Lance Grigsby

Staff Q & A

Pronouns: He/Him/His

Hometown: Ozark, AR

Title: Assistant Director of Operations

Years of Service: 3.5

Education: BA History from the University of Arkansas

How long have you been at the University of Arkansas in Student Affairs? What have you enjoyed most about your time here?

I’ve been in Student Affairs for my entire 3.5 years of service at UARK. I love seeing the work we do in Student Affairs translate directly into student engagement and education.

Tell us a little about your role in Student Affairs. What brings you joy in this role?

My role in Student Affairs is to ensure that the Arkansas Union is prepared to meet the many needs of the overall campus community. My specific role within the Arkansas Union consists of leading our Custodial and Sustainability teams which consist of 19 employees. The joy I get from my role comes from doing everything I can to make my team members’ lives better.

What is the greatest misconception people have about Student Affairs and how do you break that?

I’ve felt before here at UARK that some see the concept of a Division of Student Affairs to be a dated concept. UARK’s Division of Student affairs is committed to the modernization of practices. Our leaders make data-based decisions and are dedicated to setting up a culture of values within the division. Our division’s leadership does a wonderful job of keeping all levels of our organization informed and on task when it comes to this modernization. One of the ways this is accomplished is with monthly “Student Affairs Sit-Downs” where our Vice Chancellor, along with his team, invites employees below director-level to receive a division update, voice concerns, and ask questions.

What do you like to do with your time outside of the University?

I love being involved in the Northwest Arkansas Community. I help at environmental clean ups, visit local cultural attractions like Crystal Bridges, and when I have time play the trombone. I’m also a big Star Trek fan.

What do you hope students and colleagues will remember about your interactions?

I hope students and colleagues remember that I cared about them and that I was always willing to learn something new.

Is there anything else you would like to add or let our readers know?

The University of Arkansas has two campus-wide sustainability goals which are Carbon Neutrality and 90% Waste Diversion by 2040. UARK’s Office for Sustainability, which is located near the Harmon parking garage, is hard at work to meet those goals. I’d also like to communicate to campus executives that 90% Waste Diversion equals up to 90% savings on trash compactors costs which are in the millions of dollars every year.