Hope Kiwanis Club Hears From Chris Thomason

The Hope Kiwanis Club heard from one of Hope’s favorite sons, Chris Thomason on Tuesday (2-10).  Thomason served in several capacities in Hope including as Prosecutor, state representative, and Chancellor of UAHT.  Thomason now works for the U of A system as Vice-President for Strategic and Community College Partnerships.  He said the jobs involves oversight of the university’s community colleges across the state.

Thomason said both he and the U of A system are very excited to welcome the new UAHT Chancellor Dr. Ricky Tompkins.  He also lauded the work of Interim Chancellor Laura Clark, Bryan Berry, and the rest of the administration at UAHT.  Thomason reminisced about riding the school bus with Dr. Tompkins when they were both youngsters attending school in Hope.  He noted Dr. Tompkins was a “world class candidate” for the position.

Thomason noted the U of A system has “brick and mortar” in all 75 Arkansas counties.  He said the system is committed to take the size and scale of that towards a state-wide mission.  Thomason singled out the contributions of UAHT towards university system.  One such innovation he highlighted was the collegiate academy which began in Hope and has been replicated at other campuses.

Other programs Thomason highlighted included the system’s solar project which has the potential to save the system millions of dollars.

Thomason wrapped up his talk by highlighting the system’s “strategic pillars”.  This information can be found on the system’s website.

The Kiwanians greatly enjoyed hearing from Thomason and getting to fellowship once again with him in Hope.