The Outstanding Alumnus award was presented to 1999 graduate Kristy Carter. Carter
is the Director of Marketing for the University of Central Arkansas’ (UCA) Division
of Outreach and Community Engagement. She graduated from Hot Springs High School and
holds a certificate in Business Office Technology and Accounting from Quapaw Technical
Institute, an Associate of Arts from Garland County Community College, a Bachelor of Science in Education from Henderson
State University, a Master of Arts in Higher Education Administration from the University
of Arkansas Little Rock, and is currently completing a PhD in Leadership Studies from
UCA.
Chair of the NPC Alumni and Friends Association, Denice Davis said Carter’s accomplishments
include leading large teams of professionals, public relations, management of large
financial operations, regulation of facilities, technology and business learning instruction,
and service learning and volunteerism.
Her nominator said, “While I appreciated Kristy’s tenacity and devotion to her studies,
it was her kindness and empathy that I admired most. Her smile was infectious, and
her heart for service resulted in becoming a student leader on campus.”
Carter said, “I am so honored for this opportunity. I tell people all the time that
this is where I got my start. You all nurtured me and really instilled all those good
things that made me who I am today.” The theme for the day’s celebration was “Experience
the Magic.” Carter noted that, “In terms of magic happening, there is a lot of magic
happening on this campus. I barely recognized the place when I got here.” She acknowledged
Dr. Joyce Craft, a member of the NPC Board of Trustees, who was principal at Hot Springs
High School when Carter graduated. Carter also noted all of the contributions of service
by the faculty and staff. She challenged them and said, “I want to encourage you to
continue your work. Continue your service. Stay fast and it will definitely pay off.”
