HUTZEL NAMED 2024 OUTSTANDING ALUMNUS

Hot Springs, Arkansas – National Park College (NPC) named Sarah Hutzel as the 2024 Outstanding Alumnus during the annual Employee Recognition Day celebration this month.

Hutzel, who currently holds the position of senior vice president of commercial lending at Arvest Bank, has been a part of the Arvest family since 2009. With over 18 years of experience in the banking sector, she has made significant contributions to the industry, particularly in overseeing a robust commercial loan portfolio. Prior to lending, Hutzel was a senior credit analyst and served as the chair of the credit analyst peer group for the four-state bank group.

The foundation of Hutzel’s educational and professional journey was laid at the National Park Technology Center, now known as the National Park College Career Academy. There, she completed an Advertising Design program and was awarded a Promise Scholarship. She continued her education at NPC, earning an associate degree in liberal studies, and later earned a bachelor’s in business administration and a master’s in business administration through the Henderson State University Transfer Scholarship.

Hutzel is a graduate of Leadership Hot Springs and the Leadership in Banking Academy hosted by the Arkansas Bankers Association and Walton College Executive Education. Her leadership background includes mentorship and supervision of commercial banker trainees, credit analysts, and serving on various advisory committees.

A lifelong resident of Hot Springs, Hutzel’s commitment to her hometown is reflected in her extensive community involvement. She serves as chair of Ouachita Children, Youth, and Family Services, founding co-chair of the Hot Springs Women’s Leadership Alliance, treasurer of Leadership Hot Springs, and is an active participant in the Lake Hamilton PTO and Parent and Family Engagement Committee.

Her recent appointments include joining Hot Springs Fifty for the Future and the Henderson State University School of Business – Business Advisory Council. Hutzel’s leadership is further validated by her graduation from Leadership Hot Springs and the Leadership in Banking Academy, hosted by the Arkansas Bankers Association and Walton College Executive Education.

The NPC community proudly recognizes Hutzel’s achievements and contributions, both in banking and in nurturing the growth and development of Hot Springs. Her dedication to excellence and service makes her a deserving recipient of the 2024 Outstanding Alumnus Award. 

“Being named Outstanding Alumnus is a true honor. My journey with NPC began in high school and continued through my associate degree. With my mom and sister as alumni and my stepson soon to graduate, NPC holds a place in our hearts. Witnessing its growth and expansion has been incredibly rewarding. My mother and I have both taught as adjunct faculty at different times and she now serves on the National Park College Board of Trustees, something I hope to have the opportunity to do someday. NPC has been a part of my family’s history, and I am grateful to be named Outstanding Alumnus,” said Hutzel.  

National Park College was established in 1973 and is located in Hot Springs, Arkansas. The College enrolls over 7,000 credit and noncredit students per year. NPC is a comprehensive two-year institution offering associate degrees and certificates as well as continuing education, community services and workforce training. 

Click here to visit the NPC website.