Bethani Walter named Arkansas Tech student leader of the month

RUSSELLVILLE — A junior from Dardanelle has been selected by the Arkansas Tech University Center for Student Engagement and First-Gen Success as its first student leader of the month for the 2025-26 academic year.

Bethani Walter, a criminal justice major, said she has found during her time at Arkansas Tech University that while leadership carries the burdens of responsibility and sacrifice, the rewards are worth the investment, according to a press release from the university.

“The connections are ultimately the greatest benefit of leadership,” Walter said. “You meet so many people … especially people you wouldn’t have known if you had not been a leader in your organizations. Those friendships are what I value most.”

Walter is active in the university’s Student Government Association and Delta Zeta, the release states.

“I’ve learned that the way you communicate with others in your organization is very important,” said Walter. “Talking to them in a way that is respectful and inclusive can help ensure that you are being kind to everyone. That’s something that I really value.”

Walter said she chose Arkansas Tech because her parents are ATU alumni and because it was close to home.

She said she found her academic home in the criminal justice program after a positive experience in an introductory class during the second semester of her freshman year. That major also aligns with her goal of attending law school after she completes her bachelor’s degree, the release states.

“There is a lot of self-discipline you have to have in all areas of life,” Walter said. “I think that is one of the most valuable lessons because when you come to college you don’t have your parents reminding you about homework and chores. Being able to govern yourself and manage your responsibilities while also making time to relax and have fun is one of the most important things as a student and as a leader.

ATU “has been one of the best times for me,” she said. “There’s so much to do and so many people to meet. This is a once in a lifetime chance to go out there and try new things.”

“I’ve had the privilege of working with Bethani in several capacities, and she consistently goes above and beyond in everything she takes on,” said Megan Bell, director of the Center for Student Engagement and First-Generation Success. “In addition to holding leadership positions in student organizations and working on campus, she demonstrates excellent time management and prioritization skills while remaining respectful and dependable. Her positive attitude, personality and active presence at events make her a true standout leader.”

The center selects the monthly ATU student leader award based upon nominations from university students, faculty and staff, according to Sam Strasner, ATU director of university relations.

The center recognizes the unique experiences first-generation students face and offers resources to help them connect and thrive, according to the university’s website.

The center defines first-generation students as those whose parents or guardians did not graduate from a four-year institution, the website states.

First-generation students make up about one-third of the ATU student body, along with many faculty and staff who were first-generation graduates themselves, according to the website.