Tim Atkinson Picked To Head ASTA

Gov. Mike Beebe (D) named Tim Atkinson of North Little Rock to be the new President of the Arkansas Science and Technology Authority (ASTA). The ASTA Board of Directors selected Atkinson, who will serve at the will of the governor.

Atkinson, 45, has most recently served as Assistant Provost and Director for Sponsored Programs at the University of Central Arkansas. Prior to that, he spent more than a decade conducting and directing research programs at the University of Arkansas for Medical Sciences and the Arkansas Children’s Hospital Research Institute.

Atkinson’s official start date is July 1. He replaces John Ahlen, who retired earlier this year.

“Tim has a distinguished career in research, and is deeply aware of the potential it holds for our people and our economy,” Beebe said. “Through his leadership, ASTA will continue guiding our efforts in developing cutting-edge technologies that are vital to 21st-century success.”