UCA Alumni Group Launches Inspiring Book to Boost Scholarship Fund – Here’s How You Can Support!

The University of Central Arkansas Alumni Association is excited to help kids connect with the campus while raising scholarship funds through a new children’s book, “B Is for Bears: The UCA Alphabet.”

In the book, young readers join the mascots, Bruce and Sugar Bear, on a fun journey exploring UCA’s campus from A to Z. Alison Taylor, an author and executive director of alumni relations, was inspired to create this book by Mary Lackey, the university’s vice president for advancement. Taylor, who is a mom of two young boys, saw it as a fantastic way to introduce children to the campus and its opportunities.

The book will officially launch on August 5, priced at $19.95, with preorders available on platforms like Amazon and Barnes & Noble. Proceeds will contribute to the Kathy Carroll General Alumni Scholarship fund at UCA.

Riley Hancock Matheny, who co-wrote and illustrated the book, faced a fun challenge in making the illustrations vibrant and appealing to kids. Balancing her graphic design job with this project, Matheny drew inspiration from her children, aged 4 and 6. Their honest feedback helped shape the book’s language and content.

For texture in the illustrations, Matheny used real materials from the campus, including brick patterns, flower petals, and even a football stamp. “It’s a little piece of UCA history in every page,” she shared.

One of the standout pages, “J Is for Journalism,” honors Madison Ogle, a recent graduate who was pivotal in creating this project. It features a bear with a press pass, embodying the spirit of storytelling at UCA.

Matheny and her team cleverly tackled tricky letters like “Q” for Questions, which encourages curiosity, and “X” for X-ray, representing careers in healthcare. Jennifer McCune, the book’s editor, found a special connection to the “L” for Legacy Walk, a personal reminder of her family’s bond to UCA.

This initiative is more than just a book; it reflects the heart of the UCA community. Readers are not only learning about letters but also about the rich experiences that await them at college. By purchasing “B Is for Bears,” families are also supporting future students in their educational journeys.

This book is a unique blend of creativity and community spirit, making it an important contribution to UCA and its future.

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