Ozark Campus News
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Arkansas Lottery Director Acclaims Success in Ozark
03/03/2010

Ernie Passailaigue, Arkansas Scholarship Lottery Director speaking in a joint meeting of the Ozark Area Chamber of Commerce and Ozark Rotary Club about the lottery’s success, and where it’s going next.

Passailaigue was at Arkansas Tech University – Ozark Campus to educate community members about the lottery and how it works. He says early numbers show Arkansas is on the right track to generating a large, sustainable source of scholarship funds. As of January 31, they had sold $181.4 million in scratch-off tickets; of that, $37.7 million was contributed to the state scholarship fund, and $119.2 million had been given out in prizes.

Automotive Service Technology Program  
03/02/2010

Arkansas Valley Electric Cooperative donated an electric vehicle for the Automotive Service Technology Program at Arkansas Tech University – Ozark Campus.

Arkansas Tech – Ozark will now have the ability to teach the latest technology in electric vehicles. It’s a unique opportunity to be in the forefront of emerging technology and serve as a proving ground for innovation.  Throughout the process of assembling the electric vehicle, students will be introduced to new technologies.  

Bobby Sewell, Automotive Service Technology Chair stated, “Not only is this a great way to learn, hands-on about physics, basic mechanical principles, introduction to electronics, and environmental and energy issues, but it provides our students with testing and analysis opportunities. Upon completion of the car kit, students will have the opportunity to compete in the annual Arkansas Electric Vehicle Rally.”

The electric vehicle rally consists of technical and safety inspections of the students’ vehicles, oral presentations, troubleshooting and road events such as acceleration and range. Students may also participate in a quiz bowl to test their knowledge of science and electric vehicles.

Greg Davis, Arkansas Valley Electric Member Service Manager acknowledged, “We really appreciate Arkansas Tech University – Ozark Campus and what they do for our area. We also feel the electric vehicle program will be mutually beneficial.”


Arkansas Blue & You Fitness Challenge
03/01/2010

Many Arkansas Tech University employees are working to get healthy in 2010 by participating in the Blue & You Fitness Challenge.  The event began Monday, March 1. The Ozark campus employees attended a kickoff event this that afternoon in the Student Services Conference Center.

In all, 136 Tech faculty and staff are participating in the 2010 challenge, which is nearly twice as many participants as last year.

The challenge concludes Monday, May 31, and participants are encouraged to exercise at least 30 minutes each day three times per week.

Participants may exercise individually or they are able to be a part of one of 17 teams representing various groups on the Tech campus.  Each week, those who complete the exercise time will be entered into a drawing for various prizes donated by River Valley businesses, and each week a trophy will be awarded to the winning team.

Additionally, participants will be able to take part in group exercise activities and receive a weekly newsletter with fitness, health and dieting information.

At Monday's kickoff, those in attendance learned tips to develop an exercise regimen that incorporates strength training and cardiovascular activity.

College Goal Sunday Successful
02/21/2010

College Goal Sunday is a program that helps college-bound students, who qualify for undergraduate admission to college, complete the Free Application for Federal Student Aid (FAFSA).  

The financial aid professionals from Arkansas Tech University – Ozark Campus were available to assist students and families in completing the application for federal aid on Sunday, February 21 from 2 - 4 p.m.

Deborah Wood, Financial Aid Director, is available in the Office of Students Services or call 1-800.225.2884.

Chancellor's Leadership Cabinet Visits State Capital
02/17/2010

Chancellor’s Leadership Cabinet (CLC) of Arkansas Tech University – Ozark Campus attended the 87^th General Assembly – Fiscal Session 2010 on Wednesday, February 17.

Upon arrival at the state capital, the CLC was greeted by State Representatives John Hoyt, John Paul Wells, and Robert Dale, and Phil Jacobs, Arkansas Tech University’s Vice President of Governmental Relations. After a tour of the capital building, the students were treated to lunch and later returned to the capital to observe the afternoon session.  

Throughout the day the students met Representatives, Steve Breedlove, George Overby, Beverly Pyle, and Shane Broadway.

Bridgett Robertson, CLC member stated, “It’s an amazing opportunity to serve on the Chancellor’s Leadership Cabinet and the trip was educationally life changing, motivating and just an awesome experience!”

