Kelley Erstine was appointed to the UCA Board of Trustees on Jan. 26, but his work with UCA began long before 2024.
After he graduated from UCA with a degree in journalism in 1979, Erstine returned to UCA and worked for the institution’s new Office of Development.
”I helped in the Office of Development and was a development officer and started trying to raise funds awareness for the university,” Erstine said. ”It was the first time the institution had ever made an effort in trying to raise outside monies.”
His time at the development office led to further involvement with UCA.
Erstine started the first capital campaign in UCA’s history when he returned as the vice president of institutional advancement.
”We started our first capital campaign and I had Dr. Farris and his wife serve as chairs of that particular campaign,” Erstine said.
“The connections I made with my professors, the connections I made with my peers, to this day are still invaluable,” Erstine said with a smile.
Erstine has experience from previously being on the board of trustees from 2000 to 2003, and he currently serves on the board of directors for Conway Corp, Central Arkansas Radiation Therapy Institute Foundation and the Little Red River Foundation. Erstine is also a member of the Arkansas Higher Education Coordinating Board and served as CEO of Independent Insurance Agents of Arkansas.
Erstine also served as chief of staff at UCA from 2015 to 2019.
“I think I have good institutional knowledge. I think I have a good understanding of university operations. I think I have a good understanding of connecting with the stakeholders, those constituencies that are alumni, those friends of our university,” he said.
Erstine said, “I think a supportive, connected academic community contributes to the positive learning environment for students. It enhances that experience.”
“I think it can lead to better academic outcomes. Students who feel comfortable seeking out guidance help, I think, are more likely to persist through challenges and succeed in their studies,” Erstine said.
Erstine said UCA’s vibrant campus transforms individuals who come here and attributed the success of students to meaningful connections and a strong sense of community.
“Open lines of communication between students, professors, administrators, members of the Board of Trustees I think creates really a more transparent and effective system,” Erstine said.
“Throughout my 25 years at UCA, I have always known that Kelley Erstine loves his alma mater and is willing to do whatever it takes to help it succeed. He has served the university in several roles over the years, and his varied experiences have given him a unique perspective. I am thrilled to have him return to the board of trustees and look forward to his continued thoughtful leadership,” Donna Stephens, director of UCA’s School of Communication, said.
Erstine said, “Know that you have a friend who is serving on the board of trustees. I want to be known as one who has an openness to students’ feedback … At the end of the day, I want to make this a better place for the entire community and the state of Arkansas.”