LOWELL, Ark. — J.B. Hunt Transport Services, a leading supply chain solutions providers in North America, and the University of Arkansas have announced a new $2.25 million collaboration with the Sam M. Walton College of Business that will increase awareness of inclusion and diversity in transportation and logistics and explore new, sustainable solutions to address current and potential industry challenges.
“The transportation industry has changed so much in the last decade that fresh, innovative thinking is necessary for developing modern solutions,” said John Roberts, president and CEO of J.B. Hunt. “Through this collaboration, we will help educate and promote the value of an inclusive workplace, one that respects the individual and creates a welcoming environment for all ideas, values and beliefs.”
To support the new collaboration, J.B. Hunt will provide an incremental gift of $1.5 million to the University of Arkansas and reallocate $750,000 from the J.B. Hunt Innovation Center of Excellence, an ongoing effort between the two to improve supply chain management efficiency through technology.
Two funds benefitting the Department of Supply Chain Management in the Walton College have been established that outline the direction for each initiative:
- J.B. Hunt Transport Services Inclusion Education and Thought Leadership Fund, a $1.25 million contribution, will assist the college’s staffing and collaboration efforts that advocate for the diversity, equity and inclusion in the industry.
- J.B. Hunt Transport Services Sustainable Supply Chain Management Research, Innovation and Education Fund, a $1 million contribution, will support educational pursuits that pertain to sustainable business practices and encourage engagement among industry experts to address environmental, social and corporate governance issues.
“The leaders throughout J.B. Hunt are committed to the growth of their people because they understand that those people will innovate business models and mechanisms that will keep the company ahead of its competition,” said Matt Waller, dean of the Sam M. Walton College of Business. “J.B. Hunt’s willingness to innovate stretches far beyond its walls and impacts the entire economy.”
