Jonesboro, AR – Contributed – The Arvest Foundation recently announced a $4,000 grant to Nettleton Public Schools – University Heights School of Medical Arts (UHSMA).

The grant will be used to fund the school’s participation in The Amazing Shake and Global Amazing Shake competitions.

Kevin Hufstedler, community president of Arvest Bank – Jonesboro, and Deania Vanhoozer, Arvest community and business relationship advisor, presented the check on behalf of the Arvest Foundation to UHSMA. The donation was received by school representatives Preston Despain, principal, Mitzi Young, gifted and talented teacher, and Julie Barker, library media specialist. 

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“We are excited to present this grant on behalf of the Arvest Foundation for the students of UHSMA as they prepare for this competition,” said Hufstedler. “As a community-focused bank, Arvest is committed to supporting students in the communities we serve, and supporting the next generation of leaders in the workforce is certainly something we are proud to be a part of.”

The Amazing Shake is a professional skills competition designed to help students develop essential real-world skills such as communication, confidence, professionalism, and adaptability.

Throughout the competition, students are challenged to step outside their comfort zones, think on their feet, and demonstrate strong character and interpersonal skills. This will be the second year of implementing the Amazing Shake at UHSMA, and finalists will attend the Global Amazing Shake competition.

“Our community partners have shown us that they are committed to supporting our scholars and our program. We know from past experience that the Amazing Shake challenges our scholars and extends meaningful opportunities outside the classroom. Without partners like the Arvest Foundation, we could not provide these incredible experiences,” said Young.

Principal Despain added, “The Amazing Shake is about preparing our scholars, no matter where life takes them. We appreciate the Arvest Foundation for believing in that mission and helping us make it possible.”

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