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SAU Names New Dean For Rankin Business College

Published

7 days ago

May 29, 2025

MAGNOLIA – Southern Arkansas University is pleased to announce that Dr. Gerald Plumlee has been named Dean of the Rankin College of Business. Dr. Plumlee has served as interim dean since June 2024 and now officially assumes the permanent role, following a period of impactful leadership and dedication to the College.

Dr. Plumlee brings a strong background in business education, student mentorship, and academic administration to the position. He began his career at SAU in 1999 as an instructor of computer information systems and currently holds the rank of associate professor of management. Over his two-and-a-half decades at SAU, he has taught a variety of classes in management and information systems, earning a reputation as a student-centered educator who values learning beyond the classroom.

He holds an Ed.D. in Higher Education from the University of Arkansas at Little Rock and both a BBA and an MBA from the University of Central Arkansas.

One of the hallmarks of Dr. Plumlee’s career has been his dedication to experiential learning. He has served as an advisor and co-advisor to nationally recognized student organizations, such as FBLA-Collegiate (formerly Phi Beta Lambda) and Enactus (formerly Students in Free Enterprise), and previously coordinated the College’s study abroad programs. He has accompanied students on international trips to Costa Rica and Mexico. This summer, four faculty members and over 20 students will travel to Italy and Costa Rica, a testament to the College’s growth and investment in these life-changing opportunities.

Dean of the David F. Rankin College of Business, Dr. Gerald Plumlee.

“We provide a top-notch education for our students, but these experiences outside the classroom make a difference,” Plumlee said. “SAU and the Rankin College of Business have emphasized leadership and professional development through student organizations, internships, and study-abroad programs. I’m proud of what we’ve built and excited about what’s ahead.”

During his time as interim dean, Dr. Plumlee successfully led the Rankin College of Business through its AACSB Continuous Improvement Review, resulting in the reaffirmation of its accreditation for another six years. AACSB International is the premier accrediting body for business schools worldwide, and SAU’s Rankin College has maintained accreditation since 2005.

Dr. Plumlee has been involved with AACSB accreditation efforts since 2003 and became director of accreditation in 2018. As associate dean from 2020–2024, he played a critical role in ensuring the College met or exceeded accreditation standards. He also serves on SAU’s Quality Leadership Team, contributing to university-wide accreditation initiatives through the Higher Learning Commission.

“AACSB International accreditation is a mark of excellence, demonstrating the quality and impact of programs offered in the Rankin College of Business,” Plumlee said. “I’m so proud to work alongside the talented group of faculty and staff who ensure what we do every day in the College is making a difference for our students.”

Looking ahead, Dr. Plumlee said the College will begin developing a new strategic plan next year, which will guide its priorities over the next three to six years. “This process has helped us build successful initiatives in the past, from incorporating new technology into the curriculum to expanding study abroad and career readiness programs. I’m looking forward to working with our faculty and staff to shape the next chapter of the RCB.”

The Rankin College of Business, accredited by AACSB International, offers a wide range of undergraduate and graduate degree programs in fields such as accounting, finance, marketing, supply chain management, information systems, and business administration. With a focus on experiential learning, career preparation, and faculty-student engagement, the College maintains a reputation for academic excellence and community impact.

Blanchard houses the Rankin College of Business on SAU’s campus.

“Dr. Gerald Plumlee brings a deep understanding of the Rankin College of Business, a strong commitment to student success, and a clear vision for the future,” said Dr. Robin Sronce, vice president for academic affairs. “His dedication to academic excellence makes him the right choice to guide the College forward. I am confident that under his leadership, the Rankin College of Business will continue to thrive and prepare graduates who will make a meaningful impact in their professions and communities.”

“Dr. Gerald Plumlee has served SAU with distinction for many years, and his leadership within the Rankin College of Business has already made a lasting impression,” said Dr. Bruno Hicks, SAU president. “His deep knowledge of the College, dedication to student success, and steady guidance during his time as interim dean make him the clear choice to lead RCB forward. I am excited to continue working with him as we pursue new opportunities and ongoing growth for the Rankin College of Business.”

Plumlee describes the Rankin College of Business as a special place that changes the lives of those who choose to be a part of the RCB family. For more information about the Rankin College of Business at SAU, visit www.saumag.edu/business.

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Wildcat Wellness Center Announces Summer Schedule

Published

19 hours ago

June 4, 2025

Staff Reports

EL DORADO — The El Dorado School District has announced that the Wildcat Wellness Center will remain open with limited provider availability throughout June 2025, with important scheduling reminders for families who may need care or medication refills before summer break.

