Hot Springs, Arkansas – The Arkansas Community Colleges Leadership Institute (ACC) celebrated the graduation of its 2025 class on Monday, marking another milestone in the development of emerging leaders in two-year colleges across the state. The ceremony, held in conjunction with the institute’s annual conference in Hot Springs, brought together educators, administrators, and supporters committed to advancing higher education in Arkansas.
Since its inception in 2008, the ACC Leadership Institute has graduated 425 individuals who have gone on to take leadership roles at community colleges across Arkansas. These graduates represent a new generation of educational leaders, equipped with the knowledge, skills, and vision needed to guide institutions in an evolving academic landscape.
ACC Executive Director Collin Callaway emphasized the importance of the program in shaping higher education leadership. “The ACC Leadership Institute continues to shape the future of higher education leadership in Arkansas,” Callaway said. “These graduates represent the dedication, innovation, and commitment to student success that make our community colleges great.”
This year, the institute graduated 19 leaders representing colleges from across the state, highlighting the diversity and reach of Arkansas’ community college system. Among the graduates were Tachmonite Butler, KeTierra Jones, and Sonia Smith from Arkansas Northeastern College, and Jack Magolio from Arkansas State University Mid-South. Arkansas State University-Beebe celebrated the graduation of Kim Gullahorn and Dr. Blake Perkins, while Stacie Hay represented Arkansas State University-Newport.
Other graduates included Robert Shurley from Arkansas State University-Mountain Home; Mary Anderson and Shannon Jacobson from Black River Technical College; and Eric Boardway from National Park College. North Arkansas College was represented by Kelsea Lowery, while Northwest Arkansas Community College saw Jessica Chronister and Catherin Doner complete the program.
Ozarka College’s April Killian and Phillips Community College of the University of Arkansas’ Kylia Neasley also joined the ranks of the 2025 graduates. South Arkansas College’s Kimberly Moore, Southern Arkansas University Tech’s David Mason, and University of Arkansas Community College Batesville’s Becky Warren were recognized for their achievements.
University of Arkansas Cossatot celebrated the graduation of Noelle Couch and Sabrina Harner, while University of Arkansas East Arkansas Community College’s Carly Dillard and University of Arkansas Hope-Texarkana’s Mikki Curtis rounded out the class. University of Arkansas Pulaski Technical College honored Ashley Henry-Saorrono and Amanda Kennedy, and Kyle Carpenter graduated from University of Arkansas Rich Mountain.
The ACC Leadership Institute provides participants with opportunities to develop leadership skills, build networks with peers and mentors, and gain a deeper understanding of the unique challenges and opportunities facing community colleges today. Graduates are expected to bring their training back to their institutions, applying what they have learned to improve student outcomes, strengthen programs, and foster innovation in higher education.
The program emphasizes not only administrative and strategic skills but also a commitment to student success, community engagement, and institutional growth. Participants are selected for their potential to make a meaningful impact in their colleges, and the institute’s curriculum is designed to cultivate leaders capable of navigating the complex landscape of modern higher education.
As the 2025 class embarks on the next phase of their careers, they join a growing network of ACC alumni who are shaping the future of community colleges in Arkansas. These leaders are expected to play pivotal roles in enhancing academic programs, supporting faculty development, and ensuring that students have the resources and guidance they need to succeed.
With the graduation of the 2025 class, the ACC Leadership Institute continues its mission to strengthen leadership capacity across Arkansas’ community college system, ensuring that institutions are well-equipped to meet the educational and workforce needs of their communities.
For more information about the Arkansas Community Colleges Leadership Institute and its programs, visit arkansascc.org.
This year’s graduates leave a legacy of dedication, innovation, and service, prepared to lead their institutions with vision and commitment, reinforcing the vital role community colleges play in shaping the future of higher education in the state.
