UAPB Founders’ Week Celebrates “Lifting Our Voices with Power and Pride Since 1873”

Courtesy of the University of Arkansas at Pine Bluff

The University of Arkansas at Pine Bluff (UAPB) will commemorate its 151st year with the Founders’ Week Celebration from April 22 to April 28. This year’s theme is “Lifting Our Voices with Power & Pride Since 1873.” Below is a list highlighting some of the campus and community events that will be held during this week.

Our annual UAPB Founders’ Week Celebration, a cherished tradition for over 80 years, is not just a series of events, but a testament to the rich history and journey of the University. It’s a unique blend of academics, social activities, and history, serving as a powerful reminder of the pivotal role of our past in shaping this esteemed institution we fondly refer to as “Dear Mother.” For a comprehensive list of events, please visit the Founders’ Week Celebration website.

The celebration begins Monday, April 22, with a virtual event on Instagram, “Spotlight on YouAPB,” where all members of our UAPB community, including students, faculty, staff, alumni, fans, and supporters, are invited to participate. Download the official UAPB Founders’ Day photo frame using this link, and share on ALL your social media accounts NOW! Remember to Join the UAPB Instagram Posting Party, “Spotlight on YouAPB” on Monday, April 22, by following us on Instagram at @uapb, posting to “your” story, and tagging us @uapb to be included in our “Founders’ 2024 Highlights.”

We’re thrilled to announce the official Campus Kick-off Celebration and Unity Fest on Tuesday, April 23, from 11 a.m. to 3 p.m. at W.E. O’Bryant Bell Tower on UAPB’s campus. This annual spring activity is designed to unite the University and community through entertainment, food, games, vendors, information booths, novelty attractions, and more. Also, at 3 p.m., cheer on the UAPB Golden Lions Softball team at the Torii Hunter Softball Complex. The excitement continues as the Lions Baseball Team vs U of A Razorbacks will play at Dickey-Stephens Park at 6 p.m. in North Little Rock, AR.

Wednesday’s activities include a Fashion Show from noon to 2 p.m. supporting Domestic Violence Awareness. Join us at the W.E. O’Bryant Bell Tower in your denim and purple accents in support.

On Thursday, April 25, the Honors and Awards Assembly and Convocation will be held at 10 a.m. in the Kenneth L. Johnson, Sr. HPER Complex. The keynote speaker will be UAPB alumnus Honorable Alex Guynn ’02, Circuit Court Judge, Circuit Court First Division, Eleventh Judicial District-West of Arkansas. The evening will end with a Skate Night from 7 to 11 p.m. at Skateland in Pine Bluff.

The UAPB/AM&N National Alumni Association will sponsor an Alumni Student Reception on Friday, April 26, from 4 p.m. to 6 p.m. at the UAPB/AM&N National Alumni Association Building. The event will allow graduating seniors to network and meet alumni and chapter leaders.

Saturday, April 27, we will host a fun-filled day at the Black and Gold Spring Game at 2:00 p.m. at Golden Lion Stadium.

The 151st Founders Celebration ends Sunday, April 28, with Sunrise Service and the UAPB/AM&N National Alumni Association Breakfast at 8 a.m. at the UAPB STEM Conference Center. UAPB alumnus Rev. Basil Joiner ’97, Pastor of St. Paul Missionary Baptist Church in Bay, Arkansas, will deliver the keynote address. At 3 p.m., join the UAPB Jazz Ensemble concert as we conclude another week of fabulous festivities.