6 | Fall 2024
NorthArk is the
heart and the future of Harrison
NorthArk ’ s year-long celebration of its 50th year will hold two special events in August for the entire community to enjoy . On Aug . 24 , NorthArk alum Zach Williams performs in concert and on Aug . 26 , Mrs . Bonnie Baker will preside at a ceremonial ribbon cutting and the interment of a time capsule . She is the widow of founding President Dr . Bill Baker and was herself instrumental in the establishment of North Arkansas Community College .
North Arkansas College is a public two-year community college whose mission is to change lives by providing high-quality , affordable , accessible education . It has become the heart and future of the community since its founding in 1974 , propelling its graduates into successful careers . From an initial start in re-purposed buildings , NorthArk has swiftly grown to have its own north and south campuses and a Carroll County Center in Berryville .
The college makes its amphitheatre , facilities and grounds available for lease by the public and hosts music concerts , summer movies and events which draw residents to campus for fun activities year-round .
The impetus for opening a community college was to allow students to go to college close to home . It quickly became a draw , chosen by a far wider range of students than local residents . It now has a boundless reach through online classes .
NorthArk has recently expanded into three high schools through an education “ without walls ” effort led by President , Dr . Rick Massengale . The college is partnering with the cities of Clinton , Jasper and Marshall to provide students with not only high school degrees but associate degrees . Community members can attend college classes in their hometown at their local high school , saving them a long drive to Harrison . Pioneer Villas residence hall enables students to live and learn on campus .
A new Center for Robotics and Manufacturing Innovation facility is under construction which is the first of its kind in the state . The new building will house automation , manufacturing , machining and electronics programs and include a Makers Space for local business and industry training .
NorthArk offers transfer and technical degree programs , one-year technical certificates , certificates of proficiency , customized business and industry training , adult basic education ( GED ) classes and non-credit community education courses . In addition , partnerships with area universities provide the
Harrison Regional Chamber of Commerce