JONESBORO – Arkansas State University honored two individuals and one organization for their contributions to the university and greater Jonesboro community during the annual Excellence Awards, held at Fowler Center on Thursday afternoon.
The three awards celebrate people on campus who make a real difference every day. These awards honor team members who show strong dedication to access, belonging and service.
Stacy Goodwin Lightfoot, vice chancellor for access and engagement at the University of Tennessee-Chattanooga, served as the guest speaker. She brought spirited discussions and thoughtful reflections to the luncheon, prompting attendees to consider how to make others feel welcome when they enter a room.
Entertainment was provided by Dr. Ryan Sullivan, director of choral activities, and the A-State Concert Choir.
Dr. Carlitta Moore, vice chancellor for access and institutional engagement at A-State, says the ceremony is important to highlight the work being done on campus.
“It brings me great joy for our division to host these awards on behalf of the university. We take immense pride in recognizing the contributions of our faculty, staff, students and Jonesboro community; ensuring they are valued, expanding access and fostering an environment where every member of our community feel genuine belongingness and can thrive,” she said.
“Occasions like this provide a meaningful opportunity to highlight the collective impact of those who strengthen the Red Wolf community each day, to engage with one another in purposeful ways, and to celebrate the spirit of excellence and connection which enriches lives and defines Arkansas State University,” Moore added.
The Excellence Award honorees are below:
Dr. Kristen Johnson, recipient of the Excellence in Campus Impact Award. She is the executive director of the RESTORE Hub and an associate professor at Arkansas State University. She provides strategic leadership for initiatives that advance community well-being through research translation, education, and service delivery. Johnson oversees the Hub’s vision, mission, operations, and growth, leads partnerships, and aligns programs with institutional and community priorities to achieve measurable impact.
Shunqetta N. Cunningham is the recipient of the Community Leadership in Excellence Award. She is CEO and chief strategist of KHARIS Group Consulting, a community strategy and social impact firm that helps nonprofits, institutions, and mission-driven leaders build sustainable organizations that increase income, impact, and long-term influence. She is also the founder of the annual Nonprofit Summit of Northeast Arkansas, a premier cross-sector gathering advancing collaboration, innovation, and growth. She holds bachelor’s and master’s degrees from A-State.
Howlers Pep Band is the recipient of the Student Excellence in Access & Belonging Award. At every home volleyball and basketball game, the Howlers energize the arena with powerful music and enthusiastic cheers, elevating the game-day experience. Their passion shows in both their performances and preparation. The Howlers unite the crowd, energize the teams, and create an atmosphere reflecting A-State pride. It offers students from various majors the opportunity to be involved in music while supporting A-State. Through auditions, scholarships, and active participation, members demonstrate talent and responsibility. Howlers is spearheaded by Dr. Allegra Fisher, associate director of bands and director of athletic bands.
The Excellence Awards honorees are nominated by members of the campus community and then chosen by a university committee. To learn more about the Excellence Awards program and award criteria, click here.
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