The Southern Arkansas University Alumni Association, Inc. honored nine outstanding graduates during its annual Distinguished Alumni Awards Dinner, held May 8, 2025, on the SAU campus. The evening served as a celebration of excellence, bringing together alumni, faculty, students, and community members to recognize the accomplishments of Muleriders who have made significant impacts in their professions and communities.
Honorees were celebrated in four categories. Leland Tollett ’56, former Tyson Foods CEO and longtime supporter of agricultural and educational initiatives, received the prestigious Lifetime Achievement Award. Dr. John Alexander ’74 and John Sinclair ’71 were recognized as Distinguished Golden Muleriders for their enduring commitment to excellence and their contributions over 50 years since graduating from SAU.
The Distinguished Alumni Award was presented to Bill Anderson ’81, Shanna Singleton-Deitsch ’18, and Dr. Donika Kelly ’01, each of whom has demonstrated remarkable leadership and success in their respective fields. Darius Strickland ’14 ’16, Ashley Talley ’09, and Steven Wiley ’08 ’16 were named Distinguished Young Alumni in recognition of their professional achievements and service to others early in their careers.
The annual dinner continues to be one of the University’s signature alumni events, honoring the legacy of Muleriders who exemplify the values of SAU.
