North Arkansas College is one step closer to joining the statewide university system.

The complete release from North Arkansas College is below:
After more than five decades of independence, North Arkansas College (Northark) has taken a major step toward joining the University of Arkansas System (UA System), a move expected to enhance educational opportunities for students and strengthen institutional resources.

During its May board meeting, the Northark Board of Trustees unanimously approved a resolution authorizing President Dr. Rick Massengale and Chief Financial Officer Richard Stipe to finalize the necessary agreements for the potential merger. Ultimately, the Board of Trustees of the University of Arkansas will have to approve an affiliation agreement before the two entities would then begin working together to meet state and federal regulatory requirements, including accreditation review by the Higher Learning Commission. The transition process would also include meetings with students, employees, and other stakeholders to ensure a smooth and transparent integration. Administrators anticipate the potential merger could be finalized in time for the Fall 2026 semester.

The NAC board’s historic decision follows months of exploration and community engagement. Since March, college leaders have held a series of town halls in Harrison and Berryville, conducted a student forum on campus, and met with civic organizations and local government leaders, including the Boone County Quorum Court. Administrators also engaged in detailed discussions with UA System officials to assess the benefits and logistics of the merger.

“The impact of this merger is undeniable,” said President Massengale. “A rising tide lifts all boats. This is the right time to leverage the expertise, strength, and resources of the UA System to propel Northark into the next century. While we’ll still steer our own boat, so to speak, we’ll now be part of a fleet—all moving together with a shared mission to expand access to education across Arkansas and southern Missouri.”

Once finalized, Northark would become the ninth college and the third-largest institution to join the University of Arkansas System, which includes 21 campuses, divisions, and units statewide. While the college would retain its local identity, it would gain access to the broader academic, administrative, and financial support of the UA System.

Dr. Massengale emphasized that the merger will bring tangible benefits for both students and staff. Graduates with associate degrees from Northark will be eligible for a transfer scholarship that allows them to attend the University of Arkansas in Fayetteville while continuing to pay Northark tuition rates. Employees pursuing further education will also receive discounted tuition and gain access to a broader network of more than 28,000 UA System employees, along with enhanced benefits programs.

“No student will lose the ability to transfer successfully to the University of Arkansas or any other institution,” Massengale assured. “In fact, we expect students will enjoy expanded academic opportunities through the UA System.”

He also addressed a common concern about tuition increases. “The UA System has made it clear that keeping tuition affordable is a top priority—and we fully intend to honor that commitment,” he said. 

Importantly, the merger will not result in any job losses, and Northark’s ongoing community programs and events will continue without interruption.
Support for the merger has been overwhelmingly positive, with widespread enthusiasm for the expanded opportunities and long-term stability it promises.