ANC One of Eighteen Nationwide Recipients of the Metallica Scholars Initiative Grant

 

Bytheville, Arkansas – Arkansas Northeastern College has announced its selection as one of 18 nationwide recipients this year to join the prestigious Metallica Scholars Initiative (MSI). This honor comes as part of the largest expansion of the initiative to date, supported by a generous $75,000 grant aimed at enhancing the technical programs offered by ANC to better prepare citizens for the growing workforce in the region.  

“We are thrilled to be part of the Metallica Scholars Initiative and to receive this generous support,” said Dr. Christopher Heigle, president of Arkansas Northeastern College. “This grant will significantly enhance our ability to provide top-notch career and technical education, opening new doors of opportunity for our students. The impact of this initiative is profound, and we are excited to see our students thrive in their chosen fields.”

Launched in 2019 by All Within My Hands in partnership with the American Association of Community Colleges (AACC), MSI began with ten colleges and primarily manufacturing programs. With steady development by creative and dedicated leadership, MSI offers diverse workforce opportunities for students interested in gaining the skills and training necessary to find meaningful and well-paying careers. Additional curricula will include construction, health care, and engineering, contributing to 30 fields of study offered within the Initiative. To date, AWMH has invested over $10.5M in the American workforce, reaffirming a commitment to career and technical education at the local level.

James “Papa Het” Hetfield, Metallica’s lead vocalist and guitarist, expressed his enthusiasm for the initiative's growth: “When we launched the Metallica Scholars Initiative, it really spoke to me. A collective goal of breaking the stigma of trade skills. Trade skills are vital to society, and what’s even more important is to support the many folks who are trying to create a career by learning and using these skills. I am so proud - we all are - to see how this program is changing lives by providing much-needed resources to empower students, and it’s great that we’re able to make our biggest grant yet to support these students and the future workforce. We are reaching even further for year six of the Metallica Scholars Initiative. This year, our program will be in 60 schools in all 50 states! All thanks to your support.”

“I am happy to congratulate the newest Metallica Scholarship Initiative colleges. The sustained investment in workforce education by the All Within My Hands Foundation has benefitted thousands of community college students,” said Walter G. Bumphus, president and CEO of AACC. “This work helps to advance skills education and the nation’s workforce pipeline. We are honored to continue this partnership to provide critical resources that eliminate barriers for students to participate in skills education programs that lead to family-sustaining wage careers.”

 

By the end of year six, MSI estimates that it will have helped more than 8,000 students with a wide range of backgrounds and ages gain skills to assist in finding meaningful jobs and careers. Metallica Scholars are often considered non-traditional students, as many have families they support or are the first in their families to pursue a college education. AWMH and AACC aim to connect students to skill-building opportunities and bridge the talent needs of the American workforce, all while utilizing the community college system, which is the most affordable, flexible, and industry-relevant applied-learning training provider in the country.

“Metallica, through their foundation, is changing how people view and engage with the trades in this country, and it is working,” stated Peter Delgrosso, executive director of All Within My Hands. “Metallica Scholars are diverse, motivated, and ambitious, and we are here to help them reach their goals. I am so proud and honored to be able to announce entrance into all 50 states as this is a significant milestone for not only our foundation but the incredible community we have helped foster and connect.”

For a complete list of all 60 colleges currently supported by AWMH, visit allwithinmyhands.org/metallica-scholars.

Arkansas Northeastern College (ANC) is a comprehensive, two-year state institution of higher education, dedicated to providing relevant programs and services to its community. Proudly offering the lowest tuition in the state, ANC has campuses in Blytheville, Leachville, Osceola, and Wilson, serving Mississippi County and beyond. ANC is committed to preparing individuals for the workforce or further educational opportunities, ensuring access to quality education for all.

 

About All Within My Hands

All Within My Hands (AWMH) is a non-profit, philanthropic organization created by Metallica and dedicated to creating sustainable communities by supporting workforce education, the fight against hunger, and other critical local services. Since its inception, AWMH has raised over $15 million, providing significant grants to career and technical education programs, combatting food insecurity, and aiding disaster relief efforts.

 

About AACC

The American Association of Community Colleges (AACC) is the voice of the nation’s community colleges, delivering educational and economic opportunity for more than 10 million diverse students. AACC advocates for community colleges to ensure they have the resources needed to increase economic mobility for all.

 

DARING Program Established

Pictured (Left to right around the table) Agent Justin Barnes, Agent Amanda Cutler, Agent Stephanie Wofford, Agent Jonathan Jackson, Agent Tiffany Polk, ANC Director for Outreach Willie D. Williams Jr., and ANC DARING Success Navigator Daryl Young

DARING Program Established

Arkansas Northeastern College has partnered with the Arkansas Division of Community Correction Parole and Probation to establish the DARING Program (Deferred Adjudication Resulting in New Growth). This program is designed to assist justice-involved students who desire to pursue their GED, technical certificate, or associate degree, or those wishing to enroll in the WORK to Wage program. This program is housed under the Community Relations Division overseen by ANC Vice President Dr. Blanche Hunt. Several students have completed the DARING Program and earned their short-term technical certificate and WORK to Wage certificate. For more information concerning the DARING Program contact ANC Director for Outreach Willie D. Williams Jr. at 870-623-5521.

ANC Board of Trustees Meeting held June 19, 2024

 

Members of the Arkansas Northeastern College Board of Trustees met Wednesday, June 19, 2024, for their regularly scheduled meeting, where members approved The Wilson Facility Usage Committee’s recommendation that the college occupy the donated facilities in Wilson Arkansas.

The Wilson Facility was developed into The Delta School in 2014 by Gaylon Lawrence and his family. In the spring of 2024, Gaylon Lawrence generously offered this facility as a gift to the Arkansas Northeastern College (ANC) Foundation. The facilities total approximately 40,000 square feet under-roof and is located on approximately 30 acres. The property is valued at $29 million. Following the initial offer for the facility’s donation, the Wilson Facility Usage Committee was established to evaluate the best uses for this tremendous asset. Through a series of comprehensive meetings and facility tours, and leveraging insights gained from a detailed member survey, the committee has formulated strategic recommendations for the facility's use. The primary focus has been on aligning the facility's use with ANC’s mission to support both the educational framework and the local community's economic needs. The committee proposes that the Wilson Facility be utilized to host industry-specific training programs, particularly for the steel industry and agricultural technology, reflecting the economic backdrop of Mississippi County. Additionally, the facility is ideal for community and educational events, dual credit and early college programs, and could serve as a new hub for agricultural programs that may lead to further educational and community collaboration. The discussions have also outlined several challenges, including the need for sustainable funding, maintenance, and operational scalability. However, these are viewed as manageable with strategic planning and community engagement.

ANC Vice President for Student Affairs Mindy Walker, presented the Board with a report of summer enrollment. The College a significant increase in enrollment for the summer with a headcount of 469 compared to 411 in 2023, and with 2,056 credit hours being taken this summer compared to 1,825 in the summer of 2023. Students still have time to enroll for the fall term.

