UAPB professor earns award
Karleah Harris, Ph.D, associate professor for the University of Arkansas at Pine Bluff’s Department of Human Sciences, recently received the Leader Award at the American Association of Family and Consumer Sciences (AAFCS) Conference in Kansas City, Mo.
AAFCS is a professional organization that supports individuals working to improve the well-being of families, individuals and communities through education, research and practice in areas such as nutrition, child development, personal finance and family relations, according to a news release.
“I am deeply appreciative of the support I have received from the AAFCS organization and leadership academy, as well as my colleagues, students, family and friends,” Harris said. “I sincerely thank them all for standing beside me on this journey.”
Harris joined UAPB in 2020. Her research interests include inquiry-based scientific instruction for young children, horticultural therapy, food deserts and gardening as a means to combat food insecurity. She has started several gardening initiatives at schools in Pine Bluff.
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One of her projects focused on grandparents who raise their grandchildren and how gardening can be a helpful tool to bridge generations.
“Leadership is not about individual accomplishments — it is about empowering others to be successful,” she said. “That is why it is critical that we continue to make a positive impact and work collaboratively.”
Harris has been a member of AAFCS for five years.
“When I joined the AAFCS organization, Dr. Nina Roofe, assistant vice president for family and consumer sciences with the University of Arkansas Cooperative Extension Service, immediately let me feel welcomed and supported,” she said. “She created a culture centered on helping others succeed, which has meant a great deal to me. Dr. Barbara Stewart and Dr. Sue Byrd, both former presidents of AAFCS, have been instrumental in my experience with the organization’s leadership academy. Their guidance, leadership, dedication, support and encouragement gave me valuable insights and helped shape my professional growth.”
Through her involvement in the AAFCS leadership academy, Harris said she had the opportunity to work with participants and individuals from across the country, engage with thoughtful leaders, build lasting relationships and expand her professional network.
House of Bread to give school supplies
House of Bread, 1501 W. Second Ave., will sponsor its 10th annual youth fun day from 1-4 p.m. Saturday. Free backpacks with school supplies will be given away while supplies last. Children must attend the event to receive backpacks, according to a news release.
Also, House of Bread will give away non-perishable food and door prizes will be available. Admission is free. Details: Saint Mary Harris, senior pastor, (870) 872-2196.
UAPB 1975 Class sets 50th reunion
The AM&N/University of Arkansas at Pine Bluff Class of 1975 will host its 50th class reunion during UAPB’s Homecoming 2025.
Reunion activities will include an invitation to the donor’s banquet on Oct. 9; recognition during the annual homecoming alumni assembly; banquet/gala on Oct. 10 from 6-9 p.m. in the STEM Building at UAPB; the annual homecoming parade and the football game.
Also, each class member is asked to donate $1,000 to the Class of 1975 Scholarship Endowment Fund, according to a news release.
The reunion registration form and donor form can be accessed via the AM&N/UAPB Class of 1975 Facebook page under “files” or members can email uapbclassof1975@swbell.net for additional information.
Expert: Prepare for school routine
What happens after school is as important as what happens during class time.
Routines are important to help busy families stay organized, fed and rested while still getting essential activities done, said Brittney Schrick, extension family life specialist for the University of Arkansas System Division of Agriculture.
It’s important for parents or guardians to set clear expectations and allow time for everyone to get into a daily routine. It is a good idea to begin the back-to-school routines before school begins, Schrick said, adding that “a few days is usually sufficient, but some children may need longer adjustment time.”
Once the dismissal bell rings, “make sure your child knows the after-school plan and be sure to communicate that with their teachers and all other necessary people,” she said. “Most schools have strict policies about pick-up/end-of-day procedures.
“If your child typically walks home, but they are picked up when it is raining, the school needs to know,” Schrick said. “If you normally pick your child up, but grandma is doing the pickup on Fridays, the school and your child need to know that as well.”
Routine is also important at night.
“Going back to school also means going back to bed at a set time every night,” Schrick said. “Establishing a routine is essential to ensuring a good night’s sleep for your child.
Schrick also has a publication for parents to gauge their child’s readiness to be home alone. Home Alone Handbook: Is Your Child Ready? MP571. Schrick has other suggestions, including information about screentime at her Family Life Fridays blog.
Detils: www.uaex.uada.edu.