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Hendrix College welcomes three new trustees as Via Hendrix launch approaches

June 18, 2026 – Hendrix College has elected three new members to its Board of Trustees: Stephanie Anderson Gunderman ’93, Frank Lawrence ’91, and Ronnie Williams ’76. The appointments come as the College prepares to launch the Via Hendrix program and celebrate its sesquicentennial anniversary, both happening this fall.


“Stephanie, Frank, and Ronnie each represent the very best of Hendrix,” said Hendrix College President Dr. Karen Petersen. “Their accomplishments, service, and continued engagement with the College reflect the lasting impact of a Hendrix education. As we enter a new chapter with the launch of Via Hendrix and celebrate 150 years of preparing students for lives of accomplishment, integrity, service, and joy, I am grateful for their willingness to help lead Hendrix into the future.”

The new trustees join the Board at a defining moment for the College. Beginning with the incoming class in August, Hendrix will launch an integrated four-year career-readiness program called Via Hendrix. The groundbreaking initiative combines academic study, professional development, and a semester-long co-op work experience for every student. The Board of Trustees has been instrumental in championing this curriculum shift and will continue to play an integral role in establishing co-op opportunities across the state and nation.

Stephanie Anderson Gunderman ’93

Gunderman earned a degree in accounting from Hendrix before beginning her career with Deloitte & Touche, where she became a certified public accountant.

Following a move to New York City, she pursued theater studies and became a member of SAG-AFTRA. Since returning to Arkansas, she has remained active in the arts and nonprofit leadership, including service on the Board of Directors for the Arkansas Repertory Theatre.

“I value the education I received at Hendrix and cherish the lifelong relationships that began there,” Gunderman said. “I hope to contribute to Hendrix’s continued excellence in the future.”

Frank Lawrence ’91

Lawrence is partner and CEO of Little Rock Athletic Centers. A Hendrix business and economics graduate, he has remained actively involved with the College through Career Services and the Hendrix Career Advisor Network.

Prior to acquiring Little Rock Athletic Centers in 2013, Lawrence held executive leadership positions with Wells Fargo Bank and Bank of the Ozarks. He was recently named one of Arkansas Money & Politics magazine’s Influencers of the Year.

“Hendrix College helped shape not only my education, but also my understanding of the importance of relationships, character, and community,” Lawrence said. “Serving on the Board is an opportunity to give back to a place that invested so much in me and to help ensure Hendrix remains a transformational experience for future students.”

Ronnie Williams ’76

Williams graduated from Hendrix before earning a Master of Science in Education from Arkansas State University. In 2024, Hendrix awarded Williams an Honorary Doctorate of Humane Letters.

Following more than four decades at the University of Central Arkansas, where he held numerous leadership positions including vice president for student services and chief diversity officer, Williams retired in 2021.

“I am truly honored to serve as a member of the Hendrix College Board of Trustees, as this institution transformed my life and helped me become the person I am today,” Williams said. “My primary focus on the Board will be to ensure that every current and prospective student has the resources to thrive and ultimately find their rightful place in our world.”

As Hendrix enters its sesquicentennial year and launches Via Hendrix, the College’s Board of Trustees will help guide the institution’s strategic vision and ensure future generations of students are prepared for lives of accomplishment, integrity, service, and joy.

About Hendrix College

Founded in 1876, Hendrix College is featured in Colleges That Change Lives: 40 Schools That Will Change the Way You Think About Colleges and celebrated among the country’s leading liberal arts colleges for academic quality, engaged learning opportunities and career preparation, vibrant campus life, and value. The Hendrix College Warriors compete in 21 NCAA Division III sports. Hendrix has been affiliated with the United Methodist Church since 1884. Learn more at www.hendrix.edu.

“… Through engagement that links the classroom with the world, and a commitment to diversity, inclusion, justice, and sustainable living, the Hendrix community inspires students to lead lives of accomplishment, integrity, service, and joy.” –Hendrix College Statement of Purpose