In other news the Board approved the Blue and You Capacity Building Grant for the 100 Families Initiative grant award for fiscal year 2024-25. Restore Hope is a 501(c)(3) nonprofit organization whose mission is to reduce incarceration and the need for foster care through a community-driven approach. Restore Hope works with individuals and organizations from the private, public, and social sectors to work together toward building better communities within the state. This nonprofit was established in 2015 and began the 100 Families Initiative in 2018 in Sebastian County, AR. In the past three years, the 100 Families Initiative has been launched in Pulaski, Crawford, and White Counties. 100 Families is a community-wide initiative that uses existing community resources to help struggling communities and families. The 100 Families Initiative accomplishes this mission by training organizations in collective impact, using a collaborative case management system for analyzing data and outcomes, and training and recruiting case managers within existing organizations to provide holistic case management. This initiative strives to coordinate existing services in a community so that more families in crisis are more quickly able to become stable and ultimately thrive and find careers. Arkansas Northeastern College has been issued a grant award for approximately $60,000 to launch the 100 Families Initiative in Mississippi County, which will cover salary and fringe for a case manager position and software to provide holistic case management. Restore Hope is the grantor of a Blue and You Capacity Building Grant for the 100 Families Initiative. The Blue and You Foundation is stepping in and providing seed funds in Mississippi County. The grant is normally funded by TANF through the Department of Human Services and should be provided through TANF in subsequent years.

The Board also approved acceptance of the Adult Education Grant award and approval of its 2024-2025 budget, authorization of existing Adult Education positions and the addition of two full-time Adult Education Instructors. The College received notification of grant continuation from the Arkansas Department of Career Education for the Adult Education program in the 2024-2025 academic year. This award includes funding of five grants to be used solely for Mississippi County. These funds include: ABE: $184,263.97 GAE: $137,372.83 D&E: $76,401.54 C&I: $45,000 Special Projects: $27,339.85.

A personnel report was given and the Board welcomed new employee Jennifer Perkins as the newest ETS Advisor. Additionally, Kammie McGee will become the Executive Assistant to the Board/President, and Dianne Miller Assistant Professor/Associate Degree Nursing Instructor. Several promotions, to begin July 1, 2024, were announced, including: Courtney Fisher as Chief of Staff to the President, Jennifer Johnson as Associate Vice President for Finance, Tonya Pankey as Associate Dean, Allied Health, Mariana Reyes as Controller, and Willie Williams as Director of Outreach.

The Board also approved the retirement of Marlene Banks, a long-time employee who served as Assistant to the Board of Trustees and President. Dr. Heigle commended Banks for her unwavering dedication and invaluable support during his transition into the presidency. The Board echoed Dr. Heigle's sentiments, expressing gratitude for Banks' outstanding 21-year tenure with heartfelt appreciation.

ANC Board of Trustees Meeting Held April 17, 2024

Members of the Arkansas Northeastern College Board of Trustees gathered for their regularly scheduled meeting on Wednesday, April 17, 2024, where members the College’s operating budget for the 2024-2025 year.

Based on the recommendation of the Finance Committee, the Board passed the College’s Operating Budget for 2024-25. The budget reflects the College’s budget development process, which considered department funding requests in support of personnel operations, services, and equipment. There will be no tuition increase for the year with tuition rates remaining at $75 per credit hour (for the first 18 credit hours) for in-county residents, $85 per credit hour for out-of-county residents including Missouri Bootheel, and $135 per credit hour for out-of-state residents. Despite increases in technology usage, the College will not raise its technology fee from its current amount of $15 per credit hour. ANC’s annual tuition/mandatory fee rate will remain the lowest among Arkansas’ colleges for 2024-25.

The Board also approved the Academic Calendar for the 2024-2025 academic year. Registration for both the Summer and Fall Semesters is currently underway. The new calendar shows that registration for the Fall 2024 semester will end on Wednesday, August 14, 2024, with classes for the Fall 2024 Semester beginning on Monday, August 19. Early College classes will begin on Monday, August 26.

In other business, the Board also approved a new Career Coach Position at KIPP Blytheville College Preparatory School for the 2024-2025 academic year. ANC currently has Career Coaches who serve the Armorel, Blytheville, Gosnell, Osceola, and Rivercrest school districts. The Career Coach Program is designed to motivate and support Arkansas students in achieving their goals related to college and career planning through intensive hands-on programs and services. Career Coaches work with students in grades 7-12, collaborating with Career Development Instructors and School Counselors to develop and revise college and career plans. The program provides essential assistance and information in areas such as academic tutoring, career counseling, college preparation and admission, financial aid guidance, mentoring, and other supports necessary for post-secondary education/training access, retention, and success.

It was reported that a recent review was completed of the Allied Tech career and technical program degree and certificate plans. As a part of that process, changes in the sequencing of courses were identified which would allow for the completion of additional certificates of proficiency and technical certificates. Four new technical certificates were created in the areas of criminal justice, computer information systems and aviation. In addition, two new certificates of proficiency were created in the areas of HVAC and welding. The Board approved the following, newly created technical certificates and certificates of proficiency: Technical Certificate in Criminal Justice, Technical Certificate in Security and Analytics, Technical Certificate in Aviation Airframe Maintenance, Technical Certificate in Aviation Powerplant Maintenance, Certificate of Proficiency in HVAC Electrical, and the Certificate of Proficiency in Tungsten Inert Gas Welding (TIG).

ANC President Dr. Christopher Heigle reminded members of the Board of the College’s upcoming commencement exercises with the Nucor Diploma Squared Graduation being held on Thursday, May 9th , and the ANC Commencement occurring the following day on Friday, May 10, 2024.

 

Wilson Works Foundation Set to Donate The Delta School Property to Arkansas Northeastern College Foundation

 

Wilson Works Foundation Set to Donate The Delta School Property
to Arkansas Northeastern College Foundation 

The Delta School will close after the current academic year with focus turning to  
expanded programming for college and career readiness

WILSON, AR (April 05, 2024) – The Wilson Works Foundation has agreed in principle to donate The Delta School property to the Arkansas Northeastern College Foundation. Once terms of the agreement are approved by the Arkansas Northeastern College Board of Trustees, the donation is expected to create an opportunity for the college to further support the region by offering affordable education pathways to college and career readiness.

The Delta School property, valued at $27.5 million and will serve as one of the nation’s largest-ever gifts to a community college, was launched in 2014 under the visionary leadership of Gaylon Lawrence Jr. The school was designed to serve students as an incubator for intellectual thought, healthy relationships, and character development. Lawrence says that the donation will build upon the foundation established by The Delta School and give Arkansas Northeastern College an opportunity to create a new academic environment that will prepare the region’s students for success in college, career, and life.

“Our job as community leaders is to aggregate, acquire and align the resources to help students in rural communities like Wilson and those throughout northeast Arkansas develop the capacity to succeed along their academic and vocational journey,” said Lawrence. “This is an exciting example of those collective efforts and presents a sustainable path forward that combines excellent academics with career exploration and training in a way that does not currently exist for our students.”  

