Two Arkansas Tech University representatives made presentations at the 2026 Arkansas Recreation and Parks Association Conference Oct. 14-16 in Fort Smith.
Dr. Michael Bradley, dean of the ATU Graduate College, offered a session entitled “Beyond ChatGPT: Practical AI for Professionals Working with People.” He provided insight as to how communication, productivity, everyday tasks and decision-making can become more efficient through the application of artificial intelligence resources.
“Parks and recreation is an important field to me, and I enjoy supporting the professionals who do this work,” said Bradley. “Their work helps make our communities safe and welcoming and supports the quality of life of the people who live in them. I’m glad to share what I know and contribute to their work in whatever ways I can.”
Melanie Ewing, director of the ATU Office of Research and Sponsored Programs, gave a talk entitled “Grant Writing: 12 Mistakes That Could Cost Your Community Funding.”
Ewing provided attendees with information about improving their grant applications by establishing clear goals and meeting requirements.
“The easiest mistake to avoid is the one that gets you eliminated,” said Ewing. “The more people and organizations in Arkansas know how to develop strong grant applications, the better positioned we are to secure funding for important work across our state.”
For more information about the Arkansas Recreation and Parks Association, visit https://arkarpa.org.
Visit www.atu.edu/gradcollege to learn more about the ATU Graduate College.
Learn more about the ATU Office of Research and Sponsored Programs at www.atu.edu/orgs/orsp.
