A-State Recognized for Student Success for Eighth Year

JONESBORO – For the eighth straight year, Insight into Academia magazine honors Arkansas State University for its commitment to student success with the 2025 Higher Education Excellence and Distinction (HEED) Award.

“I was truly thrilled and incredibly proud to learn Arkansas State has been honored with the Higher Education Excellence and Distinction (HEED) Award for the eighth consecutive year. Being acknowledged once is meaningful, but maintaining this level of excellence year after year is a powerful affirmation of our identity and values as an institution,” said Dr. Carlitta Moore, vice chancellor for access and institutional engagement at A-State.  

The award highlights how distinction in higher education is achieved through everyday practices, including innovative recruitment and retention efforts, student support services, and community partnerships that enhance campus life.

Moore notes that the award recognizes the ongoing work on campus. 

“Under the leadership of Chancellor Todd Shields, A-State has achieved remarkable growth, reflected in the many success stories emerging from our campus and community. This award highlights the collective efforts and shared success across the entire university. Every area has played a crucial role, and I am grateful for the shared commitment to fostering a welcoming and empowering environment for all,” said Moore.

A-State serves as the only institution in the Natural State to receive the recognition. 

Moore highlights programs like the Arkansas Promise Plus Scholarship, which covers tuition, fees and offers housing or flex plans after other aid, making college accessible for eligible students. Emphasizing inclusion, especially for students with disabilities, the university provides accommodations, annual audits and career partnerships to support their success in and out of the classroom. Faculty and staff benefit from the “Empower the Pack” mentorship program, fostering connections and professional growth, with plans for Brown Bag sessions and more.

“A-State’s ongoing receipt of the HEED Award highlights the sustained, strategic and collaborative efforts which define our campus culture. It shows our practices are intentional and deeply rooted in our daily operations. We continually listen to the voices of our students and colleagues, adapt our approaches, and prioritize a supportive, inclusive environment,” Moore added. 

In addition to A-State, 62 colleges and universities across the nation earned the honor, along with 29 recipients of the Health Professions HEED Award.