The University of Arkansas Community College at Batesville has earned Gold Caring Campus certification from the Institute for Evidence-Based Change, recognizing its commitment to student support and success.
The credential, issued September 14, 2026, makes UACCB the 2nd college to earn Gold certification since the designation was introduced.
Gold is the program’s highest certification level. It recognizes colleges that have incorporated Caring Campus principles into daily operations and established policies and practices to sustain that work.
“Receiving this incredible recognition is a symbol of the dedication our people have for students,” said Dr. Zach Perrine, UACCB provost.
PERSONAL CONNECTIONS AND PRACTICAL SUPPORT
UACCB’s approach includes learning students’ names, checking in early in the semester and helping students connect with the appropriate person when they need assistance.
Free food and snacks are available across campus to help address food insecurity and allow students to focus on learning.
Open House and Welcome Week activities introduce students to campus resources. Free mental health counseling and expanded technology support hours provide additional assistance throughout the semester.
Perrine said the college’s partnership with the Institute for Evidence-Based Change has helped strengthen a culture of care already present among faculty and staff.
TRAINING AND FLEXIBLE CLASSES EXPAND SUPPORT
Through a partnership with White River Health, UACCB faculty and staff receive QPR — Question, Persuade, Refer — suicide prevention training. The training helps employees recognize warning signs and connect students with professional assistance.
The college has also introduced HyFlex courses, allowing students to attend in person, participate live online or complete coursework on their own schedule.
Those options are designed to help students balance college with work and family responsibilities.
The recognition comes as UACCB reports its highest fall enrollment since 2019.
CARING PRINCIPLES INCLUDED IN COLLEGE OPERATIONS
UACCB began its Caring Campus work in 2021 and included Caring among its core values in the college’s 2024 strategic plan.
Caring Campus responsibilities now appear in employee job descriptions and job postings. The principles are also reinforced through employee orientation, continued training and the hiring process.
A Caring Campus Task Force coordinates the college’s ongoing efforts.
“Achieving this gold standard certification validates the diligent work of our task force and proves the amazing, caring spirit that every individual at UACCB exemplifies daily,” said Rhonda Loper, director of Institutional Research and chair of the task force.
Loper described sharing the “UACCB Cares” story as deeply personal and central to her work at the college.
The Gold designation recognizes UACCB’s shared commitment to its stated purpose: Improve Lives. Through personal connections and practical assistance, employees help students find resources to continue working toward their goals.
For more information about UACCB:
https://www.uaccb.edu/
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