Good morning, Fayetteville.

James Brandenburg, president of JVS Export's U.S. operations and a Bentonville High graduate, said that global supply chain issues and material shortages are prompting the company to focus on clear communication with customers and strong relationships, helping to sustain jobs overseas+ local business stability.

Fulbright College held a five-day course-building workshop for faculty that is expected to improve the learning experience for nearly 4,000 U of A students this fall.

Faculty from nine departments collaborated to design engaging courses (with active learning and revised assessments) to enhance student success.

Gentry High School graduation ceremonies will move to Barnhill Arena at UA campus next year as increased attendance outgrew the current facility, officials said.

Principal Justin Blanchard noted the district secured the new venue on June 15 — plans will maintain traditions with revised seating.

Two local English doctoral candidates received Dissertation Research Awards from Fulbright College today.

John Plavcan and Abigail Ross will each use an $8,000 grant+ funding research on medieval digital recreations and Southern Gothic literature for their dissertations.

U of A’s Yue Zhao won the Isao Takahashi Power Electronics Award at an international conference in Nagasaki for his work on high-power silicon carbide converters that make devices like electric vehicles and solar farms more efficient — Zhao noted the honor recognizes the collaborative efforts of the U of A Power Group.

U of A announced changes for staff that take effect on July 1, with merit increases, benefits adjustments, and new guidelines for flexible work arrangements & child presence at work.

Updated policies also include extra compensation rules, modified health leave accrual, and a shift to Workday Learning for employee training.

The Arkansas Department of Education criticized the ClassWallet payment platform for the school choice program as fragmented and inefficient — state officials said the company will deliver automated notifications and AI tools improvements within the next two months to boost processing for Educational Freedom Accounts.

University of Arkansas Crop, Soil and Environmental Sciences graduates are boosting water quality by working at Beaver Water District and the Fayetteville Water Processing Plant.

Their field training and experience helps test Beaver Lake’s water to ensure safe drinking water for over 400,000 residents.

Former sixth-generation farmer Hallie Shoffner shuttered her family seed business in 2025 and is now running for a six-year U.S. Senate term, planning to address rural challenges such as healthcare, infrastructure, and support for local farmers in a competitive race.

Sylvia Halliburton became the first certified community-based doula in Arkansas as the new certification process creates a pathway for Medicaid reimbursement and enhanced support for rural moms (addressing local care challenges).

This milestone marks a shift in how doulas serve communities facing access issues.

Bob Dylan Concert

6:00-8:30 p.m. — The Walmart AMP — Ticket prices vary — Experience the legendary Bob Dylan live in concert.

I LOVE R&B Party

8-11 p.m. — Ozark Music Hall — From $22.29 — Experience the ultimate celebration of R&B with throwbacks, dance floors, and good vibes.

Rock 101 Camp

9 a.m. - 2:30 p.m. — School of Rock — Tuition required — A fun-filled week of music exploration for budding rockstars aged 8-11.

Bryan Bielanski Live

7-11 p.m. — Prairie Street Live! — Entry fee unknown — Enjoy the captivating sounds of singer-songwriter Bryan Bielanski as he delivers a blend of rock and folk music.

Full House

7-10 p.m. — Railyard Live at Butterfield Stage — Check for ticket prices — Experience Fayetteville's premiere horn band covering legends from Wilson Pickett to Bruno Mars.

Lord Huron Concert

6-9 p.m. — The Momentary — Ticket prices vary — Experience the enchanting sounds of Lord Huron, led by Ben Schneider, in a captivating performance.

2026 Annual Agriculture, Forest, and Water Conference

Jul 28-30 — Don Tyson Center for Agricultural Sciences — Registration required — Explore crucial topics in agriculture, forestry, and water management at this state-wide gathering.