Ashley Beasley '10

The Arkansas River Valley has always been my home. I love the history and strong sense of community that can be found in this area. After graduating from Southside High School, I decided to continue my education at the University of Arkansas at Fort Smith. This simple decision has impacted my life profoundly.

I graduated in May of this year with a degree in Organizational Leadership. The quality of education that I received at UAFS was exceptional. Professors genuinely care for each and every student and they work hard to ensure that classes are both challenging and engaging. Each day that passes makes me appreciate my college experience more and more. College also gave me the confidence that I needed to pursue my dreams outside of the classroom.

The Career Services Department helped me find a great job with a local company. I am currently the marketing manager for Cobblestone Homes in Fort Smith, Arkansas. I love my job because it exposes me to many different facets of the business world. One day I might be brainstorming ideas for an advertising campaign and the next day working with QuickBooks to manage our accounts payable and receivable. I am very proud of the work that I do for Cobblestone Homes. They are an exceptional company with an exceptional product. I am also happy to say that my husband and I are the proud new owners of a home built by Cobblestone Homes. The company builds much more than just a great home they build communities. Visit our website at www.cobblestonehomes.info to learn more.

My college experience also taught me the importance of giving back to the community. As a result, I have been very active in the Junior League of Fort Smith for the past two years. The Junior League is an organization of women committed to improving our community through volunteerism. I am currently a chairperson on the Holiday Market planning committee. The Holiday Market is our biggest event of the year and all proceeds are donated to the Children’s Emergency Shelter and our various community projects. This is a great event that supports an even greater cause.

My experience at the University of Arkansas at Fort Smith provided me with many rewarding opportunities. As I continue grow in my personal and professional life, I will always fondly remember my college experience. The last four years have been an amazing journey. Not only did I graduate from a great college, but I fell in love with and married my best friend.

My husband and I recently celebrated our one year anniversary. My greatest dream is to continue to live, work, and build a family in this part of Arkansas. Of course, I will always remember that these dreams were possible, in part, because of the education that I received at the University of Arkansas at Fort Smith.