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Alumnus Raymond Omar Long joins Board of Visitors

The appointment of Raymond Omar Long of Little Rock to the UA-PTC Board of Visitors was announced by Gov. Asa Hutchinson on Jan. 27. His term extends until July 1, 2025.

Long replaces Roy Ragland, whose board term expired in 2021.

Mr. Long is the Chief Executive Officer of Big Brothers Big Sisters of Central Arkansas, the area’s largest children’s mentoring organization. Prior to that role he worked as Director of Business Retention and Expansion for the Little Rock Regional Chamber of Commerce. He also served at Urban League of Arkansas as Director of Programs and Operations.

Long received his business degree in organizational management from Philander Smith College, and he is also a graduate of UA - Pulaski Tech. He is currently pursuing an MBA at UA Little Rock. He completed Leadership Greater Little Rock Class XXXV, is an active member of Rotary International, serves on the Board of Directors for Habitat for Humanity of Central Arkansas, served on the Mayor’s Transition Education Subcommittee for Little Rock Mayor Frank Scott, and is an Advisory Board member at the Arkansas Coalition for Juvenile Justice.

“As an alumnus of UA-PTC, I am elated to come back and support the institution that created my joy of academic achievement and passion for life-long learning,” Long said. “I look forward to providing input on the policies and initiatives of the College so students like me who need to “Start Here and Go Further” can defy odds and soar to greater heights.”

When not transforming narratives and shaping his community, Raymond enjoys courting fiancée Colea Blann, playing with “Shuggie,” his Goldendoodle, tabletop games, taking in sports commentary and quiet spaces, and time to just “be.”

“We are looking forward to enjoying the benefit of Mr. Long’s innovative energy and vision at UA – Pulaski Tech,” said UA-PTC Chancellor Margaret Ellibee. “His leadership skills are exemplary and we are excited to see him join our Board of Visitors."