Little Rock, Arkansas – Governor Sarah Huckabee Sanders announced today the appointment of Randy Lawson to the University of Arkansas Board of Trustees. This appointment fills the seat once held by Tommy Boyer, who recently passed away. Lawson’s term on the board is set to expire on March 1, 2027.
In a statement, Governor Sanders expressed her confidence in Lawson’s ability to serve the university with distinction, emphasizing his strong ties to Arkansas and his deep commitment to education. “Randy is a champion for Arkansas education, a great businessman, and a lifelong Razorback,” Governor Sanders said. “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.”
Randy Lawson, a businessman and entrepreneur with decades of experience, has always been deeply involved in both the local business community and public service. In his own words, Lawson expressed his gratitude and excitement about 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. I have been a Razorback my entire life and look forward to continuing to support my university,” he said. “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 longtime advocate for education, Randy Lawson brings a wealth of experience and leadership to his new role. He is well known for his entrepreneurial work in energy development, real estate, and venture capital investment. In 1985, Lawson founded the Lawco Energy Group, which became the cornerstone of his diversified business ventures, including several real estate companies and affiliated investment groups. His work with Lawco reflects a commitment to utilizing cutting-edge technology to drive innovation and mitigate risk, essential qualities for the industries he serves.
Before his appointment to the University of Arkansas Board of Trustees, Lawson held several leadership positions in business and public service. He previously worked for Gulf Oil Corporation in Houston and New Orleans, where he honed his management skills. Lawson has also been actively involved in numerous organizations, including the Independent Petroleum Association of America, where he is a long-time member and several other professional and civic groups.
One of Lawson’s notable leadership roles includes his past service as the Chairman of Mercy Hospital Northwest Arkansas and his work as the Chairman of Economics Arkansas. He also serves as an executive advisor to the Dean of the Sam M. Walton College of Business at the University of Arkansas, where his guidance is highly regarded. Additionally, he has contributed his expertise as an advisor to the Geosciences Advisory Board within the College of Arts and Science at the U of A.
Lawson’s involvement in education extends beyond the university level. He previously served as the Chairman and Vice Chairman of the Arkansas State Board of Education, where he was appointed by Governor Mike Huckabee for a six-year term. His leadership in education continued at the local level when he served for ten years on the Bentonville Public Schools Board of Education, including two years as president.
In his current capacity, Lawson is a Commissioner on the Arkansas Oil and Gas Commission, a position to which he was appointed by Governor Sanders. He also serves on the Board of Directors of Business Executives for National Security, further demonstrating his commitment to both business and public service.
Randy Lawson’s lifetime of service to his community, state, and alma mater has earned him widespread recognition. In 2024, he was honored with the Lifetime Achievement Award from the Sam M. Walton College of Business at the University of Arkansas. Lawson’s impact on education and his community is underscored by his volunteer work, which includes coaching more than thirty youth sports teams across multiple disciplines, such as baseball, basketball, soccer, and football.
A graduate of the University of Arkansas, Lawson earned his B.S.B.A. with an emphasis in Economics and Geology in 1981. During his time at the university, he was also a former Razorback football player under the guidance of Coaches Frank Broyles and Lou Holtz. He and his wife, Valorie, have been married for over 43 years and are active members of Cross Church. They have two children, Aaron and Rachel, both of whom work within the family office, as well as four grandchildren.
As Lawson begins his tenure on the University of Arkansas Board of Trustees, his experience, dedication, and long-standing connection to the university are expected to play a key role in shaping the future of the institution. Governor Sanders’ trust in Lawson reflects his reputation as a reliable and passionate advocate for higher education and the people of Arkansas.
With a wealth of leadership experience across both business and education, Randy Lawson is poised to make a significant impact on the University of Arkansas Board of Trustees. As he works alongside the board and university leadership, Lawson’s commitment to excellence and his longstanding support for his alma mater are certain to drive positive change and innovation within the U of A system.
