Arkansas Colleges of Health Education

In observance of Juneteenth, our campus is closed. Juneteenth commemorates an important moment in our nation's history and provides an opportunity to reflect on the enduring values of freedom, equality, and opportunity for all.

Recently, we had the pleasure of hosting the Henderson State University TRIO Upward Bound program at ACHE!

The students explored our Simulation Lab and participated in a game called “Barnga,” which highlighted the challenges of communication and cultural differences, as well as the importance of empathy and adaptability. They also engaged in a CSI-style activity using bone models used in our Modeling Lab.

During an interactive lunch-and-learn session, the students connected with current ACHE students and gained insight into our programs, student life, and careers in healthcare. Our faculty spoke to them about the fields of physical therapy and occupational therapy, and more. Additionally, the students spent a day at the ACHE RIHWC, participating in fun hands-on cooking and ceramics classes!

We extend our gratitude to the Henderson State University TRIO Upward Bound program and Dr. Cindy Fuller for organizing this memorable experience. We enjoyed sharing what ACHE has to offer and hope to see these future healthcare professionals again soon!

Commencement 2026 by the Numbers 🎓

Swipe through to see the numbers behind this milestone from total graduates and program representation to fun facts about the Class of 2026!

Congratulations, graduates! 🎉

This week, we proudly welcomed the fourth cohort of students to the ACHE Mentoring and Achievement Preparation (M.A.P.) Program! 🌟

The M.A.P. Program aims to empower students from underrepresented and underserved communities by providing education, mentorship, and hands-on experiences as they explore careers in occupational therapy and physical therapy.

Participants came from Fisk University, Langston University, Jackson State University, the University of Southern Mississippi, and Arkansas Tech University!

To learn more about the ACHE M.A.P. Program, visit: achehealth.edu/ache-map-program

Please join us in welcoming Jo Alice Blondin, PhD, as Interim President of ACHE, effective July 13, 2026!

Dr. Blondin brings 33 years of leadership experience in higher education with a strong commitment to student success. Most recently, she served as President of Clark State College in Springfield, Ohio. Her distinguished career also includes service as Chair and Trustee of the Higher Learning Commission Board of Trustees and as Chancellor of Arkansas Tech University–Ozark Campus.

Throughout her career, Dr. Blondin has been recognized for her dedication to expanding educational opportunities, fostering student achievement, and leading institutions through periods of growth and transformation.

Dr. Blondin is thrilled to be returning to Arkansas. Earlier in her career, she lived and worked in the region, which she came to cherish both personally and professionally. She looks forward to reconnecting with the community and contributing to ACHE's continued success.

From an inaugural graduating class to the launch of a new doctoral program, the future of public health education at ACHE is just beginning.🌟

Read how our first Master of Public Health graduates are creating a lasting legacy, and what's next for the ACHE School of Population Health.
https://achehealth.edu/ache-celebrates-inaugural-master-of-public-health-graduating-class/