Congratulations to Dr. Farhad Moeeni, professor of computer information technology, and former CIT student, Keane McGough, whose collaboration has resulted in a U.S. patent. Their invention, which originated as a class project, is an intelligent radio frequency identification (RFID)-based sensor system that automatically creates a subnetwork for sharing and streaming audio and video from a classroom presentation to students in cyberspace. Details are in the video.

The Arkansas Historical Association presented its Lifetime Achievement Award to Dr. Ruth A. Hawkins, director, Arkansas State Heritage Sites, during the group’s annual meeting. Hawkins was recognized for leadership and contributions to historic preservation, public history and historical tourism. One of the newest projects completed by the Heritage Sites team is the visitors’ center at Historic Dyess Colony. The grand opening video is online.

Congratulations to Hillary Brooks, Bradbury Art Museum, who was recognized at the Distinguished Performance Awards ceremony as most “outstanding part-time” staff member. Brooks began working at BAM last August during a pivotal period of transition from gallery to museum. As outreach programmer, she coordinated the involvement of several community groups with a special exhibition and has become a significant asset to the museum.

Dr. Jody Long, assistant professor of social work, spoke to a local civic club regarding making positive behavioral changes to help individuals prevent heart disease. Long spoke from personal experience, after dealing with an undetected heart condition two years ago. He emphasized the importance food information labels, starting a moderate form of exercise, consulting regular with one’s physician, and seeking support from family and friends.

Comments from Dr. Catherine Reese, professor of public administration, were featured in a WalletHub article on "2016's States with the Highest and Lowest Tax Burdens." She was among the panel of experts who responded to questions about the article's analysis of property tax, individual income tax, and sales and gross receipts taxes as a percentage of personal income. The article and her responses are online.