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East Arkansas Community College

Forrest City, AR

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Quick Facts

Associate's Colleges
Classification

Data from Wikipedia (CC BY-SA 4.0) & U.S. Dept. of Education

About East Arkansas Community College

East Arkansas Community College: Built by the community, for the community, with a growing technical edge.

East Arkansas Community College (EACC) stands as a testament to the power of community vision, born from the fervent desire of St. Francis County citizens in 1968 for accessible higher education. From its inception, EACC was a college built by and for its region, initially opening its doors in 1974 with a robust enrollment of 684 students. This institution swiftly became a vital cornerstone for individuals seeking to further their education without leaving East Arkansas.

Over the decades, EACC has consistently evolved to meet the changing needs of its students and the local economy. A significant milestone occurred in 2017 when the college merged with the nearby Crowley's Ridge Technical Institute (CRTI). This strategic integration has broadened EACC’s academic strengths, seamlessly blending traditional community college offerings with comprehensive technical education, providing students with a wider array of pathways to success in diverse fields.

Prospective students and their families will find EACC to be a supportive and dynamic environment. The college’s foundation, rooted in a local initiative and sustained by community investment through a dedicated tax, highlights its deep connection to the people it serves. With its main campus in Forrest City and an extension center in Wynne, EACC remains committed to delivering quality education and practical skills, preparing its graduates to thrive in the workforce and contribute to their communities.

Key Highlights

  • ✦Established in response to community need by St. Francis County citizens in 1968.
  • ✦Received a crucial $25,000 land donation from Betty Jo Hodges in 1971.
  • ✦Financed by a four-mill tax approved by local voters in 1973.
  • ✦Opened its doors on August 26, 1974, with an initial enrollment of 684 students.
  • ✦Expanded its reach by opening an extension center in Wynne, Arkansas, in 2005.
  • ✦Significantly enhanced its technical education offerings through a merger with Crowley's Ridge Technical Institute (CRTI) in 2017.

Timeline

1968
St. Francis County citizens formed a college committee to establish a community college.
1969
Crowley's Ridge Community College Corporation received its initial charter.
1971
Betty Jo Hodges donated $25,000, enabling the purchase of 40 acres for the college.
1973
Arkansas Board of Higher Education approved the formation of a community college district.
1973
Voters approved a four-mill tax to finance the college's construction.
1974
Classes began on August 26, with an initial enrollment of 684 students.
2005
An extension center was opened in Wynne, Arkansas.
2017
Act 636 passed, laying out the merger process with Crowley's Ridge Technical Institute (CRTI).
2017
The Arkansas Higher Education Coordinating Board voted for the merger with CRTI, effective July 31.

Schools & Colleges

1 notable schools within East Arkansas Community College

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Crowley's Ridge Technical Institute

Merged with EACC in 2017, significantly expanding the college's technical education offerings and resources.

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