Little Rock, Arkansas – Governor Sarah Huckabee Sanders has appointed Randy Lawson to the University of Arkansas Board of Trustees, filling the seat previously held by Tommy Boyer, who recently passed away. Lawson’s term will extend until March 1, 2027, bringing his extensive business expertise, leadership experience, and passion for education to the board.
Governor Sanders expressed confidence in Lawson’s ability to make a significant impact on higher education in Arkansas.
“Randy is a champion for Arkansas education, a great businessman, and a lifelong Razorback,” said Governor Sanders. “I am honored to have him serve on the University of Arkansas’ Board of Trustees and continue his decades of service to our state. He is a close friend and I know he will help my administration spearhead our plans to make Arkansas’ higher education system better and more accessible to all.”
Lawson, a lifelong supporter of the University of Arkansas, shared his enthusiasm for the appointment.
“I am truly honored that Governor Sanders offered me the opportunity to serve my alma mater, the University of Arkansas, on the Board of Trustees,” Lawson said. “I have been a Razorback my entire life and look forward to continuing to support my university. I am also looking forward to working with the current Board of Trustees and the entire leadership team at the U of A system to further the mission and strive for excellence in everything.”
A Proven Leader in Business and Education
Lawson is a successful entrepreneur engaged in energy development, real estate investments, and venture capital. In 1985, he founded Lawco Energy Group, later expanding into real estate and technology-driven investments. His extensive business career also includes management roles at Gulf Oil Corporation in Houston and New Orleans.
Lawson is deeply involved in leadership and governance within Arkansas. He currently serves on the Arvest Bank Benton County Board of Directors and has held leadership roles with Mercy Hospital Northwest Arkansas, Aspen Heights, and Economics Arkansas. He also serves as an advisor to the Geosciences Advisory Board within the College of Arts and Science and as an executive advisor to the Dean of the Sam M. Walton College of Business at the University of Arkansas.
A Strong Advocate for Education and Public Service
Lawson’s contributions to Arkansas education and public service span decades. He was appointed by then-Governor Mike Huckabee to serve on the Arkansas State Board of Education, where he held positions as Chairman and Vice Chairman during his six-year term. Additionally, he was elected to the Northwest Arkansas Community College Board of Directors, serving as Trustee and Secretary.
Lawson also dedicated ten years to the Bentonville Public Schools Board of Education, including two years as President. He has served on the Excellerate Foundation Board of Directors and contributed to numerous civic, professional, and nonprofit organizations over the past thirty years.
Governor Sanders also appointed Lawson as a Commissioner on the Arkansas Oil and Gas Commission, where he continues to serve. In addition, he holds a position on the Board of Directors of Business Executives for National Security.
A Lifetime of Service to Arkansas and the Razorback Community
A graduate of the University of Arkansas with a B.S.B.A in Economics and Geology (1981), Lawson was also a former Razorback football player under Coach Frank Broyles and Coach Lou Holtz. In 2024, the Sam M. Walton College of Business honored him with the Lifetime Achievement Award for his contributions to business and education.
Lawson and his wife, Valorie, have been married for over forty-three years and are active members of Cross Church. They have two children, Aaron and Rachel, and four grandchildren. Both of his children work within the family office, continuing the legacy of leadership and business success.
With a strong background in business, education, and public service, Lawson’s appointment is expected to enhance the University of Arkansas Board of Trustees and support the state’s commitment to higher education excellence.