Presentation on India
02/10/2010

Dr. Jo Alice Blondin, Chancellor of Arkansas Tech University – Ozark Campus gave a presentation on India to approximately 200 students last Wednesday, February 10  in the Student Services and Conference Center.  

Blondin was there from 26 December-5 January, travelling the "Golden Triangle" of Delhi, Agra, and Jaipur.  Blondin said, “I am happy to speak to civic groups about my travels.  Please email me at jblondin@atu.edu.”

Arkansas Procurement Assessment Workshop Stated
02/04/2010

Arkansas Procurement Opportunities Pre-Conference Training Getting Your Company Ready for Business Matchmaking.

Doing business with the government and large corporations has helped many small companies grow and develop.  Before a small business can compete for such contracts, though, it must jump through a lot of hoops. In preparation for the Arkansas Procurement Opportunities Conference on April 27, 2010, Arkansas Procurement Assistance Center will be teaching small businesses how to navigate the basics and fulfill eligibility requirements.  Offered at no charge, the training is strongly recommended though not mandatory for companies planning to participate in business matchmaking at the Arkansas Procurement Opportunities Conference.  People who attended last years series reported that the preparation workshops really helped them make the best use of the brief matchmaking interviews.

In a small-group, hands-on setting:

Learn how to select your NAICS and Federal Supply codes Register in Central Contractor Registration (CCR) or update your registration, including the Small Business Profile Section Draft your Line Card and other handouts Prepare and rehearse a 10-minute presentation of your company's capabilities to use in buyer interviews.

Basic Computer navigation and keyboarding skills required. Computers will be provided. Class size limited to 15 people.

Date:           February 25, 2010

Location:    Arkansas Tech University  - Ozark Campus

                    Student Services Conference Center  Room 117B

Time:          9:45 a.m. to 4:00 p.m.

To register for the class go to:

https://www.sbassist.com/services/register.php?id=33F4829006

Tech - Ozark Hosted Luncheon for Area High School Counselors
02/01/2010

Arkansas Tech University – Ozark Campus recently hosted a luncheon for area high school counselors. During the luncheon, employees of the Office of Student Services gave presentations which included a review of new and current program offerings, upcoming Preview Days, early registration, and financial aid opportunities available for area students.

Two special guest speakers addressed the group of approximately 35.

Matt Szymanski, Vice President/General Manager of Green Bay Packaging’s – Arkansas Kraft Division, spoke about the importance of education and industry specific training saying, “People make all of the difference in any operation.  I am grateful to be able to work with top-notch talent in an effort to thrive in a challenging business.”

Chris Hoyle, Baldor Electric, Inc. expressed his appreciation to Arkansas Tech – Ozark on how well they’ve answered the call to training for his employees and the field he represents. He encouraged the counselors to promote technical training to high school students.

Area counselors were provided with information packets and brochures to take back to their respective schools. Perspective students may contact their high school counselor, or the Office of Students Services for more information about the campus, or to make arrangements to tour the facilities.

Ozark Campus Announces Record Enrollment
01/28/10

The Arkansas Tech University – Ozark Campus has announced another record enrollment for the Spring 2010 semester.

In all, a total of 1,213 students are enrolled in classes at Arkansas Tech – Ozark.

The campus has seen a steady growth in enrollment over the past five years, and Richard Harris, chief student officer, says the growth can be attributed to several factors.  He adds, “The leadership provided by Dr. Blondin, strategic planning and living our mission statement have led to continued growth and thus, providing the citizens of the River Valley with unique educational opportunities.”

Dr. Jo Alice Blondin, chancellor, observed, "The Ozark Campus continues to serve the educational and training needs of the region, and this fact is demonstrated through our increased enrollment."

Ozark Campus Celebrates 100% Pass Rate
01/27/10

Arkansas Tech University – Ozark Campus has learned its May 2009 practical nursing class achieved a pass rate of 100% on the National Council Licensure Examination - Practical Nursing (NCLEX-PN).

In order to become certified as a practical or vocational nurse, individuals must pass the exam, which was developed by the National Council of State Boards of Nursing to ensure that standards for professional practice are the same in every jurisdiction.

