Bulletin of Dental Education Article

Caroline Sykes, M.S., has joined the Lyon College School of Dental Medicine (Lyon College SDM) as its first dedicated Philanthropy Officer, strengthening advancement efforts for the college’s new dental program in Little Rock, AR.

Mrs. Sykes brings experience in nonprofit development, operations and community engagement to the role. Before joining Lyon College, she served as a Development Coordinator and Director of Operations for a central Arkansas legal aid firm.

“Caroline’s background in development and public service, combined with her deep ties to Arkansas, make her an outstanding addition to our advancement team,” said Gina Garrett, Vice President of Advancement at Lyon College. “As the School of Dental Medicine continues to grow, her leadership will be instrumental in building meaningful philanthropic partnerships that support our students and our mission.”

A native of Arkansas, Mrs. Sykes is a graduate of the University of Arkansas. After completing her undergraduate degree, she moved abroad, where she worked as an entrepreneur and small business owner. She later returned to Little Rock to raise her family and continue her education, earning a master’s degree from the University of Arkansas Clinton School of Public Service.

“I am honored to join Lyon College at such an exciting time and to help support the school of dental medicine from the ground up,” said Mrs. Sykes. “Philanthropy plays a vital role in expanding access to education and improving community health, and I look forward to working with donors and partners who share that vision.”

Mrs. Sykes lives in downtown Little Rock with her husband, John Sykes, and their two children, Oliver and Madi.

For more information about the Lyon College SDM, please visit lyoninstitute.com.

Courtesy of Lyon College School of Dental Medicine

Published on March 11, 2026