An article by Dr. Melodie Philhours (left), associate professor of marketing, and Dr. Kelly Fish (right), professor of information systems and business analytics, has been accepted for publication in the journal Research and Practice in Assessment. The article, “Predictors of Student Technology Competencies in Assurance of Learning Assessment,” leverages data from direct assessments to build a dynamic model of student performance in computer technology competency exams.

Kelly Carlson, assistant professor of nursing, was interviewed by Arkansas Money & Politics for its article on nurses who work in mental health care. Carlson, who is a psychiatric mental health nurse practitioner, explained how those in her field meet lots of needs, working closely with integrative medical clinics and other professionals. Psychiatric mental health nurse practitioners fill a distinct role, treating a variety of disorders.

Dr. Saúl A. Esparza Rodríguez, assistant professor of management and strategy, Campus Querétaro, is lead author of an article published in Public Policies, “Competitive and Labor Context in Terms of Reduction of Working Hours in Mexico (2016-2018).” Through a quantitative and descriptive approach, the authors analyzed the Mexican economic structure in order to identify the conditions of productive activities in Mexico, according to alternatives for reducing the working day.

Dr. Angelo Brown, assistant professor of criminology, provided professional commentary for Fox News Digital concerning circumstances related to the escape from a North Arkansas prison by a former chief of police who was convicted of murder and rape. Brown’s comments on how the escapee might benefit from his law enforcement training were picked up by several other news organizations, including the New York Post and Times of India.

Dr. Russ Hannah, vice chancellor, Finance and Administration, and chief financial officer, was recently recognized by Arkansas Money & Politics magazine in its 2025 C-Suite List of readers’ favorite executives. The annual list recognizes business executives in Arkansas whose work makes Arkansas a great place to live and work. Very active in community activities, Hannah moved into his current role with the university in July of last year.