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UAPB Student-Athletes Gain Professional Insight Through Dallas Cowboys Career Tour Experience

11/24/2025 10:40:00 AM

PINE BLUFF, AR.- The University of Arkansas at Pine Bluff (UAPB) Student-Athlete Development Office hosted the Fall 2025 Student-Athlete Development Career Tour in Dallas, Texas, on November 18–19, 2025. Ten UAPB students -athletes participated in this two-day experiential learning opportunity designed to broaden their professional knowledge and industry exposure beyond athletics.

The tour began with a visit to Con Real, LLC, a Black-owned commercial construction company recognized for its expansive portfolio and commitment to community impact. The company is led by President and CEO Gerald B. Alley, a proud Pine Bluff native. Student-athletes learned about the company's history, industry innovations, and major projects including the STEM Building on UAPB's campus, State Farm Arena, and Globe Life Field etc. Students also had the opportunity to meet the company's current intern, gaining firsthand insight into pathways within the construction and project management fields.

The group then toured Tree of Life, a premier Black-owned funeral services provider in the Dallas–Fort Worth Metropolitan area. Led by Andrew D. S. Kirkland and UAPB alum Pastor Parish E. Lowery. Tree of Life provided students with an in-depth look into leadership, business operations, and service within the death-care industry. Pastor Lowery, the President of the UAPB North Texas Alumni Chapter, shared his journey and professional experiences with the students.

Later that evening, participants attended the UAPB Men's Basketball game at SMU, where they were welcomed by UAPB Dallas–Fort Worth Alumni Chapter President Jermane Raynor and numerous alumni members. This engagement allowed student-athletes to strengthen their alumni ties, build mentorship connections, and gain insights from professionals in various career fields.

On day two, student-athletes attended the 2025 Sports Business Panel hosted by Dallas Cowboys Legends Global at AT&T Stadium. The event included a facility tour, an interactive Q&A session with sports industry professionals, and a networking lunch. Through discussions covering career pathways both on and off the field, students gained valuable exposure to roles and internships in event operations, business, marketing, sales, facility management, and athlete services.

We extend sincere appreciation to the sponsors and supporters who made this experiential learning opportunity possible:

Student-Athlete Advisory Committee (SAAC)
UAPB Institutional Advancement
UAPB Dallas–Fort Worth Alumni Chapter
UAPB North Texas Alumni Chapter
Con Real, LLC
Tree of Life Funeral Directors

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