Her path is rooted in Arkansas State University—but her influence reaches far beyond the classroom.

As the associate dean of community outreach and engagement and an associate professor of curriculum and instruction, Audrey Bowser continues to build a legacy of leadership, mentorship and collaboration that inspires both colleagues and students.

“As a three-time graduate of Arkansas State University, I know this all too well,” Bowser said. “I hold four certifications in the areas of business education, curriculum specialist, secondary principalship and district administration.”

In addition to her degrees from A-State, Bowser earned her doctorate in curriculum and instruction from Iowa State University, with an emphasis in instructional technology and multicultural education.

“My professional career began when I was a high school business teacher. Within a few years, I became the department chair,” Bowser said. “I then moved to higher education and served in an administrative staff position as the coordinator of field experiences and teaching internships at Arkansas State for five years. In pursuit of a terminal degree, I took a sabbatical and continued my graduate study at Iowa State.”

After completing her doctorate, Bowser returned to A-State to teach undergraduate and graduate courses in the Teacher Preparation Program for PK-12 preservice teachers and licensed educators. Today, she teaches courses in instructional technology, educational administration and curriculum leadership.

Her colleagues speak highly of her work ethic, positivity and leadership.

“I think she’s task-oriented. She’ll see a task that needs to be done, and she’ll work to complete it,” Annette Hux, interim dean and professor, said. “She’s a positive person. She works to meet the needs of the institution she serves.”

That positivity is something others feel deeply.

“She really comes through in a pinch,” Beverly Gilbert, a professor in teacher education, said. “You’ll think, ‘We’re not going to meet this deadline,’ and she’ll get it done. She pushes until the end.”

But Bowser is more than just reliable: she’s deeply collaborative and always making space for others to contribute.

“She wants to literally hear from you,” Hux said. “She empowers others and ensures they feel comfortable expressing themselves. She’s open to trying new things and very collaborative.”

Gilbert praised Bowser for keeping faculty connected to the latest standards in education.

“She would bring us information about new licensure requirements, practices, and student assessments,” Hilbert said. “Sometimes she would connect us directly with contacts at the Arkansas Department of Education to ensure our programs aligned with state guidelines.”

For many, Bowser’s presence is a source of reassurance and motivation.

“Her demeanor—her joy, her willingness to actively listen and accept everyone—that sets her apart,” Hux said. “She can handle any challenge or setback with grace. No matter the situation, she has a smile on her face, letting you know, ‘We’re going to get through this.’”

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