Jonesboro, Ark. – The Winthrop Rockefeller Institute announced that five Arkansas State University students will join the 2027 cohort of the Arkansas Collegiate Civic Leadership Academy (ACCLA). The academy brings together 41 scholars from 12 colleges across the state to receive intensive civic education and hands‑on experience.
The A‑State scholars are Logan Cathey, a political‑science master’s student from Jonesboro; Ryan Griffin, a junior political‑science major from Maumelle; Emma Hernandez, a senior political‑science major from Cabot; Janarie Prince, a senior pre‑law and psychology major originally from New Orleans; and Jada Sumpter, a senior political‑science major from Barton.
Program goals and curriculum
ACCLA’s curriculum is designed to give emerging civic leaders the knowledge, relationships, confidence and sense of responsibility needed to strengthen communities. Participants will attend academic seminars, experiential learning sessions and complete service‑learning projects that address real‑world community needs.
“There are a lot of problems, there are a lot of challenges, and there are a lot of opportunities for you, as upcoming leaders, to shape the world that you want to see,” said Janet Harris, director and CEO of the Winthrop Rockefeller Institute.
Support from Arkansas State University
Dr. Cameron Wimpy, chair of the Department of Government, Law and Policy at Arkansas State, helped develop the ACCLA curriculum and noted that the department will fund the A‑State students’ participation.
“The cohort model is intentional,” explained Dr. Liz Lundeen, director of programs at the institute. “Lasting civic leadership does not happen in isolation. It grows through trust, collaboration and a willingness to understand perspectives different from our own.”
Community impact
The selected students will work on service‑learning projects that directly address local needs, building practical skills while contributing to the betterment of neighborhoods throughout Arkansas. The Winthrop Rockefeller Institute, a 501(c)(3) nonprofit, created ACCLA with support from founding sponsors including the McKuin Fund, the Engaged Learning Network and AT&T Arkansas.
By investing in the next generation of civic leaders, the academy aims to foster a network of informed, engaged citizens ready to tackle the challenges facing Arkansas communities.
Original reporting: NEA Report (Jonesboro) — read the source article.
