The University of Arkansas has selected Michelle Hargis Wolfe, a Little Rock native, as its first chief people officer, effective Feb. 1, 2023. She’s joining the university after spending nearly 20 years with Walmart, Inc., including time leading human resources for several large divisions.
“Michelle has a long track record supporting large and complex organizations, making data-based decisions, leading transformational change and contributing to a strong culture,” said Ann Bordelon, executive vice chancellor for finance and administration. “Her expertise and experience will enrich our university, and ultimately further our efforts to become an employer of choice.”
At Walmart, Hargis Wolfe served as a senior director for Enterprise Business Services, where she oversaw supplier onboarding, master data management strategy and operations, and realty construction contract and project management. Prior to that, she spent 10 years heading HR operations for Walmart Finance, Global Shared Services, International Logistics, Global Innovations and Global Business Processes.
With a Juris Doctor degree, she contributed to increasing diverse representation at a local law firm in Denver, as well as growing Walmart’s partnerships with minority-owned law firms and general contractors in her roles with the retailer.
Hargis Wolfe earned her Bachelor of Arts from the University of Arkansas after graduating from Little Rock Central High School. She received her master’s and doctorate degrees from the University of Denver.
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