View Larger Image C. Lowry Barnes, M.D.
UAMS Chancellor C. Lowry Barnes, M.D., addresses guests at the 2026 Alumni Reunion Dinner. Image by Nelson Chenault

Graduates Reconnect with UAMS at the 2026 Alumni Reunion Dinner

By Andrew Vogler

| June 12, 2026 | The University of Arkansas for Medical Sciences (UAMS) welcomed graduates to Little Rock for the 2026 Alumni Reunion, an evening that honored alumni from all colleges and the graduate school.

John Erck, vice chancellor for the Division of Institutional Advancement, opened the formal ceremony for the evening.

Stephanie Gardner

Stephanie Gardner, Pharm.D., Ed.D., presents alumni and guests with a brief update regarding the UAMS’ academic mission.Nelson Chenault

“We are delighted to have you here as we celebrate the friendships, memories, and accomplishments that connect us through UAMS — whether you graduated recently or many years ago, it is wonderful to have you back with us,” said Erck.

UAMS Chancellor C. Lowry Barnes, M.D., welcomed alumni and provided guests with an update on the recent happenings at UAMS.

“It is always a pleasure to reconnect with our graduates and learn about your amazing accomplishments since you’ve received your degrees,” said Barnes. “It also has been great visiting with all the alumni and hearing all your stories from your time here as students, which also brings back great memories for me as well.”

A highlight of the evening were the honors presented to alumni, recognizing graduates who have demonstrated exceptional achievement and contributions in their respective fields, as well as their service to UAMS. Honors were presented to the following:

  • College of Medicine Dean’s Distinguished Alumni Award — Tony Darville, M.D., Class of 1987
  • College of Medicine Alumnus Service Award — Gene Shelby, M.D., Class of 1977
  • College of Public Health Distinguished Alumnus Award — Charlotte Williams, DrPH, MPH, Class of 2004 and Class of 2008
  • College of Nursing Distinguished Alumnus Award — April Carpenter, MNSc, APRN, Class of 2022
  • College of Health Professions Distinguished Alumnus Award — Richard Robinson, B.A., Class of 2022

“I am pleased to report that the UAMS academic mission is strong and growing — enrollment is growing at both on our Little Rock campus and Northwest Arkansas Campus in Fayetteville, and UAMS students can be found in clinical rotations or residencies in hospitals, clinics, pharmacies, and regional campuses all over Arkansas,” said Stephanie Gardner, Pharm.D., Ed.D., UAMS provost and chief strategy officer.

Golden Graduates of 1976.

The evening was an opportunity to celebrate the College of Medicine and College of Nursing Golden Graduates of 1976.Nelson Chenault

“We are proud that many of our academic programs are ranked among the best in the nation, we have an effective and vibrant faculty community contributing to these many successes, and we also have a fantastic group of deans leading our colleges and graduate school,” she added.

The evening was also an opportunity to recognize the Golden Graduates of 1976 with members of the College of Medicine and College of Nursing present to be honored. Earlier in the evening, the College of Medicine hosted a Champagne toast for its class of 1976, and during the dinner, all UAMS 1976 graduates present were honored.

After the dinner and ceremony, alumni were encouraged to stick around to catch up with other graduates and their guests, UAMS leadership and staff.

“Tonight, has been a wonderful opportunity to reconnect with classmates, colleagues, and friends while celebrating the shared experiences that unite UAMS,” said Erck. “The impact of our alumni extends far beyond our campuses and clinics, reaching communities across Arkansas and beyond through your service, leadership, and dedication. We are grateful for your continued support of UAMS and for the many ways you help advance our mission of education, patient care, research, and service.”