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Six A-State Students Selected for Distinguished Service Awards

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Courtesy of Arkansas State University

JONESBORO – Six outstanding students from Arkansas State University have been selected as Distinguished Service Award (DSA) winners for 2024-2025. The DSA recipients will be recognized during the Convocation of Scholars as the institution’s most outstanding graduates based on their record of leadership, scholarship, and citizenship. 
 
One of these students will be announced as the 2025 recipient of the university’s highest honor, the R.E. Lee Wilson Award, on Thursday, April 24, at a campus dinner for the DSA winners.  
 
This year, the recipients are Elizabeth England of Piedmont, Mo.; Rachel Mooneyham of Jonesboro; Sabrina Pierce of Maumelle; Braden M. Ross of Nashville, Ark.; Jonathan Schaufler of Salem; and Amber Yates of Salem. 
 
Faculty, staff, and advisers nominate top students for the prestigious annual awards.  
 
All of the nominees have achieved excellent academic records and provided countless hours of service to the community, their classmates, campus organizations, their departments and colleges, and Arkansas State University. 
 
A committee comprised of students, faculty, staff, and previous Wilson Award recipients makes the final selections. Here are some highlights about each of this year’s DSA winners. 
 
Elizabeth England of Piedmont, Mo.  
With a double major in political science through the College of Liberal Arts and Communication and economics with the Neil Griffin College of Business, England will graduate in May. During her time at A-State, she has been on the Chancellor’s and Dean’s Lists and been awarded numerous scholarships.  
 
England interned at the Washington Center, was a Truman Scholarship nominee, and was awarded the Public Policy and International Affairs Graduate School Scholarship. She served as director of food pantry operations with the A-State Volunteer Council, was a senator of the Student Government Association, and volunteered with the A-State Women’s Business Leadership Center. 
 
Following graduation, England plans to pursue a master’s degree in public policy. Her advisers are Natasha Neal, instructor in political science and Dr. Chris Brown, professor of economics.  
 
Rachel Mooneyham of Jonesboro 
Mooneyham will graduate from the College of Liberal Arts and Communication in May with a bachelor’s degree in strategic communication with a minor in marketing. During her time at A-State, she achieved a 4.0 GPA and was named to the Chancellor’s list for the past four years. 
 
The awardee of many scholarships, Mooneyham received the Gena and Neil Griffin Business Scholarship, Alpha Gamma Delta Foundation Pearl Johnson Essay Scholarship, and Adrian Headley Memorial Textbook Scholarship.  
 
She wore many hats as part of the Student Government Association serving as a senator, chief of staff, and public relations director. She is a member of Alpha Gamma Delta, where she served in leadership roles. She is currently studying in England for her final semester. Her adviser is Rachel Freeze, instructor in strategic communication. 
 

Sabrina Pierce of Maumelle 
A psychology major in the College of Education and Behavioral Science, Pierce will graduate in May. With a cumulative GPA of 4.0, Pierce has been on the Chancellor’s and Honors Director’s Lists and was also named the 2024-2025 Bachelor of Science Psychology Student of the Year.  
 
A recipient of numerous scholarships, Pierce was awarded the Global Student Leaders Scholarship, Jo Anne J. Trow Scholarship, and was a Barry Goldwater Scholarship nominee in 2024. In addition to her studies, Pierce has been involved in several extracurricular activities. She serves as president for Psi Chi: International Honor Society in Psychology, A-State Society for Neuroscience, and vice-president of Alpha Lambda Delta. On campus, she was part of the Student Activities Board, Volunteer A-State, the Honors College, and several more organizations. 
 
She worked as a Communication Center coach on campus and said that experience gave her a sense of belonging and connection. Following graduation, she plans to attend graduate school seeking a Specialist in Education degree in clinical mental health counseling. Her adviser is Dr. Anthony Eldridge, assistant professor of psychology. 
 
Braden M. Ross of Nashville, Ark.  
A pre-professional studies biological sciences major in the Beck College of Sciences and Mathematics (BCSM), Ross will graduate in May. He has been on the Chancellor’s and Dean’s Lists, as well as the Honors Director’s List.  
 
Ross is the winner of several scholarships. He interned as a grant-funded research assistant with New York Institute of Technology’s neuroscience research lab, held numerous leadership roles within the Student Government Association, served as a tutor and ambassador for BSCM, and was involved in the pre-professional club. 
 
Described as being a very determined student, Ross plans to continue his education at A-State to attend graduate school. He also plans to attend flight school. His adviser is Dr. Kyle Gustafson, assistant professor of biology and environmental health. 
 
Jonathan Schaufler of Salem 
Graduating in May with a bachelor’s degree in nursing from the College of Nursing and Health Professions, Schaufler has been on the Chancellor’s and Dean’s Lists and was the 2024 Arkansas Nursing Student of the Year.  
 
He serves as president of the Student Nurses Association, president pro tempore of the Student Government Association, and is a member of the College of Nursing and Health Professions Dean’s Student Advisory Board. A Chancellor’s Ambassador, Schaufler has also served in leadership roles in his fraternity, Phi Delta Theta.  
 
In addition to his campus involvement, Schaufler has been involved with the community. He has interned at NEA Baptist Memorial Hospital where his ingenuity and drive were recognized. His adviser is Addie Fleming, associate professor of nursing. 
 
Amber Yates of Salem 
Yates graduated in December with a bachelor’s degree in communication studies from the College of Liberal Arts and Communication. She has been on the Chancellor’s and Deans’s Lists and is the winner the Excellence in Student Diversity Award in 2022, and the Black Student Association (BSA) Advocate and BSA Humanitarian awards in 2024.  
 
She served as president of the National Pan-Hellenic Council and held several leadership roles with the Omicron Tau chapter of Sigma Gamma Rho Sorority. In her time at A-State, she was pivotal in reactivating the sorority on campus after a 16-year hiatus. Yates was a volunteer with the A-State Food Pantry, a Pack Leader, a Communication Center coach, and served on the Student Government Association. Yates also served as an ambassador for the Multicultural Center. 
 
Her adviser was Matthew Robins, instructor in communication studies and director of the Communication Center.

Northeast Arkansas Career and Technical Center celebrates 50 years

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Story by DDNS Reporter Shailey Wooldridge

Photo courtesy of the Northeast Arkansas Career and Technical Center

The Northeast Arkansas Career and Technical Center (NEACTC) celebrated 50 years of opening doors for students on Friday, March 14.

“It’s just nice that I’m able to contribute to the legacy of the place. So this is, this is most definitely a very special place in Northeast Arkansas,” Alex Ragsdale, special projects manager for the NEACTC, said.

The career technical school serves 14 school districts across Northeast Arkansas, it has undergone multiple name changes over the years but its purpose of preparing students for a variety of career skills remains constant.

