College of Health Professions Hosts Brunch for Graduating Students
| The College of Health Professions (CHP) celebrated its 2019 graduates with an informal brunch May 17 in the Admin West lobby and front porch.
Maranda Jenkins (left) enjoys the brunch with a friend. Jenkins graduated from the Diagnostic Medical Sonography program.
A day before Commencement exercises, faculty and staff mingled with graduating students and their families and friends. Pictures were snapped, hugs were given and a few tears were shed. Musician Cory Fontenot sang and played the guitar for the approximately 350 guests who attended the brunch.
“We are so proud of our graduating students,” said CHP Dean Susan Long, Ed.D. “The brunch is our college’s way of gathering and celebrating their accomplishments one last time before they leave us. The week surrounding Commencement is a very busy time, so this gives us a moment to pause and say goodbye.”
Students were full of anticipation about the next chapter of their lives.
For Alisha Bratten, who completed her studies in the Ophthalmic Medical Technology program, her next steps involve a move to Portland, Oregon, where she has already interviewed for a position.
“I’m excited to be done with studying and have free time again,” she said. “While I was in school, my husband and I weren’t able to hike as much. I’m excited to start camping and crafting again.”
Megan Alkire was all smiles during the brunch. Alkire graduated with a Master of Science in Communication Sciences and Disorders degree.
Brooke Fisher graduated with a master’s degree from the Communication Sciences and Disorders program. Originally from Tennessee, Fisher said her fellow students and faculty members really embraced her and made her feel like she had a family at UAMS.
She has already started her job, working as a speech therapist in private practice at a Little Rock pediatric clinic.
Fisher said she was excited about having her nights back. “I look forward to going to work, doing what I love and then getting to go home and have free time. I’m going to catch up on all the TV shows I haven’t been able to watch.”