An opportunity to pursue doctoral study has taken Cole Hendrix away, but his heart will always be in his hometown of Russellville, Ark., and at his hometown university.
“Arkansas Tech is home,” said Hendrix. “I grew up in Russellville, and as a child, I took part in summer camps at ATU, eagerly anticipated band camp every year and often admired the campus, which felt like a small city within a larger town. My deep connection to the institution made continuing my education and eventually working there some of the most fulfilling experiences of my life.”
Hendrix is the 2025 recipient of the Jim Ed McGee Award for ATU outstanding graduate student. He was recognized during ATU spring commencement on Saturday, May 10, at Tucker Coliseum.
A two-time graduate of ATU, Hendrix holds a Bachelor of Science degree in emergency management and a Master of Science degree in student affairs administration.
He worked in the ATU Department of Public Safety and the ATU Veterans Upward Bound program before enrolling in the Doctor of Philosophy degree program in higher education and student affairs at Indiana University.
As a first-generation student veteran, Hendrix has dedicated his professional life to removing barriers between military-affiliated personnel and higher education. That topic is the focus of his doctoral study in Bloomington.
“The GI Bill is widely recognized, and its impact on higher education and society — especially for WWII veterans — has been transformational,” said Hendrix. “However, funding alone is not enough. Veterans face unique challenges, such as service-connected disabilities and the cultural shift from military command structures to the ambiguous nature of academia. To improve persistence and retention rates for military-connected students, institutions must address these deeper challenges and provide tailored support.”
Hendrix’s graduate study at ATU built a solid foundation for his current educational pursuits.
“Prior to entering the ATU student affairs administration program, I had a solid grasp of the organizational structures within student affairs administration due to my experience as a practitioner,” said Hendrix. “However, the program broadened my understanding of student diversity and the distinct challenges different populations face. First-generation students, adult learners, military-connected individuals and others have vastly different experiences compared to traditional students whose families have deep institutional ties. Higher education must meet students where they are. Success is not simply defined by graduation and employment. Rather, it is an individualized journey based on the opportunities each student seeks within higher education.
“One of the most valuable aspects of my master’s program was the freedom to explore topics I was passionate about,” continued Hendrix. “This led to more questions than answers and made continuing my research a natural next step. Studying and working at Arkansas Tech University also showed me the balance that academia can offer for my family. Pursuing a career in education allows me to research, teach and ultimately contribute to systemic improvements for military-connected students…a mission that is deeply personal to me.”
Hendrix earned a place on the ATU Dean’s List during his undergraduate career and received the ATU Tradition Keeper designation upon the completion of his master’s degree. He was active in ATU Staff Senate during his time as an Arkansas Tech employee.
“One of the key strengths was (ATU’s) proximity to home and affordability, but what truly drew me in was the small class sizes and student-to-faculty ratio,” said Hendrix. “I thrive on discussion and deeper exploration of concepts, so having the ability to ask questions in class and easily follow up with professors was invaluable. The accessibility of faculty allowed me to build strong relationships with mentors and gain a well-rounded education…one that extended beyond the textbook and into real-world application.”
Hendrix is on track to complete his Doctor of Philosophy degree from Indiana University in 2028. Beyond that, he hopes to teach, conduct research and serve as an administrator in higher education.
He aspires to one day return to Arkansas Tech. For now, he’s trying to process the honor his alma mater has bestowed upon him as the 2025 Jim Ed McGee Award winner.
“Receiving awards always feels surreal to me,” said Hendrix. “I tend to be my harshest critic, so my initial reaction is often disbelief. I don’t actively seek accolades, but I strive to embody the qualities that awards like this represent. Jim Ed McGee dedicated his career to education, both in higher ed and K-12, and was deeply committed to civic engagement. His wife, Carolyn, similarly served her community as the mayor of Dardanelle. To be recognized in connection with this award is truly an honor.”
