Senior United States Senator for Arkansas, John Boozman, visited UA Cossatot's De Queen Campus on Tuesday, August 18, 2020. Senator Boozman met with UA Cossatot representatives to receive an update about the college and its programs. Local elected delegates were also invited to attend the private meeting to discuss issues, news, and accomplishments for Sevier County.
UA Cossatot Chancellor, Dr. Steve Cole, introduced Senator Boozman at the start of the meeting and welcomed him and his staff to the college. Dr. Cole informed everyone at the meeting that Senator Boozman was instrumental in UA Cossatot receiving the funding to start their new YouthBuild program, which officially began at UA Cossatot on Monday, August 17.
UA Cossatot YouthBuild Instructor, Steve McJunkins, provided an update to the senator about the program. McJunkins stated that they expect to have approximately ten students in the program this semester by the end of the week. In response to helping students during the current COVID-19 crisis, UA Cossatot has extended fall registration through this Friday, August 21, 2020. McJunkins added that they are also expecting a large number of students to enroll in the YouthBuild program in the spring, especially since they will have more time for student recruitment.
McJunkins explained that students in the program could choose two career pathways to gain employment. Students ages 16-24 accepted into the program will have the option to choose the Industrial Maintenance/Welding pathway or the Construction/Carpentry pathway. McJunkins stated both paths provide excellent skills training for the students and many benefits for their local communities.
UA Cossatot Director of Adult Education, Jennifer Black, thanked the senator for his help and involvement in helping UA Cossstot obtain only the second YouthBuild program in the state. Mrs. Black stated that students who are already enrolled in the program are working on achieving their OSHA 10 certification and CPR training in their first two weeks in the program to further their job opportunities.
The college's Vice-Chancellor of Academics, Dr. Ashley Aylett, provided an update about how the first week of fall classes are going at UA Cossatot and plans for the fall 2020 semester. Dr. Aylett shared that most courses that are not online this semester can easily transition to an online format if health and safety conditions worsen due to COVID-19. She also mentioned that UA Cossatot has personally reached out to each student to discuss any concerns or issues that they may have to help each student feel more comfortable this semester.
Senator Boozman received updates about the college's skilled and technical programs and an update on the college's agriculture program. UA Cossatot Agriculture Instructor, Kelli Harris said at the meeting that her students were adjusting well to embracing technology in their classes, and that they are very flexible.
"Technology is a great part of the future of agriculture. It is great for production and the environment, and I think it is great that UA Cossatot incorporates it in the classroom," said Senator Boozman.
When asked about the future of technical programs, Senator Boozman stated that these programs are the future. Senator Boozman said, "We need people in these careers as we move forward. These careers will lead to good jobs where individuals can support their families, and I appreciate UA Cossatot helping in that effort."
Senator Boozman congratulated UA Cossatot on its successful programs and said he plans to continue working with UA Cossatot to help Arkansas residents.
Dr. Cole and De Queen City Mayor, Jeff Brown also provided information about community news currently taking place. Mayor Brown said, "We do have families in our community that are struggling due to COVID-19. Thankfully, many people have shown support and offered assistance including our public schools. Our businesses in De Queen and throughout the county are doing well though. Our business owners have been doing a great job, and the community has chosen to support them."
Dr. Steve Cole mentioned that community leaders in Sevier County are encouraging more residents to respond to the U.S. Census, something Senator Boozman endorsed. "The U.S. Census is critical, and every person that is not counted is a loss," said Senator Boozman.
As the Chair of the Sevier County Hospital Board, Dr. Cole also provided an update about plans for the future Sevier County Medical Center to be built in De Queen. "In mid-October, an 18-month construction process will begin on the new hospital. The hospital is set to open in early 2022, and it will also provide approximately 113 new jobs," said Dr. Cole.
Senator Boozman showed his support for Sevier County's growth and stated that he would help introduce the Sevier County Hospital Board to grants and letters to help support the $1.2 million sewer project that will occur due to the new hospital location.
As the meeting ended, Senator Boozman thanked everyone for their excellent work. He mentioned that he looks forward to returning to UA Cossatot and working together with its employees and with local community members.