Ozark Campus officials say the nursing faculty is proud of the class for their accomplishment.  Janet Mickens, practical nursing program chair, added, “We feel that the information gained through assessing our program and students, coupled with the reconstruction of some phases of the course, have allowed the students to achieve their goal of a 100% pass rate.”

Bruce Sikes, chief academic officer, said, “The excellence displayed by these nursing students is evidence of the faculty’s commitment to using assessment to improve student learning outcomes. Arkansas Tech – Ozark is vigilant in its efforts to seek out strategies leading to student achievement in the classroom and into the future workplace.”

Arkansas Tech – Ozark is Nearing Final Stages of Accreditation in the Physical Therapist Assistant Program
01/20/2010

The Physical Therapist Assistant (PTA) program at Arkansas Tech University - Ozark Campus will undergo a final onsite visit from the Commission on Accreditation in Physical Therapy Education (CAPTE) on February 1-3, 2010. 

The primary purpose of the on-site visit is to provide a comprehensive view of the physical therapy education program in its particular environment. An on-site visit is a routine component of the accreditation process and is conducted by a team selected for the specific purpose of serving as an ad hoc committee of the accrediting agency. The on-site visit consists of an interview series of conferences with administrative officials, faculty and students of the program along with visits to selected program facilities and affiliated institutions.

This final visit will include a 3-member team composed of a physical therapy educator, a physical therapist assistant, and a university administrator who will conduct an extensive review of the status of the PTA program, including progress toward accreditation since the last onsite visit conducted one year ago.  The team will submit their findings to the commissioners of CAPTE for final review on accreditation.   

The pathway toward accreditation was initially undertaken in the fall of 2007, involving the collaborative efforts of multiple individuals within the university and the community as well. 

Following the previous visit, the PTA program was granted candidacy status which authorized the enrollment of a charter class of PTA students.  Once the PTA program reaches accreditation status, the university will then be authorized to proceed with graduation arrangements for eligible members of the charter class.   

Accreditation of the PTA program is necessary in order for a graduate to be eligible to apply for licensure to practice as a PTA in Arkansas.

An opportunity for members of the community to meet with the CAPTE review team regarding the PTA program at the Ozark Campus has been scheduled at 10:00 am on Tuesday, February 2, 2010.  The meetings will be conducted in the Student Services and Conference Center.

Career Pathways Initiative Receives Additional Funding
01/19/2010

On December 31, Arkansas Department of Higher Education awarded Arkansas Tech University – Ozark Campus’ Career Pathways an additional $98,140 for the fiscal year 2010 student support, increasing the overall budget by approximately 30% from $330,484 to $428,624.

Approximately $63,000 is allocated to student childcare expenses and the remaining $36,140 is allocated to student transportation.  Ms. Tara Johnson, Director of Career Pathways Initiative said, “It has been a rewarding year for our Career Pathways Initiative and I am very excited about the additional funding.  We were able be to double the number of students we assist with childcare and transportation resulting in benefit not only to the students but to the local economy as well.”

Spring 2010 Semester Successfully Started
01/11/2010

As the holidays come to a close and everyone is settling into a new year, the Arkansas Tech University – Ozark Campus family has been busy gearing up for another successful semester.

When classes began on Monday, January 11, a record number of students were greeted by staff and faculty eager to assist them in any way possible.

Mr. Bruce Sikes, Chief Academic Officer stated, “We are excited about our the opportunities for our students, but more importantly we are excited about the educational attainment of our region. The Ozark Campus is committed to offering courses in Career and Technical Education leading to AAS degrees, and, along with the general education offerings, have established Arkansas Tech University - Ozark Campus as an educational choice.” Sikes added, “Educational attainment continues to drive the economic development in the communities we serve.”

Ozark Campus Announces Honor Roll
01/12/2010

Arkansas Tech University – Ozark Campus has announced its Chancellor’s Honor Roll and Honor Roll for students on the Ozark Campus for the fall 2009 semester.

A student must achieve a 4.0 grade point average to be named to the Chancellor’s Honor Roll, and a student must attain at least a 3.5 grade point average to be named to the Honor Roll.

A total of 420 students received these recognitions during fall 2009.

The members of the fall 2009 Arkansas Tech University – Ozark Campus Chancellor’s Honor Roll and Honor Roll are listed alphabetically by the town of their permanent address.

