UAPB dean to speak at NCAA forum
Frank D. Dorsey II, dean of Student Involvement and Leadership at the University of Arkansas at Pine Bluff, will be a panelist at the 2024 National Collegiate Athletic Association Inclusion Forum.
The 12th annual forum will take place from April 24-26 in Indianapolis.
The forum brings together leaders in diversity, equity, inclusion, and belonging within higher education and intercollegiate athletics from across the nation to engage in programming to advance efforts and initiatives in these areas, according to a news release.
Dorsey will serve as a panelist for the session titled “DEI More than Black and White: HBCU Perspectives.” This session, scheduled for April 25, from 1:45-3 p.m., will feature a panel discussion and TED Talk format, during which HBCU leaders will share insights into their DEI efforts and strategies.
Independent reporting for Pine Bluff & Jefferson County since 1879.
“Dean Dorsey brings a wealth of experience and expertise in fostering inclusive campus environments. His participation in this session underscores his commitment to advancing diversity, equity, and inclusion within higher education and athletics,” according to the release.
Details: https://www.ncaa.org/sports/2014/8/5/ncaa-inclusion-forum.aspx.
UAPB alumni plan run/walk fundraiser
Pine Bluff-Jefferson County University of Arkansas at Pine Bluff/AM&N Alumni Chapter will host a 5K run/walk at the Lake Saracen Walking trail (across the street from the UAPB Administration Building.)
All interested parties should be present at 7 a.m. Saturday. The entry fee is $20 and can be paid on the morning of the event.
Kids under the age of 12 will be able to walk/run for free. All funds raised will be used to provide scholarships to students at UAPB.
“We are looking forward to seeing members of the Pine Bluff community to attend this event to make it successful,” a spokesman said in a news release.
Details: Robert Carr, first vice president and fundraising chair, (210) 334.5420 or robert.e.carr@outook.com or President Mary Liddell, (870) 643-2383 or marylddll@yahoo.com.
PB to host Junior Olympics Boxing Tournament
The 2024 Arkansas State Junior Olympics Boxing Tournament will take place in Pine Bluff on May 3-4 at the Pine Bluff Convention Center. Participants, ranging in age from 8 to 16, will contend for a chance to advance to the National Tournament in Wichita, Kan., in June.
The host is Pine Bluff Gloves Not Gloves boxing club. The club is a non-profit organization founded in 2004 by Coach Albert Brewer, which provides underprivileged youth with a positive outlet away from street violence through lessons in discipline, hard work, and determination, according to a news release.
The tournament is also sponsored by the Pine Bluff Advertising and Promotion Commission.
“Gloves Not Guns and amateur boxing in Pine Bluff have received continuous support from the A&P Commission for a considerable time,” said Sheri Storie, executive director of the Pine Bluff Advertising and Promotion Commission.
“Coach Brewer’s unwavering dedication has ensured Pine Bluff’s reputation as a hub for amateur boxing tournaments, demonstrating the significant positive effects these events have on our local economy.”
The event is anticipated to draw hundreds of spectators. The bouts are scheduled to begin at 6 p.m. May 3 and at 3 p.m. May 4.
Admission for adults will be $10, $5 for ages 8-17, and children 7 and younger can attend free. Two-day passes will be available at a reduced rate. All proceeds from the tournament will go towards supporting the Gloves Not Guns programming.
New business to hold ribbon cutting
Graphyte’s Loblollly Project, 3411 N. Hutchinson St., will hold a ribbon cutting from 11:30 a.m. to 1 p.m. Thursday. Lunch will be served after the ceremony and facility tour, according to a newsletter from the Pine Bluff Regional Chamber of Commerce.
“Soon to be the world’s largest carbon removal facility, we invite you to attend the opening and take a tour of our first location,” a spokesman said.
EASI plans lunch for first responders
A free first responder lunch will be held from 11 a.m. to 1 p.m. Thursday at EASI (Emergency Ambulance Service Inc.), 514 W. Fifth Ave. The event will include free food, live music, and giveaways.
Sponsors include Foster’s Towing, Midtown Auto and Tire, and EASI, according to the newsletter from the Pine Bluff Regional Chamber of Commerce.