Arkansas & Jonesboro
A-State Honors 3 Individuals and an Organization for Outstanding Contributions to the University and Jonesboro Community
A-State Honors 3 Individuals and an Organization for Outstanding Contributions to the University and Jonesboro Community
Arkansas State University recently held its Excellence Awards ceremony to recognize the positive contributions of individuals and organizations to the A-State community as well as the city of Jonesboro. The ceremony celebrated the spirit of dedication, connection and service that has helped shape the identity of the Red Wolf community.
A Ceremony Celebrating Everyday Dedication
A-State's Excellence Awards ceremony was held at the Fowler Center on the afternoon of April 22, 2026, to honor two individuals and one organization for their positive contributions to the university and the Jonesboro community.
In keeping with the spirit of the program, these awards recognize people who make a difference every day, especially through values such as expanding opportunity, fostering a sense of belonging and serving the community.
Event Highlights
Not Just an Awards Ceremony, but an Affirmation of Community Values
The Excellence Awards show that A-State values not only academic achievement, but also the quiet efforts that make campus more open, more connected and more impactful for the surrounding community.
This Year's Three Honorees
What Makes These Awards Meaningful?
Campus Impact
- Dr. Kristen Johnson was recognized for her strategic leadership in initiatives with a measurable impact on community life.
- Such efforts reflect how A-State values academic contributions that are tied to real-world impact.
Community Leadership
- Shunqetta N. Cunningham was honored for her contributions to the nonprofit ecosystem and social development in Northeast Arkansas.
- This award highlights A-State's connection to the broader community beyond campus.
A Sense of Belonging in Student Life
- The Howlers Pep Band was recognized for helping connect audiences, energizing teams and creating an atmosphere full of A-State spirit.
- The original article also emphasized that this is an activity open to students from many different majors.
A Broader Message
- The Excellence Awards recognize not only individual achievement, but also demonstrate how much A-State values connection, service and a sense of belonging.
- These are also an important part of the A-State college experience.
A Ceremony Full of Depth and Inspiration
The original article notes that the program's guest speaker was Stacy Goodwin Lightfoot, currently Vice Chancellor for Access and Engagement at the University of Tennessee-Chattanooga. The musical portion of the event was performed by Dr. Ryan Sullivan and the A-State Concert Choir.
These details show that the Excellence Awards ceremony is more than an awards presentation— it is also an opportunity for the campus community to reflect on collective impact and encourage one another to build a more welcoming environment.
Frequently Asked Questions
What are A-State's Excellence Awards?
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Learn More About Campus Life and Community Values at A-State
If you'd like to learn more about the learning environment, campus culture and opportunities for holistic growth at Arkansas State University, connect with A-State's Vietnam Office for further advising.