The Arkansas State University System has announced the 2026 recipients of the Charles L. Welch Presidential Scholars award, honoring five outstanding graduates from its two-year institutions. Each scholar will receive a $1,000 stipend as they transition to four-year universities within the ASU System.

Recognizing Academic Excellence

The Welch Presidential Scholars program, established in 2024, celebrates the legacy of Charles L. Welch, president emeritus of the ASU System, recognizing students who exemplify academic excellence and service. This year’s scholars include:

• Emma Lee Joplin from ASU-Beebe, who earned an Associate of Science degree in agriculture and liberal arts and sciences, along with a technical certificate in agriculture. She will continue her studies in agriculture at Arkansas State University.
• Ty Tilton from ASU-Mountain Home, who completed an Associate of Science degree in business and plans to pursue bachelor’s and master’s degrees in healthcare administration at A-State.
• Eli Jamar Tate from ASU-Newport, who received an Associate of Arts degree in secondary education and will study physical education at A-State.
• Cedarius Sanders from ASU Mid-South, who earned an Associate of Arts degree and aims to study mechanical engineering at A-State.
• Savanna Null from ASU Three Rivers, who completed an Associate of Arts degree in general education and will pursue psychology studies at Henderson State University.

Dr. Robin Myers, System Interim President, expressed pride in the scholars, stating, “These students represent academic excellence and service at our two-year campuses. We’re excited they have chosen to continue their studies at Arkansas State and Henderson and can’t wait to see what the future holds for them.”

Contributions to support the Charles L. Welch Presidential Scholars fund can be made through the ASU System Foundation Inc.

Original reporting: NEA Report (Jonesboro) — read the source article.