Nevada County Picayune and Gurdon Times Newspaper Archive

Students Recognized For A Coordinating Scholarship At HSU

Minority students who plan to teach school in Arkansas were recognized at the University of Arkansas Community College at Hope by officials who are coordinating a scholarship program for them with Henderson State University.

UACCH and HSU officials congratulated the scholarship recipients as they completed a year of studies at UACCH. Those recognized included Inell Thornton, Kimmely Randly, Imelda Aaron, Toan Bui, Latoya Pugh and Mildred Scott.

The scholarship program is designed to increase the number of minority teachers in the state. Under the program, minority students receive $1,000 per year if they promise to teach in Arkansas for at least two years following graduation.

During the course work, students must record observation hours within the public school system with educators, administrators and other employees who work with students such as school nurses, librarians and school bus drivers.

The UACCH students will complete their bachelor degrees in education at HSU following their completion of associate of art degree studies in Hope.

"This is a great program because it encourages students to take a serious look at the teaching field and provides opportunities during the first few years of college to spend time with teachers, administration officials and other workers connected to the profession," said Floyd Young Jr., UACCH Vice Chancellor of Student Services. "In short, it's one of the best shadowing programs I've seen."

This is the second year HSU has coordinated the minority scholarship program with six two-year colleges throughout Southwest Arkansas. So far, the most scholarships awarded have been from UACCH. Young nicknamed the scholarship recipients the 'dream team' and predicted their studies and efforts will benefit future generations of children in area school systems.

The sentiment was echoed by one of the scholarship recipients.

"I've always wanted to touch a child's life and give them encouragement that they may not be receiving at home." said scholarship recipient Scott of Prescott. "This is the chance to make a difference in someone's life."

Scott is working as a teaching assistant at Prescott Elementary School in addition to working a part time job and attending class at UACCH.

She said she has received encouragement from the elementary school officials and hopes to make a teaching career there after her graduations from UACCH and HSU.

"But I know if I want something, I've got to strive and work hard for it." said Scott. "You can't just sit back and think people are going to give it to your. The number one word is 'work.' You've got to work hard for what you want and it's gotten me this far."

Anyone interested in applying for the minority scholarship should contact UACCH Student Services at 870-777-5722.