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The University of Arkansas at Monticello has announced the appointment of Dr. Landon Grimes as vice chancellor for University Advancement and Alumni Engagement.

Dr. Grimes, a Monticello native and 1998 graduate of Drew Central High School, has sixteen years of combined experience in both public and higher education. His career in education began at Monticello Intermediate School as a fifth grade teacher for three years before returning to UAM as the training coordinator for the Arkansas Small Business and Technology Development Center. He returned to Monticello Middle School to teach seventh grade English for two years and then became the assistant principal at the middle school for two years. He moved to central Arkansas for five years, where he served as the junior high principal at Harmony Grove in Haskell, Arkansas, before returning to UAM. In 2021, he became the partnership coordinator for the UAM School of Education and later served as the assistant dean for the school.

Dr. Grimes earned multiple degrees from UAM, including a Bachelor of Arts in English degree in 2008, a Master of Arts in Teaching degree in 2009 and a Master of Educational Leadership degree in 2014. He also earned an Education Specialist degree from Arkansas State University in 2019 and a Doctorate of Education degree from Harding University in 2023.

Dr. Peggy Doss, chancellor of UAM, said, “Dr. Grimes is a graduate of UAM with a proven history of leadership as a principal, and most recently, as the assistant dean in the School of Education at UAM. He has a deep love for the university and is committed to its growth and success. His enthusiasm and loyalty will serve UAM well as he connects with alumni and works to advance the university’s mission. We are so pleased to have him as a vice chancellor at UAM.”

“As vice chancellor, I'm eager to work alongside our talented team to strengthen UAM's connections with alumni and secure resources that empower our institution to thrive,” Dr. Grimes said. “We have a vibrant community of alumni, and I believe by nurturing these relationships, we can harness their collective passion and support to propel UAM to even greater heights. I am truly humbled by this incredible opportunity and excited to embark on this new chapter with the passionate UAM community. Go Weevils!”

Dr. Grimes’ appointment begins on March 1, 2024.