Ragsdale said the center offers free college credit to high school students, free industry certifications, and clubs.

“This is a good place for students to get experience in the job field that they’re thinking about going into because we know how costly college can be, so it’s nice to kind of get your feet wet in this situation,” Ragsdale said. “Just an amazing place for students just to kind of fill out what they want to be.”

Robert Stephens and Mell Stephens attended the celebration. Robert taught computer-aided drafting at the technical school for 27 years, and Mell taught a parenting skills class for three years.

Robert Stephens and Mell Stephens look at a photo of themselves from their time at the Northeast Arkansas Career and Technical Center. Robert Stephens taught computer aided drafting for 27 years and Mell Stephens taught parenting skills for three years. Photo by DDNS Reporter Shailey Wooldridge.

“We had a great time,” Robert Stephens said. “I have a lot of students I see around town in places that appreciate what they learned here. Had several state winners.”

Mell Stephens said that many Roberts students became architects.

“It’s good that kids are getting recognized that come here. For years, we always said that more kids ought to be taking because they would be needed later on, and now, today, that’s exactly what’s happened. More and more folks in these classes are needed out on the job,” Robert Stephens said.

Mell Stephens said she enjoyed her time teaching at the NEACTC.

“I loved it. I loved the girls. Yeah, I had some challenges, but boy, I loved the girls. Loved teaching, and I had a couple of boys that came to it,” Mell Stephens said.

Isabella Stanton, a senior at Jonesboro High School and the president of the NEACTC SkillsUSA chapter said she discovered her passion for the EMT program through NEACTC.

“I did not know what I wanted my job or anything I was interested in until I learned this is here. I spoke with all the teachers, but I fell in love with the EMT program. I think it’s really why many people can figure out what they want to do,” Stanton said.

She said the NEACTC has supported her in many ways.

“I’m in EMT school, but Medic One wants to hire me already. It’s given me many opportunities, and I’ve made many friends and mentors from here as well. So, the NEACTC is a good place to find what you want to do,”

Ryan Pannone Named A-State Men’s Head Baskebtall Coach

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Ryan Pannone, Photo courtesy of the University of Alabama

JONESBORO, Ark. (3/30/25) – Arkansas State Vice Chancellor for Intercollegiate Athletics Jeff Purinton announced Sunday that Ryan Pannone, who has gained a reputation over the course of his 23-year career as one of the nation’s top offensive minds and player-development coaches, has been named the Red Wolves’ 18th all-time head men’s basketball coach.

A 2025 selection to Silver Waves Media’s prestigious Elite 75 Future Head Coach Power Lunch, Pannone (pronounced Puh-Known) comes to A-State after most recently spending the last two seasons as an assistant coach at Alabama.  The Crimson Tide boasted the nation’s highest scoring average both years as Pannone helped lead the program to Final Four and Elite Eight appearances in the NCAA Tournament in 2023-24 and 2024-25, respectively.  However, his path to Jonesboro also went through six different countries, including the United States, China, Germany, Israel, Korea and Slovakia.

“We conducted a thorough national search for our next head men’s basketball coach and had an outstanding pool of candidates,” said Purinton.  “Coach Pannone is highly respected for his work as a coach at all levels, and during the search process it became clear that he was a great fit for our program.  Our System President Dr. Brendan Kelly, Chancellor Dr. Todd Shields and I were completely aligned that he is the right person at the right time to lead our men’s basketball program into the future.

“Coach Pannone has achieved success both nationally and internationally, running high-tempo offenses in systems that emphasize player development.  He is well-known as an elite basketball tactician and great recruiter with the ability to get the very best out of his players.  He truly cares about the young men he coaches, placing a priority on their success both on and off the court.”

An introductory press conference open to the public will be held soon on a date to be announced at a later time.  The press conference will take place in the Centennial Bank Athletics Operations Center, located in the north end zone of Centennial Bank Stadium, and be streamed live on the Arkansas State Athletics Facebook page (/AStateRedWolves).  The press conference will also be carried lived on the Ticket Radio Network (95.3 FM, 96.9 FM and 970 AM in Jonesboro) and through the EAB Media app.

Pannone owns a wealth of experience at numerous levels, including NCAA Division I, NBA, G-League, various professional leagues overseas, junior college, high school and AAU.  He has claimed 204 career wins in nine years as a head coach, including stops with the G-League’s Erie BayHawks and Birmingham Squadron and the Slovak Basketball League’s BC Prievidza.

His background includes 18 years of coaching players with NBA experience.  He has coached 82 total NBA players and 46 players selected in the First Round of the NBA Draft, including 30 Lottery picks.

“I am excited and honored to be the head men’s basketball coach at Arkansas State University, and I want to thank Jeff Purinton, Dr. Todd Shields, Dr. Brendan Kelly and the ASU Board of Trustees for this opportunity,” Pannone said.  “My family and I are looking forward to being part of the Jonesboro community, which shows outstanding support and love for the university and its athletics programs.  I would not be in this position without the support of my wonderful wife, Sarah, who has always been a great source of encouragement while following me all over the world and making many sacrifices during this journey.

“The A-State basketball brand is on the rise amid great momentum, and that is a testament to the amazing job Bryan Hodgson, his staff and the players have done the last two years.  They built a strong foundation, and I’m fortunate to be stepping into a fantastic situation – we’re in a great place to continue elevating this program together.  Our staff and players will be committed to working extremely hard to put a fun and winning product on the floor while representing our community in a first-class manner.

“I also want to thank everyone associated with the University of Alabama, including head coach Nate Oats, Athletics Director Greg Byrne, the coaching staff and the players, for a wonderful two years in Tuscaloosa.”

Serving as Alabama’s offensive coordinator under head coach Nate Oats, Pannone orchestrated the country’s most explosive offenses the last two seasons.  The Crimson Tide averaged over 90 points per game both of his years in Tuscaloosa, including a school-record 90.7 average in 2024-25.  Alabama made an NCAA Tournament-record 25 three pointers in its Sweet 16 victory over BYU.

The Crimson Tide eclipsed 100 points in 17 contests during Pannone’s time with the program, including an SEC-record nine games this year.  Alabama also led the nation in offensive tempo each of the last two years while posting a combined 53-21 record.

“Coach Pannone is not only an outstanding basketball coach, but a man of great integrity and high character who cares deeply about his student-athletes,” said A-State Chancellor Dr. Todd Shields.  “He is a proven winner, as well as an outstanding communicator who will connect with his players and our community on a very authentic level.  We couldn’t be more excited to announce him as our new head men’s basketball coach.”

Pannone spent the season prior to his arrival at Alabama as an assistant coach for the NBA’s New Orleans Pelicans, helping lead the squad to 42 victories and a Play-In Tournament berth.

