to her current role, Dr. Wilson served as Dean of the School of Graduate Studies and Director of the Educational Leadership in Administration and Supervision program at SAU. She was also a key member of the Ed.D. Leadership Team, which was instrumental in the development of SAU’s doctoral program.

Dr. Wilson’s professional career in education began in Louisiana, where she served as both an English teacher and assistant principal. Over the years, she has received numerous honors in recognition of her dedication to education and service. These include the Auburn P. Smith Service Award, Spirit of SAU Award, SAU Student Affairs Director’s Choice Award, Broadmoor Middle Laboratory School Teacher of the Year, Cope Middle School Teacher of the Year, Bossier Parish Middle School Teacher of the Year, the National Council of Teachers of English Leadership Development Award, and the Fellowship of Christian Athletes Huddle Sponsor of the Year.

Dr. Wilson has made meaningful contributions to the field of educational scholarship through her publications in the Science and Children Journal and READ: Reading, Exploration, and Discovery. She has also presented at local, state, and national conferences. Outside of her professional commitments, Dr. Wilson enjoys traveling and spending time with her husband of 27 years, Jason, and their two daughters, Sammie and Lauren.

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El Dorado School District To Offer Free Breakfast, Elementary School Supplies

Published

50 minutes ago

July 22, 2026

Grant Merrill

EL DORADO, Ark. — As families prepare for the start of a new school year, the El Dorado School District is working to ease some of the financial burden by providing free meals and classroom supplies for students.

District officials announced that all El Dorado School District students will receive free breakfast during the upcoming school year. In addition, students in kindergarten through fourth grade will receive free instructional school supplies, helping ensure they have the materials they need on the first day of class.

The district says the initiative is part of its ongoing commitment to supporting families, removing barriers to learning and helping every student begin the school year ready for success.

By providing essential resources such as breakfast and classroom supplies, school leaders hope students can focus on learning rather than worrying about basic needs.

The district encourages families to take advantage of the programs as they make final preparations for the new school year.

“At ESD, Every Student Deserves a great start,” the district said in announcing the back-to-school support initiatives.

News

City of El Dorado Seeks Applicants For Airport Commission

Published

52 minutes ago

July 22, 2026

Grant Merrill

EL DORADO — The City of El Dorado is accepting applications from residents interested in serving on the El Dorado Airport Commission.

City officials are seeking qualified applicants to fill a position on the commission, which helps provide oversight and guidance for the operation and future development of South Arkansas Regional Airport at Goodwin Field.

Those interested in serving are encouraged to submit an application before the 5 p.m. deadline on Thursday, Aug. 20.

Residents who would like more information about the position or the application process can contact City Clerk Heather McVay at 870-881-4877 or by email at [email protected].

The City of El Dorado encourages community members who are interested in contributing to the future of local aviation and economic development to apply.

News

Heat Advisory Continues For South Arkansas Counties

Published

1 hour ago

July 22, 2026

Grant Merrill

EL DORADO — Dangerous heat will continue across South Arkansas today, with the National Weather Service warning that heat index values could climb as high as 109 to 115 degrees in some locations.

Much of Union County and the surrounding South Arkansas region, including El Dorado, remains under a Heat Advisory, while areas farther south and west across East Texas and northern Louisiana are under an Extreme Heat Warning.

Afternoon high temperatures are expected to reach the upper 90s to lower 100s, but the combination of heat and humidity will make it feel significantly hotter.

The National Weather Service says prolonged exposure to these conditions can quickly lead to heat-related illnesses, especially for older adults, young children, people with chronic health conditions and anyone working or exercising outdoors.

Residents are encouraged to:

Drink plenty of water throughout the day.
Limit strenuous outdoor activities during the hottest part of the afternoon.
Stay in air-conditioned buildings whenever possible, as fans alone may not provide enough cooling during extreme heat.
Wear lightweight, light-colored clothing if spending time outside.

Officials also remind residents to check on neighbors, relatives and pets during the prolonged stretch of dangerous heat and never leave children or animals unattended in vehicles.

The heat advisory remains in effect through this evening, with forecasters expecting another round of dangerously hot conditions later this week.

News

El Dorado Business Leader Madison Murphy to Receive Statewide Leadership in Free Enterprise Award

Published

21 hours ago

July 21, 2026

Sandy Sanford

Madison Murphy being honored as tourism person of the year at the Governor's Conference on Tourism. Photo from GoElDorado.com

LITTLE ROCK, AR – Throughout his career, Madison Murphy has earned a reputation as one of Arkansas’ most respected business leaders, with decades of service spanning corporate leadership, education, philanthropy, and the arts. This fall, that legacy will be recognized on a statewide stage.

