Arkansas Baptist College

Arkansas Baptist College (ABC) stands as a beacon of educational opportunity, a private historically black college (HBCU) rooted in the vibrant city of Little Rock, Arkansas. Established in 1884, ABC holds the unique distinction of being the only historically black Baptist school west of the Mississippi River, offering a distinctive learning environment dedicated to nurturing leadership and academic excellence within a faith-based tradition.

The college’s rich history began as the Minister's Institute, swiftly renamed Arkansas Baptist College in 1885, and funded by the Colored Baptists of Arkansas. Its legacy is profoundly shaped by figures like Joseph Albert Booker, a formerly enslaved individual who became ABC's first president in 1887. Booker was not only an influential educator but also a courageous activist, actively challenging the segregationist policies of his era. The campus itself boasts a significant piece of history: the Main Building, built in 1893, which is recognized as one of the oldest surviving academic buildings in Arkansas and is listed on the National Register of Historic Places.

Today, ABC continues its mission with a close-knit student body of 525, providing an engaging educational experience. While the campus has evolved to include various facilities over the decades, such as an education building, dormitories, and a gymnasium, its core commitment to comprehensive learning remains. Historically, it has housed departments like business and biology, and even published "The Baptist Vanguard" newspaper, fostering a holistic approach to education.

Prospective students and families will find at Arkansas Baptist College a supportive community dedicated to personal growth and academic achievement. With its deep historical roots, unique standing among HBCUs, and location in Little Rock, ABC offers a dynamic setting for students to develop, learn, and contribute to society, continuing a powerful legacy of empowerment and progress.