Each year, SpectacuaLR celebrates the accomplishments of the UA Little Rock student-athletes and the potential harnessed through a winning combination of academics and sports training. Like the iconic UA Little Rock Trojan, these young professionals have the tenacity and determination to succeed. This translates into multi-disciplinary success and countless contributions that are a result of the exceptional curriculum of the institution.
Civic and business leaders throughout the Capital City support this urban university as a vision for the future and an economic engine for Central Arkansas. Anne and Merritt Dyke will be recognized at SpectacuaLR for their commitment to the community and UA Little Rock. Merritt elaborates, “I believe that a successful athletic department plays a critical role in increasing the profile of a university and I look forward to helping UA Little Rock and Trojan Athletics reach new heights.”
SpectacuaLR generates critical funding for the 15 Trojan athletic programs, raising more than $3.3 million since its inception in 2009. The evening guarantees a lively gathering with fellow fans that will not disappoint. However, the real winners are the 275 student-athletes who benefit from scholarships and enjoy the campus improvements made possible by the fundraiser. The Little Rock Trojans excel in competition as well as in the classroom, boasting an impressive 3.31 overall grade point average for the 2023-24 academic year. During the 2024 spring semester, 64 student-athletes were included on the Chancellor’s List.
Anne and Merritt are deeply invested in the community and realize educational opportunities are critical to the infrastructure of a vibrant city. UA Little Rock cultivates qualified alumni with a wealth of practical knowledge to become visionaries who enrich the lives of fellow Arkansans. Merritt attributes this to the vast offerings and devoted faculty. “We would like to thank George Lee for his efforts over the last four years and welcome Frank Cuervo and his family to Little Rock. Little Rock Athletics is coming off a historic year and we are looking forward to a bright future with Athletics Director Frank Cuervo. The event will be a great night celebrating these young men and women who represent UA Little Rock and our community.”
SpectacuaLR Gala
Thursday, November 14
Jack Stephens Center