The champagne wasn't just for celebrating diplomas this December at the University of Arkansas at Pine Bluff. Six exceptional graduates had double the reason to pop bottles—they're walking straight from commencement into dream careers at some of America's most prestigious companies.

These aren't just any job offers. We're talking positions at household names like Amazon, PepsiCo, and Cargill, plus roles with leading firms like Turner Construction and the USDA Natural Resources Conservation Service. What makes this story even more heartwarming is that these students didn't stumble into success—they built it with determination, preparation, and support from UAPB's Office of Career Services.

Tyler Garlington and Darion Strain, both agricultural engineering graduates, are heading into roles that will shape America's future. Garlington accepted a Civil Engineer position with the USDA Natural Resources Conservation Service, where he'll contribute to sustainable land and water management. Strain is joining Cargill as an Operations Management Associate, stepping into the heart of global food production.

The business administration graduates are equally impressive. Raelynn Geiggar will be supporting education technology as a Client Success Manager at Apptegy, while Jessica Robins landed a Sales Management Associate role at PepsiCo. These young professionals are bringing fresh energy and ideas to companies that touch millions of lives daily.

Empress Roberts, graduating in Industrial Technology Management and Applied Engineering, accepted an Assistant Engineer position with Turner Construction, one of the nation's premier construction management firms. She's breaking into an industry that literally builds our future, one project at a time.

But perhaps the most inspiring story belongs to Cornelia D. Watts. Not only did she secure an Area Manager position with Amazon, but she was also named one of the top five recipients of the Chancellor's Medallion at the Fall 2025 Commencement Ceremony—UAPB's highest academic honor. Watts exemplifies what's possible when academic excellence meets career ambition.

Why It Matters: These success stories aren't just wins for six individuals—they're proof that historically Black colleges and universities like UAPB are powerhouses of talent development. In an era when college graduates often struggle to find work in their fields, these students are launching directly into competitive careers with global leaders. UAPB's Office of Career Services deserves recognition for their commitment to connecting students with employers and providing career coaching from freshman year through graduation. This comprehensive support system is clearly working, transforming eager freshmen into career-ready professionals who companies are competing to hire.

The diversity of industries represented—from agriculture to technology to construction—also demonstrates the breadth of opportunities available to students who invest in their education and take advantage of available resources. These graduates participated in experiential learning and employer engagement programs that gave them real-world readiness before they even received their diplomas.

As these six inspiring graduates begin their professional journeys, they're not just starting jobs—they're becoming ambassadors for what determination, quality education, and the right support can achieve. UAPB has every reason to celebrate, and we can't wait to see where these talented individuals go next.