National Park College (NPC) named Sarah Hutzel as the 2024 Outstanding Alumnus during
the annual Employee Recognition Day celebration this month.
Hutzel, who currently holds the position of senior vice president of commercial lending
at Arvest Bank, has been a part of the Arvest family since 2009. With over 18 years
of experience in the banking sector, she has made significant contributions to the
industry, particularly in overseeing a robust commercial loan portfolio. Prior to
lending, Hutzel was a senior credit analyst and served as the chair of the credit
analyst peer group for the four-state bank group.
The foundation of Hutzel’s educational and professional journey was laid at the National
Park Technology Center, now known as the National Park College Career Academy. There,
she completed an Advertising Design program and was awarded a Promise Scholarship.
She continued her education at NPC, earning an associate degree in liberal studies,
and later earned a bachelor's in business administration and a master’s in business
administration through the Henderson State University Transfer Scholarship.
Hutzel is a graduate of Leadership Hot Springs and the Leadership in Banking Academy
hosted by the Arkansas Bankers Association and Walton College Executive Education.
Her leadership background includes mentorship and supervision of commercial banker
trainees, credit analysts, and serving on various advisory committees.
A lifelong resident of Hot Springs, Hutzel’s commitment to her hometown is reflected
in her extensive community involvement. She serves as chair of Ouachita Children,
Youth, and Family Services, founding co-chair of the Hot Springs Women’s Leadership
Alliance, treasurer of Leadership Hot Springs, and is an active participant in the
Lake Hamilton PTO and Parent and Family Engagement Committee.
Her recent appointments include joining Hot Springs Fifty for the Future and the Henderson
State University School of Business - Business Advisory Council. Hutzel’s leadership
is further validated by her graduation from Leadership Hot Springs and the Leadership
in Banking Academy, hosted by the Arkansas Bankers Association and Walton College
Executive Education.
The NPC community proudly recognizes Hutzel’s achievements and contributions, both
in banking and in nurturing the growth and development of Hot Springs. Her dedication
to excellence and service makes her a deserving recipient of the 2024 Outstanding
Alumnus Award.
"Being named Outstanding Alumnus is a true honor. My journey with NPC began in high
school and continued through my associate degree. With my mom and sister as alumni
and my stepson soon to graduate, NPC holds a place in our hearts. Witnessing its growth
and expansion has been incredibly rewarding. My mother and I have both taught as adjunct
faculty at different times and she now serves on the National Park College Board of
Trustees, something I hope to have the opportunity to do someday. NPC has been a part
of my family's history, and I am grateful to be named Outstanding Alumnus," said Hutzel.
