Featured | NewsApril 10, 2026

Three Take Home Annual UAFS Staff Awards

Written By: Ian Silvester

The University of Arkansas – Fort Smith honored three staff members on April 10 with the annual Lucille Speakman Excellence Awards and newly established Douglas Holcomb Nuts, Bolts, & Bandwidth Award. 

The awards recipients are: 

• Lucille Speakman Excellence Awards 

• • Allyson Lovell, operations and testing coordinator in the Academic Success Center 

• • Jennifer Holland, executive director of student retention in the Office of Student Success and Retention 

• Douglas Holcomb Nuts, Bolts, & Bandwidth Award

• • Darren Smith, senior PC systems analyst in IT Customer Support 

The Lucille Speakman Excellence Awards for Staff recognize staff members for their service to UAFS and the community, job performance, and professional growth and development. There are two categories for the award: Category II, which includes any full-time, non-teaching, exempt staff who are not vice-chancellors or deans, and Category III, which includes any full-time, non-exempt staff. Both must have been employed at UAFS for at least three years and receive a $2,500 award. 

With more than a dozen nominations made this year, the University Staff Council Awards Committee had the difficult task of selecting the two winners. 

One of Lovell’s nominators said that while she doesn’t like the spotlight or being recognized, she is “truly worthy of an award such as this.” The Academic Success Center runs smoothly and effectively because of Lovell’s attention to detail, positivity, work ethic, proactiveness, and willingness to be a true team player, the nominator added. 

Holland has been a pillar of UAFS since her arrival more than a decade ago. As one of her nominators said, “UAFS is better because (she) is on our campus.” Holland was described as every student’s biggest cheerleader and tireless supporter. She is often the first smiling face students see during fall move-in or check-in at Mane Event and Lion Launch and is always the loudest celebrating students during commencement. Holland’s nominator called her authentic, loyal, strong, and always willing to show up, even when her batteries are drained. 

New this year was the Douglas Holcomb Nuts, Bolts, and Bandwidth Award, named in memory of Holcomb, whose humility, reliability, and behind-the-scenes dedication made him a cornerstone of UAFS. This award recognizes a staff member who embodies that same spirit of service, an individual who often labors out of sight, but never without impact. Eligible nominees must demonstrate excellence in skill, work ethic, problem-solving, teamwork, safety, and dedication to the UAFS mission. 

Smith was the inaugural winner and received a $2,500 award. Colleagues said Smith’s contributions often extend far beyond the scope of his job description. He takes the initiative to improve processes, implement innovative technical solutions, and proactively address issues before they can impact students, faculty, or staff. Smith is trusted by others for his expertise and calm, solution-oriented approach to challenges. 

• Tags:
• Lucille Speakman Excellence Award for Staff
• Faculty and Staff Awards
• Faculty and Staff Appreciation
• Staff Awards
• Douglas Holcomb Nuts Bolts & Bandwidth Award