University Leaders Announce Education Compact

The presidents and chancellors of Arkansas’ 11 public universities and two university systems issued a 16-point pledge today aimed at better collaboration and cooperation to advance the state’s higher education population.

The group said they supported the goal of Gov. Mike Beebe to double the number of Arkansans receiving college degrees by 2025.

"Our public universities are the state’s most influential social, economic, cultural and educational force," said UA Chancellor David Gearhart. "We, as leaders of those institutions, must make sure that we demonstrate and communicate the ways we can, do and will serve the public’s interests. That means we must work together, operate our universities in a productive and accountable manner, and be good stewards of state resources."

Aspects of the compact include:

• Transparent, accountable decision making and prudent fiscal management
• Doubling the number of college degrees by 2025
• Keeping tuition and fees as low as possible without sacrificing academic quality
• Adopting environmentally and economically sound business practices
• Expanding diversity in student bodies, faculty and staff
• Improving adequate financial aid
• Engaging more in entrepreneurial activities and economic development