He served as head coach of both the Erie BayHawks and Birmingham Squadron as part of the NBA’s G-League from 2019-22.  His squads made back-to-back playoff appearances his last two seasons and had 11 combined NBA call-ups.

Pannone was also on the BayHawks coaching staff as an assistant during their 2014-15 campaign, but spent a season before that and the four years after coaching internationally.

His first overseas coaching opportunity came in 2013-14 as an assistant with the Guangzhou Long Lions of the Chinese Basketball Association.  His next international coaching job came with the Hanau (Germany) White Wings, also as an assistant in 2015-16.

The 2016-17 season saw Pannone work as an assistant coach with Hapoel Jerusalem, helping the team appear in the Final Four of the EuroCup and claim the Israel Winner League Championship.  He then spent the following year as head coach for a BC Prievidza (Slovakia) team that led its league in defense, opponent points per game, rebounding and three-point field goals made and attempted.

Pannone returned to Hapoel Jerusalem as an assistant coach for the 2018-19 season, when the squad led the Champions League in points, assists and rebounds.  He also worked remotely as an advanced scout and video coordinator for the Angola National Team in 2019.

“I am thrilled to have Coach Pannone join our team and community,” said ASU System President Dr. Brendan Kelly.  “Our efforts to continue to elevate depend on us attracting great talent and excellent leaders.  Coach Pannone embodies both of those descriptors.”

Pannone began his coaching career in 2003 while working on his undergraduate degree at the University of South Florida, taking an assistant position at Oldsmar (Fla.) Christian School.  He was elevated to head coach three years later in 2006 and served in that role until 2011, posting a 131-42 record that included wins over three USA Today nationally-ranked teams.

Following his time at Oldsmar Christian, and one year before he joined the Guangzhou Long Lions, Pannone spent the 2011-12 campaign as an assistant coach at Wallace State (Ala.) Junior College.  His lone season in Hanceville saw the Lions win the Region XXII Championship and Alabama State Championship.  They were one of 16 teams in the country to qualify for the JUNCO National Tournament.

In addition to his numerous coaching stops from 2006-19, Pannone worked at the Pro Training Center as its NBA Director.  During that time, he oversaw the development of over 50 NBA players, 33 First-Round NBA Draft selections and 22 Lottery picks.

The Clearwater, Fla., native earned his bachelor’s degree in general studies with a concentration of public health from the University of South Florida in 2011.  While working on his degree, he was a student manager for the men’s basketball program under Robert McCullum in 2006-07.

Pannone and his wife, Dr. Sarah Pannone, have three children — Raylan (7), Dahlia (5), Trajan (3).

RYAN PANNONE FILE

Coaching Experience

2023-25 | Alabama, Assistant Coach

2022-23 | New Orleans Pelicans, Assistant Coach

2019-22 | Erie BayHawks & Birmingham Squadron, Head Coach

2019 | Angola National Team, Advanced Scout & Video Coordinator

2006-19 | Pro Training Center, NBA Director

2018-19 | Hapoel Jerusalem, Assistant Coach

2017-18 | BC Prievidza, Head Coach

2016-17 | Hapoel Jerusalem, Assistant Coach

2015-16 | Hanau White Wings, Assistant Coach

2014-15 | Erie BayHawks, Assistant Coach

2012-13 | Guangzhou Long Lions, Assistant Coach

2012 | Wallace State Community College, Assistant Coach

2003-11 | Oldsmar Christian School, Head Coach (2006-11) & Assistant Coach (2003-06)

Summer Experience

2021 & 2022 | NBA Draft Combine & G-League Elite Camp, Coach

2019 & 2021 | NBA Summer League, New Orleans Pelicans Assistant Coach

2017 | NBA Basketball Without Borders Camp, Tel Aviv (Israel) Assistant Coach

2015-17 | Korean Basketball League, LG Sakers Director of Player Development

2013 | NBA Summer League, Memphis Grizzlies Assistant Coach

By the Numbers

1 Final Four appearance

1 Elite Eight appearance

3 different continents of pro basketball coaching experience

5 years of international coaching experience

6th best record in the NBA’s G-League during last two seasons (2020-22)

9 years of head coaching experience

17 total 100-point games the last two seasons combined

18 years of coaching players with NBA experience

22 years of coaching experience

30 NBA Lottery picks coached

46 first-round NBA Draft selections coached

75.2 KenPom offensive tempo ranked 1st in the nation (2024-25)

82 NBA players coached

126.0 KenPom Offensive Efficiency ranked 2nd in the nation (2023-24)

126.8 KenPom Offensive Efficiency ranked 4th in the nation (2024-25)

204 wins as a head coach

Pannone’s Coaching Pillars

Accountability

Organization

Servanthood

Inspiration

Loyalty

Unity

Love

What They’re Saying

“Ryan Pannone is a great hire for Arkansas State.  He has an elite basketball IQ and pairs that with a relentless work ethic that gives him the ability to be a great teacher and developer of talent.  Ryan possesses one of the elite offensive minds in basketball, creating a system for his players to thrive in as Alabama led the nation in scoring during his two years in Tuscaloosa.  His experience in the NBA, overseas and in college basketball has prepared him for the job. He will be a great fit in Jonesboro.

Nate Oats, Alabama Head Coach

“Ryan has one of the brightest basketball minds in the business.  His knowledge, work ethic, passion and experience far outweighs his years.  He will have tremendous success at Arkansas State!”

Scott Drew, Baylor Head Coach

“Ryan Pannone is one of the top basketball minds in the game.  Many of us in the profession have sought him out for ideas.  No one studies the game more than Ryan.  And if you’re a player, you’ll get a chance to play for a guy who has coached the game at every level.  He can help you get where you want to go.”

Stan Van Gundy, current NBA and college basketball commentator and former NBA head coach

“Ryan Pannone is one of, if not the smartest, hardest working coaches I’ve ever had the pleasure to work with.  He’s got a devotion for players and a passion for the game, and it shows immensely through his creativity with X’s and O’s and player development.  He’s a leader and a competitor and an elite level head coach.  Any program would be fortunate to have him serving in any capacity.

Bryson Graham, New Orleans Pelicans General Manager

“I am incredibly happy for this next opportunity for Ryan.  He has a tremendous passion for the game of basketball and teaching it to his players.  Every time we speak he is about to watch film or has just finished watching film.  He is always studying how he can improve as a coach and different ways for his players and teams to get better.  Arkansas State is in great hands with Ryan.”

Trajan Langdon, Detroit Pistons President of Basketball Operations

Jonesboro Mayor Harold Copenhaver Provides State of the City

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Story by DDNS Reporter Shailey Wooldridge.

