WBU and BRTC enter into workforce training partnership

EducationNews BriefsNortheast Arkansas

by George Jared ([email protected]) ago 0 views 

Williams Baptist University and Black River Technical College will partner on workforce training in the region it was announced Tuesday (Dec. 9) at the WBU Board of Trustees meeting. Specific details weren’t offered, but WBU President Dr. Stan Norman noted that the two institutions have worked collaboratively in the past and are only separated by nine miles.

“We already enjoy a very collegial relationship with BRTC, and we plan to develop that partnership in ways that will greatly benefit both institutions and the region we serve,” Norman said. “We hope to flesh out plans for this collaboration and announce details over the next several weeks.”

It was the first meeting of the board’s 2025-26 year, and seven members are either new to the board or returning after having served previously. Joining the board this year were Aaron Abbott of Springdale, Jamar Andrews of Jonesboro, Cheryl Dean of Jonesboro, James Nichols, Jr. of Marion, Stacy Reed of Batesville, Shane Stolz of Bull Shoals and Tonya Taylor of Vilonia.

“These new board members bring new energy and a sense of excitement to our Board of Trustees,” said Norman. “All of these trustees are great friends of Williams, including four alumni who are returning to the university that has meant so much to them. We are so thankful for their willingness to serve, and we look forward to working with them.”

The board voted to award tenure and a promotion in rank to Dr. Trevor Babcock. Babcock, who teaches on the WBU English faculty, will be elevated from assistant professor to associate professor. His tenure and promotion were recommended by a faculty committee.

“Dr. Babcock is a passionate and innovative educator,” Norman said. “He brings a Christ-centered focus to his studies and helps students find the spiritual dimension in literature and culture. He has earned this new rank, and we congratulate him on it.”

And trustees congratulated several members of the Williams Eagles athletic department for their achievements. Yajaira Alvarado of Jonesboro was recognized for being named the American Midwest Conference Women’s Soccer Player of the Year, while cross-country athlete Marizenne Jonker of  Johannesburg, South Africa, was recognized for being selected All-AMC and an NAIA Qualifier.

Women’s Soccer Coach Daniel Carney was recognized for being selected the AMC Coach of the Year, while Athletic Director Mitch Mathis was congratulated for his department again being named an NAIA Champions of Character-Gold Level program.