According to Arkansas Northeastern College President Dr. Christopher Heigle, the college will explore a path forward for the property that offers college and career training to the region. “We’re grateful for this tremendous gift and appreciative of the philanthropic and academic seeds that Mr. Lawrence and the leaders at the Wilson Works Foundation have planted over the last decade,” said Heigle. 

“We see this as an opportunity to consider a postsecondary focused mission that could open the doors to a greater number of college and career-focused students. By leveraging partnerships with our education, community, and industry leaders, we can prepare students in new and advanced ways for life after high school.”

As industry and manufacturing continues to expand across the county, Great River Economic Development Foundation President Clif Chitwood sees the donation as an economic driver for the region. “The world is changing at a rapid pace, and we need to have educational programs and service offerings available to our young people that prepare them for jobs and careers with our industry partners today and in the future,” said Chitwood. “Education and the economy are equal partners in helping to raise the bar as we position our region as one that is prepared to support industry expansion.”  

Delta School Board Chair Brittany Sugg believes a transition to college and career programming can change expectations and outcomes for both students and the labor force in the region. “This is an opportunity to take a step forward in addressing the critical needs of employers who are looking to hire our students,” said Sugg. “This is also a tremendous opportunity for our students who want to be on a college and career trajectory, and it signals to the rest of the region that we are serious about equipping students for success in northeast Arkansas.”   

Students and faculty at The Delta School will be able to complete the current academic year before the school is closed. More information about the transition of the school for current students and enrollment opportunities and requirements for prospective students will be provided in the coming weeks. 

# # #

About the Wilson Works Foundation

The Wilson Works Foundation is a 501c3 founded by the Lawrence Family and dedicated to the overall growth and development of Wilson, Arkansas, and the region. Its focus areas are to provide technical assistance and advocacy for the Town of Wilson; to promote educational opportunities through financial support to The Delta School and its partners; and to advance economic development and job creation in Wilson and northeast Arkansas. 

About the Arkansas Northeastern College Foundation

The ANC Foundation, a 501c3 nonprofit that was created in 1977, is a separate entity for the college and is directed by a Board of Governors made up of individuals who have an interest in providing Arkansas Northeastern College with financial assistance. Arkansas Northeastern College has many needs that can only be met through the receipt of private gifts and, as a college foundation, the ANC Foundation guarantees that funds will be used in the public interest. Therefore, the Foundation plays an extremely important role in assisting the College in providing educational opportunities at an affordable cost to the citizens of this region. 

ANC Board of Trustees Held Meeting December 13, 2023

 

Members of the Arkansas Northeastern College Board of Trustees met Wednesday, December 13, 2023, for their last meeting of the year. Director for Human Resources Tabatha Hampton addressed the board regarding a new wellness program for employees. The Board approved the voluntary WellYou Program for full-time employees. The goal of WellYou is to increase the health and well-being of all ANC employees through a comprehensive program designed to promote mental and physical health. Through the program, employees will be granted a two-hour time waiver per week to participate in wellness activities, and eight hours of Wellness Leave per calendar year for a wellness exam. In addition to the employee benefits of a healthier lifestyle, ANC could benefit through better performance and lessened medical claims.

Hampton also presented a change to the College’s Catastrophic Leave Policy that was recommended by the Catastrophic Leave Committee and The Administrative Affairs Committee. The College maintains a bank of unused leave by employees that can then be utilized by employees needing leave for catastrophic illnesses or events. ANC’s current policy does not include maternity leave. Act 182 of 2017 established paid maternity leave through the catastrophic leave bank program. The Act allowed eligible employees four (4) weeks of paid leave after the birth of the employee’s child or placement of an adoptive child in the employee’s home without having to exhaust leave. The Board approved adding the Maternity Leave Act to the Catastrophic Leave Policy as well as changing the current waiting period from two (2) years to one (1) year to align with FMLA Guidelines.

In other news, new Vice President for Instruction/Chief Academic Officer Ryan Perkins presented a change for faculty hours. As the search for qualified faculty becomes more challenging, the staff considered opportunities to make the College’s instructional positions more competitive. As a part of this process, the policy regarding faculty workload was reviewed. The current policy 4.39 requires 15 credit hours of instruction per week and 15 hours of office time per week. This is equivalent to a thirty (30) hour work week for fulltime faculty. A survey was conducted with two-year and four-year colleges and universities in the state, and it was determined that Arkansas Northeastern College currently requires more office hours than the majority of other institutions. Additionally, a number of institutions allow for a number of the office hours to be virtual. After consideration of similar policies and practices in higher education, the staff recommended a change to the Faculty Office Hour Policy. The following changes were reviewed and approved by both the Academic Affairs Committee and the Administrative Affairs Committee. The Board approved reducing the number of office hours per week from (15) to ten (10) and that, of the ten (10) office hours, two (2) could be virtual. This would define the fulltime faculty work week as twenty-five (25) hours. Faculty are still expected to be available and participate in departmental, division, and college-wide meetings and/or activities that may exceed the twenty-five (25) hours per week. As per the current policy, faculty would continue to be required to have office hours, either live or virtual, Monday through Friday to meet contract obligations and to offer afternoon and/or evening hours.

In his President’s Report, Dr. Christopher Heigle discussed the College’s need for a new roof for the John P. Sullins Building. The advanced age of the roof is making it more difficult to manage all the needed repairs. This will be a significant cost, and Dr. Heigle wanted the Board to know that he and staff were developing a plan to not only provide for a new roof but to also tend to other deferred maintenance issues at the College.

In closing, Dr. Christopher Heigle thanked everyone for a wonderful year. He invited everyone to the ANC Choir concert being held in the A Concourse of the John P. Sullins Building on Thursday, December 14, 2023, at 6:30 pm and shared that there would be an opportunity for pictures with Santa beforehand, starting at 4:30.

ANC Board of Trustees Meeting Held August 16, 2023

Members of the Arkansas Northeastern College Board of Trustees gathered for their regularly scheduled meeting on Wednesday, August 16, 2023, marking the first official board meeting under to tutelage of new ANC President Dr. Christopher Heigle.

ANC Vice President for Administration Don Ray presented the financial report for the College with the Board approving the financial statements for the fiscal year ending June, 2023. 

In other news, the Board was given a personnel update. Three faculty members earned rank. They are Dustin Kemper Professor/History Instructor, Dianne Miller Assistant Professor/Practical Nursing Instructor, Gloria Stromire Assistant Professor/Practical Nursing Instructor. Additionally the Board approved the following new hires: 

• Jonathan Carmack, English Instructor 

• Courtney Kueter, Associate Degree Nursing Instructor 

• Jessica Smith, Computer Information Systems Instructor 

• Sonia Smith, Admissions Counselor/Recruiter 

• Kelsey Stallings, Career Coach 

The Board also approved acceptance of four grant continuations. The Career Pathways Initiative (TANF) Grant 2023-2024; Educational Talent Search (ETS) Grant Award Notification 2023-24; Arkansas Career Coach Grant Award Notification 2023-24; and Adult Education Grant Award 2023-24, were all presented.

