Photo Credits: Olivia Johnson
Pictured: Olivia Johnson and Yushia “Yoshi” Thao
ATU MANRRS Hosts Dinner Etiquette Presentation
The Arkansas Tech University chapter of Minorities in Agriculture, Natural Resources, and Related Sciences (MANRRS) held its second general body meeting of the semester on Tuesday, Sept. 23, in Dean Hall 104. The meeting featured a special presentation by Susan West on the fundamentals of dinner etiquette, a topic that drew thoughtful questions from the 14 students in attendance.
MANRRS is a national nonprofit organization founded in 1985 that supports the academic and professional advancement of minorities in agriculture and related fields. The organization offers a wide range of opportunities including leadership training, internships, career preparation, and networking for students from junior high to doctoral levels, as well as for professionals.
The ATU chapter welcomes undergraduate, graduate, and doctoral students, as well as faculty and staff who are interested in professional growth, diversity, and innovation in agriculture. Students who want to get involved or learn more can follow the group on Instagram at @manrrs_atu or email manrrs@atu.edu.
ATU FFA Alumni Kicks Off Semester
The ATU FFA Alumni and Supporters group hosted a meeting on Wednesday, Sept. 25, in the Greenhouse Classroom. Students came together for food, games, and important updates. Attendees were introduced to members of the executive team minus President Lauren Estlinbaum, who was out sick, and enjoyed pizza and soda before playing a round of Jeopardy featuring agriculture and Arkansas Tech trivia.
The group also promoted the upcoming College of Business Beach Bash, scheduled for Wednesday, Oct. 2 at 5 p.m. in the Student Union. The event will include food, big prizes, and a dunk tank featuring faculty volunteers including Dean Tracy Cole, Dr. John Narcum, Dr. Thomas Pennington, and Ms. Erin Callahan.
To participate in the dunk tank, students are encouraged to bring a donation or either non-perishable food, pet supplies, or personal hygiene products. Each item earns three throws and helps support the local community. The FFA Alumni group invites all students to join their mission of supporting agriculture students through leadership and service.
ATU Rotaract at River Valley Food 4 Kids
Members of ATU Rotaract spent their Wednesday afternoon making a tangible difference in the community by volunteering at River Valley Food 4 Kids. The group helped sort, catalog, and package donated food items, contributing to the nonprofit’s mission of fighting childhood hunger in the region.
Rotaract is part of Rotary International and is open to young adults ages 18 to 30 who are passionate about service, leadership, and global citizenship. The ATU chapter focuses on both local and international service initiatives and offers students opportunities to develop leadership skills through hands-on projects.
The group meets weekly on Wednesdays in Rothwell. Students interested in service and leadership are encouraged to reach out to President Annsley Rawlins at arawlins@atu.edu for more information or to get involved.
Free Headshot Event Provides Students with Professional Resources
On Friday, Sept. 26, students at Arkansas Tech had the opportunity to level up their professional presence at a free headshot event hosted in the Energy Center. Held from 1 p.m. to 5 p.m., the event offered students a chance to have their headshots taken for LinkedIn profiles, résumés, and professional portfolios completely free of charge.
In addition to photography services, the event featured clothing from the Career Closet, allowing students to borrow professional attire on the spot. Staff from Norman Career Services were also present to offer career advice and networking opportunities.
The event was a collaborative effort between the First-Generation Student Organization, FBLA Collegiate at Arkansas Tech, Career Services, and the Career Closet, demonstrating how campus organizations can work together to prepare students for future success. For updates on upcoming opportunities like this one, students are encouraged to follow the hosting organizations on Instagram or reach out directly to Career Services.
Applications Open for 2026 New York Experience
The Arkansas Tech University College of Business is offering students a once-in-a-lifetime opportunity to travel to New York City over Spring Break 2026 as part of the annual New York Experience. An interest meeting was held on Sept. 24 in Rothwell to provide details on the trip which blends travel, education, and hands-on career exploration.
Students selected for the experience will visit key cultural and professional landmarks while earning three hours of academic credit. Those chosen for the program will also help shape the itinerary, selecting attractions and destinations that align with both their interests and career goals.
The total cost of the trip is $750. A $50 deposit is due after selection, and an additional $700 deposit is required if a student chooses not to participate in fundraising efforts. Multiple fundraising opportunities will be available after the interview process, but students must actively participate in fundraising to benefit from the funds raised. Those who opt out will not be eligible to receive any financial assistance from the group’s efforts. Students are also encouraged to seek out sponsorships if they need additional support.
To be considered, applicants must go through an interview process. The application deadline is Oct. 16, and applications are available by request from either Jessica Brock at jbrock15@atu.edu or Angie Bell at abell@atu.edu.
Whether you are a business major looking to broaden your professional network or simply a student eager to explore the Big Apple, the New York Experience offers a unique blend of academic credit, leadership growth, and unforgettable memories.
