Travis Buchanan ’78 BBA Management and
member of Phi Beta Lambda and Lauretta
Blevins Buchanan ’78 BSE Elementary
Education
My wife, Lauretta, and I support Southern Arkansas University as a way to give back to the institution that brought us together and enabled us both to lead successful lives. We first met during freshman registration in 1974, a time when registration required you to “pull” cards with the hope you could get a class with the time and professor you wanted. We both have fond memories of our time at SAU; we especially recall often the dedicated professors and the leadership they provided.
Since graduation, I have worked in the oil and gas industry in a career that has taken me across the world. I am personally excited about the new engineering program at SAU and the opportunities it will bring to current and future students. Lauretta recently retired after 34 years of teaching, and she has a passion for the education programs at SAU.
Giving back helps support the next generation of engineers and teachers, whether it be through scholarships or new facilities.
As the first in our both of our families to graduate from college, we recognize the privilege and importance of a college degree and want to help others achieve their goals. Our commitment to support SAU financially increased when we visited family in the Magnolia area and saw the vast improvements being made around campus. Everyone works hard for their money. SAU is a champion for education in Arkansas and strives to make sure the money we give works just as hard for the current generation of students.
