Student Affairs

My name is Arlyn Brazell, and I hold a bachelor’s degree in Political Science and a master’s in Public Administration and Non-Profit Studies from the University of Arkansas. My background is rooted in community engagement, program development and data analysis, with a strong focus on institutional research practices.

Currently, I serve as a Data Analyst within the Division of Student Affairs, where my role bridges key data sets to track student engagement, retention and support services. UA has been instrumental in my growth — both professionally and as an engaged member of this community. As an undergraduate, programs like RIC helped me develop a deep connection to on-campus initiatives that support all students. My graduate work, particularly with 7 Hills, strengthened my commitment to serving the community through data-driven insights and impactful programming.

I am passionate about using data to enhance student experiences, inform institutional strategies and support local non-profits, ensuring that both the university and the broader community continue to thrive. I also love to volunteer and contribute to strategic planning as I have seen that the UA's initiatives reach far beyond the physical campus.

The opportunity to serve on Staff Senate excites me because it offers a platform to advocate for staff needs, enhance campus initiatives and contribute to meaningful policy discussions. As someone who has directly benefited from UA’s professional development and community-driven initiatives, I am eager to give back by ensuring that staff voices are heard and valued.

With my background in data analysis, program development and community engagement, I am particularly passionate about using data-driven insights to inform decision making, improve workplace culture and support initiatives that promote staff well-being and professional growth. Additionally, my experience working with students, faculty and community partners has reinforced my belief in the power of collaboration and shared governance to drive positive change.

Serving on Staff Senate would allow me to combine my passion for institutional research, advocacy and service to help create a stronger, more inclusive and engaged staff community at the University of Arkansas.

Hello, my name is Cody Davis, and I have been working for the U of A since 2008 as the Housing Service Center Manager. I was born and raised in Springdale, Arkansas, and attended Northwest Arkansas Community College and earned an associate’s degree in general business administration. I have been married to my lovely wife, Deborah, for 21 years. I am also a United States Air Force veteran having served 10 years as a Crew Chief/Fire Fighter and Non-Commissioned Officer in Charge of the Communications section of the Fire Department.

What I’m excited the most about serving on the University of Arkansas Staff Senate is the opportunity to make a difference in the lives of our staff and the university community. I get to support my colleagues and make sure their voices are heard. Being on the Staff Senate will allow me to represent the interest and concerns of my fellow university staff members. I would like to be a part of a team that recognizes the importance of staff being heard at all levels of the University.

Hi! I am Delaney Farris-Dyer (she/her/hers), and I am an Assistant Director in the Center for Community Engagement. In my role, I advise the Jane B. Gearhart Full Circle Food Pantry and Razorback Food Recovery programs in the Volunteer Action Center. I am from Arkansas, but most recently spent time living in Texas where I got my master's from University of North Texas and began working at Texas Woman’s University in civic engagement. I received a bachelor’s degree from Hendrix College and upon graduation joined FoodCorps AmeriCorps where I served as an elementary garden and nutrition educator for two years. I enjoy spending time outdoors, eating pastries, and cooking for my friends and family.

When I joined the University staff just over a year ago, my second day on the job was spent in the pantry during staff volunteer week. I met so many people that day who deeply care about the basic needs of their colleagues and students and who support the mission of the pantry. Staff senate is an opportunity to continue ensuring our campus culture is one that centers care for the wellbeing of our staff, faculty, and students. I am excited about the opportunity to continue learning more about our campus community through staff senate and the ways in which we can support each other!

I graduated from the U of A in 2010 with a Bachelor's Degree in Human Environmental Sciences in Hospitality Management and a minor in Business Administration. Also in 2010, I started working on campus at the Arkansas Union as a Special Events Coordinator. Over the past 20-plus years, I have held different positions within the Arkansas Union overseeing the Event Services and Event Operations team. My current position is Associate Director, where I get to support all of the various teams and initiatives of the Union to build a place focussed on campus community and service to all.

What excites me most about the possibility of serving on the Staff Senate is the opportunity to serve my fellow staff members on issues that affect them personally and professionally. I look forward to the opportunity to collaborate on impactful topics that make a difference in the lives of others and their experiences as staff of the U of A.

I’m a proud University of Arkansas alum with a passion for all things outdoors and fitness. I find inspiration in nature and enjoy living an active lifestyle. Currently, I serve as the Fitness Coordinator for University Recreation + Wellness, where I’m committed to fostering community and connection among students and the campus by offering a variety of fitness class options. Through fun fitness programs and creative initiatives, I aim to inspire others to stay healthy and active, both in and out of the gym.

What excites me most about the possibility of serving on Staff Senate is the chance to connect with other colleagues across campus to help create a supportive, positive environment for everyone. I would like to help find ways to improve staff well-being, professional growth, and work-life balance. I am motivated at the thought of collaborating and connecting with others to make a real difference in the university’s culture and build a stronger sense of community and belonging. I’m excited to bring my ideas and energy to the table and help make a positive impact!

Hi! My name is Kaitlyn Riggin, and I am the Associate Director for UA Cares. I hold a Bachelor's and Master's degree from the University of Central Arkansas. I have been at the UA for about 3.5 years in our Cares office, where I assist students who are navigating extenuating circumstances/crises situations connect with supportive resources.

What excites me the most is the opportunity to network and collaborate with other professionals to ensure our campus is providing both a meaningful and a supportive environment. I have served on Staff Senate over the last 3 years and it has given me the opportunities to strengthen my advocacy skills, build connections with folks across multiple offices and divisions, understand campus policies better, and feel more connected to our campus community. I love being a part in ensuring our Staff's voices and concerns are heard, loudly and clearly!

Hello! My name is Demi Spencer, and I am passionate about being a voice for University of Arkansas Staff. I would love the opportunity to work alongside Staff Senate to bring awareness to the many benefits, opportunities, and resources that our campus provides, all while supporting Chancellor Robinson’s 150 Forward Strategic Plan involving Pillar III – Enhancing the University’s Status as an Employer of Choice.

As a Fayetteville native and a proud University of Arkansas alumna, I earned a B.A. in Anthropology with a Minor in Business Chinese and an M.Ed. in Higher Education. Throughout my time on campus, I have been committed to sharing local and university activities, events, and resources while helping staff connect with offices across campus. In my current role as Office Manager for University Recreation + Wellness within the Division of Student Affairs, I have the privilege of being the first point of contact for our campus community. I assist with inquiries, promotions, and sales relating to membership services, and lead outreach initiatives across campus to promote opportunities for engagement in our department’s fitness and wellness programs, as well as the use of our facilities.

Beyond supporting staff with resources, I am excited for the opportunity to help recognize and celebrate the success and achievement of our staff. I value the opportunity to honor those nominated for outstanding service to the University and would be excited at the opportunity to promote future election processes and help plan the staff celebration event.