Jonesboro Mayor Harold Copenhaver.

During the annual meeting, Jonesboro Mayor Harold Copenhaver addressed plans to grow the city’s population to 100,000 people, the city’s strong financial health, and projected 2025 projects and revenues.

The mayor spoke for around 30 minutes to a packed crowd at Embassy Suites.

“The state of the city of Jonesboro, Arkansas is strong. It’s filled with potential because of the people it’s filled with,” Copehaver said. “Jonesboro is anything but static.”

Copenhaver said the city has $33 million in reserves and projected 2025 revenues of $93 million. Its achievements in 2024 include a 106-ton neighborhood cleanup, a revived glass recycling program, and numerous park and infrastructure improvements.

He said preparing for 100,000 people will require constant effort to maintain the city’s growth and prosperity.

This month, Jonesboro will break ground on the $70 million Sportsplex, which Copenhaver said will increase revenue for Jonesboro businesses.

Additionally, he said plans for repairing and adding miscellaneous streets, sidewalks, and road overlay projects will cost another seven figures.

“Among the most critical projects that need funding is extensive work on South Caraway Road and the associated pedestrian accommodations,” Coperhaver said.

The city will fund foundational pieces of the master parks plan, provide new vehicles and equipment for the police and fire departments, and update the Jonesboro E-911 center.

 He said community engagement is necessary to address crime, provide opportunities for youth, and support local nonprofits and businesses.

Copenhaver said quality of life for parents is knowing their kids can safely cross streets, call 911 in an emergency, and receive a kind and experienced dispatcher on the other end.

“We all love to think big, but we can’t overlook the basic responsibility as leaders of this community. I believe, like you, we have a moral responsibility, a moral mandate, to prioritize projects that will save lives,” Copenhaver said. “Kids can’t be it if they can’t see it.”

Carole Farmer Appointed to ASU System Board of Trustees

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Carole Farmer, ASU System Board of Trustees. Image courtesy of the ASU System.

LITTLE ROCK — Gov. Sarah Huckabee Sanders has appointed Carole Farmer of Fayetteville to a seven-year term on the Arkansas State University System Board of Trustees.


Farmer succeeds immediate past board chair Christy Clark of Little Rock, who served seven years after being appointed by Gov. Asa Hutchinson in 2018 and reappointed by Gov. Sanders in 2023.

ASU System President Brendan Kelly said he welcomes Farmer to the board.


“Carole Farmer will be an outstanding addition to our Board of Trustees,” Kelly said. “Her experiences in health care, management and finance will be welcome on the board and in the ASU System. We look forward to working with her in the years ahead.”


“I’m also grateful to Christy Clark for her service during the past seven years,” Kelly added. “She has been part of many significant achievements in the ASU System, and I worked closely with her as board chair during the last six months as I came on board as president. She’s been a tremendous resource and asset to the ASU System.”

Farmer is a Certified Medical Practice Executive (CMPE) and owns Arkansas Medical Management Consulting, LLC, a medical consulting firm that provides support for physician-owned practices. She worked 17 years for the largest multi-specialty physician medical clinic in northeast Arkansas. Her last seven years, she served as the clinic’s administrator and managed more than 120 employees.

She served for five years on the Board of Directors for Arkansas Medical Group Managers Association, her last year as chair of the organization.  Prior to her medical management career, she worked in the banking industry focusing on internal auditing and regulatory compliance. She is a member of the board of directors of Farmer Enterprises Inc.

“First, I want to thank Governor Sanders for her confidence in me,” Farmer said. “I look forward to working with President Kelly and the other trustees to improve educational and workforce opportunities for our students and all Arkansans.” 

Farmer is a graduate of Arkansas State University with both her bachelor’s degree in accounting (2005) and master’s in business administration (2008). She also served as an adjunct professor of accounting at A-State for two years, primarily focused on managerial accounting. 

A native of Palestine, she is married to Alec Farmer, a 1986 Arkansas State University graduate.  They are 1924 Sustaining Life Members of the A-State Alumni Association and endowed the Dalton A. Farmer Family Scholarship in 2015.

Together they have four adult daughters. Emily, their youngest daughter, is an A-State graduate. The ASU System, based in Little Rock, serves 35,000 students annually through on-site and online options. Member institutions include Arkansas State University in Jonesboro with an additional campus in Queretaro, Mexico; ASU-Beebe, with additional campuses in Heber Springs and Searcy and an instructional site at the Little Rock Air Force Base; ASU-Mountain Home; ASU-Newport, with additional campuses in Jonesboro and Marked Tree; ASU Mid-South in West Memphis; ASU Three Rivers in Malvern; and Henderson State University in Arkadelphia. For more information about the ASU System, visit ASUSystem.edu or follow on X @ASUSystem.

I-55 Bridge Replacement in Memphis to Start in 20206

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Images courtesy of Adobe Stock

Memphis, Tennessee – The Tennessee Department of Transportation (TDOT) has selected Kiewit Infrastructure South Co. as the construction manager for the I-55 bridge replacement project.

In July 2024, the U.S. Department of Transportation awarded a landmark federal investment in Tennessee of nearly $400 million towards half the cost of replacing the I-55 Bridge over the Mississippi River. In addition to the nearly $400 million from the Rebuilding American Infrastructure with Sustainability and Equity (RAISE) program, TDOT, utilizing a state general fund allocation provided through the Transportation Modernization Act, and the Arkansas Department of Transportation (ARDOT) have each committed up to $200 million demonstrating a collaborative effort to fund this bridge replacement. This marks the single-largest transportation investment in Tennessee state history.

Courtesy of the Tennessee Department of Transportation.

The I-55 Bridge, a vital link for national commerce, is set to undergo a comprehensive overhaul to add capacity, improve safety standards, ensure route resiliency, and maintain optimal operational conditions. The existing bridge, which has served travelers for 75 years since its construction, will be replaced with a larger structure designed to meet modern seismic codes as it sits on the New Madrid fault line.

“This project is building a stronger future for Tennessee,” said Deputy Governor and TDOT Commissioner Butch Eley. “We are thrilled to partner with the U.S. Department of Transportation, Arkansas, and now Kiewit, whose proven track record will be invaluable to the success of this transformative project to enhance regional and national connectivity and safety significantly. We look forward to its positive impact on our state and country for decades to come.”

“The Arkansas Department of Transportation is pleased to partner with TDOT to construct a modern structure on a corridor that conveys many critical goods and services through the heart of our nation each day,” said ARDOT Director Jared Wiley. “We are thankful that TDOT was able to secure this historic grant award and are confident in Kiewit’s ability to deliver the project on time and budget.” 