The Career Pathways Initiative (CPI) is an employability program that provides residents in Arkansas with assistance in obtaining the education and training necessary for gainful employment. The CPI program operates under a case management approach to provide individualized academic and career advising, as well as financial support for tuition/fees, books, childcare, and transportation. In 2022-23, the program served 323 students with 131 completing at least one credential and 96 percent going to work. Based on this successful performance, the College was notified that the Career Pathways Initiative Grant Award has been awarded $642,756 for the 2023-24 fiscal academic year.

The Educational Talent Search (ETS) Program is an access program designed to assist school-aged children in grades 6-12 in programs and activities that guide them to college and careers. The program requires the advisors to serve 1,068 participants in 14 public schools in 3 counties throughout Arkansas and Missouri. Services include ACT preparation, financial literacy, FAFSA assistance, college tours, study skills enhancement, and more. All services are offered at no cost to the students. ANC was notified that its Educational Talent Search program has been awarded $616,172 for the FY2023-24 fiscal year which is a 4% increase from 2022-23. The Board approved acceptance of the grant award in the amount of $616,172.

Arkansas Northeastern College has been awarded program continuation for the Career Coach grant from the Arkansas Department of Elementary & Secretary Education (DESE) - Career & Technical Education in the amount of $245,744.00 for the 2023-24 academic years. This grant is designated for the purpose of ensuring that area students in grades 8-12 have the opportunity and support needed to increase their knowledge, skills, and educational attainment by providing them with college and career guidance. This grant from DESE will provide 50% of the funds needed to support full-time career coaches at Armorel, Gosnell, Blytheville, Osceola, and Rivercrest. The remaining costs for the program will be divided between the school district partners and the college. Activities supported by the grant will include career exploration, college visits/enrollment assistance, and workplace readiness experiences.

Notification was also received by the College of grant continuation from the Arkansas Department of Career Education for the Adult Education program in the 2023-2024 academic years. This award includes funding of four grants to be used solely for Mississippi County. These funds total $374,443.45.

Arkansas Steelmaking Bootcamp Created to Answer Need for Future Growth

 

Arkansas Steelmaking Bootcamp Created to Answer Need for Future Growth

A $1.2 million grant from the Arkansas Office of Skills Development (OSD) to the Arkansas Northeast College (ANC) is helping create the Arkansas Steelmaking Bootcamp. The boot camp, a job skills initiative projected to train over 1,000 Arkansans in its first year, is designed to meet the need for skilled workers in this growing industry.

Over the past few years, Mississippi County in Northeast Arkansas has become a significant steelmaking hub. Companies like Big River Steel/U.S. Steel, Nucor-Yamato Steel, Nucor Steel Arkansas, Highbar Steel, Tenaris, Majestic Steel USA, Lexicon, Atlas Tube, Arkansas Steel Processing, Ratner Steel, SMS Milcraft, Primetals, and others are either expanding current operations or constructing new plants. The area boasts a variety of transportation options and a motivated workforce that are attractive to manufacturers.

“The mission of OSD is to strategically invest in all levels of the Arkansas workforce. This grant represents the state’s support of the expansion of the steel industry in Northeast Arkansas and the need for a strong workforce in the area. Creating a condensed training benefits the companies who have chosen to invest here and individuals looking for an in-demand, high-wage career.” Said Cody Waits, OSD Director.

Bootcamp provides entry-level knowledge for those entering the steelmaking industry. Graduates of the two-week, 80-hour boot camp receive an OSHA-10 General Industry Certification, First Aid/CPR Certification, and a Certificate of Program Completion. Each boot camp can accommodate 25 participants in a cycle. The first-year ANC will offer 20 cohorts and partner with other colleges like Black River Technical College, East Arkansas Community College, Arkansas State University-Newport, & Arkansas State University-Midsouth to offer another 22.

Arkansas Northeastern College President Dr. Christopher Heigle is excited about this new initiative and proud of the partnerships forged to meet the needs of his service area. “This tremendous opportunity afforded to us through the Arkansas Department of Commerce’s Office of Skills Development, has made it possible for Arkansas Northeastern College to greatly expand what we do to help meet the needs of our steel industry and its anticipated growth over the next few years,” said Heigle, adding, “We have wonderful relationships with our sister institutions, and their support in joining in this effort will allow us all to apply our skills and abilities to offer the Steelmaking Bootcamp throughout all of Northeast Arkansas. This initiative will provide our steel industry with a far-greater pool of prepared job applicants, illustrating a truly regional approach to workforce and economic development. This is the most exciting project I've ever worked on, and I am honored to be at the helm of such an innovative and workforce-focused institution.”

“Like any other industry, steelmaking has a specific skill set. While much of those skills are taught on the job, knowledge of safety procedures, hydraulics and pneumatics, technical math, blueprint reading, and basic safety with heavy equipment creates a strong foundation for those seeking a career in steelmaking.” According to Waits, “Our investment covers training fees, materials, and salaries, so students can take advantage of the boot camp at no cost.”

This new collaboration brings together community colleges from across the Northeast region of the state to proactively work toward meeting future needs of the growing steel industry in Mississippi County.

"Black River Technical College is excited to partner with ANC, the premier trainer in steelmaking, to offer this incredible opportunity to more residents of North East Arkansas. This partnership will undoubtedly transform hundreds of lives and greatly enhance our communities,” said BRTC President Dr. Martin Eggensperger.

Dr. Cathie Cline of East Arkansas Community College shared in the excitement of being a part of the Steelmaking Bootcamp initiative. “Workforce development is the key component of economic development, and East Arkansas Community College is proud to partner with an outstanding group of peer colleges in doing what we do best: training workers for jobs. We are honored to be included in this opportunity to contribute to the state’s economic development goals and to connect the participants we serve with jobs that sustain families and change lives.”

Bringing in the community colleges outside of Arkansas Northeastern College’s service area allows surrounding counties the opportunity to train their residents for high wage, high demand careers in the steel industry while bolstering the workforce for Mississippi County.

“Arkansas State University Mid-South is excited to partner with Arkansas Northeastern College to bring the Arkansas Steelmaking Bootcamp to Crittenden County. Through shared resources and expertise, we will be able to provide short-term technical training for those seeking employment in the rapidly growing steel industry in Northeast Arkansas. It’s truly a win-win. Industry partners will benefit by knowing potential employees have the basic knowledge needed to be successful, and program completers will have a competitive advantage when seeking employment. And the best part for program participants is that, thanks to a grant from the Office of Skills Development, the only thing it costs them is time,” Dr. Debra West, Chancellor, ASU MidSouth.

“This partnership illustrates how well Arkansas two-year colleges collaborate with each other and with industry in order to quickly and nimbly meet their training needs. I am proud that our state and our communities are benefiting from our ability to unify as one powerful force for economic and workforce development,” added Cline.

