National Park College’s chapter of Phi Theta Kappa (PTK), Alpha Beta Psi, is excited to announce the launch of its 2025 college service project—a campus vegetable garden made possible through a generous donation from Sutherlands in Hot Springs.
Each year, Alpha Beta Psi collaborates with the college president and other campus leaders to develop a project that gives back to the NPC community. This year’s project focuses on establishing and maintaining raised garden beds to supply fresh produce for the campus food pantry and the broader campus community.
The chapter worked diligently to identify community partners who could support their efforts, and Justin Weise, store manager at Sutherlands, stepped up in a big way. Weise worked hard to gain corporate approval to donate all of the lumber and supplies needed to bring the garden to life. The donation included 28 2x8 boards, 10 4x4 posts, and 10 pounds of exterior screws—valued at over $500.
PTK members, advisors Dr. Alex Barnard and Dr. Rebekah Robinette, along with NPC President Dr. Wade Derden, began construction of the raised beds on Friday, April 18. Chapter officers and members are thrilled to see their vision coming to life.
“The NPC campus garden means so much to me,” said Emma Brown, Chapter President. “I started this idea as a hope for healthier options, whether for the food pantry or the cafeteria at NPC. I never thought this garden would be approved and become a reality. Sutherlands donating all of the supplies needed for our garden was genuinely such a blessing that I am so thankful for. I can't wait for this garden to grow and to see how it impacts the NPC community!”
Carley Cox, chapter member, echoed the sentiment: “The garden project at National
Park is more than just growing plants. It's about helping the community, and learning.
We can connect with nature and have hands-on experience while growing in the garden.
Sutherlands’ donation means so much to us and we could not do it without them. They
have supplied us with essential materials and turned our vision into a reality. We
are forever grateful for their support in making sure our garden thrives.”
Alpha Beta Psi and NPC extend heartfelt thanks to Sutherlands for their generosity and support in helping make the campus garden a reality.
Photo 1— Left to right: Carley Cox (Alpha Beta Psi member), Justin Weise (Sutherlands manager), and Emma Brown (Alpha Beta Psi incoming President)
Photo 2 - Left to right: Emma Brown, Mandee Harper, Jason Chism, Dr. Wade Derden, Alison Rush, Kaye Foshee, Dr. Rebekah Robinette, Damian Ramirez, Keegan Gutherie, Taeler Acrey, Lauren Graves, Dr. Barnard, Mark McCorkle.