“Kiewit is very pleased to have been selected to help deliver the bridge replacement project for the Tennessee and Arkansas Departments of Transportation,” said Dave Miles, Executive Vice President of Kiewit Corporation. “We have a long history of safely building and engineering complex bridge and transportation projects across the United States, including in both states. We are excited to bring our experience and skilled workforce to this project, which importantly connects both states for people within and traveling through the region.” The environmental process is wrapping up on the I-55 Bridge Replacement project. Design is underway, and Right-of-Way coordination should begin later this year. Construction is estimated to start in fiscal year 2026.

While finalizing the contract with Kiewit for the construction manager, the department will continue to deliver this project. This decision is another progressive step utilizing an Alternative Delivery method, the Construction Manager/General Contractor (CMGC). CM/GC is used for complex projects, aligning technical direction, organizational structure, and budgets with the department’s strategic vision.

For more information about the proposed project, visit America’s River Crossing.

A-State College of Veterinary Medicine to Open Fall 2026

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Rendering of the forthcoming College of Veterinary Medicine at Arkansas State University.

Story by DDNS Reporter Shailey Wooldridge.

The Arkansas State University College of Veterinary Medicine (CVM) will open in Fall 2026, pending accreditation, giving students an experience differing from the average veterinary medical school. 

Heidi Banse, dean of the College of Veterinary Medicine, said the college will have unique aspects based on how they have structured their curriculum, such as using a distributive model where students participate in clinicals in their final year of schooling. 

Dr. Heidi Banse, Dean for the College of Veterinary Medicine at Arkansas State University

“It’s a very community-centered program, which I think fits the state of Arkansas and does position us with some educational elements that other programs may not be able to offer. All programs have their niches and own areas that they emphasize, and for us, it’s community.“ Banse said. 

Banse formerly served as associate dean for educational strategy at Louisiana State University School of Veterinary Medicine (LSU Vet Med).

At LSU Vet Med, Banse led implementation of a new competency-based veterinary program by restructuring the educational framework to ensure students are prepared to enter practice when they graduate. 

“The thing that enticed me here at Arkansas State University was the opportunity to build a program, really starting at the ground floor,” Banse said. “Having just built a new curriculum at LSU, it seemed the next logical step in a career progression to build an entire program.”

In the first three years, Banse said A-State’s vet school curriculum will focus on developing skills, communication, ethics, practice management, and clinical reasoning. In the final year, students will go out into community practices across Arkansas and in other states to hone their skills and prepare to enter into practice.

Len Frey, senior advisor for strategic initiatives and senior associate dean of the CVM, said the distributive model of structuring veterinary medical schools is becoming more common. 

“We’re very comfortable with the distributed model because we saw it work at NYIT (New York Institute of Technology),” Frey said. “Again, it’s not the norm. It’s not the way it’s always been done. It’s a newer theory on delivering practice-ready doctors or practice-ready veterinary medicine physicians.”

Banse said one of the college’s primary goals is to train veterinarians across the breadth of species to prepare them to enter general practice. To accomplish this, something she wants to leave behind as much as they can is the traditional lecture format of education. 

“Our goal is to ensure that our students are engaged in learning and have active learning experiences,” Banse said. “Our classrooms that we’re constructing in our new building are flexible-use classrooms so they can be used for lectures, but we hope we’re doing a lot of small group learning to support some of the clinical reasoning.” 

Banse said around 190 practices, 85 in Arkansas, have signed up to be part of the clinical year teaching network. 

Since there is no veterinary school in Arkansas, students hoping to become veterinarians must go to college out of state to finish their schooling in veterinary medicine.  

“We are one of the most underserved states regarding the number of veterinarians per capita. We have 10 counties currently with no veterinarians, making it harder for clients to seek care,” Banse said. 

Amy Schmidt, director of the Northeast Arkansas Humane Society (NEAHS), said one of the reasons veterinary costs are so high right now is the lack of veterinarians. She said one of the problems in the community they see often is people who love their animals but can’t afford to take care of them. 

“The more vets we have in the area, the more we’ll be able to service the community in an accessible way,” Schmidt said. “I think there’s a great need to have a vet school in the area, and I’m super excited that we’re getting it here in Jonesboro.” 

NEAHS is one practice that will partner with the veterinary school for students in clinicals to give them hands-on experience. 

Banse said students will be able to practice doing physical exams on dogs and cats at the shelter and learn to provide veterinary care under the oversight of a practicing veterinarian. 

“They’ll get lots of experience talking to clients, working with animals in the community to make the quality of life for animals and hopefully make client experiences meaningful,” Banse said. 

Schmidt said a room in the isolation building on-site at NEAHS will be explicitly remodeled so students can learn isolation protocols. 

The NEAHS does a low-cost clinic three days a week that offers spays, neuters, and vaccinations. Schmidt said they have difficulty keeping up with the demand, with low-cost surgeries booked until May. 

“The vet school is going to help us with some of that volume so that they will be helping with low-cost surgeries. Not just helping us, but helping the community,” Schmidt said. “We also have that indoor dog kennel area; they’ve talked about using that to teach students how to make clinical rounds and assess everyone, especially post op.”

Banse said the vet school will include two flexible-use classrooms with tables that can be set up in multiple ways to easily change the room’s configuration. 

The building will also feature an almost 3000-square-foot clinical skills lab where students will learn procedures, an anatomy lab, cooler, freezer, a place to store anatomy specimens, a clinical skills laboratory space, storage for models from suture pads to full sized horses and cows, a practice lab for students that will be set up with 24/7 key-card access, a surgical skills training suite with a pre operative area, a sterile surgical area for their spay experience, for their spay surgeries and kennels for dogs and cats in case they need to be housed overnight.

Banse said plans for continuous improvement include collecting feedback from students, instructors, and course coordinators as the program is built and as students go through and making adjustments as needed. She said they will also use the national standardized exams, the veterinary education assessment, and the North American Veterinary Licensing Examination, all veterinarians take as part of their licensure, to help inform changes immediately.

 “One of the things that’s important for us too is once our students go out into the community, we then collect feedback from them one year out and five years out as well as from their employers one year out, to see how prepared they were when they entered into practice,” Banse said. 

She said it will also be vital for them to keep tabs on the changes and anticipated changes in the field of veterinary medicine and industry trends to ensure they’re responding to any needs within Arkansas.

The college has collaborated with the College of Agriculture and will continue to do so. Banse said they will use the Equine Center and one of the bovine barns to teach students skills-based training. 

“Hopefully, that creates better facilities for animal science students, too. It’s not like those are ours only; we share all of that,” Banse said. “I’m grateful that the College of Ag has invited us in. And feel like part of the same part of the same team training students.”

Sarah Hooper, associate dean for student programs and admissions, joined the CVM on February 27.  She will oversee student programs from recruitment through graduation and refine admission processes and the recruitment of students when that time comes. 