Dr. Johnny Moore, Chancellor for ASU Newport also touts the partnership for creating more opportunities for more people. “Partnering is key to filling anticipated jobs in the steel industry. By emphasizing partnerships, we are defining this new era of higher education as one of growth through cooperation rather than retrenchment.”

Arkansas Northeastern College has been providing training for the steel industry for more than 25 years, including offering a two-year degree in Steel Industry Technology. The sharing of this experience and expertise coupled with the financial support of the Office of Skills Development, gives the Steelmaking Bootcamp less hurdles to overcome in bringing qualified workers to area industry.

“Great things happen when people work together and put positive energy into the greater good. The Steelmaking Bootcamp initiative is an example of just that. This is a win-win for everyone, but mostly for the communities we serve. I am proud to be a part of something so big that will benefit so many. Our industrial partners are very important to the viability of our communities, and we will always work to provide them the training they need,” said Heigle.

More Info: https://www.anc.edu/thesolutionsgroup/steelmakingbootcamp/index.htm 

ANC Board of Trustees Meeting Held June 21, 2023

ANC Board of Trustee Members with Dr. Shemwell (Pictured L to R): Mr. Randy Scott, Mr. Curtis Walker, Dr. Anes Abraham, Dr. James Shemwell, Mr. Dan Ritchey, and Mr. Gordon Miller.
Not pictured: Mr. Clif Chitwood and Mr. Lowery Robinson

*** 

Members of the Arkansas Northeastern College Board of Trustees met Wednesday, June 21, 2023, for their regularly scheduled meeting, marking the last board meeting for retiring President Dr. James Shemwell who officially ends his service on June 30, 2023.   

ANC Vice President for Student Affairs Dr. Christopher Heigle, who will become the College’s fifth president on July 1, presented the Board with a report of summer enrollment. The enrollment remained somewhat steady with a slight decrease in headcount of 411 compared to 434 in 2022, and with 2,050 credit hours being taken this summer compared to 2,050 in the summer of 1825. Students still have time to enroll for the fall term.  

Dr. Heigle provided information pertaining to requests for several new positions. On March 1, Arkansas Department of Commerce Secretary Hugh McDonald, along with the department directors for the Office of Skills Development and the Arkansas Economic Development Commission met at the ANC campus with local leaders representing the major steel-related employers in Mississippi County, including Nucor-Yamato Steel, Nucor Steel Arkansas, U.S. Steel/Big River Steel, HiBar Steel, Tenaris, Majestic Steel, and Lexicon Steel, as well as ANC personnel. The meeting was arranged and hosted by the Great River Economic Development Foundation. 

During this discussion, local employers expressed a desire for basic steel-related training for over 1,000 anticipated new hires in the foreseeable future. Secretary McDonald invited ANC to submit a proposal for training dollars to fund the needed training expressed by the local employers. ANC brought forth the Arkansas Steelmaking Bootcamp which is a job skills initiative designed to prepare people for the urgent labor demand in the steel manufacturing industry in Mississippi County. The Bootcamp is comprised of 80 hours of workforce education and training that provides participants with entry level knowledge for entering a career in steelmaking. The Bootcamp proposal intends to train 1,050 participants during the first year. The 80-hour Bootcamp will be offered over a two-week period (M-F) with open entry, meaning that participants will not have to wait until the next cycle begins to start training. Participants may enter in the midst of a two-week cycle and finish the training during the following cycle. The Bootcamp will accommodate up to 25 participants per cycle. During the first year, the Arkansas Northeastern College (ANC) will offer 20 cohorts for a total of 40 training weeks during the year in Mississippi County. 

ANC’s partner colleges (Black River Technical College, East Arkansas Community College, Arkansas State University Newport, & Arkansas State University-MidSouth) will offer another 22 cohorts (collectively) across Northeast Arkansas. Participants will enter the Bootcamp via two methods; 1) direct company placement and 2) Bootcamp application pool. Company partners may enter new hires directly into the Bootcamp without going through the Bootcamp application process. Other participants from the general public will be recruited by ANC and its partner colleges via local and regional job fairs by way of direct mail, outdoor advertising, newspaper, cable advertising, and social media as initiated by the Bootcamp Coordinator. General public participants will complete a Bootcamp application which will allow for the administration of basic blind screens, such as minimum work experience, high school diploma, etc. as established by company partners’ minimum standards. Final selections will be made by mutual agreement of company partners and participants. The Board approved the Bootcamp proposal which includes funding for a full-time Bootcamp Coordinator as well as training dollars to add three full-time trainers. These additional positions will afford the College more flexibility, timeliness, and nimbleness in meeting training/staffing needs of local steel industry employers as part of the Arkansas Steelmaking Bootcamp project. Currently, the Office of Skills Development/Arkansas Department of Commerce has indicated that an MOU for full funding of the project is forthcoming. The total amount requested is $1,213,800 with ANC’s portion being $602,000. The anticipated cost of salaries and fringe for the proposed personnel would be approximately $350,000. The Board’s approval is subject to OSD fulfilling the commitment to fund the initiative.

In other news, Dr. Heigle reported that in June 2012, ANC leased from the ANC Foundation the former Mo-Ark Communications property located immediately south of and adjacent to the College for the purpose of leasing the property to the Arkansas Department of Workforce Services. The ADWS office has been a part of the ANC campus since that time. ADWS announced on May 30, 2023, the closure of nine local offices including the office in Blytheville. The termination of the lease by ADWS effective June 30, 2023, allows the facility to be leased back to the College from the foundation for anticipated growth related to the Solutions Group and the Arkansas Steelmaking Bootcamp project that could put pressure on the College in terms of needed office space. Executive staff plan to pursue an independent appraisal of a fair market rental that could be paid by ANC to the ANC Foundation for use of the existing building and parking lot. The Board approved, subject to the establishment of a fair market rental value and approval of the ANC Foundation, a new Memorandum of Understanding between ANC and the ANC Foundation whereby ANC rents the soon-to-be-former ADWS property from the ANC Foundation for use as office and/or teaching space.    

ANC Interim Vice President for Instruction June Walters presented the Board with the College’s annual Minority Report, stating Arkansas Northeastern College’s commitment to the recruitment and retention of minorities represented in its faculty, staff, and students. Ms. Walters reported various programs and activities that have been instituted to accomplish this goal. 

A personnel report was given and the Board welcomed new employee Chelsey Ellis as an Early College Specialist. Additionally, they approved three employees for new positions as Dr. Heigle will become President on July 1. At that same time, Ms. Mindy Walker will become the Associate Vice President for Student Affairs and Ms. KeTierra Jones will take over as the Director for Financial Aid. 

In other business, the Board approved acceptance of a Student Support Services Grant.    Student Support Services (SSS) is a long-standing program at ANC as part of the TRIO initiative designed to assist first-generation college students with basic college requirements and academic development, and to motivate students toward the successful completion of their postsecondary education. The program requires 175 participants to be served during each grant year. The College was notified that its Student Support Services program received a 4% increase, bringing the award total from $335,111 to $348,515 for the 2023-2024 fiscal year.   

