Simmons hires chief tech officer
Simmons Bank announced the addition of David Kennedy as executive vice president and chief technology officer. Kennedy will be responsible for overseeing the delivery of technology capabilities to all areas of the bank.
He will also play a crucial role in Simmons’ technical strategy, including innovation, infrastructure, cost reduction and collaboration to ensure that the technology efforts align with business success, according to a news release.
Prior to joining Simmons, Kennedy was executive vice president and chief information officer at a Southeastern, regional bank where he led the direction of all corporate technology and innovation initiatives. His previous experience also includes systems architecture, vendor management and infrastructure modernization.
Kennedy has a bachelor’s degree in computer science from Mississippi State University. He also completed educational programs at The Pacific Institute, Harvard Business School, and the University of Louisiana at Lafayette. He serves as vice president of the board for Old Mountain Arboretum and is a former board member for Acadiana Animal Aid.
Independent reporting for Pine Bluff & Jefferson County since 1879.
UAM sets new student registration
The University of Arkansas at Monticello will offer a fall 2025 class registration event on June 10 from 8:30 a.m. to 3:30 p.m. for first-time freshmen and new transfer students.
The session is for students who plan to attend UAM’s Monticello campus, the UAM College of Technology-Crossett (UAM-CTC) or the UAM College of Technology-McGehee (UAM-CTM), according to a news release.
This event is open to first-time freshman students and new transfer students who have submitted necessary materials to the Office of Admissions. Parents and legal guardians are welcome to attend.
In-person registration is required. Students should visit the UAM Admissions Events webpage to RSVP to reserve a time to register for classes.
Prior to attending registration, students must apply to UAM by June 6. This includes submitting a free admission application and any required test scores and transcripts, as detailed in the RSVP process. Details: UAM Office of Admissions at admissionsoffice@uamont.edu or (870) 460-1026.
Fire department sets youth camp
The Pine Bluff Fire and Emergency Services Department will host a Junior Fire Camp from June 9-13 at the Donald W. Reynolds Community Services Center, 211 W. Third Ave. The free camp is designed for boys and girls ages 9-13 to experience what it’s like to be a firefighter as well as learn about fire safety.
Breakfast and lunch will be provided. The camp will be held 8 a.m. to 4 p.m. Monday through Thursday and 8 a.m. to 2 p.m. Friday which will be a fun day and awards presentations.
The five-day camp is taught by PBFD firefighters and features hands-on activities and interactive learning sessions. Students will learn about fire department organization, 9-1-1 dispatch, structure fire suppression tactics, truck operations, basic first aid and hands only CPR, as well as take tours of the local fire stations and other city entities.
Parents should note that space is limited to the first 15 eligible applicants. Mandatory registration and liability waivers are required. Camp shirts will be provided. Sunscreen is encouraged.
Registration is underway. Applications may be picked up at Fire Station No. 1, 200 E. Eighth Ave. at the Pine Bluff Civic Center. Details: www.pineblufffire.com or (870) 730-2048.
Boys & Girls Club sets banquet
The fifth annual Heroes Banquet of the Boys & Girls Club of Jefferson County is scheduled for 6 p.m. June 26 at First Methodist Church, 200 W. Sixth Ave. The banquet honors those who have positively impacted the community.
Keynote speakers will be Chad and Rebecca Pittillo, according to a flier.
Tickets are $60 each or $600 for a table sponsorship. Tickets may be purchased at First Methodist Church. Details: Boys & Girls Club of Jefferson County at info@boysgirlsclubjc.org or (870) 850-7500, ext. 102.