Hooper said she will be working on creating new website content for admissions. 

“I’m just excited to be able to help start the first state vet school in Arkansas. I had the advantage of going to a state university with a vet school in my home state, and it’s beneficial and advantageous when students like myself have our support systems,” Hooper said. “It’s exciting in my mind to help initiate this new school and to give the residents of Arkansas something that they’ve not been able to access before.”

The proposed class size is 120 students admitted once per year in the fall. In-state tuition will be $35,000 yearly, and out-of-state tuition will be $55,000 yearly. 

The groundbreaking ceremony for the CVM was held today at 11 a.m., and construction will begin later this month to early April. 

Banse said they can start recruiting students after receiving a letter of reasonable assurance from the Council of Education, which they may receive after a comprehensive visit this summer. 

“I’m most excited to have students. It’s exciting to build a program and think about how we construct a student-centered curriculum, but ultimately, it doesn’t feel real until the students are on site,” Banse said. “We’re doing it for the students, and it’s really fun to hear the excitement on campus from our students about the vet school, and I just can’t wait for them to get here.” 

Hybar Steel Expands Footprint in Arkansas

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MISSISSIPPI COUNTY, Ark. (March 11, 2024) – Hybar Steel has joined the “Work Here. Live Here.” (WHLH) housing incentive program in Mississippi County as an industry partner. With an investment of $500,000 to help its employees purchase homes in the county, Hybar becomes the 15th employer to participate in WHLH. Since the program launched in 2023, it has generated $36.1 million in new home value and facilitated 122 home purchases.

WHLH was created to strengthen Mississippi County’s workforce by making homeownership more accessible for employees of participating companies. Overseen by the Grow Mississippi County Community Foundation, WHLH is a cooperative partnership between the foundation, participating industries and several Mississippi County financial institutions. ​Funded by the participating industries, the program offers up to $50,000 toward the cost of a new home and up to $25,000 toward an existing home. 

“The program takes us one step further in terms of attractive benefits at Hybar,” said David Stickler, CEO of Hybar. “We pay great wages, have a robust healthcare program, a bonus for perfect attendance, a partnership with Arkansas Northeastern College (ANC) and, now, housing incentives through ‘Work Here. Live Here.’”

Hybar is nearing completion of its state-of-the-art steel rebar mill in Osceola, which is designed to be powered by 100% renewable energy, making it the most environmentally sustainable facility of its kind. Expected to begin production in May of this year, the steel mill is joined by Hybar’s adjacent solar field and its port facility on the Mississippi River, which, according to Stickler, could one day become the largest port between New Orleans and St. Louis. 

The company currently employs more than 100 people, with plans to expand to 200 direct employees and 50-60 indirect workers. While recognized for its competitive pay — aiming to have the highest-paid steel workers in the world — Hybar’s career opportunities and benefits also extend to employees in human resources, marketing, IT, logistics and more.

“We’re very pleased that Hybar has joined the growing number of companies who have contributed to the Grow Mississippi County Community Foundation and embraced the WHLH program,” said Clif Chitwood, president of Mississippi County Economic Development. “Their participation will help us continue to attract and retain the high-quality employees necessary to fill the increasing number of excellent jobs here in the county.”

WHLH has already made a measurable impact in Mississippi County, with 38% of homeowners in the program moving in from outside the county and 60% being first-time homebuyers. WHLH continues to expand its reach beyond the steel industry as participation from companies across manufacturing, logistics and other key sectors continues to grow. 

“Arkansas is a great place to do business, and Mississippi County, in particular, is a great place to do steel business,” said Stickler. 

For more information about “Work Here. Live Here.”, visit workhereliveherear.com.

About Hybar: Hybar Steel is a steel manufacturer based in Osceola, Ark., focused on producing high-quality rebar using renewable energy. The company is developing a modern steel mill in Mississippi County designed for efficiency and environmental sustainability. With access to the Mississippi River and other key transportation routes, Hybar is positioned to serve customers across various markets. Learn more at hybarsteel.com.

About “Work Here. Live Here.”: “Work Here. Live Here.” (WHLH) is a pioneering housing incentive and relocation initiative designed to attract and retain workers within Mississippi County, particularly those in the manufacturing sector. Launched two years ago, the program has successfully facilitated the sale of over 120 homes, contributing to $36.1 million in new home construction across Mississippi County. WHLH currently partners with 15 employers. Employees of those 15 businesses are eligible to receive up to $50,000 toward the cost of a new home or up to $25,000 for an existing home, making first-time homeownership a reality for 60% of participants.

Overseen by the Grow Mississippi County Community Foundation, Work Here. Live Here. is a cooperative partnership between the foundation, cooperating industries, and cooperating Mississippi County financial institutions. The cooperative industries invest in the program to incentivize their employees to build new homes or purchase existing homes in Mississippi County. The program is funded by the cooperating industries in the Work Here. Live Here. Program.

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Arkansas Farmers Face Significant Challenges This Season

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This report from DDNS Reporter Shailey Wooldridge

Keynote speaker, Arkansas Department of Agriculture secretary, Wes Wardaddresses water infrastructure, food insecurity and trade initiatives at the Agribusiness Conference. Photo by DDNS Reporter Shailey Wooldridge.

Agriculture officials at Arkansas State University predict a challenging year for Arkansas agriculture. Farmers are expected to face difficulties in three areas: farm economy, agricultural and trade policy, and commodity markets.

Bert Greenwalt is a professor of agricultural economics at Arkansas State University. He said Arkansas agriculture is facing headwinds this year as farmers struggle with commodity prices decreasing over past years while farm input prices have declined very little.

“Farmers are in a cost-price squeeze situation, as it’s referred to, low profitability, struggling to make ends meet and looking to government, farm policy, the farm bill for some assistance,” Greenwalt said. “Unfortunately, our Farm Bill expired a couple of years ago and Congress has yet to address updates in the farm bill that would address the current situation.”

The Farm Bill is federal legislation passed by Congress governing various agricultural and food policies. It’s passed approximately every five years and covers a wide range of topics, from farm subsidies to food assistance programs. The bill affects farmers, ranchers, rural communities, consumers, and the environment.

“Agriculture is a cyclical business. Historically, there are ups and downs, like in some other businesses, and so we’re going through that downturn down cycle right now,” Greenwalt said. “Agriculture will continue to be an important industry in the United States and globally, but not all producers will remain in the industry over time.”

Greenwalt said one of the factors contributing to uncertainty in the agricultural economy today is the shifting trade policy in Washington. Since U.S. agriculture relies heavily on export markets, any disruptions, such as tariffs or trade wars, that affect trade or access to global markets are a significant concern for the industry.

