Arkansas Agricultural Experiment Station, University of Arkansas Division of Agriculture
Dale Bumpers College of Agricultural, Food and Life Sciences

A newsletter for faculty, staff and students

May-June 2005 • Vol. 31, No. 3

Commencement 2005

Comments by Ewell Welch, 2005 Outstanding Alumnus

Ewell and Deanna Wiley Welch and their son, Wesley, a 2001 graduate of the U of A.

Let me begin by extending my congratulations to those of you who are graduating here today.  Recognition of your achievement is the real purpose for this ceremony and I thank you for allowing me to be a part of your day.

I am humbled and honored to be selected as Outstanding Alumnus of the Dale Bumpers College of Agricultural, Food and Life Sciences.  Even more so when you consider those previously recognized with this honor such as Dr. Margaret Bogle, Carroll Walls, Jack Justus, and others – all individuals who excelled in contribution to the College and their professions during their careers – it is, indeed, very humbling to be included with such a prestigious group.

Having said that, however, I know none of them take any greater pride than I do in my connection with the University of Arkansas, its mission as a land-grand institution, and its impact on agriculture throughout Arkansas, and throughout the world.

My thanks go out to Dean Greg Weidemann and the Selection Committee for bestowing this honor on me and to Drs. Mark Cochran, and Preston LaFerney, who were involved in nominating me for this recognition. I also appreciate Dr. Milo Shult for his friendship and counsel on an ongoing basis.  Their work on behalf of Bumpers College and the Division of Agriculture, and in support of Arkansas agriculture, is world-class. I appreciate their friendship and professional support.

Lastly, I want to express my appreciation to all of my family – my wife Deanna, my son Wesley, and daughter Natalie, as well as my parents who made it possible for me to attend the University of Arkansas, for their support throughout my career and for the sacrifices they have made on my behalf.

The mission of Bumpers College – teaching, research and service – manifests itself in these young people before us today. The achievements to be accumulated by today’s graduates can only be imagined.

If I might, I would like to take a moment to offer a bit of guidance to the new graduates, not because I claim some deep understanding of life’s twisting road map, but because I have seen those who have benefited from a helping hand.

I would challenge you to remain connected to the University of Arkansas, and to the Bumpers College. This continued connection helps ensure that you are current on the issues of importance to your industry, on the technology that is shaping that industry and world, and aware of the people who are making a difference in your industry. Those are the type of people with whom you want to have a connection.

The best career decision I ever made was when I chose to attend the University of Arkansas. That decision helped light the pathway for my career, which I pursue with passion and commitment, because I believe in the people who are involved in agriculture, and I know how important agriculture is to our great state.

Each of you also has a lighted pathway, if you choose to follow it. I urge you to take that light and share it with others. The impact you make in our world could be, and for many of you, likely will be remarkable. I wish each of you good luck and the blessings of a meaningful and successful career.

Again, it is with honor and humility that I accept this recognition as Outstanding Alumnus of the Dale Bumpers College of Agricultural, Food and Life Sciences. I thank you deeply.