Forty Under 40: Peggy Deon Boyles

Peggy Boyles, 39, came to Fayetteville because of the University of Arkansas architecture program, but the career she embarked upon lets her help build relationships instead of buildings.

Boyles is from DeQueen, and started working for the UA while she was taking courses. Along the way, she discovered a love for development.
“My career as a fundraiser began in October 2002 during the Campaign for the 21st Century, where I was critical in Walton College’s success in raising over $223 million,” she said.

One challenge at work is educating people about Student Affairs.

“Our programs are designed to enhance the outside classroom experience for all students, and to keep students and alumni connected,” she said.
Boyles is also involved in a variety of community programs, including the Fayetteville Chamber of Commerce Small Business Committee, the Junior League of Northwest Arkansas and Ozark Deaf Connections.

She has a 17-year-old daughter who is deaf, and will be going to college soon. After her daughter graduates high school, Boyles plans to go back to college, first for an MBA and then for a doctorate in higher education administration.

“I want my daughter to see me working hard and to get that same ethic,” Boyles said.