Pine Bluff, AR- With a new mindset of teamwork, Director of Athletics Lonza Hardy Jr., and the entire athletic department staff met for the first day of a two –day retreat held at the Pine Bluff Convention Center.
The first day of events started with a continental breakfast followed by opening remarks by Mr. Hardy, who introduced the first speaker of the day, Interim Chancellor Dr. Calvin Johnson. Dr Johnson briefly touched on his vision for the university and how the athletics department fit into that vision of a new UAPB.
Next, Alyse Wells- Kilbert, Associate Director of Athletics and Senior Woman Administrator, introduced keynote speaker Mr. Mike Moleta, (Associate AD for Compliance and Eligibility, Texas Southern University) who spoke on the ABC’s of APR.
With over 20 years of APR experience, Mr. Moleta addressed the retreat on the importance of the Academic Performance Review, stating that, “it is a report card for athletics in relation to the university. APR is an accountability issue for the entire university not just for athletics,” said Moleta.
After the lunch break, the staff reconvened to a presentation by Pastor Edna Morgan, of Healing Place Church, whose message was bonding through community service. Pastor Morgan also spoke on how the athletics department can help lend a hand in the many community service efforts coordinated through Healing Place Ministries.
Following a short break, the staff was addressed by Mr. Elbert Bennett, Dean of Student Affairs, and select members of his staff. Among the topics of discussion were admissions, housing and counseling services and career services.
The next item on the agenda for the retreat was the first breakout session, consisting of round table discussions in the areas of compliance, academics, athletic ticketing and media relations.
In closing with the first day of the retreat, there was wrap-up session with door prizes followed by a team building exercise held at Thunder Lanes Bowling.