Students named to the Chancellor’s Honor Roll are:

ALMA --- Rebecca L. Bennett, Joy E. Cressler, Torey S. Dodson, Chris A. Felterman, Jeffery W. Gwaltney, Ashley N. Hitchcock, Dana L. Schultz, Burton W. Waid, Jo A. West;

ALTUS --- Danny L. Fisher, Trudy C. Lachowsky, Jessica P. Palmer, Dennis W. Wiederkehr;

ATKINS --- Kenneth A. Small;

BOONEVILLE --- Cory B. Akin, Amber J. Emery, Craig R. Fay, Gary L. Godfrey, Joseph B. Godfrey, Misty N. Holcomb, Caleb E. Jones, Stephanie E. Lowe, Sasha R. Mena,  Richard F. Mikich, Nathaneal A. Parrish, Sheila R. Parrish, Crystal J. Shaw, Levi D. Smith, Robert K. Vories, Janie L. Wann, Susie R. Watson;

CECIL --- Joyce M. Chase, Mark J. Chase;

CENTRAL CITY --- Jacqueline S. Whitehead;

CHARLESTON --- Charles E. Landers, Kala D. Lewis;

CLARKSVILLE --- Gaige S. Anderson, Mitchell P. Bell, Serena L. Clokey, Robert C. Fox, Gregory A. Kemp, Kevin T. Kesterson, Dawn M. King, Amanda R. Koch, Heath A. Lind, Alicia H. Nelson, Marvic L. Ramos, Joni M. Skidgel, Terri L. Staggs, Mark W. Stevens, Flor C. Suaste, Kimberly L. Tipton, Nkaujtsim Vue, Malinda R. Wagner, Taylor E. Weathers, Shelby L. Woodard;

CLINTON --- Chasity R. Cooley;

COAL HILL --- Sherry D. Duncan, Shawna M. Sturdivant;

DARDANELLE --- Eddie N. Davis, Keesha D. Hamilton, Jose J. Martinez, Chase C. Miller, Christopher P. Myers, Eric X. Perdido, Jonathan K. Smith;

DOVER --- Franklin A. Bryant, LaDonya S. McBryde, Cody A. Pruitt, Michael W. Standridge, Jeremiah J. Starr;

FORT SMITH --- Tyler D. Bowen, Micheal E. Champion, Jill L. Dunford, Ashley E. Hope, James W. Lindsay, Kenneth A. Palmer, Jack D. Ramsey, Garry R. Sanders, Amanda M. Solis, Lettie R. Watson, Darren J. Williams;

GREENWOOD --- Robert A. Drew, Jamie S. Fox, Lezlie D. Newman, David A. Strong, David S. White;

HACKETT --- Robin D. Broyles;

HAVANA --- Charles D. Davis;

HARTMAN --- Cecilia D Bell, Matthew K. Pipkins;

KNOXVILLE --- Joanna M. Wood, Sarah J. Wright;

LAMAR --- Johnessa C. Belcher, Casandra D. Edwards, Grant A. Harmon, Troy D. Palmer;

LAVACA --- David B. Woodcock;

LONDON --- April R. Smith, Robert D. Yard;

MAGAZINE --- Elisabeth L. Beeler, Philip E. Dodson, Travis W. Etheridge, Kenneth W. Ezell, Gladys P. Hice, Ciara R. Rieder, Glen R. Schmitt, Joseph D. Thao, Changlee Yang;

MIDLAND --- David C. Bailey

MORRILTON --- Daniel Aleman, John A. Allison, Jesse J. Anderson, Summer R. Davis, Charles M. Ivy, Joshua H. Jolly, Garrett C. Lenzen, Daniel L. Lynch, Christopher F. McKay, Brandon S. McQuain, Christopher M. Mosher, Chase H. Mullins, Tommy C. Powell, Robert C. Rogers, Jacob S. Spence, Brandon Z. Taylor, Dorian J. Thompson, Stephen M. Thompson, Terry L. Trezvant;

MULBERRY--- Daniel J. Bull, David D. Crowley, Dawn K. Dunn, Trennis D. Francia, Justin P. Gatewood, Ronald P. Hutain, Billy R. Mitcham, Jodie M. Nunley, Amanda S. O'Bar, Bryan K. Reeves;

