Nineteen new Arkansas Tech University students acclimated themselves to their peers and the on-campus opportunities available to them during the 2026 ATU Freshman Leadership Experience, which was held Aug. 26-28.
The participants in the 2026 ATU Freshman Leadership Experience were:
- Scarlett Allen
- Anisa Anand
- Lanee’ Bailey
- Charity Blaylock
- Madelynn Cameron
- Ron’nia Evans
- Joseph Eduardo Guerrero
- Evelyn G. Lampirez
- Ruben Long
- Nathalia Alaina Medina-Salinas
- Kaitlyn Munroe
- David Eric Patton
- Derek Ramey
- Eli Roberts
- Emily Sales-Vasquez
- Rebecca Schwab
- Andy Sigauke
- Chyna Summers
- Ashley Thacker
“My favorite aspect of the ATU Freshman Leadership Experience was the opportunity to meet other students who were also beginning their college journey and adjusting to a new environment,” said Roberts, who is from Hector and graduated from Hector High School. “Through the experience, I made many new friends, built meaningful relationships and established connections that I hope will continue throughout my time at Arkansas Tech. Participating in ATU FLE helped me develop my networking skills and connect with other students, faculty and members of the Tech community. These relationships will provide me with a strong support system and may introduce me to opportunities that will contribute to my academic and personal success at Arkansas Tech.”
According to the ATU Department of Campus Life, learning outcomes for ATU Freshman Leadership Experience include:
- Students will be able to identify their personal strengths and how they function in a team;
- Students will learn about the different types of communication styles;
- Students will learn skills to engage in conflict effectively and work toward conflict resolution;
- Students will learn that leadership is more than holding a position;
- Students will practice team leadership through active group participation.
“One of my favorite parts of the ATU Freshman Leadership Experience was how it strengthened teamwork,” said Summers, who is from Paragould and graduated from Greene County Tech High School. “Working toward shared goals helped me build trust, communicate better and support my teammates when challenges came up. ATU FLE will help me build confidence, improve my communication skills and prepare me for the expectations of college. It will also help me learn how to work with others and become more responsible.”
Megan Bell, director of the ATU Center for Student Engagement and First-Generation Success, provides oversight for the ATU Freshman Leadership Experience.
Learn more about the ATU Department of Campus Life at www.atu.edu/campuslife.
