Three U of A Sam M. Walton College of Business alumnae will be honored next month at the college’s annual awards celebration. The April 28 event will recognize outstanding achievement by Walton College students for the 2021-2022 academic year and honor alumni for their success in business and service to the college and the community.
The Walton College of Business recognizes up to three alumni annually in the categories of service, entrepreneurship and lifetime achievement. Nominations for each category are gathered from faculty, staff and alumni. Final approval of the awards rests with Dean Matthew A. Waller, with input from faculty and staff.
Cathy Rogers Gates will receive the Lifetime Achievement Award. Gates is a former assurance partner (retired) with Ernst & Young LLP in Tulsa. She earned an M.S. in Accounting from the Walton College in 1986.
The lifetime achievement award is presented to those who make significant achievements in his or her career and are recognized as industry and community leaders. To be considered for the award, a Walton College graduate must exemplify the core values of the college, inspire students and be a source of pride for the school.
Lisa Barrentine will receive the Entrepreneur of the Year Award. Barrentine is president/CEO of First Preston HT in Dallas. She earned a B.S.B.A. in Accounting from the Walton College in 1986.
The entrepreneur of the year award recognizes a Walton College graduate who has proven innovative and successful in a business venture of his or her own creation or reinvention. Preference is given to entrepreneurs who have been in business for at least five years. Consideration is also given to emerging entrepreneurs who exhibit the business acumen, drive and dedication essential to long-term success.
Shelley Simpson will receive the Outstanding Service Award. Simpson is CCO/executive vice president of people and human resources at J.B. Hunt Transport Services in Lowell, Ark. She earned a B.S.B.A. in Marketing/Transportation from the Walton College in 1994.
The college’s outstanding service award recognizes service by a Walton College graduate who helps build and sustain the alumni and student network through active engagement, such as helping students find jobs and internships, participating in and promoting alumni activities and volunteering for one of the many Walton College department, center or advisory boards.
Pictured (L-R): Cathy Rogers Gates, Lisa Barrentine and Shelley Simpson.
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