Research and Innovation

I have been at the university since August of 2021 and joined the Office of Sponsored Programs the following summer in 2022. I have an associate's degree in theatre, a bachelor's degree in business technology administration and am currently seeking a master's in interdisciplinary studies.

My current role is Award Setup Team Lead. I am really passionate about uplifting others and finding ways to make people's workday just a little bit brighter!

What excites me is getting to connect with other staff members on campus and collaborating with them to make this the best place to work! I love my job and the people I work with, and I believe that the people at the university are the most important resource to making this a great institution.

I want to expand my knowledge on what is working for staff and what isn't so that I can learn how to contribute in a positive way. I eventually would also like to serve in a leadership role here at the U of A and so having this experience will help provide me with an employee perspective that I think is necessary if I were to have a position that oversaw workers.

I have lived in Fayetteville my entire life, and I love campus, the Hogs and the beauty of our state.

I have 15 years of service to the University, and I currently work with the Office of Sponsored Programs, managing grant finances across campus.

I look forward to hearing the concerns of our staff and working alongside my fellow Senate members to create real change.

I would consider it an honor to be entrusted to serve the campus community that I have been a member of for many years.

My name is Erick Soto, and I'm from Springdale, Arkansas. I'm a 2024 graduate of the University of Arkansas where I earned a double major in Political Science and International Studies, along with minors in Sustainability and Urban Planning. My academic background reflects a strong interest in policy, global systems and sustainable and effective community development.

Currently, I serve as the Export Control Support Officer at the University of Arkansas. In this role, I help ensure the university remains compliant with federal laws and regulations related to export control. I work closely with faculty, staff and researchers to support their projects by providing guidance on best practices for purchasing materials and equipment while ensuring all activities align with compliance standards. Additionally, I provide export control guidance to personnel and students looking to travel abroad.

Through my experiences both academically and professionally, I have developed a well-rounded perspective and a commitment to representing and advocating for staff effectively.

What excites me most about the possibility of serving on Staff Senate is the chance to bring a well-rounded perspective shaped by both my student and professional experiences at the University of Arkansas. During my undergraduate years, I served in ASG Senate, where I worked closely with students, staff, professors and administrators. I was also highly involved on campus, which gave me a strong understanding of how different parts of the university operate and connect.

Now as a staff member, I am excited to engage with the university from a new perspective. Having experienced both sides, as a student and now as staff, gives me a unique viewpoint that I believe can help bridge communication and strengthen collaboration across campus. I am especially motivated by the opportunity to advocate for the needs, concerns and ideas of staff members and to help ensure their voices are heard and valued.

I am confident in my ability to communicate effectively, including in public speaking settings, and I enjoy working collaboratively with others. I approach leadership with a willingness to listen, learn and grow, and I value thoughtful discussion and inclusive decision making. Serving on Staff Senate would allow me to contribute meaningfully to the university community, support my colleagues and help foster a positive and productive environment for everyone.