NEW BLAINE --- Joey R. Collins;

OPPELO --- Thomas D. Johannes, Justin E. Parish, Wacy R. Risner , Bradley J. Roberds;

OZARK --- Benjamin C. Bonner, Debra R. Bono, Jody M. Chrisman, Amanda G. Cloos, Matthew T. Daily, Levon J. Dearing, Amy D. Francis, Cassandra A. Fraska, Elizabeth D. Gentry, Charles B. Haberer, Kevie K. Haberer, Nikki S. Hall, Dan C. Harden, Vanessa V. Howard, Lillian T. Howerton, Kimberli F. Ingram, Kevin G. Jackson, Cassandra B. Johnson, Leslie Kenney, Dalton C. Mann, Randi L. Marcotte, Allison J. McCormick, Rebecca A. McDonnor, Kayla D. McEntyre, Johnelle N. McQuaide, Sharyl R. Moffit, Marisa R. Murders, Lane C. Owen, Dalton C. Pearson, Michael R. Price, Debora L. Qualls, Sondra D. Rials, Whitney J. Rials, Amy M. Richard, Amber N. Rofkahr, Cynthia D. Ross, Jennifer S. Simpson, Steven D. Simpson, Michael D. Smith, Donna N. Snyder, Donnie W. Sullivan, Aleta M. Vogt, Katherine A. Wells, Jennifer D. Williams, Patricia A. Williams, Jeffrey S. Wright, Justin T. Yell;

PARIS --- Sherry K. Crow, Richard A. Doom, Timothy D. Harkey, Jordan L. Hixson, Kimberly A. Maddox, Billy Don I. McDaniel, Brittany N. Rogers, Kimberly R. Schulte;

PERRY --- Jason L. Perkins;

PERRYVILLE --- Jacob R. Belk, Ethan H. Cates, William T. Gorge, Cory D. Grable, Nicholas H. Kincade;

PLUMMERVILLE --- Nathaniel C. Elliott, Shawn A. Hamby, Tyrell D. Hood;

POTTSVILLE--- Michael T. Gateley;

RATCLIFF --- Sharon S. Core, Teresa L. Law;

RUSSELLVILLE --- Corey R. Anderson, Britany M. Blasczyk, Jordan A. Brown, Richard D. Casey, Justin D. Garner, Manuel Gutierrez-Ramirez, David C. Latham, Sarah M. Melton, Jack D. Proctor, Stewart B. Scoggin;

SCRANTON --- Michael B. Boswell, Thomas M. Flaherty, Caramey A. Fritsche, Jennifer R. King, Harry R. Mathews, Jami N. Spicer, Erin R. Stovall;

SPRINGFIELD --- Joseph T. Dube, Dylan T. Erwin, Seadon J. Jackson, Jacob K. Noland, Brandon C. Rogers;

SUBIACO --- Derek W. Bauer, Corey D. Cummins, Tracy L. Griffith, Gregory A. Moore;

VAN BUREN --- Calihand R. Allen, Malachi J. Ballegeer, Alexis L. Boster, Destiny M. Carcamo, Samantha J. Carter, Jesse T. Davis, Larry W. Hayes, Kathleen A. Johnson, Clarissa L. Keech, Dylan W. Kennamer, Marty J. Leakey, Jeffery J. Lunsford, Lacey N. McCormick, Megan L. McGhee, Jimmy D. Sheppard, Jordan W. Simon, Crystal L. Sisco, Kendra S. Taff, James D. Tankersley, Melissa L. Tankersley;

WALDRON --- Owen B. Chronister, Bruce W. Owens, Pata Xiong;

ARKOMA, Oklahoma --- James E. Francis;

POCOLA, Oklahoma --- Deborah L. Linker.

