EL DORADO – South Arkansas College has announced its Shining Stars for the month of May, recognizing a group of outstanding students for their academic achievement, leadership, and dedication to excellence in their respective programs.

Emma Bulloch – Radiology

Nominated by Vernita Morgan for her performance in College Algebra (MATH1023), Emma is an online student who demonstrates unwavering dedication to her coursework. She currently holds the highest average in her class and plans to pursue further specialization in CT and MRI scanning. Her goal is to gain experience in the field while making a meaningful impact in the lives of others.

Annalea Elliott – ACAP Program

Recognized by Amanda Moore, Annalea has distinguished herself through academic excellence, leadership, and intellectual curiosity. She consistently excels in her assignments and elevates classroom discussions with thoughtful questions. Known for organizing study groups and supporting her peers, Annalea plans to pursue a career in the healthcare industry.

Abigail Jerry – Practical Nursing

Praised by Angela Roberson, Abigail has maintained an A average throughout all three semesters of her PN cohort. Her strong academic performance and commitment to nursing make her a standout in the program as she prepares to become a licensed practical nurse (LPN).

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Ashley Pascual-Cortez – Practical Nursing

Nominated by Kailyn Loveless and Holly Lawrenz, Ashley is a model nursing student whose organizational skills, positivity, and peer support make her an invaluable asset to her cohort. Her kindness and dedication reflect the true spirit of nursing.

Savannah Pyle – Business

Recognized by Carolyn Langston in Accounting Principles II (ACCT 2103), Savannah exemplifies responsibility and dedication. She commutes from Magnolia to attend classes and maintains excellent attendance, only missing when seriously ill. She also offers help to classmates, reflecting her generous spirit and work ethic.

John Tyler Simonelli – Accounting

Also nominated by Carolyn Langston in Accounting Principles II (ACCT 2103), Tyler is both a top-performing student and an athlete. With plans to complete his bachelor’s degree at Northwestern State and work at Raytheon Intelligence and Space, Tyler’s drive and excellence continue to inspire his peers.

Joseph (J.D.) Zachary – General Business

Another standout from Accounting Principles I (ACCT 2003), J.D. was recognized by Carolyn Langston for his exceptional attitude and academic performance. Always early, cheerful, and supportive, J.D. plans to earn a bachelor’s degree in business, accounting, and finance.

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EL DORADO – Clair Antoon-Newton, an educator at El Dorado High School, has been named the Arkansas Rural Education Association Teacher of the Year for the South Region, a prestigious honor recognizing excellence in rural education.

Antoon-Newton will be formally recognized at a statewide ceremony in July, where she will receive the Crystal Apple Award and a $1,000 check, sponsored by the Electric Cooperatives of Arkansas.

The award comes during Teacher Appreciation Month, adding meaningful significance to the recognition. The Arkansas Rural Education Association’s Teacher of the Year program highlights outstanding teachers who make a lasting impact in rural communities through innovative instruction, leadership, and dedication to students.

El Dorado School District officials praised Antoon-Newton for her commitment to academic excellence and for being a role model both in and out of the classroom. Her recognition reflects not only her personal accomplishments but also the strength of rural education in South Arkansas.

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The July ceremony will bring together honorees from across the state to celebrate the role of educators in shaping the future of Arkansas’s rural communities.

SMACKOVER – Smackover High School will celebrate the Class of 2025 with a full day of Senior Day and graduation activities on Monday, May 19, 2025, culminating in a formal commencement ceremony at Buckaroo Stadium that evening.

The day begins at 9:00 a.m. with the Senior Day Awards Program at Hobgood Auditorium, where senior awards and recognitions will be announced. A graduation rehearsal will follow the awards program.

At 11:00 a.m., students and families are invited to a Senior Reception at Smackover First United Methodist Church, located just across the street from the high school.

Later in the day, individual graduation pictures will be taken at 6:00 p.m. in Hobgood Auditorium.

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The graduation ceremony itself will begin at 8:00 p.m. at Buckaroo Stadium. Stadium gates open at 7:15 p.m., and the event will also be livestreamed for those who cannot attend in person.

School officials encourage the community to come out and support the graduates as they take this significant step toward their future.

EL DORADO – The South Arkansas Arts Center (SAAC) invites the community to an evening of spontaneous laughter and good-hearted fun at the Gimme A Second Improv Comedy Show, set for Friday, May 9, from 7:00 to 9:00 p.m.

Presented by the Senseless Improv Group, this “pay what you can” event will feature high-energy, short-form improv games in the style of Whose Line is it Anyway? Audience participation is encouraged, making for an unpredictable and hilarious night of live entertainment.

The show is more than just a night of laughs—it also serves as a fundraiser to support SAAC’s summer camp programs, which offer creative opportunities for local youth in theatre, art, and performance. Donations will be accepted at the door, and every dollar goes directly toward enriching children’s arts education in South Arkansas.

The evening is hosted by a dedicated group of volunteers: Bill Meyers, Mike Means, Charlie Hankins, Chris Stone, Brooke Burger, Cherie Bright, and Luke Ramsey—all lending their time and talent to support a cause they believe in.

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Attendees are encouraged to give what they can—but most importantly, to show up ready to laugh and support a good cause.

For more information on SAAC’s summer camps or upcoming events, visit saac-arts.org.