The National Park College (NPC) Honors Program challenges exceptional students to go beyond the classroom—combining advanced coursework, research and community service to develop future leaders and engaged citizens. The program was highlighted at the October meeting of the NPC Board of Trustees Wednesday, showcasing its continued growth and impact since its establishment in 2017.
The Honors Program provides motivated, high-achieving students with opportunities to expand their learning through small, discussion-based classes and hands-on experiences that prepare them for future academic and career success. Admission to the program is competitive and based on academic performance, faculty recommendation and demonstrated motivation to pursue advanced learning and service opportunities. Graduates receive a special Honors diploma and are recognized at commencement for their academic distinction.
“The goal of the program was to provide greater social interaction and intellectual rigor to high-performing students who desired a more challenging academic environment,” said Dr. Chuck Argo, vice president for academic affairs. “The curriculum was designed to give students access to instruction and topics they otherwise would not find in traditional classes while providing more leadership and volunteer opportunities on campus and within the community.”
Unlike an honors society that recognizes past accomplishments, the Honors Program creates a collaborative learning community where students engage deeply with faculty and peers. Through seminar-style discussions, research activities, and community partnerships, participants strengthen their critical thinking skills and explore new areas of study while developing meaningful connections on campus.
“The Honors Program is about growth, not just recognition,” said Jason Chism, Honors Program director and assistant professor of English. “Our students challenge themselves and one another to think critically, lead confidently and contribute meaningfully to their communities. It’s an experience that connects them with faculty, organizations, businesses and other honors students across Arkansas.”
The program’s curriculum integrates honors seminars on special topics, undergraduate research assistantships, service-learning projects and the Honors Colloquium Series, which brings local leaders to campus to explore a unifying theme from multiple disciplinary perspectives. This year’s theme, Local Government and Civic Engagement, has featured discussions on government and community involvement, including a presentation and mock election experience hosted by the Garland County Election Commission.
The program also led NPC’s first-ever international travel opportunity, a study abroad trip to Italy in 2018, and plans to build on that success with additional travel and research experiences in the future.
Looking ahead, the Honors Program plans to expand its course offerings, develop new research internships, strengthen community partnerships and participate more actively in statewide and national honors organizations, including the National Collegiate Honors Council.