Johnson, Rickman Honored for Professional Achievements

David Speer and Russell Cothren

Elizabeth Johnson and Blake Rickman

University of Arkansas staff members Elizabeth "Lizzie" Johnson and Blake Rickman are being honored for their professional achievements in the Division of University Advancement this spring. Johnson has been named to the Northwest Arkansas Business Journal's "Fast 15" list, which recognizes an exclusive group of 20-something professionals on the fast track to success, and Rickman has been named to the 2018 Arkansas Business class of "40 Under 40."

The Northwest Arkansas Business Journal's Fast 15 recognizes up-and-comers who have enjoyed success at a young age. To be eligible, individuals have to be under the age of 30 and prove to their employees and peers that they're on the fast track to success. The 2018 list of Fast 15 honorees is the 10th class assembled by the Northwest Arkansas Business Journal.

Similarly, Arkansas Business honors 40 intriguing business and political leaders under 40 years old who bear watching. These leaders and executives are seen as paving the way for the Arkansas business landscape through their expertise, innovation and dedication to their fields.

"Lizzie and Blake are both outstanding members of the advancement team," said Mark Power, vice chancellor for university advancement. "It's wonderful to see them recognized in our region and state for their professional accomplishments. We are very fortunate to have them as team members in the Office of University Development and are excited to celebrate these achievements."

Lizzie Johnson earned a bachelor's degree in international relations and Latin American studies from the U of A, as well as a master's in higher education administration. She is currently director of annual giving in university development.

Blake Rickman earned a Bachelor of Arts in psychology from Arkansas Tech University and a master's in higher education administration from the U of A. He is the senior director of development and external relations for the university's J. William Fulbright College of Arts and Sciences.

Johnson will be honored at a networking event on May 15 at the Janelle Y. Hembree Alumni House in Fayetteville, and Rickman will be recognized on June 14 at a luncheon at the Embassy Suites in Little Rock.