People and places

New specialist joins Hope

Hope Cancer Resources now has a certified cancer exercise specialist on staff. Hannah Waggener, CPT, CES, the organization’s wellness specialist, has been on staff a year and recently achieved her cancer exercise specialist certification from the Cancer Exercise Training Institute through the American Council on Exercise. Her new certification allows Hope Cancer Resources to provide improved individualized fitness-related care to local cancer patients, survivors and caregivers.

“We know that cancer causes emotional and physical trauma to a person’s mind and body. For over 30 years, Hope Cancer Resources has provided comprehensive cancer support services to ensure a better quality of life for patients in Northwest Arkansas. The physical health part is where I step in,” Waggener said. “I quickly realized after becoming a certified personal trainer that our patients needed me to understand their bodies’ trauma at that same emotional level. My certification as a cancer exercise specialist has helped me connect with my clients to better understand their cancer, treatment and recovery process. Ultimately this helps me to develop a strategic exercise program to meet their health and fitness goals.”

Physical activity during and after cancer treatment can benefit survivors in a number of ways. According to the American Cancer Society, research suggests that for at least four different cancers, survivors who exercise “have a lower risk of cancer recurrence and improved survival compared with those who are inactive.” Regular physical activity can also improve anxiety and depression, and reduce cancer-related fatigue, which according to the National Cancer Institute is the most common side effect of treatment.

Waggener provides wellness consultations and personal training sessions free of cost through the Hope Cancer Resources Wellness Center for Hope. Call (479) 361-5847 to set up a consultation.

Swartout named dean

Dr. Jennifer Swartout has been named the new dean of the communication and arts division at Northwest Arkansas Community College. Swartout, previously dean of humanities at Illinois Central College in East Peoria, Ill., holds a doctorate of educational administration and foundations from Illinois State University.

Dr. Ricky Tompkins, vice president of learning and chief academic officer at NWACC, said of her selection, “Dr. Swartout brings a wealth of experience to NWACC and the Division of Communication and Arts. I am excited about the great opportunities and experiences ahead for our students under her leadership.”

Clark works at festival

Maggie Clark (BFA Wig and Makeup Design ‘21), of Bentonville is working as a Wig Runner for the Utah Shakespeare Festival this summer. The Utah Shakespeare Festival is a destination theater that presents life-affirming classical and contemporary plays and musicals, in rotating repertory, and interactive experiences. All of their work is intended to entertain, educate and enrich regional and national audiences.

Courtesy photo Carl and Joan Long received St. Bernard Council 9514’s Knights of Columbus Family of the Year Award on May 19 from Deputy Grand Knight Mike Young in the St. Bernard Parish Hall. The Longs are active in the Knights of Columbus Council and 4th Degree Assembly functions. Carl is active in council events, regularly attends council meetings and serves as an officer in the 4th Degree. Joan is active in the St. Bernard Women’s Organization and uses her crafting skills to create works of seasonal art, many designed with whimsy. Carl uses his wood crafting skills to keep the kitchen drawers functional and builds merchandising props for display of the women’s organization’s finished crafts at the holiday bazaar.