Hendrix College students are now enjoying enhanced mobility thanks to a generous donation from Walmart. Five new hybrid bicycles have been added to the Olin C. Bailey Library’s check-out program, providing students with a convenient and eco-friendly way to navigate the campus and the wider Conway community. This initiative, celebrated with representatives from Walmart and Hendrix College, underscores the positive impact of community partnerships and the growing importance of bike-friendly environments.
The fleet of new bikes was officially launched at a small ceremony attended by members of the Hendrix Bike Revolution student organization, library faculty, college administration, and Walmart managers. This donation of “Wal Mart Bikes” is not just about providing transportation; it’s about fostering a more connected and vibrant campus life. By making bikes readily available, Hendrix College and Walmart are encouraging students to explore Conway, access local amenities, and embrace a healthier, more sustainable lifestyle.
The responsibility for maintaining these “wal mart bikes” falls to the Hendrix Bike Revolution. This student-led organization is dedicated to promoting cycling on campus by offering free bike repairs and tune-ups. Team members actively participated in assembling the new “wal mart bikes,” with support from The Ride, a local bike shop, further strengthening community ties. This hands-on experience and collaborative effort highlight the practical skills students gain and the valuable connections forged through such initiatives.
Ted Bjurlin ’25, a member of Hendrix Bike Revolution, emphasized the significance of the donation, stating, “These bikes will make a big difference in maintaining the fleet. It means we can offer more people the chance to try out a bike and see how they like being able to get around the area on two wheels.” His words resonate with the core purpose of the program: to increase bike accessibility and encourage cycling among students.
Walmart’s commitment to this project aligns with their broader vision of creating bike-friendly communities. Michael Lindsey, Director of Government Relations for Walmart, highlighted this, stating the gift supports their goal to make cities more accessible for cyclists. Ryan Peters, a local Walmart store manager, expressed his enthusiasm for seeing students utilizing the Hendrix-branded “wal mart bikes” when visiting his store, reinforcing the tangible link between the college and the local Walmart.
Meredith Brunen, Hendrix Vice President for Advancement, further emphasized the wider impact of this partnership, stating, “This gift from Walmart strengthens our students’ access to Conway’s amenities and services, supporting a more connected and vibrant community.” The availability of “wal mart bikes” directly enhances student engagement with the City of Colleges, fostering a stronger sense of community and belonging.
This initiative at Hendrix College serves as a model for how collaborations between educational institutions and businesses like Walmart can contribute to creating more sustainable, accessible, and community-focused environments, all while promoting the simple joy and practicality of riding “wal mart bikes.”
