As vice president of the Arkansas Tech University robotics club, Everett Otis has learned that leadership is best expressed through action.
“It means someone who is willing to do whatever it takes,” said Otis. “In robotics, there are times when we need to sort things. I could have a freshman do that, but it’s about taking the time as not only a senior, but a leader, to do that and set an example. It’s being willing to do everything I ask others to do…setting a culture.”
Otis, a senior computer science major from Conway, was selected by the ATU Office of Student Leadership Development as the ATU student leader of the month for October 2026.
The ATU robotics club finished top two at the 2026 VEX U Robotics World Championship in St. Louis, Mo. Otis was a member of that team, and following the graduation of leaders such as Collin Easterling, Juan Leon, Hunter Mathis and Ryan Nanthalangsy, he and fellow returnee Cooper Stober recognized they would need to step into leadership roles for the team beginning in fall 2026.
“I feel like, for us, it came naturally,” said Otis. “We spent so much time together last year, and with Cooper becoming our president and me becoming vice president this year, Cooper is really stepping into filling the roles of four people. My job has been to do the best I can to help Cooper so he doesn’t have to stress about things.”
In addition to the ATU robotics club, Otis also serves as a student leader for Chi Alpha campus ministry at Arkansas Tech.
“My personal relationship with God has grown,” said Otis, “and getting to see others hunger after the Lord has been super awesome.”
Otis said he chose ATU because of its location. He has stayed because of the personal attention he receives from his faculty members.
“The class sizes aren’t huge,” said Otis, “so it allows you to personally know your faculty members and your classmates.”
Learn more about the ATU Office of Student Leadership Development at www.atu.edu/leadership_programs.
