Fraternity supports ASU Mid-South student activities

Fraternity supports ASU Mid-South student activities

Achievement Association makes donation

ASU Mid-South A local non-profit organization comprised of members of a national fraternity, Kappa Alpha Psi, Inc., has recognized Arkansas State University Mid- South’s commitment to providing higher education to the citizens of Eastern Arkansas.

The West Memphis Achievement Association’s President Grandon Gray recently presented a contribution of $500 to the Foundation to be used as support for student activities at the college. “The purpose of The West Memphis Achievement Association (TWMAA) is to exemplify achievement by preparing the next generation of leaders and empowering our community in the areas of education, economic development, health and social awareness,” noted Gray.

“ASU Mid-South has a proven track record of achievement in the areas of education and training. Kappa Alpha Psi and TWMAA are elated to forge a partnership with Mid-South. Together we pledge to continue to be ‘difference makers’ in the Delta.”

“Dollars invested in students are multiplied many times over in our efforts to create educational and economic opportunity and truly improve the quality of life for all the people of our region,” said Dr. Debra West, Chancellor of ASU Mid- South, who accepted the donation.

“This contribution could not come at a more perfect time, as it provides great synergy with our increased focus on student engagement. Having things for students to be involved in and creating a sense of belonging on campus have been shown to be instrumental in ensuring students stay enrolled in their coursework and complete their degrees or credentials. In an effort to make all our students feel more at home here, we recently relocated our student lounge to the south end of the University Center, where we have created a very student-friendly atmosphere that is both welcoming and comfortable,” Dr. West added.

“We want the student lounge to be the on-campus hub for student activities as well as a gathering place for students to relax, create relationships, and interact with other students,” commented Dr. Derek Moore, Associate Vice Chancellor for Student Success, whose team plans and coordinates activities in the new student lounge area. “We use engaging activities to encourage our students and help them to succeed.”

The addition of a pool table and ping-pong table in the lounge help create a fun atmosphere. Weekly activities include learning centered programs, motivational programs and games designed to help students get to know one another. “This is a stress-free zone, a place of purposeful impact,” Moore noted. “Students are more likely to stay in college when they feel a part of something larger, something vital.”

Kappa Alpha Psi is a collegiate fraternity founded in 1911. The fundamental purpose of the fraternity is achievement. One of the organization’s five core objectives is to assist the aims and purposes of colleges and universities.

To contribute to student activities or the MSCC Foundation general fund, please contact Director of Development Elizabeth Williams at (870) 733-6764 or ecwilliams@asumidsouth. edu. Donations can also be made online on the college website, www.asumidsouth.edu.

By Diane Hampton