Dr. Daniel Fudge

Dr. Daniel Fudge is an Assistant Professor of Political Science at the University of the Ozarks. Daniel grew up in the River Valley communities of Dover and Van Buren, before attending college at the University of Arkansas Fort Smith. Daniel would later receive his Ph.D. in Political Science from the University of Mississippi. Upon completing his graduate studies, Daniel made it his goal to return home to the state he grew up in to make a positive impact in the lives of Arkansans through civic education. Daniel has taught government and political science courses across three states and four different types of institutions. At the core of his teaching mission, Daniel believes that voter education, civic engagement, and workforce readiness are key areas that require heightened attention in the Natural State. “Preparing the next generation to be ready to step into a career and being civically responsible to your fellow citizens and communities is of the utmost importance for all Arkansans”.

Through participation in Leadership Arkansas, Fudge hopes to build lifelong bonds with fellow classmates and learn more about the state of Arkansas. In doing so, he hopes to take the knowledge and relationships gained back to help the two communities he represents – Fort Smith and Clarksville. Outside of work, Daniel enjoys hiking and walking the many trails of the River Valley, as well as golfing and fishing across the Natural State. Given his interest in the outdoors, Daniel is also a member of the Keep Arkansas Beautiful Foundation Board. An avid sports fan, he also enjoys cheering on the Northwest Arkansas Naturals and the Arkansas Travelers during the summer months. Daniel lives in Fort Smith with his wife, Meagan Bowling Fudge, a Leadership Arkansas alumna and Director of Student Information Systems at the University of Arkansas Fort Smith.