Written by Lexx Thornton
Supported by a historic $5 million gift from the Windgate Foundation, the University of Arkansas at Pine Bluff (UAPB) is poised to transform its academic programs for visual artists through bold new learning and creative spaces. Chancellor Anthony Graham announced Wednesday that the gift is the largest single investment in the university’s history.
“The University of Arkansas at Pine Bluff is deeply grateful to the Windgate Foundation for this substantial and historic gift,” said Chancellor Graham. “This investment allows us to work to develop opportunities for creativity, innovators and cultural leaders in higher education and the cultural life of our region.
“We are honored to continue our Partnership with the University of Arkansas with this investment to expand the capacity of the art department,” he said. “We believe that art not only unites us and deepens our understanding of the world, but access to art is very important in student life.
The $5 million gift will fund the construction of a new art tower at the Hathaway-Howard Fine Arts Center, marking the facility’s first major renovation in three decades. The addition will redefine the look of the center and serve as a striking gateway for visitors arriving from the Martha Mitchell Expressway. Growing as the tallest building on campus, the art tower will add classrooms and studio space to meet UAPB’s growing needs, expanding the university’s cultural footprint.
Expansion at a glance
- New “art tower” Addition to the Hathaway-Howard Fine Arts Center
- Expanded classrooms and studio spaces with large walls of windows to provide abundant natural light
- Modernized facilities to support enrollment growth and creative innovation
- The first major art facility expansion in over 30 years
This latest gift represents a $2 million investment in UAPB and Arts Programs over the past decade, including $2 million for first-generation students and $8 million for arts initiatives that engage students, alumni and the community.
UAPB Art Department Dr. Karen Dejarnette noted the award’s turning point.
“For decades, our students have brought brilliance to limited space,” said Dr. Dejarnette. “This expansion will finally give the gallery space from the room where their creativity is honored, to the gallery spaces where their work will really shine.”
“The timing of the gift reflects UAPB’s thoughtful approach to building a strong, long-term relationship that demonstrates past investments’ ability to deliver,” said George Cotton Sr., UAPB vice chancellor for advancement. It allows us to expand student opportunities while deepening our impact on the HBCU community.”
