Support and inspire minority students to achieve their dreams

As Assistant Dean in the Office of Diversity and Inclusion in the Sam M. Walton College of Business, Dr. Lofton’s work has touched the life of virtually every Walton student — and countless parents, faculty, and staff. 

Through innovative programs for junior high, high school and incoming freshmen students, such as the Business Leadership Academy, Fleischer Scholars Program, the Accounting Career Awareness Program, and Technology Awareness Program, Dr. Lofton’s mentorship starts early. Her impact continues as she guides students throughout their college careers, finding them scholarships and study-abroad opportunities, aiding in career placement, and more. 

Dr. Lofton has been repeatedly recognized for her exemplary drive to impact minority students, her teaching, and community service. She is a role model and inspiration to many in the University of Arkansas community, and we want to honor and thank her by establishing a scholarship fund in her name.  

The Dr. Barbara A. Lofton Endowed Scholarship for Diversity, Equity, and Inclusion will be an enduring, meaningful resource that helps students from diverse backgrounds succeed. That’s a legacy that Dr. Lofton — and you — can be proud of.  

Spearheaded by the Diversity and Inclusion Corporate Advisory Board and Dr. Synetra Hughes, we have raised $31,000 to honor Dr. Lofton’s legacy of mentorship at the Sam M. Walton College of Business. Thanks to a generous donation from Gerald Alley and family, gifts will be matched dollar-for-dollar up to $50,000, doubling your impact. We are $19,000 away from our goal of $50,000, but with your help we can do it! Securing a total of $50,000 in donations will help us unlock the matching gift and allow us to begin awarding the scholarship this fall. All gifts are tax-deductible and may be paid over a period of five years.

Scholarships help thousands of students pay for college every year. Every dollar makes an impact on a deserving student and helps them to obtain a college degree. Show your support for Assistant Dean Lofton, current, and future students by giving today!