99 Yarnell’s Taste Testing Yarnell’s new ice cream flavor debuted at Harding. We All Scream For Ice Cream Yarnell’s Ice Cream, a staple on Harding campus, was founded in Searcy in 1932, just two years before Harding moved to Searcy from Morrilton. Many students enjoyed their ice cream in the cafeteria and at special events. The company expanded their reach to the classroom on Nov. 5 through the cooking lab offered in the Olen Hendrix Building. They gave students a brief lesson on Yarnell history. The students of the class also received the opportunity to taste the two variations of a Harding-themed ice cream flavor that a student helped create in a contest during the 2023–24 school year. “They had us rate flavor, texture and appearance on a 9-point hedonic scale,” sophomore Hannah Woodard said. The students also assisted workshopping the ice cream flavor. “We got to try different ratios of caramel and brownie in the ice cream to get the perfect amount of sweetness,” sophomore Ella George said. Yarnell’s gave the students the opportunity to explain which flavor was their favorite. The students offered their feedback and suggested changes and improvements to their chosen flavors. “I provided feedback about what I liked and disliked from both ice cream flavors and suggestions about possible changes,” Woodard said. This event provided a local business with local feedback on their products. It also allowed students to participate in and connect with the Searcy community. “I thought this was super enjoyable and a great way to get the students’ opinions directly,” Woodard said. “I especially enjoyed the opportunity to learn about one of Searcy’s local businesses and hear about their success.” The students in the cooking lab appreciated the experience and thought the ice cream was delicious. “Being a taste tester was so fun,” sophomore Emmi Calloway said. “The ice cream was some of the best ice cream I’ve ever had.” Yarnell’s and Bison Hospitality planned for the Harding ice cream flavor, “Bison Tracks,” to be available in the cafeteria and select catered events beginning in spring 2025. Written by Aubrey Hudkins CONTEST CLOSE-UP Writing down their votes, students choose which ice cream flavor was the best. The flavor was named “Bison Tracks” after the contest was over. Photo courtesy of Edgar Cardiel
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