Two UCA seniors, Cooper Horton and Dylan Silverman-Barnes, were recently recognized as recipients of the Bear CLAWS (Celebrating the Lofty Achievements of our Wonderful Students) award during the February meeting of the UCA Board of Trustees held Friday, Feb. 28.
The Bear CLAWS award honors exceptional students and student organizations who have demonstrated outstanding achievements in academics, leadership and service.
The award is presented regularly at Board of Trustees meetings, recognizing those who exemplify the core values of the university.
UCA News said, “Cooper Horton, a senior double major in international studies and linguistics from Conway, has consistently demonstrated excellence both in the classroom and through extracurricular involvement.”
Cooper Horton said, “The award came as a pretty big surprise, but it prompted me to reflect on my time here at UCA. When I decided to come here I promised myself that I would do my best to make the most of the opportunities that would be presented to me, and I think that receiving the CLAWS award was confirmation that I fulfilled that promise.”
Horton currently holds the position of treasurer for UCA Models U-N and served on the Honors Council from 2023 to 2024; he has been an Honors Ambassador since August 2023 showcasing his leadership and commitment to many organizations.
An advocate for global engagement, Horton has participated in three study abroad programs and is a recipient of the Critical Language Scholarship.
He was also named a semi-finalist for the Fulbright U.S. Student Program, further demonstrating his dedication to international relations and cultural understanding.
Additionally, Horton has gained valuable experience as an intern and volunteer manager at the Syrian Emergency Task Force and has participated in the Washington Center Internship Program, where he served as a policy intern at the Charles Group LLC.
Horton said, “It’s my understanding that I received the CLAWS award because I went out and engaged in what I was passionate about. My goal wasn’t to win any awards; instead, it was to find experiences that were engaging, interesting and fun. Above all, I’ve realized that some of the best experiences I had at UCA were when I was able to step outside of my comfort zone. I had no idea how much I would learn and grow when I stopped worrying about being uncomfortable and making mistakes. My advice for all students is to take advantage of opportunities to try new things, learn new skills, and meet new people, especially if doing so means you might have to leave your comfort zone for a little bit and make a few mistakes.”
Dylan Silverman-Barnes is a dietetics major who has received numerous accolades throughout his academic career.
In 2024, he was honored with the College of Health and Behavioral Sciences Outstanding Student Award and was inducted into the prestigious Purple Society.
Silverman-Barnes has made a significant impact in the Greek community, earning both Greek Rookie of the Year and Greek Man of the Year titles.
A leader on campus, Silverman-Barnes has served as “the Undergraduate Representative for the Pi Kappa Alpha International Alpha International Recruitment Commission and is a member of the Order of Omega”, UCA News said.
An interesting aspect of this recognition is the longstanding friendship between Horton and Silverman-Barnes. The two have known each other since their preschool days, having maintained a strong bond throughout their academic careers. Their shared experiences at UCA have been a source of mutual support and inspiration.
As Bear CLAWS recipients Horton and Silverman-Barnes join an esteemed group of students who have demonstrated contributions to UCA and the Conway community.