Mary C. Boaz
TITLE: Director of Planned Giving
COMPANY: University of Arkansas at Little Rock
Chancellor Joel Anderson, kicking off UALR’s first-ever comprehensive campaign, said, “The future we are planning is ambitious, but the realities in our state and community require ambitious vision.” As Arkansas’ metropolitan university, UALR is thriving and on track to meet the $75,000,000 campaign goal. Fall saw record enrollment of 13,176 students, the new Engineering Technology building opens this fall and new construction projects are in motion. My work helps insure that long after the campaign ends UALR continues to grow through the legacies created by our alumni, business and community benefactors.
Best business advice you ever received and who gave it: “The organization is going to survive with or without you, so be flexible…and don’t confuse work with family. They aren’t the same!” -Dan White
Who consistently inspires you? My friend Patti: she’s survived some of life’s biggest challenges and still plants flowers every spring.
What business men and women do you admire the most? My father, Cecil, and his friend, Leonard Mano…they fought for their country, worked hard at home, and did it all with great integrity.
How will you know when you are successful? Found my car keys this morning, got out the door to work…so far, so good. I believe in counting the small stuff!
Favorite Workplace Expression: “We’re upgrading our software, and you’re gonna love it!”
Why I Love This: What’s not to love about meeting people who like UALR and enjoy sharing life’s stories? I laugh, I cry, I learn…great way to spend a day.
Career Goal: My mother wouldn’t approve of the language, but my real personal work mantra is, “It’s the student, stupid!” Education opens minds and doors, so for me, it’s a lifetime commitment.
Favorite Quote: “Strive not to be a success, but rather to be of value. -Albert Einstein
Worst Day: We were hosting an event for a visiting ambassador in a downtown penthouse…city leaders invited, big deal. One hour before “liftoff,” we discovered the caterer had the wrong date and wasn’t coming. Creative thinkers got together and soon food was flowing from boxes to platters, with the help of an early-arriving guest. Who knew that silver trays could make even egg rolls and mini pizzas look and taste better?
Best Day: I didn’t know it then, but it was the day my friend Carolyn called and said, “There’s a UALR job listed in the paper, and I think you should apply.”