The University of Arkansas Hope-Texarkana (UAHT) is setting a new standard for early college success, ranking #2 among colleges statewide for the number of students earning both a high school diploma and an Associate of Arts degree simultaneously. The college ranked behind only Northwest Arkansas Community College in Bentonville.

“We are extremely proud of our students for their hard work and dedication in earning associate degrees while in high school,” said Laura Clark, UAHT Interim Chancellor. “Just as importantly, we are deeply grateful for the unwavering support of our faculty, school districts, college personnel, and families, whose encouragement and commitment made this achievement possible.”

This milestone underscores the strength of UAHT’s Collegiate Academies, a partnership with Arkansas High School and Hope High School, which earned the #2 and #4 state high school rankings, respectively, for associate degree completion.

“Earning the #2 ranking in Arkansas for students completing associate degrees in high school is a direct reflection of the hard work of our students, the dedication of our faculty and staff, the commitment of our partner school districts, and the steadfast support of our community,” said Dr. Mikki Curtis, UAHT Dean of Secondary Programs. “The Collegiate Academy model proves what we have always believed: our students are capable of extraordinary achievements when provided the right opportunities and support. This recognition demonstrates that even in communities with economic challenges, our young people can rise to high expectations, thrive in early college environments, and set the standard for future success.”

Beyond Hope and Arkansas High Schools, the college’s impact extends to other partner districts, such as Blevins, Genoa Central, and Trinity Christian High School, where students completed associate degrees this year through UAHT.

“UAHT is dedicated to helping every southwest Arkansas high school student achieve their educational goals, no matter their zip code,” said Dr. Ashli Dykes, UAHT Concurrent Education Coordinator. “By earning an associate degree while still in high school, students not only save significantly on future costs but also enter the next stage of their academic journey with greater confidence and preparation.”

In 2025, Arkansas High School graduated 18 students, and Hope High School graduated 14 students with both a diploma and an associate degree. Blevins High School ranked #11 in the state, with six students graduating, while Genoa Central and Trinity Christian High Schools each had one student earn a degree through UAHT.

“We are excited to celebrate our graduates, indeed all the graduates, for their hard work and dedication to their educational journeys,” said Dr. Jonathan Crossley, HPSD Superintendent. “UAHT and HPSD concurrent programs are foundational to HPSD's strategic plan and purpose for all kids. HPSD has a record number of students enrolled in concurrent courses, and we are primed to expand those opportunities. We are grateful for our partnership with UAHT and look forward to continued success."

Altogether, UAHT’s early college programs accounted for 17.5% of all Arkansas high school students who graduated with an associate degree this year. These programs offer a significant head start—students earn college credentials for free while still in high school, saving an average of $20,394 per student compared to two years of tuition and fees at a public university in the state.

“It is an understatement to say how impressive it is for our students, from a small rural high school in southwest Arkansas, to graduate with both a high school and an associate degree,” said Stephanie Dixon, BSD Superintendent. This achievement demonstrates high academic expectations and a strong commitment to their future success. This dual enrollment opportunity has enabled our students to gain valuable experience in a higher education environment, providing them with a considerable advantage on their pathway to career readiness. The college and career landscape has changed vastly over the past ten years, and UAHT has been with us every step of the way. Our students have reaped the benefits of this successful partnership.”

Additionally, every UAHT early college associate degree graduate who transferred to a four-year university received scholarship support and began taking junior-level courses, moving faster toward completing a bachelor’s degree. Many of them benefited from the Arkansas Transfer Achievement Scholarship, allowing them to attend the University of Arkansas at Fayetteville while paying UAHT’s lower tuition rate. Others entered the workforce with a degree and skills to help them earn higher wages.

“These students have proven their readiness, not just for college, but for life,” said Dr. Lloyd Jackson, TASD Superintendent. “By tackling real college coursework in high school, they have shown they can meet high expectations and thrive in rigorous environments. We are incredibly proud of our Arkansas High School students, and others, who have not only earned their diplomas but also achieved associate degrees through our partnership with UAHT. Their success demonstrates the power of collaboration between our school district and higher education to provide life-changing opportunities. Graduating with both a diploma and a degree is an extraordinary accomplishment that sets these students apart and prepares them for a strong future in college, career, and life.”

As the Class of 2025 closes one chapter and opens the next, their accomplishments stand as a powerful example of what is possible when opportunity meets commitment. Their success is a celebration of academic excellence, community partnership, and the promise of a brighter future.

For more information about early college opportunities at UAHT, visit: https://www.uaht.edu/academics/high-school-programs.php.