Before conclusion of the meeting, the ANC Board of Trustees approved Resolution 79, to be spread upon the permanent minutes, expressing the appreciation of the Board of Trustees of Arkansas Northeastern College and its College community to Dr. James R. Shemwell, for his 29 years of service to the College.

***

At the close of the meeting, ANC Board of Trustee members presented retiring ANC President Dr. James Shemwell with a certificate whereby they have established a scholarship through the ANC Foundation in his honor.  Anyone wishing to donate toward the Dr. James R. Shemwell Honorary Scholarship Fund can contact Rachel Gifford at 870-838-2902 or by donating directly online at https://www.anc.edu/donate and enter "SHEMWELL" in the description box.  All donations made to the ANC Foundation are tax deductible.

ANC Holds Board of Trustees Meeting

 

New ANC Board of Trustees Chairman Randy Scott (LEFT) presents outgoing Chairman Curtis Walker with a plaque of appreciation for Mr. Walker's services as Chairman of the Board from February 2020 through February 2023.

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Members of the Arkansas Northeastern College Board of Trustees gathered for their regularly scheduled meeting on Wednesday, April 19, 2023, where members the College’s operating budget for the 2023-2024 year.

Based on the recommendation of the Finance Committee, the Board passed the College’s Operating Budget for 2023-24. The budget reflects the College’s budget development process, which considered department funding requests in support of personnel operations, services, and equipment. There will be a $1 tuition increase for the year with in-county resident tuition to be $75 per credit hour for the first 18 credit hours only, $85 per credit hour for out-of-county residents including Missouri Bootheel, and $135 per credit hour for out-of-state residents. Despite increases in technology usage, the College will not raise its technology fee from its current amount of $15 per credit hour. ANC’s annual tuition/mandatory fee rate will remain the lowest among Arkansas’ colleges for 2023-24. 

The Board also approved the Academic Calendar for the 2023-2024 academic year. Registration for both the Summer and Fall Semesters is currently underway. The new calendar shows that registration for the Fall 2023 semester will end on Wednesday, August 9, 2023, with classes for the Fall 2023 Semester beginning on Monday, August 14.

In other business, the Board approved several new employees including: Michea' Caruthers as Administrative Specialist I, Educational Talent Search (Grant-Funded), Anthony Mula as Electricity & Electronics Instructor, Terrie Kennett as Adult Education Instructor (Grant Funded), Allen Holmquist as Steel Technology Instructor (Grant-Funded), and Robert Davis as Construction Technology Instructor (Grant-Funded).

ANC President Dr. James Shemwell announced that on April 28, ANC will host the 10th Annual Best Practices Symposium on its Main Campus in Blytheville. American Association of Community Colleges (AACC) Senior Vice President for Academic and Workforce Development Jennifer Worth will be the College’s special guest for this year’s event. The Symposium event is designed to celebrate various best practices across the organization, including a broad menu of presentations by faculty and staff members. Organizations typically spend considerable time and effort analyzing and correcting things that produce less than desired results (things that go wrong) but do not spend enough time celebrating and consolidating gains from best practices (things that go right). The Symposium provides a calendared date and structure to celebrate and learn from all the many things going right, as well as how best practices in one area might be leveraged in other areas. AACC Senior VP Worth is attending the event to glean knowledge about best practices at ANC, as well as learning about the Symposium event itself, to share information across the country. 

Heigle Named 5th President of Arkansas Northeastern College

 

HEIGLE NAMED 5th PRESIDENT OF ARKANSAS NORTHEASTERN COLLEGE

Arkansas Northeastern College has named Dr. Christopher Heigle as the new president for the
institution, making him the fifth President in the College’s 48 year history. This announcement
comes five months after the announcement of current president Dr. James Shemwell’s plans to retire June 30, 2023.

Heigle, who is a native of Heber Springs, has been with Arkansas Northeastern College since
2020, and first came to the College as the Director of Federal Grant Development and Special
Projects where he was successful in gaining designation for Arkansas Northeastern College as an eligible institution for the federal cost-share waiver. This allowed ANC to pursue further funding opportunities which resulted in an additional $350,000 in federal support for the College. During that time he earned his doctorate from the University of Memphis in higher and adult education then was promoted to the Vice President for Student Affairs, a position he has held since July 2021 to the present. Heigle came to Arkansas Northeastern College after serving more than eight years at East Arkansas Community College where he last served as Associate Vice President for Student Success. In addition to his experience in education, he also served as a staff member for former Congressman Marion Berry until Berry’s retirement in 2011.

Dr. Heigle has a passion for public service and brings a wealth of community service and civic engagement experience to the College as well as an understanding of and appreciation for workforce development. He has served on the boards of both the Mississippi County Regional Chamber of Commerce and the Forrest City Chamber of Commerce, having served as the president of the latter. He is also a current member of the Blytheville Lions Club.

Dr. Heigle is a graduate of the Blytheville Leadership Institute, the Arkansas Community Colleges Leadership Institute, and the Crittenden County Leadership Institute. Additionally, he has completed the Midsouth Basic Economic Developers Course offered through the Arkansas Economic Development Commission.

“Dr. Heigle is a highly qualified and experienced leader in higher education, government relations, and economic development, making him an excellent fit as the next leader at Arkansas Northeastern College. He and his family have made Mississippi County their home and we are very happy to have his vision and leadership as we plan to move Arkansas Northeastern College forward,” said Randy Scott, Chairman of the ANC Board of Trustees.

Heigle and his wife Amber reside in Osceola with their daughter Hollyn.

The Steel Tech Academy Among Topics Discussed at the Latest ANC Board of Trustees Meeting

On Wednesday, February 15, 2023, the Arkansas Northeastern College Board of trustees met for its regularly scheduled meeting where members approved the use of $250,000 gift (over two years) through the ANC Foundation from U.S. Steel and Entergy Arkansas to fund a Steel Tech Academy. The U. S. Steel Corporation, through Big River Steel, and Entergy Arkansas have entered into this partnership with the Arkansas Northeastern College to support efforts to train students through, what will be, the country’s only Steel Tech Academy for high school students. ANC is already home to the Arkansas Steelmaking Academy (ASA), an international training hub that began as a partnership between ANC and the SMS group in 2018 and focuses upon advancing economic development by training a skilled steelmaking workforce. This new partnership expands the goal and has been formed to help build a sustainable pipeline of workforce talent from local high schools within the context of ASA.

This partnership includes an investment, through the ANC Foundation, of $75,000 from Entergy
Arkansas and $175,000 from U.S. Steel over a two-year period. U. S. Steel also has committed to invest $50,000 up front to fund training equipment and software purchases. The Steel Tech Academy is envisioned as a two-year program, with the first year taking place during students’ senior year in high school and the second year continuing after high school graduation. ANC will begin recruiting students for the Steel Tech Academy with an “Internship Week” held this summer to allow U. S. Steel/Big River Steel Works and other partners to make presentations, interview interested candidates for internship and make internship offers to specific students.