Parents and guardians are encouraged to plan ahead, particularly for prescription refills, as the provider will be out of the office from Friday, June 6 through Friday, June 13. The final day to see the provider before the summer closure will be Thursday, June 26.

For students and staff who have previously been seen at the Wildcat Wellness Center, continued care is available through CABUN Rural Health Services during the break. Nearby clinics include:

Hampton Clinic: 870-798-4064
Strong Clinic: 870-797-7620

The Wildcat Wellness Center will officially reopen on Monday, August 4, just ahead of the new school year. District officials say they look forward to serving students and staff once again in the 2025–2026 academic year.

News

City of Camden Offering Pool Passes At Carnes Park

Published

19 hours ago

June 4, 2025

Staff Reports

CAMDEN — Just in time for summer, the City of Camden is now offering monthly passes for families to enjoy unlimited swimming at Carnes Park Pool throughout the month of June.

Passes are available for purchase at Camden City Hall or directly at Carnes Park Pool. Pricing is based on family size, with a pass for a family of three available for $70, a family of four for $85, and a family of five for $100.

City officials say the initiative is aimed at providing affordable, family-friendly recreation during the summer heat. With unlimited access all month long, residents can enjoy the pool as often as they like.

Whether you’re looking to beat the heat, stay active, or simply make lasting summer memories, the monthly pass offers a cost-effective way to dive into summer fun.

For more information or to purchase your pass, visit Camden City Hall or Carnes Park Pool during regular hours.

News

Monroe Attorney Leads Purchase Of Four Regional Radio Stations

Published

19 hours ago

June 4, 2025

Staff Reports

MONROE — A group of Monroe-based investors is acquiring a cluster of popular radio stations with strong listenership in South Arkansas, according to a filing submitted this week to the Federal Communications Commission.

Warrior Media LLC, a locally owned company, is purchasing Rock 106, My Country 92.3, 103.1 Now FM, and Sunny 98.3 from Stephens Media Group of Tulsa, Oklahoma, for $450,000. The deal will transfer control of some of the region’s most recognizable radio brands, pending FCC approval.

Leading the acquisition is Jeff Guerriero, a Monroe personal injury attorney with offices in both Monroe and Shreveport. Guerriero, who also holds credentials as a registered NFL sports agent, previously ran for Congress in 2014 before withdrawing from the race.

Guerriero is joined in the venture by several notable regional business figures: Parker Moskal, president of the Monroe Moccasins hockey organization; Everett Stagg, co-chairman of credit services company Coast Professional, based in West Monroe; and Jeff Donald, owner of Donald Farms.

With strong signals that reach deep into South Arkansas and North Louisiana, the stations have long served a broad regional audience. The acquisition by Warrior Media is expected to maintain local ownership and potentially bring new investment to the stations’ operations.

The transaction remains subject to federal regulatory approval.

News

El Dorado Chamber Unveils Summer Bingo Card

Published

19 hours ago

June 4, 2025

Grant Merrill

EL DORADO — The El Dorado-Union County Chamber of Commerce is putting a playful twist on summer activities this year with the launch of “Summer Bingo,” a community engagement initiative designed to encourage families to explore local events, public spaces and small businesses.

With the community calendar packed with kid-friendly events, the Chamber saw an opportunity to turn the season into an adventure. Participants can stop by the Chamber office to pick up a bingo card filled with a variety of fun activities. As families complete tasks—from attending events to visiting local parks and businesses—they can mark off their squares.

Once participants complete a bingo, they can return their card to the Chamber and receive a sweet reward: a free ice cream cone, courtesy of Andy’s.

“Summer Bingo is a fun and easy way to explore everything our community has to offer,” said Chamber officials. “It’s designed for all ages and a great way to get families moving, playing and supporting local.”

Participants are also encouraged to share their summer adventures on social media using the hashtag #goeldorado, allowing the community to follow along and join the fun.

Bingo cards are available now at the El Dorado-Union County Chamber of Commerce.

News

Pleasant Grove Road Reopens Following Bridge Repairs

Published

2 days ago

June 3, 2025

Grant Merrill

EL DORADO — Pleasant Grove Road at Loutre Creek is now open to traffic following the successful completion of bridge repairs, County Judge Mike Loftin announced Monday.

The road had been closed since May 29 for scheduled maintenance on the Loutre Creek bridge. Crews completed the work within the estimated five-day window.

“Bridge repairs are complete. Pleasant Grove Road is now open,” Judge Loftin said in a brief statement. “Thank you for your patience.”

The closure, announced in advance by the county on May 28, allowed for necessary structural improvements to ensure safe travel along the well-traveled route.

Drivers are encouraged to resume normal travel patterns.