Talking with UALR alumni Christian O'Neal and Chasse Conque
June 13-19, 2016
Submitted by Derek Boyce, UALR director of annual giving and alumni membership
Recently, a select group of alumni from the University of Arkansas at Little Rock were recognized by Arkansas Business, in their annual “40 under 40.” Derek Boyce, the director of annual giving and alumni membership for UALR, caught up with this group and shared insights from those chats. This is the first in a series, which the Daily Record will run over the next few weeks.
Christian O’Neal: Bachelor of Business, 2001
Christian, when you were at UALR, what subject provided the best learning experience for you? I always look back first on some really good advice that Bill Rutherford an adjunct professor in the Radio, TV and Film Department gave. What Bill said struck me. He advised me to always have a fund to fall back on in case you need to walk away from a job because you’ve been instructed to do something that goes against your principles. He was talking to a Mass Media and Society Class about ethics in journalism that I was taking my freshmen year. It’s a message that I still try to share with students that come visit about making career choices or alumni when they are thinking about changing theirs. When you’ve got something like a cushion or fund to fall back on it gives you freedom to make the best choices for you and your profession.
Are there any opportunities you feel a new college graduate should explore? Far too many college graduates miss out on wonderful opportunities by not staying connected in some way with their alma mater. You’ve heard the phrase “never close a door” well that applies here. I look at the graduates who remain active in support of UALR they are some of the most successful people in their communities and chosen fields. I am a big believer in keeping in touch with the individuals who’ve helped make and shape me. Explore new opportunities and keep all doors wide open!
Was there something enjoyable in your past you wish you could do once again? The Cubs seem to be having a remarkably good start to the season. If they make it to October I want to be at Wrigley for the action in the fall instead of only the spring/summer.
Is there any one thing you would like to take the time to learn more about? Golf. A good friend once told me that my game would benefit from some ‘technology’. That was about the funniest thing ever said. He was absolutely right. Technology and a lot of practice could only help my game. I really enjoy playing.
Is there any advice you would give to a person who is starting out in your chosen career? Find someone that you want to emulate. Let that person mentor you. Don’t be afraid to ask questions of them and make mistakes. Own it and learn from it, dust off, and don’t make them again. Then, position yourself to help someone else along the line who is just starting out in his or her career. Also, get involved in support of an organization or community group that you can help with your time and talents.
Looking at all the people in history, what person would you say you respect the most? I’m a Harry S. Truman fan. The man had true grit and it takes that to get things done.
When all is said and done, and the final chapter is written on your life, what is the most memorable thing you’ve done which you would like to have carved on your tombstone? If you are looking for a phrase or phrases I would want mine just to say, “A generous person will prosper; whoever refreshes others will be refreshed.” That’s been my mantra with “Don’t grow weary of doing good, for at the right time you will reap a harvest - if you don’t give up!”
What is the one quality you feel best describes you? Anyone reading this that knows me will say that I’m stubborn. So, I might as well just lay that out there.
If you weren’t in this profession, what do you see yourself doing? It’s so unusual for anyone to have a career at one place for a prolonged period of time now days. I’ve been so fortunate for the last 11 or 12 years to work with outstanding volunteers and for some wonderful people at UALR. They’ve made our success possible in every way. It’s hard to say what I would be doing, but I’d want to do whatever else with the same good people. I do know that!
What do you do to escape? The best escape for me is spending time with my family. I have a beautiful wife, Julie, and three kids, Mason (11), McKinley (6), and Beckett (4). We all enjoy going to the pool to unwind at the end of a hot summer day. That’s really the best thing aside from a prolonged vacation to an amusement park or beach somewhere recharge and make new memories.
Chasse Conque: Master of Business Administration, 2009
Chasse, when you were at UALR, what subject provided the best learning experience for you? I had a great educational experience while pursuing my MBA in UALR’s College of Business. It will be hard to isolate one course, but Corporate Finance taught me a lot … and was one of the toughest courses during my studies!
Are there any opportunities you feel a new college graduate should explore? If you are interested in pursuing a post-graduate degree, I would strongly suggest looking at a graduate assistantship or internship. These jobs provide great learning and networking opportunities, which will help set you up for success in the long run.
Was there something enjoyable in your past you wish you could do once again? Yes - experience the Trojans winning 30 games, a Sun Belt Conference Championship and making a run in the NCAA tournament!
Is there any one thing you would like to take the time to learn more about? I enjoy American history and, in particular, presidential history. I like learning about our country’s leaders, their leadership styles and what made them (and their administration) successful.
Is there any advice you would give to a person who is starting out in your chosen career? Like any profession, you must be dedicated and persistent. I would suggest finding a mentor early in your career who can open doors for you in the future.
Looking at all the people in history, what person would you say you respect the most? Along the lines of American history, I would say Ronald Reagan. He was a great leader; effective communicator and he seemed to enjoy life even in one of the most demanding and all-consuming roles as president.
When all is said and done, and the final chapter is written on your life, what is the most memorable thing you’ve done which you would like to have carved on your tombstone? I would want to be remembered as someone who cared for others and someone who “walked the walk.”
What is the one quality you feel best describes you? I feel I am a good listener.
If you weren’t in this profession, what do you see yourself doing? If I was not in intercollegiate athletics, I think you would find me on a college campus somewhere working in an external role. I enjoy helping bridge the university to the community at-large. Higher education can have a tremendous impact and serve many needs within our communities.
What do you do to escape? My family and friends provide a great escape for me. When I come home in the evening, I am greeted by three beautiful little girls who could care less about the day’s problems – all they know is “Daddy’s home!”
PHOTO CAPTION
UALR Director of Athletics Chasse Conque (left) and UALR Vice Chancellor for Advancement Christian O’Neal. (Photo submitted by Derek Boyce)
