Texas A&M University-Texarkana bestowed an Honorary Doctor of Leadership degree upon distinguished business leader Sonja Yates Hubbard during its December 2024 commencement ceremony. Sonja, who made history as the first female Chairman of the National Association of Convenience Stores, served as CEO of E-Z Mart Stores for 20 years, leading the family business that operated over 500 convenience stores across five states.

Currently a Principal at Yates Group, Inc., Sonja’s commitment to community service includes co-founding the Eagle Aspire mentorship program at A&M-Texarkana. Her extensive board service spans organizations like the Federal Reserve Bank of St. Louis and Arkansas Research Alliance. Her numerous accolades include the 2023 David Pryor Award and induction into the Convenience Store Hall of Fame in 2010.

Huge congratulations to Sonja Hubbard, our former president and long-standing board member, on receiving an Honorary Doctor of Leadership degree from A&M University-Texarkana!

We are so proud of you and the incredible impact you’ve made through your leadership and service.

Read the full article on Texas A&M University-Texarkana’s recognition of Sonja Yates Hubbard.

Photo credit: Texas A&M-University Texarkana