Students named to the Honor Roll are:

ALMA --- Misti A. Dicks, Robert A. Farra, Denice V. French, Casie M. Kelly, Hoyt W. Linthacum, Terina J. Rogers;

ALTUS --- Freda E. Archer, Corey J. Biggs, Gail R. Dahlem, Andrew L. Hudson, Patrick A. Hudson, Mikki D. Kinsworthy;

BELLEVILLE --- Ellis C. Davis;

BOONEVILLE --- Sharon L. Adair, Ernesto Amar, Clayton A. Brown, Kathryn J. Brown, Bradley W. Jones, Amanda J. Littleton, Ashley R. McIllwain, Deborah E. Noah, Ashley K. Reese, Randy A. Taylor, Terry D. Taylor, Zachary A. Taylor, William L. Vance, Marilyn A. Wooten;

BRANCH --- Brandon L. Comer, Katrina E. Dunn, Tammie A. Ratterree;

CECIL --- Veronica R. Hughey;

CEDARVILLE --- Jacqueline S. Perew;

CHARLESTON --- Victoria M. Bolin, Carolyn M. Harrison, Brian E. Hawk, Patricia A. Hewett, Kayla R. Neissl, Melisa F. Tygart;

CHESTER --- Tony W. McCormick;

CLARKSVILLE --- Larry J. Archuleta, Kayla S. Bartlett, Brandy E. Clubb, Samantha R. Coker, April D. Fales, RoxAnne Marsh, Michael B. Neumeier, Ashley N. Nichols, Terra L. Pelts, Christianna Riddell, Lona M. Santiago, Donald D. Track, Charles J. White, Julie A. Yarbrough;

COAL HILL --- James A. Canady, Heather L. Puckett;

DELAWARE --- William A. Foster;

FORT SMITH --- Harward M. Barry, David M. Citizen, Jessica D. Hester, Doris L. Kilgore, Mary K. Payne, April L. Rossetti, Michelle L. Schwartz, Christy M. Wells;

GREENWOOD --- Gary L. Parnell;

HAVANNA --- Kathleen L. Wilhite;

HARTMAN --- Serenity A. Crutchfield, Angela M. Padgett;

KNOXVILLE--- Amanda D. Hampton, Jordan A. Hardgrave;

LAMAR --- Shari S. Crumrine, Ariel D. Duncan, Amber R. Graae, Laurie R. Mendez, Shelley G. Pitts;

LAVACA --- Stacy D. Bullington, Jenny N. Geske;

LONDON ---Tony R. Laymon;

MOUNTAINBURG --- Hollie R. Beckham, James W. Cater, Brian E. White;

MULBERRY --- Amye E. Bernard, Ryan B. Harris, Brenda K. Powell, Misty D. Reynolds, Amanda E. Stanford;

OZARK --- Kasey L. Batterton, Joshua R. Bentley, Jessica L. Bowen, Samantha S. Bowman, Brianna L. Brison, Stephen D. Burns, Sunshine M. Button, Paula L. Cline, Misty R. Crumpton, Casey R. Culver, J. R. Dunn, Samantha D. Easom, Amanda M. Edge, Melissa C. Freeman, Brianne C. Hald, Alfred Hernandez, Lisa M. Key, Rebecca J. King, Amy L. Nichols, Courtney C. O'Brien, Richard L. Perkins, Cathy L. Quinter, Lloyd S. Reano, Estevan Salazar, Paula A. Shaw, Victoria A. Stover, LaRonda D. Sullivan, Dillon D. Sumners, Larry D. Williams, Vanessa N. Willis, Brad R. Wood, Jessica N. Wright;

OZONE --- Alicia A. Freeman;

PARIS --- Erin L. Cooper, Taylor A. Copsy, Garrison D. DeArmond, Sonya L. Elliott, Bryan A. Holtzclaw, Danny R. Hull, Andrew M. Powers, Lorrie B. Stewart, Heath W. Varnell, Jeremy A. Young, Joshua D. Young;

PEA RIDGE --- Wesley D. Wilkerson,

RATCLIFF --- Dwayne W. Burleson, Rebecca S. Canada, Linda A. Clifton, Tonya L. Kearney, Jonathan L. Melton, Barbara A. Rynhart;

ROGERS --- Abraham Torres;

RUDY --- Holly G. Parker, Shannon L. Westbrook;

RUSSELLVILLE --- Deborah D. Adams, Gustavo Avila, Danny R. Gallaher, David A. Kendrick;

SCRANTON --- Lynda L. Moffet, Stacy A. VanCleave;

SUBIACO --- Aaron M. McClure, Louise A. Nolan;

UNIONTOWON --- Jerry D. Odom;

VAN BUREN--- Joy J. Cook, Jessica L. Greene, Harold T. Haney, Cynthia A. Ludack, Crystal G. Prestwood, Karen R. Wheeler, Nathan E. Williams;

WINSLOW --- Brianna D. France, Jeremy J. Scott.