The proposed structure currently allows for 25 students entering each year. Students participating in the Academy will be immersed in steelmaking processes, industrial technology and manufacturing principles to prepare them for making immediate contributions in the industry upon completion of the program. A major appeal to potential Academy participants will be the opportunity for paid internships. Internships will immerse students in steelmaking operations under the supervision of company personnel. Internships will occur around class schedules in coordination with U.S. Steel and other steel partners. Upon program completion, participants will earn the Associate of Applied Science degree in Steel Industry Technology, as well as various Certificates of Proficiency depending upon electives taught/taken during the program’s delivery. Counting the student’s senior year in high school, the program will take two years and three months to complete.

Board members present were given an enrollment report by ANC Vice President for Student Affairs Dr. Christopher Heigle. ANC saw a slight increase for this Spring Semester with a total headcount of 1,287 as compared to last Spring’s number of 1,179. The total number of credit hours this Spring is 9,926 as compared to 9,385 last Spring. ANC faculty have continued to work very hard to provide their students with instruction utilizing a variety of methods.

Reported personnel changes included the hiring of Karen Allmon as Administrative Specialist I for the Student Support Services Program(Grant-Funded), Justin Branch as Administrative Specialist I for the Student Affairs Department, and Jernal Woods as Advisor for the Educational Talent Search Program (Grant-Funded).

Additionally the Board approved authorization to add one 3/4th-time Adult Education Instructor faculty position. The 3/4 th time instructor will deliver Adult Education instruction through distance education and on site at ANC Leachville Center. This position will be paid for by Adult Education grant funds.

In other news, the Board approved acceptance of additional Career Pathways Initiative funding with Ed Pays ($29,500) and Work-Based Learning ($2,175) grant awards for the current fiscal year 2022-23. The Career Pathways Initiative (CPI) is an employability program that provides Arkansas residents with assistance in obtaining the education and training necessary for gainful employment. CPI is funded annually by the Temporary Assistance for Needy Families (TANF) grant that is administered by the Arkansas Department of Higher Education (ADHE) as a fiscal agent for the Arkansas Department of Workforce Services, the direct recipient of the Federal funding for CPI.

For 16 years, the CPI program has operated under a case management approach to provide individualized academic and career advising, as well as direct student support to cover costs such as tuition/fees, books, childcare, and transportation. The outcomes for ANC’s CPI program have led the State for 16 of the 17 years, often by wide margins. For the FY2022-23 year, ADHE launched the Ed Pays program where qualifying students can earn financial incentives as follows:

 Credit Enrollment = $100
 Mid-Term Successful Progress (GPA of 2.0 or higher) = $300
 Successful Semester Completion (GPA of 2.0 or higher = $300
 Program Completion/Employment = $500
 Non-Credit (such as the WORK program) Program Completion/Employment = $500

ADHE has issued an additional $29,500 (Ed Pays) and $2,175 (Work-Based Learning). Work-Based Learning is designed to provide real-life work experience for CPI students, allowing them to receive technical training to further develop employability skills and build a resume for future job opportunities.

Before closing, the board elected its officers for the 2023 year:
Chairman, Mr. Randy Scott of Blytheville
Vice Chairman, Gordon Miller of Leachville
Secretary/Treasurer: Dr. Anes Abraham of Blytheville

ANC Board of Trustees Meeting — ANC GRADS STILL EARN MORE, 2 Trustees Recognized, and More

 

Members of the Arkansas Northeastern College Board of Trustees met Wednesday, December 14, 2022, where they learned of data that revealed that associate degree graduates of the Arkansas Northeastern College earn the highest associate degree average in Arkansas, even five years after graduation, at $61,343.

The data comes from the Arkansas Division of Information Services and the Arkansas Department of Workforce Services using actual Arkansas wage data (as opposed to self-reported surveys) of graduates of all Arkansas colleges and universities.  For the first time, 5-year earnings data is available for 2019 earnings of 2014 graduates.

Not only do ANC graduates earn the highest average in the state five years after graduation, their average also exceeded the second highest community college associate degree average by nearly $10,000.  Five years after graduation, ANC's associate degree wage average remains higher than all bachelor degree averages of all public universities in Arkansas, except for the medical school at UAMS.  ANC's average also exceeds all associate degree averages of Arkansas universities offering these credentials.

In other news, the Board approved the financial statements and personnel recommendations.  Additionally, the Board was given an update regarding construction projects on campus as new heat and air installation has been completed in the John P. Sullins Administration Building.

The Board also approved an addition of $15,287 to its $61,100 in grant funds from the Arkansas Department of Higher Education for the purpose of implementing the annual Carl Perkins Grant.  An additional funding is the result of an unusually high amount of carryover funding in the state.  The Carl Perkins Grant is designed for the purpose of strengthening Career and Technical Education, with a focus on program improvement, flexibility, data and accountability.  ANC plans to use the additional funds awarded in the 2022-23 grant award to help fund activities in the local plan that address improving retention and placement, credential attainment, non-traditional participation in career and technical education programs.  The balance of the funds will be used for professional staff development related to career and technical education.

A new two-third-time position was approved by the Board for the Construction Technology Program.  As a result of changing instructional needs, it has become necessary to create one replacement position in the ANC Secondary/Technical Center for the Construction Technology program.  Although an additional full-time Construction Technology instructor is not justified at present, there is a need for a 2/3-time instructor in this program.  The 2/3-time instructor will deliver two blocks of instruction for area high school students through the ANC Technical Center.  A similar 2/3-time arrangement is currently filling the ANC Tech Center Aviation Maintenance offering.  Sufficient grant funds exist to fund the requested addition.

The Board also approved the updating of several policies for the ANC Policy Manual, and the 2023 Travel Handbook for employees was also approved.

In other news, the ANC Board recognized two Trustees for their service.  Dr. Thomas Westbrook, who has served the board for 13 years, and Mr. John Newcomb, who has served almost 23 years, will be retiring from the Board at the end of January.  ANC President Dr. James Shemwell read resolutions for both Dr. Westbrook and Mr. Newcomb, and the Board voted to approve both resolutions and have them permanently recorded in the Board's minutes.

Dr. Shemwell closed the meeting with well wishes for the holiday season and a reminder that registration is currently underway until January 4, 2023, with Spring classes to begin at ANC on January 9, 2023.

Board of Trustees Meeting held October 19, 2022

 
Members of the Arkansas Northeastern College Board of Trustees met for their regularly scheduled meeting on Wednesday, October 19, 2022, where ANC President Dr. James Shemwell concluded the meeting by announcing his retirement effective June 30, 2023.

Shemwell, who has served as president of the Arkansas Northeastern College since January 2013, has been with the College since 1994, and began his career as the Director of Training and Coordinator of the Osceola Center. With education and experience in banking and finance he moved up the ranks at the College to the Dean for Technical Programs & Training in 1999 then to Vice President for Finance in 2010, where he served until his promotion to president.

