The Class of 1938- A Class Above and Beyond
Tech's, and a nation's, Greatest Generation are summed up in the legacy of the beloved "Class of 1938," a well-tuned network of friendships and fellowships which also included alumni from several additional years. The "Class of 1938" reunions hold the national record for the longest consistently meeting alumni group.
The annual reunion was a highlight of Tech Homecoming for generations of '38 descendants, including Bill Browning, son of the late Elmo Browning. "They were always welcoming, had smiles on their faces, had spirited conversations and good food."
Among the group of close friends who organized the legendary Homecoming events for more than 70 years were the late Polly and Heartsill Bartlett. From their first kiss outside of Caraway Hall in 1936, they were committed to each other, their family and Arkansas Tech. Alumni Association President, Jim White, one of the Bartlett's nephews, has fond memories of the Class of '38 Friday night dinners hosted by his aunt and uncle. "Our whole family, their neighbors and others were involved and loved it. Even when they were no longer able to host the cookouts at their home, their Tech family was always a part of their lives."
Another coordinator of the Class of 1938 was "Miss Jeanice" Falls, now 94. The Class of '38 Homecoming Brunch was held at Falls' childhood home on Denver Street for many years. "Our class was close and we all knew the sacrifices made for our educations. It was important to us to help this generation. Tech is a lifelong family," said Falls.
Each member of the Class of 1938 made significant contributions to Arkansas Tech. We are still reaping rewards from all of them through scholarships, trusts, wills, major gifts to capital campaigns, consistent annual gifts for decades or other means of giving. They will always give back!
Only a few of the group continue to grace us with their physical presence, but they all continue to inspire and leave us aspiring to follow in their established, loving footsteps.