Ozark Campus Hosts Pinning Ceremony
12/18/2009

Arkansas Tech University – Ozark Campus will host a pinning ceremony for nursing students on Friday, December 18.

The ceremony will take place at 6:30 p.m. in the new Student Services and Conference Center at Arkansas Tech University – Ozark Campus.

During the ceremony, Dr. Jo Alice Blondin, Chancellor, will introduce special guests, and Dr. Robert C. Brown, President of Arkansas Tech University, will give the welcome.

Pinning ceremonies date back to the 1860's at the Nightingale School of Nursing at St. Thomas Hospital in London.  Nightingale extended the honor to outstanding nurses by presenting them with a medal of excellence.

Ozark Campus Collects 800 Pounds of Food
12/17/2009

The Student Government Association at Arkansas Tech – Ozark Campus helped make the holiday season brighter for families in Franklin County by collecting over 800 pounds of food that will be given to those in need.

The food will be donated to the food bank at the Franklin County Department of Human Services in Ozark.

Ozark Campus students had several opportunities to donate over the past few weeks.  The SGA offered students the chance to exchange nonperishable food items for donuts, orange juice and Arkansas Tech – Ozark memorabilia.

Yvonne Case, Department of Human Services, said her office is grateful to the Arkansas Tech – Ozark Campus for their support.  She added, “This second major donation of food will enable us to assist the ever increasing number of families and individuals who are without groceries in our community.  People in today’s tough times are struggling more than ever, and SGA is modeling the way for all community partners to find new and creative ways to take care of our friends and neighbors.”

Earlier this year the Ozark Campus donated more than 400 pounds of food to the food bank. 

Ozark Campus Announces Leadership Council Members 
12/10/2009

Guest Speaker and Bionic Hero Visits Nursing Students
11/30/2009

Nursing students at Arkansas Tech University – Ozark Campus recently had the chance to learn how nurses can impact the lives of others from the first female to receive a bionic arm.  Claudia Mitchell visited with students in a practical nursing class about her interactions with nursing professionals following an accident.

Mitchell received the state-of-the-art robotic arm following a motorcycle accident in 2004, and during the visit, she spoke with students about the accident and her experiences as a hospital patient.

Mitchell reminded the students they have the ability to make an impact.  She added, “Always remember that as a nurse, you can make a difference in the life of your patient.”

Mitchell is the first female to have this type of prosthesis that works by detecting the movements of her chest muscles, which have been rewired to the nerves that once served her left arm.

Coordinator of Student Recruitment Hired
11/17/2009

Jessica E. Birchler has been selected for the position of Coordinator of Student Recruitment at Arkansas Tech University – Ozark Campus. 

Birchler is a 2004 graduate of Ozark High School and has a Bachelor of Arts-History from UAFS, where she made the Dean’s List, was a University Ambassador, and was an Academic Scholarship Recipient. 

Jessica resides in Ozark where she is a current board member of Main Street Ozark. She enjoys spending time outdoors, canoeing, and photography.

Harris' Fund Scholarships for Arkansas Tech – Ozark Campus
11/16/2009

Through the generosity of Richard and Lexie Harris of Ozark, two non-endowed scholarship funds has been established through the Arkansas Tech University Foundation for the purpose of providing scholarships for students attending Arkansas Tech University – Ozark Campus. 

The two scholarships are in honor of the couple’s fathers, Benny R. Harris and William “Bud” Rue. Richard Harris, Chief Student Officer at Arkansas Tech University – Ozark Campus said, “Arkansas Tech has been a large part of our lives and we wanted to give something back to our fathers as well as Arkansas Tech.”

Benny R. Harris is the father of Richard Harris and is a 1969 Graduate of Arkansas Tech University Degree in Business Administration and is employed with Liberty Bank in Russellville. Harris continues to support Arkansas Tech University and its mission by serving as Vice Chairman to the Foundation Board and on their Finance Committee. Harris said, “I began college in 1965 under the work study program which allowed me to obtain a degree in Banking and I’ve been the field for the past 35 years.” He added, “There is not a better program in the state for Business and Accounting than at Arkansas Tech.”

