Senior Brian Thompson is starting his second semester serving as the Student Activities Board president.
He has been involved with SAB for four years, serving first as a general member and also as film chair and pop culture chair.
Thompson is a Conway native and is majoring in English with a teaching licensure.
This semester, he is student teaching full time with a seventh grade English class at Maumelle Middle School.
What made you want to get involved in SAB?
“I’ve always been a pop culture enthusiast, and I saw SAB as a way to connect my passion with a wide audience.”
Are there any activities you’re particularly excited for this semester?
“Well, I’m really looking forward to Nick Offerman on Feb. 6, and it looks like we might have a pretty exciting musical act this semester.”
What do you think you can bring to campus as president?
“Upon becoming president of SAB, I really wanted to get the students involved. Eventually, we are the ones who make the decisions, but we try our best to let everyone’s voice be heard.”
Are you involved in any other organizations on campus? If so, which ones?
“I am a member of the English honor society, Sigma Tau Delta. I have also been known to frequent the UCA Film Society and Cru.”
How do you plan for major events, such as the upcoming performance of Nick Offerman?
“There are a lot of hoops to jump through when planning a major event like that. All of the pieces have to align perfectly. We begin by finding where our budget intersects student interest. From that, we focus on artist availability and see if we can’t make it happen. Every once in a while, everything works out and we are able to have a great show.”
What is the most memorable event, in your opinion, that SAB has sponsored?
“The most memorable event for me was when we brought Iron & Wine. There seemed to be a pretty great buzz surrounding the event, and because of this, it sold out in a matter of days. That was one of the times when I truly felt that we were bringing something students could really stand behind.”
What are your plans for after graduation?
“I’m still waiting to hear from some graduate programs. I hope to continue my education.”
How do you think being a part of SAB has impacted your time at UCA?
“SAB has really allowed me to discover my inner extrovert and connect with my fellow students. It has also provided me with a lot of organizational skills that I will use for the rest of my life.”
Is there anything else you want to say concerning SAB and your plans for the year?
“We are hoping to make this year a great one. We are bringing events that I am very proud of, such as Nick Offerman, a screening of “12 Years a Slave” and hopefully a large concert.”
