At Southern Arkansas University Tech (SAU Tech), we believe in shining a light on those who make a difference behind the scenes -- the unsung heroes of our community. These individuals dedicate their time, energy, and compassion to uplifting others without seeking recognition. The Betty J. Lewis Memorial Scholarship was created to honor such individuals, recognizing selfless service, quiet leadership, and unwavering dedication to education and community.

What is an Unsung Hero?

An unsung hero is someone who makes powerful contributions to the lives of others without expecting praise. They lead with humility, serve with heart, and make a lasting impact through dedication and compassion. At SAU Tech, this spirit is embodied in the legacy of Betty J. Lewis, whose life and work continue to inspire generations.

The Betty J. Lewis Memorial Scholarship is awarded to an individual who demonstrates:

• Selfless Service: A commitment to helping others and actively engaging with the community.

• Leadership Without the Spotlight: A person who inspires and leads by example, not for recognition, but because it's the right thing to do.

Each month, the SAU Tech Scholarship committee carefully reviews nominations and selects one individual who best represents these values.

july's Unsung Hero

At Southern Arkansas University Tech, we are proud to recognize individuals whose dedication, leadership, and service create lasting impacts throughout South Arkansas communities. This month, we celebrate a woman whose passion for education, commitment to children, and devotion to families have made her a respected leader in Camden and beyond.

Through nearly two decades of service in education, youth development, and childcare leadership, Erica Moore Sumler has become a trusted advocate for children and families across South Arkansas. Her journey reflects the values of compassion, lifelong learning, community involvement, and an unwavering belief in the power of education to transform lives.

A Foundation Built on Education and Service

As a lifelong resident of South Arkansas, Erica Moor Sumler has always been deeply connected to her community and committed to helping others succeed. Raised by Rev. and Mrs. Eddie R. Moore Jr., she learned the importance of faith, service, and investing in the lives of others from an early age.

These values would become the foundation of a career dedicated to nurturing young minds and supporting families throughout the region.

Today, Mrs. Sumler is a devoted wife to Eddie Sumler, proud mother of Kasi Moore and Coach Christian Jefferson, and loving grandmother to Kashmir, Kali, and Kyson. Her family remains at the heart of everything she does and serves as a constant source of inspiration for her work with children and families.

A Lifelong Commitment to Learning

Education has always been central to Mrs. Sumler's mission.

After graduating from Camden Senior High School, she continued her academic journey at the University of Arkansas at Pine Bluff, where she earned a Bachelor of Science Degree in Elementary Education and completed additional studies in Early Childhood Education.

During her time at UAPB, she actively participated in campus life as a member of the Vesper Choir and was honored with the distinction of being named Miss Vesper—an achievement that reflected both her leadership and dedication to excellence.

Her educational experiences provided the foundation for a career focused on helping children develop academically, socially, and emotionally.

Nearly Two Decades of Educational Excellence

For approximately 18 years, Mrs. Sumler served as an elementary educator in El Dorado, Arkansas, where she became known for creating engaging classroom environments that encouraged student growth and achievement.

Throughout her teaching career, she developed innovative learning experiences designed to meet the needs of diverse learners while fostering confidence, creativity, and a love for learning.

Her commitment extended beyond academics. She worked closely with parents, administrators, and fellow educators to ensure students received the support they needed to succeed both inside and outside the classroom.

Through her dedication, countless children gained the skills, encouragement, and educational foundation necessary for future success.

Leading the Next Generation Through Faith

Mrs. Sumler's passion for youth development extends beyond the classroom.

As Youth Director for New Beginning Family Ministries, she has provided mentorship, guidance, and leadership opportunities for young people within the church and community

Through educational programs, youth activities, and special events, she has helped foster spiritual growth, personal development, and leadership skills among the next generation.

Her ability to connect with young people and inspire positive growth has made her a valued role model for many families throughout the area.

Building a Safe and Nurturing Environment for Children

In 2022, Mrs. Sumler took her commitment to children and families to a new level by founding The Gingerbread House Daycare in Camden, Arkansas.

As Founder and Director, she established the childcare center with a clear vision: to provide high-quality childcare services in a safe, nurturing, and enriching environment where young children can learn, grow, and thrive.

Since opening its doors, The Gingerbread House Daycare has become a trusted resource for working families throughout the Camden community.

Leadership Responsibilities

• Managing daily childcare operations

• Developing educational programs and activities

• Overseeing staff leadership and training

• Ensuring compliance with state childcare standards

• Building strong relationships with families

• Supporting community partnerships and outreach initiatives

Through her leadership, the daycare continues to provide quality early childhood education while helping parents balance the demands of work and family life.

A Passion for Children and Families

What sets Mrs. Sumler apart is her genuine commitment to supporting the whole family.

Whether teaching in the classroom, mentoring youth, or leading a childcare center, her focus has always been on creating opportunities that help children succeed while providing encouragement and resources for parents.

Areas of Expertise

• Early Childhood Education

• Child Development

• Family Engagement

• Educational Program Development

• Classroom Management

• Curriculum Planning

• Community Outreach

• Staff Leadership and Supervision

• Program Administration

• Regulatory Compliance

These skills have enabled her to build meaningful relationships and make a lasting difference in the lives of countless children and families throughout South Arkansas.

A Vision for the Future

Mrs. Sumler's work is far from complete.

Driven by her passion for early childhood education and community service, she envisions expanding The Gingerbread House Daycare into a larger facility capable of serving even more children and families throughout Camden and the surrounding region.

Her goal is to continue providing high-quality childcare and educational opportunities while strengthening family support services and creating a lasting impact for future generations.

Inspiring Future Generations

Erica Moore Sumler's story is one of dedication, leadership, and service. Through nearly two decades in education, her commitment to youth development, and her vision for quality childcare in South Arkansas, she has consistently invested in the lives of others.

Her work reminds us that Unsung Heroes are often those who quietly shape the future by nurturing children, empowering families, and strengthening communities one life at a time.

Through every student encouraged, ever family supported, and every child cared for, Mrs. Sumler continues to leave a lasting legacy throughout Camden and South Arkansas.

Southern Arkansas University Tech proudly recognizes Erica Moore Sumler as our June Unsung Hero—a dedicated educator, childcare leader, and community advocate whose impact will continue to inspire generations to come.