William “Bud” Rue is the father of Lexie Harris and is a 1969 Arkansas Tech University Graduate with a BS in General Business. Mr. Rue is now retired after 35 years as the Manager of Key Accounts at Arkansas Valley Electric Co-op. Rue’s ties to the Ozark Campus run deep, he has served on the Board of Advisors in Air Conditioning and Refrigeration beginning in 1971, later became a member of the Board of Advisors for the campus and was involved in the merger process in 2003 which led to Rue becoming a current member of the Board of Advisors.

Hiles Honored on Veterans Day
11/12/2009

An awards’ ceremony honoring the distinguished service of veteran and tech student, Mr. Francis J. “Frank” Hiles was held on Wednesday, November 11 at 2:00 p.m. in the Student Services’ Conference Center at Arkansas Tech University – Ozark Campus. The event was hosted by Congressman Boozman’s Office.

Hiles received sixteen Medals of Honor by Lt. Colonel Gray, Senior Military and Veterans’ Advisor for Congressman John Boozman.

Dr. Jo Alice Blondin stated,"Veteran's Day is always a great day of remembrance and reflection.  This Veteran's Day was particularly special because we honored one of our own for his dedicated military service, a student and member of the Tech Family, Mr. Frank Hiles.  Mr. Hiles served in the Korean and Vietnam Wars, and for students to know that this brave man sits next to them in class is a reminder of the sacrifice made daily by our military."

Community Roundtable Meeting Held
11/9/2009

The annual OG&E Roundtable meeting was held at the Student Services’ Conference Center of Arkansas Tech University – Ozark Campus last week. Dana Craig gave a presentation titled “Positive Energy Together” to crowd of approximately 40 local business and industry representatives.

Study Exchange from Chile' Visit Ozark
11/2/2009

Arkansas Tech University – Ozark Campus and the Rotary Club of Ozark hosted a reception last week to honor a Group Study Exchange from Chile’.

The Rotary Foundation’s Group Study Exchange program is a unique opportunity for businesspeople and professionals between ages of 24 and 40 who are in the early stages of their careers. The program provides travel grants for teams to exchange visits in paired areas of different countries. For four to six weeks, team members experience the host country’s culture and institutions, observe how their vocations are practiced abroad, develop personal and professional relationships, and exchange ideas.

In a typical four-week tour, applicants participate in five full days of vocational visits, 15 to 20 club presentations, 10 to 15 formal visits and social events, two to three days at the district conference, three to four hours per day of cultural and site tours, and three to four hours per day of free time with host families.

As a part of their stay in the Ozark area, this group visited the Mt. Magazine Lodge, Arkansas Tech University – Ozark Campus, St. Mary’s Church, Aux Arc and Post Wineries.

Rotarians in the host area provide for meals, lodging and group travel within their district. Local Rotarians that volunteered as host families were: Dr. Jo Alice Blondin, Lester Davis, Tony Wilson, T.F. White, and John Robison.  

Adult Education Offerings
11/2/2009

Arkansas Tech University Ozark Campus Adult Education offers classes at no charge.  These classes include keyboarding, computer literacy, English as a Second Language, traditional and online GED courses.  Refresher classes are offered in math, writing, and language, as well as preparatory work for college entrance exams such as Compass and TEAS. 

Stop by one of our Adult Education Centers nearest you; Ozark is located across Highway 23 from Arkansas Tech University Ozark Campus, or call Sherry Brown or Vicky Spurr at 667-3520.  Hours are 7:30 a.m. to 7:30 p.m. Monday, Tuesday, and Thursday, with Wednesday hours from 7:30 a.m. to 4:30 p.m. Booneville is located at the Booneville Training Site or call Christy McCollough at 675-4326.  Hours are 7:30 a.m. to 7:30 p.m. Monday, Tuesday, and Thursday, with Wednesday hours from 7:30 a.m. to 4:30 p.m. Paris is located at 103 East Pine Street or call Judith Davis at 963-6962.  Hours are 9:00 a.m. to 6:00 p.m. Monday through Thursday.

Give your academic skills a boost with Adult Education – FREE!