WATCH: WTCAR Highlights Arkansas Companies Helped By STEP Grant
October 2, 2020
IBNewsmag Highlights Four Arkansas Exporters
November 30, 2020
Show all

Watkins, WTCAR Grants Director, Honored For 35 Years Of Service At UA

ROGERS — Trish Watkins, the director of grants, finances and human resources at the World Trade Center Arkansas, was honored recently for 35 years of service with the University of Arkansas.

Watkins, who began her tenure with the U of A in 1985 as an administrative assistant, now works with federal agencies like the Small Business Administration to secure millions of dollars for Arkansas’ small businesses.

“These grants provided funding for many of Arkansas’ small businesses to expand their export market access, increasing job growth and retention while boosting economic development in the state,” said Dan Hendrix, the Center’s president and CEO.

“Trish is a valuable member of the team and executes her responsibilities with high performance and success.”

Watkins is also active in several campus affairs. She has served six terms as chair of the U of A staff senate. 

During her tenure as chairwoman, Watkins guided the senate in successfully implementing the optional short-term disability plan as well as the RazorGifts Holiday Gifting Program to help staff who have financial need. She also helped launch the annual Staff Appreciation Week.

She has been recognized as U of A’s Employee of the Year in 2009 and honored as the Division of Agriculture Employee of the Year in 2012.

“It is an absolute pleasure to work for the World Trade Center Arkansas, and has been one of the most rewarding positions I have held these past 35 years,” Watkins said.

“The team at the WTC Ar is the best, and we have the greatest leadership with Dan Hendrix.  I have met some of the most fascinating people, and enjoy working with so many wonderful small businesses in the state. I look forward to what the future holds for the Center, the friendships I have made and those to come, and to continue to working with the small businesses in our great state.”

The mission of the World Trade Center Arkansas is to grow trade and increase Arkansas exports by connecting Arkansas businesses to the world through international trade services. The Center is part of the University of Arkansas and serves as the trade promotion arm for the Arkansas Economic Development Commission. For more information and valuable updates, please follow the Center on Facebook and Twitter or subscribe to the World Trade Center Arkansas newsletter.