In the news

March 9-15, 2026

Clinton School unveils inaugural Impact Report

 

By Angelita Faller

 

The Clinton School of Public Service at the University of Arkansas has released its  inaugural Impact Report, documenting two decades of action, collaboration, and impact from its students, graduates, and faculty.

 

The report captures not only unique stories of public service leadership, but also the measurable outcomes behind that work, including: 

 

Nearly 550,000 field service hours across 100 countries 92% of graduates employed within six months

 

More than $15.8 million in total economic impact

 

“The Clinton School was founded on a bold idea – that leadership is best learned through action,” Dean Victoria DeFrancesco Soto said. “We pioneered the nation’s first Master of Public Service degree to prepare leaders who blend academic theory with impactful community work. Our inaugural Impact Report showcases 20 years of the leadership and collaboration our students bring to Arkansas, the nation, and the world.”

 

Since welcoming its first students in 2005, the Clinton School has pioneered a model of graduate education where the community serves as the classroom. Alongside a unique academic curriculum that combines data analysis with effective communication, Clinton School students complete three for-credit public service projects ranging from local work in Arkansas communities to international projects across the world.

 

The Clinton School’s curriculum spans nearly 800 community partnerships, providing students with unique experiential-learning opportunities while embodying the University of Arkansas System’s mission.

 

“A key component of the mission of the University of Arkansas System is public service, and nowhere is that better embodied than the Clinton School,” said Gen. Jay B. Silveria, President of the University of Arkansas System. “The students and faculty at the Clinton School are making an impact on communities across Arkansas, the country, and the world, and I am proud of the work they do and how it reflects positively on the value of public higher education to our state.”

 

LR Chamber of Commerce to host ribbon-cutting at Nonprofit Center of Excellence

 

The Little Rock Regional Chamber of Commerce will hold a ribbon-cutting ceremony to celebrate the grand opening of the Nonprofit Center of Excellence, located at 323 Center Street, Suite 500, Little Rock, Arkansas. This milestone marks a new chapter in supporting and uniting nonprofits across the state.

 

The Nonprofit Center of Excellence, operated by Rally Point Nonprofit Council, serves as a hub for collaboration, training, and capacity-building for nonprofit organizations in Arkansas. The Center provides office space, meeting rooms, and resources designed to help organizations increase their impact and better serve communities across the state.

 

Jeff Watts, Founder and Executive Director of Rally Point Nonprofit Council, commented on the occasion:

 

“We are proud to be part of the rich history of the historic Tower Building and to serve the vibrant community of nonprofits in our state. This Center represents our commitment to connecting organizations, sharing resources, and strengthening their ability to achieve lasting change.”

 

The ribbon-cutting event will feature Chamber representatives, local nonprofit leaders, and community members. Attendees will have the opportunity to tour the facility, learn about upcoming programs and initiatives, and meet the team dedicated to advancing nonprofit excellence in Arkansas.

 

Event Details:

 

Date: Wednesday, March 10, 2026

 

Time: 11:00 a.m.

 

Location: Nonprofit Center of Excellence, 323 Center Street, Suite 500, Little Rock, AR

 

For more information about the Nonprofit Center of Excellence or Rally Point Nonprofit Council, visit https://www.rallypointnc.org.