“Farmers this time of year are making many plans for the coming year, what to plant, how to renew their lines of credit with lenders. So hopefully, some of this information will be useful to them as they complete their business planning for the season,” Greenwalt said.

Greenwalt is the co-founder and director of the annual Agribusiness Conference at Arkansas State University, which was held earlier in February. Keynote speaker at the conference Wes Ward addressed water infrastructure, food insecurity, and trade initiatives.

The Arkansas Department of Agriculture (ADA) secretary highlighted problems with water and wastewater systems across the state, including broken systems that have made it hard for people to access clean water.

He also addressed a decline in groundwater levels and the importance of ensuring enough water for irrigation in agriculture, which is crucial for the state’s economy.

“In August last year, we signed an executive order to update the state water plan. The deal is a comprehensive way to look at the needs for water resources throughout the state, both short term and long term,” Ward said. “Right now, there’s about $13 billion in water and wastewater infrastructure needs that impact every single one of us throughout the entire state.”

To address this, he said the state is working on two large irrigation projects to shift water use from groundwater to surface water for agriculture in eastern Arkansas. This will help ensure farmers have the water they need to grow crops.

In 2023, the USDA ranked Arkansas the worst state for food insecurity. Ward said the ADA staff is working to address this.

“A lot of what we’re focusing on this legislative session is just efficiency. We are working a lot about ensuring we’re working on food insecurity issues, but more so trying to identify and correct inefficiencies in government,” Ward said. “I would just ask if people are aware of issues on the state level, if there are things that we can do differently from an agriculture department, please don’t hesitate to visit us.”

Ward said there have been discussions about improving trade relations and access to markets for U.S. agricultural products. The ADA is working with NASDA and USDA to overcome barriers in international trade.

In January, a group from several U.S. states, including Arkansas, Montana, South Dakota, and Connecticut, traveled to India. Ward said the trip aimed to help open markets for U.S. agriculture, tackle trade challenges, and advocate for U.S. farmers.

“We can have a long conversation about India and what that might mean, but India’s the most populated country in the world; hopefully, in the future, there will be some good market opportunities, “ Ward said.

Haleigh Jackson, a graduate student majoring in Agriculture Business and Economics from Leachville, Arkansas, said staying current on agricultural issues and policy is crucial because they affect everyone in the farm sector.

“Agriculture touches everything,” Jackson said. “I think it’s good for everybody to come and learn about the things they use in everyday life.”

Scott Adams, land manager for Adams Land Company in Leachville, Arkansas, and owner of Buffalo Island Farms in Manila, Arkansas, has attended this conference for the past 19 years.

“The major take from it is, we’re going to have to get creative on restructuring entities, market, our crop during rallies, watch our inputs, where we can watch our inputs and just mind the situation and do our best to weather the storm if this is what we’re going to continue to try o do,” Adams said. “My biggest concern is the family farmer going away, smaller farms being dissolved into bigger farms, and it affecting our direct economy.”

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Living Legends Awards to Honor Seven Individuals

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JONESBORO — The seventh annual Living Legends Awards will be held at Arkansas State University to honor five new recipients as well as honor two individuals posthumously.  
 
The ceremony honors those who have enriched the community, excelled at their fields, and inspired younger generations.  
 
This year, honorees include the following:

Dr. Jenifer Rice-Mason retired from A-State in 2020 after serving more than 40 years where she led the department of Access and Accommodation Services. 

Dr. Wilbert Gaines, an emeritus professor of physical education, was one of the first Black professors on campus. During his tenure he taught countless numbers of students and helped guide them to success through his work in the classroom and with campus organizations.  

Shamal C. Carter, has spent his career working in the non-profit sector, volunteering in the community, and serving on various boards to benefit Jonesboro residents. 

Dr. Nikesha Nesbitt is dean of the University College at A-State. She is part of several committees on campus and in the community. 

Jervonne Newsome is an A-State graduate who remains the highest-ranked moot court competitor in university history. She works as a partner at a law firm in Dallas. 
 
Legacy Awards will be presented to the families of two late members of the community: 

Rennell Woods was an A-State graduate and a longtime member of the Jonesboro community. He was a licensed minister and received numerous accolades due to his giving nature. 

Tierre Hamilton, a 2005 A-State graduate, was part of Kappa Alpha Psi where he provided metorship and support for others. He was known for volunteering and being an active member of the community.  

“Selections are made by a committee and are based not on the quantity of nominations but the quality of the submitted nominations. We deliberate on both the A-State influence and the impact the nominee has made on the community,” said Ian Buchanan, Living Legends committee chairman.  
 
“This event shines light on those who may not get it elsewhere. It also shows students that the impact they make can be legendary in the future. We believe this honor and distinction help recognize the work and footprints that are sometimes not noticed or given their proper due,” Buchanan added.  

This event is held in conjunction with events at A-State for Black History Month. The Multicultural Center oversees the month of activities with the assistance of campus employees and student organizations. 

A-State to Present Black History Month Programs through February

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JONESBORO – Several events will occur on the Arkansas State University campus throughout February to mark Black History Month. The theme for the programs this year is “African Americans and Labor: Celebrating our Achievements.” 

“My desire is to provide students with an opportunity to be empowered by the legacy of those who have come before them, connect with one another to build community, a chance to engage with the Northeast Arkansas community, alumni, and one another to build networks and enhance their sense of belonging to A-State,” said Dr. Carlitta Moore, vice chancellor for access and institutional engagement. 

The month filled with programs kicks off at 6 p.m. on Monday, Feb. 3, in Centennial Hall inside the Reng Student Union for a Night of the Arts. 

Performers across campus and the community will showcase their talents, including the A-State National Pan-Hellenic Council (NPHC), Jonesboro High Steppers, Brittany Duke, Evolve: The Student Organization. 

“These programs are thoughtfully designed to educate, inspire and foster a sense of unity. By attending, you’ll not only gain knowledge but also build meaningful relationships and contribute to the ongoing dialogue about valuing all,” said Trinity Haynes, education program coordinator of multicultural affairs. 

From 6-8 p.m. on Friday, Feb. 7, the community is invited to the 18th annual Soul Food Dinner and Program. The dinner will occur at the Baptist Collegiate Ministries building, 115 North Caraway Road, hosted by the Strong-Turner Alumni Chapter of the A-State Alumni Association. Following the meal, attendees can expect performances by singers and speakers. 

Feb. 9 – 13 the Black Student Association will celebrate BSA Week with several events taking place each day of the week. 

At 11 a.m. on Feb. 9, Sunday service from Word Baptist Church will occur inside the Reng Student Union Auditorium. 

Get your dancing shoes ready, the public is invited to a line dancing class at 6 p.m. on Monday, Feb. 10, inside Centennial Hall. 

