Hundreds filled the Pine Bluff Country Club ballroom Saturday night for the second annual Golden Gala.
The fundraiser for University of Arkansas at Pine Bluff athletics was organized by the Rollin Lions RV Club, but it also served as a celebration of the university as a whole. Six supporters of UAPB were honored for their contributions: longtime senior woman administrator Betty Hayes-Anthony as “A Trailblazer in Women’s Sports Leadership,” Sissy’s Log Cabin’s Bill and Sharri Jones as “Champions of Giving,” Dr. Raynando Banks for “enduring legacy and generous endowment to UAPB,” Perry Stuckey for “transformational leadership,” and Hosea Jackson for 1911 Construction’s “Business of the Year” honor.
The Rollin Lions, who support Golden Lion football through their presence at home and road games, donated $10,000 to the UAPB athletic department. Club President Gregory Summers said the organization is on the brink of organizing a 50/50 raffle to support UAPB athletics, with the idea of hosting a raffle by homecoming in October.
The University of Arkansas System presented a bowl designed by artist James Hayes to outgoing Interim Chancellor Andrea Stewart for her yearlong leadership of UAPB, which concluded June 30. Anthony Graham became UAPB’s chancellor July 1.
Dr. Tamara P. Glover emceed the gala, with Genine LaTrice Perez providing live music.
