UA Little Rock Welcomes Latest Cohort of Donaghey Scholars to Campus – University of Arkansas at Little Rock

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The University of Arkansas at Little Rock is welcoming 25 new and talented students to the Donaghey Scholars Honors Program for the 2026-27 academic year.
The new cohort of Donaghey Scholars represent the best and brightest students at UA Little Rock. Members receive a financial package that covers full tuition and fees, a stipend, financial assistance for a study abroad program, a housing subsidy, and a new laptop. The program is run by Dr. Simon Hawkins, director, Dr. Jessica Scott, associate director, and Ian Gale, administrative specialist.
“We are really excited about this incoming class of Donaghey Scholars. Their median GPA and ACT scores are among the highest we’ve seen, and they come from such a wide range of majors and backgrounds that they’ll bring a really unique mix of perspectives to our classes,” Scott said. “On top of that, we have just had orientation and they’re just a genuinely fun, engaged, and very social group, which is exactly the kind of energy that makes our courses come alive. We can’t wait to see what they do when they get to UA Little Rock in the fall.
The admissions process is highly competitive. The most promising applicants are invited to campus for an interview with the program directors, faculty, and current and past members of the Donaghey Scholars Honors Program. Admission decisions are based on academic records, test scores, extracurricular activities, intellectual curiosity, recommendation letters, and admissions essays.
The program features an interdisciplinary core curriculum that emphasizes critical thinking, writing, discussion, and project-based learning that engages with the city of Little Rock.
The new Donaghey Scholars are listed in alphabetical order along with their hometowns, high schools, and majors:
You can find out more about the Donaghey Scholars Honors Program and how to apply by visiting ualr.edu/donagheyscholars.
2801 S. University Avenue
Little Rock, AR 72204
General Inquiries: 501-916-3000
Media Inquiries: 501-916-3397

UA Little Rock is a metropolitan research university in the South that provides accessibility to a quality education through flexible learning and unparalleled internship opportunities.
2801 S. University Ave.
Little Rock, AR 72204
501-916-3000

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