The stage is set for an exciting new campus event at the University of Arkansas at Monticello. On Tuesday, August 18, 2026, at 7:30 p.m., UAM will kick off the fall semester with an outdoor concert featuring country act Patrick Averill.
The event will also include yard games, refreshments and opportunities for students to connect with campus organizations and one another. The event is free and open to the UAM campus community.
The event is sponsored by UAM Student Programs and Activities. James Hanten, director of Student Programs and Activities, is responsible for bringing the concert to UAM. “I started asking students what kinds of special events they wanted to see at the university,” Hanten explained. “One of the things that kept coming up was a concert on campus.”
The last time the university held a concert for students was in 2016, when UAM alumnus and American Idol winner Trent Harmon performed at the annual UAM Crawfish Boil at the Willis “Convoy” Leslie Cotton Boll Stadium.
This year, UAM will welcome independent country artist and songwriter Patrick Averill to perform.
Hailing from Ririe, Idaho, Averill is known for blending modern country with gritty rock influences and cinematic production. Writing and producing much of his own music, he is building a sound that is uniquely his own while proudly representing Idaho’s growing country music scene. With songs such as “Another Thing Comin’” and “He Lets You Stay,” Averill’s focus is simple: deliver a high-energy show that leaves a lasting impression and creates an unforgettable experience for every audience.
“It’s gonna be a great night,” Averill said in a special video for UAM students. “Let’s say farewell to summer, and let’s have a good time. I appreciate you guys so much for having me out.”
Excitement for the concert is quickly growing as members of the UAM community step up to help make the event a success. The Missionary Baptist Student Fellowship (MBSF) on campus, for example, is applying its production expertise by volunteering to manage the staging and lighting for the show.
Dr. Landon Grimes, vice chancellor for Student Engagement, expressed his excitement for the concert, stating, “I’m hoping that the concert will build some relationships on campus with our students that’ll last them throughout the time that they’re here.”
Jessica Foxworth, associate vice chancellor for Student Engagement and dean of students, emphasized the importance of the event, stating, “We’re excited to kick off UAM Welcome Week with a concert that brings the campus community together. At UAM, creating opportunities for students to connect, build friendships and make lasting memories is just as important as their academic success. This event is about fostering school spirit, celebrating new beginnings and reminding every student that they belong here. We can’t wait to welcome everyone to an unforgettable start to the year!”
UAM is still accepting applications for the fall 2026 semester, which begins on August 19. Prospective students can attend Weevil Day on UAM’s Monticello campus on July 23 to register for fall 2026 classes and participate in an orientation designed to help them transition smoothly into university life. An RSVP link for Weevil Day is available on theUAM Admission Events webpage.
For more information about the concert, contact James Hanten athantenj@uamont.eduor 870-460-1396.
Article courtesy of the University of Arkansas at Monticello.
