Barry and Stephanie Denton of Clarksville are the recipients of the University of the Ozarks’ 2026 Community Champion Award.
The award is selected by the university administration and recognizes “an individual or company that has worked cohesively with the university to advance both the institution and the Clarksville community.” The Dentons will receive the award during the Alumni Awards Ceremony, beginning at 6 p.m. on Friday, Oct. 16, in the Rogers Conference Center as part of Homecoming 2026.
The Dentons have been married for 23 years and have five sons and two grandchildren. They own Denton’s Southern Landscaping Designs and previously owned Blossomberry Nursery.
“The Dentons have been steadfast friends and partners of University of the Ozarks for many years, consistently going above and beyond to support the University and enhance the beauty of our campus,” said Lori McBee, vice president for advancement and alumni engagement. “From helping plant trees across campus to generously sharing their time, expertise and guidance on numerous landscaping and beautification projects, they have always been willing to lend a hand whenever called upon. Their generosity and spirit of service extend well beyond College Hill, reflecting a genuine commitment to making their community a more beautiful and welcoming place.”
Barry has bachelor’s and master’s degrees in agriculture education from University of Arkansas. He also has a specialist degree in public school administration from Arkansas State University. He has served on the Johnson County Boys Club board, the Johnson County Fair board, the Panther Foundation board and Clarksville Quarterback Club board.
Stephanie has a bachelor’s degree in agriculture business from Arkansas Tech University. She is a Junior Auxiliary lifetime member, a Johnson County Boys Club director, RHS Cheer Booster Club secretary, a Johnson County 4H leader and serves on the Johnson County Fair board.
Past Community Champions include, Curran’s Abstract & Title, Horn & Son Construction, the Duffield Gravel Company, Clarksville Connected Utilities, the City of Clarksville, Arvest Bank, Arkansas Valley Electric Cooperative Corp., Doris Bird, and Ben Powell ’00.
Topics: Community Service