In the news
February 2-8, 2026
Mitchell Williams welcomes new associates
Mitchell, Williams, Selig, Gates & Woodyard, P.L.L.C. is pleased to announce the newest members of its distinguished legal team. Associates W. Austin Clements and Sydney Santa Ana have joined the firm’s Little Rock office, and Bethany Michaun has joined the firm’s office in Rogers. Each brings a commitment to delivering outstanding service and strategic solutions for valued clients.
Clements practices commercial litigation and intellectual property law, representing diverse clients and industries in business and IP matters.
He has experience before the U.S. Patent and Trademark Office, Trademark Trial & Appeal Board, World Intellectual Property Organization, and U.S. District Court. Before joining Mitchell Williams, he was a trademark associate at a boutique Washington, DC intellectual property firm. He earned his Juris Doctor from American University Washington College of Law and is a graduate of Ouachita Baptist University with a Bachelor of Arts in both history and social justice studies.
Santa Ana practices law in bankruptcy and debtor-creditor relations. Her prior experience as a legal services specialist provides her with valuable insight into the regulatory and administrative processes. She earned a Juris Doctor, cum laude, from UA Little Rock William H. Bowen School of Law in May 2025, and a Bachelor of Arts in public health and a Bachelor of Science in biology from Drew University.
Michau handles complex litigation matters across diverse fields and manages both residential and commercial real estate transactions. She brings hands-on trial experience and valuable support to the litigation team where she assists in managing complex caseloads from initial pleadings through resolution. Prior to joining Mitchell Williams, Bethany was in private practice. She earned a Juris Doctor, magna cum laude, from the University of Arkansas School of Law in and holds a Bachelor of Arts in corporate communication from Baylor University.
Clinton School accepting Practicum, Capstone project proposals
By Angie Faller
The Office of Field Service at the Clinton School of Public Service is accepting Practicum and Capstone project proposals for the 2026-27 academic year. Proposals will be accepted through June 1.
The Practicum program, the first of three field service requirements, pairs first-year student teams with Arkansas organizations to apply classroom skills through projects such as community-engaged research, program planning, and needs assessments. These partnerships provide students with essential field experience while delivering high-level strategic value to public agencies and nonprofits throughout the state.
The Capstone project is an in-depth, independent initiative where a second-year student partners with a local, national, or international organization. Under the guidance of a Clinton School faculty advisor, students leverage their “versatile professional toolkit” to transform complex systems and produce high-level deliverables that meet specific community needs.
“Our Capstone and Practicum partnerships are a cornerstone of the Clinton School experience,” said Rachel Norris, Director of Domestic Programs. “These projects allow organizations to increase their capacity through innovative research and strategic deliverables, while our students gain invaluable on-the-ground experience leading to meaningful change.”
Field service projects allow organizations to leverage student expertise to tackle complex challenges, resulting in actionable solutions and long-term benefits. Partners benefit from fresh perspectives and dedicated support that advances their mission through strategic deliverables designed to create lasting social impact.
Information Sessions for Prospective Partners
The Office of Field Service will host two information sessions for nonprofits, government agencies, businesses, and foundations interested in becoming a field service partner. Fill out the information session form to register for one of the February sessions.
Little Rock Session Thursday, Feb. 5 11 a.m. – 12 p.m.
Clinton School of Public Service, Sturgis Hall
1200 President Clinton Ave., Little Rock, AR 72201
Online Session Thursday, Feb. 12 12:30-1:30 p.m.
Zoom link will be provided upon registration.
To learn more about the field service model and view examples of successful partnerships, please visit the Capstone webpage and the Practicum webpage.
For additional information on field service projects, please contact Norris at rnorris@clintonschool.uasys.edu.
Photo Cutlines:
1. W. Austin Clements
2. Bethany Michaun