The El Dorado native has been named one of two recipients of the Leadership in Free Enterprise Award, presented by Economics Arkansas, a nonprofit, nonpartisan organization dedicated to advancing economic and personal finance education across the state.

Murphy graduated from Hendrix College in Conway in 1980 with a degree in economics and business administration before returning to El Dorado to begin his career with Murphy Oil Corporation as a junior accountant. He quickly advanced through the company’s ranks, serving as a junior auditor and associate auditor before accepting international assignments in London, England, with Murphy Eastern Oil and in New Orleans, Louisiana, with Murphy’s Ocean Drilling and Exploration Company.

Despite opportunities abroad, Murphy chose to return home in 1988, joining Murphy Oil as vice president of planning. Over the years, he held several executive leadership positions, including treasurer, chief financial and administrative officer, and ultimately chairman of the board. He continues to serve as a member of the Murphy Oil Board of Directors.

Beyond Murphy Oil, his leadership has extended across Arkansas’ business and civic landscape. Murphy served for a decade on the Arkansas Highway Commission, spent more than 11 years on the board of BancorpSouth, and also served on the board of Deltic Timber Corporation.

He is a founding member of the Murphy Arts District (MAD), co-owner of Presqu’ile Winery, president of the Murphy Foundation, and has served as chairman of the board of Murphy USA since the company’s 2013 spinoff from Murphy Oil.

Economics Arkansas selected Murphy for the Leadership in Free Enterprise Award in recognition of his commitment to promoting the principles and success of free enterprise throughout Arkansas.

Formerly known as the Arkansas Council on Economic Education, Economics Arkansas equips PreK-12 educators with the training and classroom resources needed to teach economics and personal finance. The organization believes that preparing teachers creates a multiplier effect, allowing generations of Arkansas students to gain practical financial knowledge and a stronger understanding of the marketplace.

Murphy will be honored during the organization’s annual awards ceremony on Nov. 4 at the DoubleTree Hotel in Little Rock. Also receiving recognition that evening will be Walter Hussman Jr., chairman of the Arkansas Democrat-Gazette.

Tickets for the event are $125 and may be purchased online or by calling 501-682-4230.

Featured

Murphy-Pitard Jewelers Joins Downtown El Dorado’s Christmas in July Celebration

Published

24 hours ago

July 21, 2026

Jax Sanford

EL DORADO, Ark. – Christmas is coming early to historic downtown El Dorado as Murphy-Pitard Jewelers invites the community to celebrate the Christmas in July festivities, taking place Thursday, July 23, through Saturday, July 25.

Following the success of last year’s event, Murphy-Pitard is bringing the celebration back with an even greater focus on festive fun, holiday planning, and the excitement of brand-new jewelry arrivals.

Throughout the three-day event, customers will have the opportunity to get a first look at the store’s newest collections, recently hand-selected at market, while shopping the best selection before the holiday season begins.

“The response to Christmas in July last year was incredible, and we couldn’t wait to bring it back,” said Amanda Pitard, owner of Murphy-Pitard Jewelers. “It’s such a fun way to celebrate with our community, introduce the new pieces we found at market, help customers start their Christmas wish lists early, and remind everyone it’s never too early to start planning for the holidays. Whether you’re beginning your Christmas shopping or simply enjoying the festivities downtown, we hope you’ll stop in and celebrate with us.”

Guests can enjoy holiday treats, festive decorations, Christmas music, and plenty of Christmas cheer while exploring the store’s newest arrivals. Murphy-Pitard Jewelers is proud to join the Downtown Business Association and Main Street El Dorado, celebrating Christmas in July as downtown businesses spread holiday cheer with festive activities and create a fun shopping experience throughout historic downtown El Dorado.

Customers are encouraged to create their Christmas wish list during the event for a chance to win a $500 Murphy-Pitard Jewelers shopping spree through a special Christmas in July Wish & Win giveaway.

For the first time, Murphy-Pitard Jewelers is introducing a special Christmas layaway program during Christmas in July. The three-day offer allows customers to reserve gifts with 0% down, NO interest, and five equal monthly payments, making it easy to plan ahead for the holidays while securing the store’s newest arrivals. (Restrictions apply. See store for complete details.)

Additional highlights include Santa Savings, featuring select merchandise specially marked for the event, as well as a visit from Summer Santa on Saturday.

Murphy-Pitard Jewelers’ Christmas in July will take place during regular business hours:

Thursday- Friday, July 23- July 24: 10:00 a.m. – 5:30 p.m.
Saturday, July 25: 10:00 a.m. – 5:00 p.m.

For more information about Murphy-Pitard Jewelers, visit the store in historic downtown El Dorado, call (870) 863-8818, or follow Murphy-Pitard Jewelers on Facebook for event updates and sneak peeks of the newest arrivals.