We embark on our second 100 years realizing private philanthropy can and should be a strategic resource to ensure UA Little Rock becomes a model 21st century university. The need and urgency have never been greater.
A college education is a gateway to an improved quality of life and stimulates prosperity in our communities. But too many Americans are failing to graduate college. Why? In part, because our assumptions about them are wrong. Most of us envision college students as 18-to 21-year-olds fresh out of high school. That’s not the UA Little Rock reality.
UA Little Rock students:
- 63% are female
- 49% of college students are students of color (non-white)
- 45% are 25 or older
- 31% are first-generation college-goers
- 14% wait more than one year before starting college
- 7% are veterans
- 6% are international students
The majority of college students work, many full-time, while supporting themselves through school. Homelessness, food insecurity and poverty affect college students. Most bachelor’s degree holders leave college with loan debt.
UA Little Rock students:
- 68% work
- 64% of students have loans, with average student loan of $22k at graduation
- 58% receive PELL grants
- 46% are at risk of becoming homeless
- 36% are students that are food insecure
- 30% live below poverty line
- 15% live in families with more than four
Student Stories
Nikki Mullen
Nikki Mullen – UA Little Rock
Nikki Mullen began studying mechanical systems engineering at UA Little Rock, and today, she’s a PhD student while working for Nushores Biosciences, a compan…
Nikki Mullen began studying mechanical systems engineering at UA Little Rock, and today, she’s a PhD student while working for Nushores Biosciences.
Turner Hudson
Turner Hudson – UA Little Rock
As a Chancellor’s Leadership Corps (CLC) scholar, Turner Hudson has been active in many student clubs and organizations. His internship at Cromwell Architect…
As a Chancellor’s Leadership Corps (CLC) scholar, Turner Hudson has been active on campus. His internship at Cromwell Architects Engineers has prepared him for an engineering career once he graduates.