Dr. Shemwell is a college success story. Having left Blytheville High School after his eleventh grade year to attend Arkansas Northeastern College (then Mississippi County Community College), he went on to earn a bachelor’s degree in accounting from Arkansas State University and was named their “Top Graduate” by Arkansas Business. He later earned a master’s degree in finance from Texas Tech University and a doctorate degree in organizational leadership from the University of Phoenix. He began his professional career two weeks after turning nineteen years old as a small business consultant for Arkansas State University, later holding a similar position at Texas Tech. In the late 1980s and early 1990s, he worked in banking, last serving as Vice President of Finance/ Chief Financial Officer at SouthBank in Mississippi County as well as Corinth, Mississippi.

Under his tutelage as president, the Arkansas Northeastern College has gained recognition nationally as a leader in workforce education and as an innovator for impoverished communities. Shemwell has been featured in books and magazines as well as serving as a keynote speaker at national conferences.

“Certainly this institution, this county, this region has Dr. Shemwell’s stamp all over it, even nationally he’s recognized for the work he has done and the innovative programs and services he has forged at ANC,” said ANC Board Member and economic developer Clif Chitwood who served as Chairman of the Board of Trustees when Shemwell was hired as president. “He has far exceeded our expectations of him as a president. When looking back over his career, it is really amazing the many accomplishments he has made and the impact he has had for our workforce here in Mississippi County.”

Current ANC Chairman of the Board of Trustees Mr. Curtis Walker stated “We really hate to see him step down, but we know he has paved the way for the next president to continue what he has started. Dr. James Shemwell will be missed after he retires, but he has certainly earned a rest and we wish him only the best.”

The Board of Trustees voted to launch a presidential search process that should conclude with the naming of the 5th President of ANC in late March or April, who would begin work on July 1, 2023.

Prior to Shemwell’s announcement, the Board conducted its regularly scheduled meeting where they approved a new Youth Engagement Initiative. On September 7, the United States Steel Corporation, through its Big River Steel Works facilities, donated $1 million to area organizations to help equip Mississippi County for the future. Among the grants issued, $80,000 was donated to the ANC Foundation to fund a Youth Engagement Initiative in South Mississippi County for two
years. The crux of the initiative is the notion of neighborhood learning hubs designed to build life skills competencies needed to become successful adults. The primary target audience for the initiative are children in grades K through 3rd grade. The basic idea is to plant seeds in the minds of young impoverished children that their futures are not limited. Also intended is implanting in these
young minds that the College is for everyone, regardless of background. Included among the life-skills competencies to be covered will be establishing the importance of education and lifelong learning, interpersonal/intercultural communication and conflict resolution, career development, and the value of a healthy work ethic. The primary feature of these Youth Engagement Initiative
sessions will be fun activities and games to attract children with the learning component sandwiched in between, such that the initiative is not viewed as more “school.” For this initiative, the Board approved using the $80,000 grant ($40,000 per year) from the U.S. Steel Corporation to the ANC Foundation and an additional investment of $40,000 of College operational funds each of the next two years ($80,000 total) to be expended by the ANC Office of Community Relations to launch and to operate a Youth Engagement Initiative in South Mississippi County, as well as the Blytheville area;

Vice President for Student Affairs Dr. Christopher Heigle gave an enrollment report for the fall semester which shows an increase in both headcount and student semester credit hours over fall 2021. Headcount is 1,502 compared to 1,457 in 2021, and credit hours being taken is 12,031 compared to 11,855 in 2021.

In other business, the Board approved the financial statements and the personnel recommendations which included the hiring of the following people for grant-funded positions: Michael Graham Director as for Adult Education, Brandi Leaks as Career Pathways Advisor, and Beth Miller and Miranda Sullivan as Adult Education Instructors.

The Board also ratified the TANF Career Connect Subsidized Employment Program Grant. This Arkansas Department of Workforce Services grant, in the amount of $90,942.91 (previous funding was $117,586), is to continue developing a pilot program titled TANF Career Connect Subsidized Employment Program. The purpose of the grant is to deliver a program that connects recent and
soon-to-be ANC graduates with local employers, so that participants can obtain or maintain employment to allow them to become self-sufficient. Eligible participants are Arkansas’ adult (18 and over) parents, who must have child(ren) under the age of 18 in the home. In addition to being a parent of a custodial child, the individual must be economically disadvantaged as either a current TEA participants, SNAP or Medicaid participants, or have an income less than 150% of Federal Poverty Level. The grant will run from August 1, 2022 to June 30, 2023. The grant will provide funds for student support services to include emergency transportation and supplies required for work, up to $400 per student. In addition to funds paid direct to ANC, DWS will also compensate employers by reducing their labor costs. To receive reimbursement through DWS for hiring a Career Connect participant, the employer must pay the employee a minimum of $11 and a maximum of $15 per hour, and must employ the participant for a minimum of 35 hours per week. Participants must also be recognized and treated as a regular employee, who receives all benefits associated with employment. Employers may be reimbursed for 100% of the employee’s first month wages and 50% of wages for months two through six. If the employee is retained for a full year, then the other 50% of wages for months two through six are reimbursed.

The continuation of the Career Coach Grant from the Arkansas Department of Elementary & Secretary Education (DESE) - Career & Technical Education in the amount of $240,674.00 for the 2022-23 academic years was also approved. This grant is designated for the purpose of ensuring
that area students in grades 8-12 have the opportunity and support needed to increase their knowledge, skills, and educational attainment by providing them with college and career guidance. This grant from DESE will provide 50% of the funds needed to support full-time career coaches at Armorel, Gosnell, Blytheville, Osceola, and Rivercrest. The remaining costs for the program will be divided between the school district partners and the college. Activities supported by the grant will include career exploration, college visits/enrollment assistance, and workplace readiness experiences.

Dr. Heigle also updated the Board regarding the student experience in a post pandemic world. As students have continued to prefer more digital learning and supportive services, instructors, advisors, and staff have found it increasingly difficult to facilitate quality interactions with students outside of the classroom. In response to these growing challenges, ANC identified a promising solution from a new company with a nationally-praised product known as EdSights. Launching in
2019, EdSights sought to create an artificial intelligence framework to help students navigate the intricacies of higher education. The chatbot developed into a full-scale solution, targeting the three primary indicators for student persistence (motivation, self-efficacy, and mattering). Arkansas Northeastern College’s chatbot is officially known as Ray (the ANC mascot), and although the software has drastically improved engagement with our students, the most important component of the software is the statistical modeling proprietary to EdSights which builds a predictive model of student persistence using student behavioral indicators. Basically, Ray texts the students and the students text back. The software then builds a model of the student’s wellbeing using those responses and notifies ANC staff of students that may require additional services and supports. So far, Ray has been a tremendous success in terms of student response. The opt-in rate for students desiring texts from Ray is 98%. Since his launch in August, Ray has texted to students four separate but specifically targeted texts, and ANC has received valuable and timely information from each of these text events which helped staff intervene with the appropriate support (academic, financial, transportation, mental health, etc.). Because Ray the Chatbot is a form of artificial intelligence capable of machine learning, the more input/data that Ray receives, the more precise the chatbot is with responses and better able to predict student behavior.