Arkansas State University: A Legacy of Education and Innovation
Arkansas State University (A-State or ASU), situated in Jonesboro, Arkansas, stands as a public research university. As the flagship campus of the Arkansas State University System, it holds the distinction of being the second-largest university in the state. This institution, with its roots in agricultural training, has evolved into a comprehensive university offering a wide array of programs across various disciplines.
Historical Overview
Founded in 1909 by the Arkansas Legislature, Arkansas State University began its journey as the First District Agricultural School in Jonesboro, with the purpose of serving as a regional agricultural training school. The institution's evolution reflects the changing needs and aspirations of the region it serves.
- Early Years: In 1918, ASU expanded its offerings to include a two-year college program, marking a significant step in its development.
- Transition to A & M College: By 1925, it was known as the First District Agricultural and Mechanical College.
- Four-Year Degree Programs: The introduction of a four-year degree program in 1930 further solidified its position as a higher education institution.
- Name Change: In 1933, A & M College underwent a name change, becoming Arkansas State College.
- University Status: Recognizing its growth and expanded academic offerings, the institution was granted university status, becoming Arkansas State University.
Academic Programs and Colleges
Arkansas State University offers programs at the doctoral, specialist's, master's, bachelor's, and associate degree levels, catering to a diverse range of students and academic interests. Master's degree graduate programs were initiated in 1955, and ASU began offering its first doctoral degree, in educational leadership, in the fall of 1992.
The university continued to expand its doctoral programs, adding environmental science in the fall of 1997 and heritage studies in the fall of 2001. Newer doctoral programs include molecular biosciences and physical therapy.
In the fall of 2016, Arkansas State welcomed its first class of approximately 115 students to its branch of the New York Institute of Technology's medical school.
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A-State's journalism program reorganized into the College of Media and Communication for fall 2013. The College of Media and Communication is home to three student-led media outlets and a NPR affiliate radio station.
Student Life and Media
Student life at Arkansas State University is vibrant and multifaceted, with various media outlets providing students with practical experience and platforms for expression.
- The Herald: The Herald, a weekly student newspaper, was founded in 1921 and has a circulation of 5,000.
- ASU-TV: ASU-TV, a program under the Department of Radio-Television, gives students hands-on experience in the field of television broadcasting.
- Red Wolf Radio: Starting in fall 2013, an Internet-based student radio station, Red Wolf Radio, was added to the student media.
Athletics
Arkansas State participates as a member of the NCAA Division I, competing in the Sun Belt Conference. The university's athletic programs provide opportunities for student-athletes to excel and contribute to the university's spirit and pride.
Notable Alumni and Faculty
Arkansas State University has produced numerous accomplished individuals who have made significant contributions in various fields. Among the notable alumni and faculty are:
- Carl R. Dean
- Robert W. Meriwether
- J. D. Neeley
- Larry P. Arnn
- Lonnie D. Bentley
- Frederick C. Blackmon
- Ronald R. Largent
- Michelle Gray (Class of 1999, B.S.)
- Dan A. Sullivan
- D. Price Marshall Jr.
- Robert C. Hinson
- George K. Sisler
- V. E. Howard
- Julia Hill
- Mike Beebe
- Jason Tolbert
- Davy Carter
- Rick Crawford
- Jeremy Gillam
- Josh Miller
- Stetson Painter
- Chad Puryear
- Dave Wallace
- Beth Holloway-Twitty
- Ron Bass
- David Nail
- Miller Williams
- Bill Bergey
- Fred Barnett
- Darren Benson
- Ray Brown
- Maurice Carthon
- Demario Davis
- John Dickson
- Patrick Eddie
- Carlos Antoine Emmons
- Brad Franchione
- Leroy Harris
- Jeff Hartwig
- Thomas Hill
- David Johnson
- Tyrell Johnson
- Ken Jones
- Cleo Lemon
- J.D. McKissic
- Ron Meeks
- Dennis Meyer
- Jerry Muckensturm
- Chris Odom
- Jordan Richard
- Kyle Richardson
- Jerry Rook
- Elbert Shelley
- Kellie Suttle
- Corey Williams
Rankings and Recognition
Arkansas State University has garnered recognition for its academic quality and research contributions.
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- Washington Monthly: Ranked in the Master's Universities Rankings.
- U.S. News & World Report: Ranked among the Best Regional Universities.
- SCImago Institutions Rankings: Recognized in the SCImago University Rankings.
- University Ranking by Academic Performance (URAP): Featured in the World Ranking by Academic Performance.
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