As part of BSA Week, the Black Business Expo will return to Centennial Hall, beginning at 6 p.m. on Tuesday, Feb. 11. 

At 6 p.m. on Feb. 13, the Black Student Association will wrap up BSA Week with a talent show inside Centennial Hall.  

The events continue at 6 p.m. on Tuesday, Feb. 18, with the Tour of Black Voices. Guest artist Anitra Jay will take attendees on a journey of Black history with captivating songs, videos and performances. This program will be presented by the Student Activities Board and will take place inside the student union auditorium. 

The Jonesboro Alumnae Chapter of Delta Sigma Theta Sorority, Inc., welcomes the Northeast Arkansas community to “Democracy at Work: Your Role, Your Rights, Your Responsibility.” 

The conversation explores the importance of civic engagement and the role each individual plays in democracy. Participants can learn about their rights and responsibilities as community members at 6 p.m. on Thursday, Feb. 20, in the student union auditorium. 

The month of celebrations begins to wrap up at 5 p.m. on Saturday, Feb. 22, with the seventh annual Living Legends Awards inside Centennial Hall. Established in 2019, the ceremony honors A-State alumni and Northeast Arkansas community members who excel in their fields, enrich the community, and inspire future generations. This is a cocktail attire event. 

“The Living Legends Ceremony holds a particularly special place in my heart. It’s an incredible opportunity to honor and celebrate those who have selflessly given back to A-State and the broader community,” said Moore. “This ceremony allows us to express our gratitude and appreciation by giving them their flowers while they are still with us, a gesture which is both meaningful and profound.”

The festivities conclude at 3 p.m. on Tuesday, Feb. 25, as the A-State Museum transports attendees back in time for the Jonesboro Black Business District exhibit. The exhibit offers a glimpse into the legacy and contributions of Black-owned businesses in the local community.  

“My hope is that attendees walk away with a deeper understanding of the contributions and resilience of Black individuals throughout history and in contemporary society. I want them to feel empowered to celebrate access for all, engage in meaningful conversations about systemic change, and reflect on their own role in creating welcoming communities. Ultimately, I hope they leave feeling inspired and motivated to be lifelong learners,” said Haynes, chair of the Black History Month committee. 

Technology Summit Coming to Arkansas This Year

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The Arkansas Dr. Martin Luther King Junior Commission partners with the Dr. Martin Luther King Junior Commission in Nevada. This partnership bridges the most active commission in the nation (Arkansas) and the world’s largest Dr. Martin Luther King Junior parade in Las Vegas. The parade in Las Vegas started in 1981 and has attracted commissions from across the nation to Las Vegas for the parade.

            As part of the work done in Nevada around the celebration of the late Dr. Martin Luther King Junior, a technology summit is held annually to inform freshman through high school seniors about job opportunities. The technology summit was started seven years ago by Duana Malone, known as the Tech Queen.

            “We wanted to serve by letting students know about the technology opportunities available,” says Malone. “This was especially important for outreach to go toward students who are in underserved and underrepresented communities. Back then, students did not know about high-tech opportunities, robotics, and other areas. We want to ensure that today’s students know about all available technological opportunities”.  

            Malone said that when the community started learning about the technology summit, it grew exponentially. One challenge was finding a space large enough to hold it. The Friday summit was held at Las Vegas City Hall in the city council chambers, which was large enough to hold a couple hundred students from area high schools to learn about technology and jobs.

            The Arkansas Dr. Martin Luthe King Junior Commission is one of the most active commissions in the nation. Executive Director of the Commission Dushun Scarbrough has been excited about the partnership between Arkansas and Nevada.

            “We have one of the largest days of service on Dr. Martin Luther King, Junior’s Day, and we participate in over 70 activities statewide through the year,” says Scarbrough. Scarbrough has been grateful for the partnership and says the Technology Summit coming to Arkansas will be a game changer. “Just as this did for Nevada, we are going to do the same thing in Arkansas and positively impact the children in Arkansas.”

            Malone expects to be in Arkansas later this year to help with the establishment of a technology summit in Arkansas. More details on the technology summit in Arkansas will be released as soon as everything is finalized.

Martin Luther King Junior Day Events Slated for Sunday, Monday

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JONESBORO –  Several events will take place around Jonesboro and the Arkansas State University campus to honor the life and legacy of Dr. Martin Luther King Jr. as part of the annual NEA Dr. Martin Luther King Jr. celebrations. 

The NEA Dr. Martin Luther King Jr. Day Parade Committee will host a youth program kickoff at 4 p.m. Sunday, Jan. 19, at the Jonesboro High School Performing Arts Center, 301 Hurricane Drive.

“This program will highlight the voices and talents of our youth, fostering the next generation of leaders inspired by Dr. King’s values,” said Ashley Wilson, committee co-chairman.

The community is invited to attend and celebrate the legacy of the civil rights leader. 

The festivities will begin at 10 a.m. on Monday, Jan. 20, with the annual Martin Luther King Jr. Day Parade. The parade will start at the Lt. Col. Frederick Turner Jr. Military Science Building on the A-State campus. 

It will depart the military science building, travel up Marion Berry Parkway to Johnson Avenue, proceed down University Loop, and conclude at the Fowler Center.

Performances from the Forrest City High School Band, Osceola High School Band, Jonesboro High School Steppers, and Drumline will be featured during the parade. 

“We encourage community organizations to bring banners and participate in the parade to showcase their commitment to Dr. King’s vision of freedom, justice and democracy,” said Wilson.  

Following the parade, the public is encouraged to gather at noon at Fowler Center, 201 Olympic Drive, for the 23rd annual Dr. Martin Luther King Jr. Day celebration. 

The theme for the program this year is “Mission Possible: Protecting Freedom, Justice & Democracy in the Spirit of Nonviolence.”

Jonesboro native Jervonne Newsome will serve as the keynote speaker for the event.

“As a licensed attorney, minister and community advocate, Elder Newsome will deliver an empowering and thought-provoking message aligned with Dr. King’s mission of unity and social justice,” said Wilson. “The program will also feature inspiring performances, reflections on Dr. King’s legacy, and a call to action for continued community activism.” 

Jonesboro Mayor Harold Copenhaver and A-State leadership will also speak during the program. 

Dr. Carlitta Moore, vice chancellor for access and institutional engagement, says it’s a time to unite, reflect and carry on Dr. King’s vision. 
 
“We are thrilled to be able to embark on this wonderful opportunity bringing together our community in partnership with Arkansas State University while honoring and celebrating the enduring legacy of Dr. Martin Luther King Jr. This event not only serves as a chance to gather and strengthen bonds, but to reflect on the vision of Dr. King. Together, we look forward to creating a meaningful and inspiring experience which will continue to realize his ideals and ignite our shared values,” said Moore.

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