Ronald D. Hudson has received the 2011 Dr. Jim Ed McGee Award as the most outstanding graduate student at Arkansas Tech University.
Hudson graduated from Arkansas Tech in May 2010 with a Master of Science degree in college student personnel. He is photographed here with Mrs. Carolyn McGee, widow of Dr. Jim Ed McGee.
“I am really proud of Ron,” said Dr. Susan Underwood, associate professor and department head for the college student personnel program at Arkansas Tech. “He is very deserving of this award. He is really and truly an exceptional person.”
Hudson first enrolled in the college student personnel master’s degree program at Arkansas Tech in 2006. Following his first year in the program, he was deployed to Iraq as part of his service in the Arkansas National Guard. It was Hudson’s third tour of duty overseas.
He returned to his studies at Arkansas Tech in spring 2009. During his first semester back, Hudson completed nine graduate credit hours with a 4.0 grade point average while maintaining his duties in both the Arkansas National Guard and as coordinator of student recruitment at Arkansas State University-Beebe.
One year later, Hudson completed his master’s degree. He continues his career today at ASU-Beebe.
“As a graduate of our program, Ron continues to stay in touch with the faculty in the department,” wrote Underwood in her letter recommending Hudson for the Dr. Jim Ed McGee Award. “He shares insights and information he acquires and asks for advice when he is making significant decisions. As a faculty, we count Ron among our most successful graduates. Not only is he making a contribution to our country through service in the military and in professional organizations in higher education, but he is contributing to the next generation as he works with potential and current college students.”
Dr. Jim Ed McGee served as vice president for academic affairs at Arkansas Tech from 1973 until the time of his passing in fall 1992. His service to Arkansas Tech before attaining the rank of vice president included time as associate professor of education, director of institutional research, director of institutional services and director of development and public relations.
Dr. Mary Gunter, dean of the Arkansas Tech Graduate College, presented Hudson with his award on Tuesday, April 19. Mrs. Jill Brown, first lady of Arkansas Tech, also attended the presentation.
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