JONESBORO, Ark. – Thousands of Arkansas State University alumni and supporters gathered on campus Saturday to celebrate Homecoming, an annual event that reignites school spirit and community pride. For 2023 graduate Ivanna Cuadra, the festivities carried special significance as a moment to reflect on her personal journey through college and beyond.
Cuadra, who now works in the medical field at St. Bernards Healthcare in Jonesboro, pursued her degree during a period defined by the challenges of the COVID-19 pandemic. She adapted to remote learning, pushing through the obstacles to successfully complete her education.
"Through all of that, it actually helped me with my degree and actually gave me a little bit more passion for what I wanted to do," Cuadra said, explaining how the unique hardships of pandemic-era coursework ultimately deepened her commitment to healthcare.
Now caring for patients across Northeast Arkansas, Cuadra says her connection to the university and its community remains strong. Reflecting on her time as a student and her return to campus for Homecoming, she noted a growing sense of pride.
"I feel like there’s so much more pride," she said. "The community has just grown so much and has gotten more proud of Jonesboro and the Red Wolves."
The Homecoming festivities highlighted that school spirit, drawing crowds of Red Wolves fans for a day of reunions, tailgating, and celebrations. For Cuadra, it was a chance to recognize both personal growth and the strength of the A-State community.