North Arkansas College's mission is to provide high quality, affordable, convenient opportunities for learning and cultural enrichment in response to community needs. Located in the heart of the scenic Ozark Mountains, Northark is one of Arkansas' leading community colleges providing a gateway to higher education and rewarding careers. Students of all ages and backgrounds comprise a vibrant learning community and enjoy excellent educational opportunities on our campus.

    HARRISON – Chief Justice Jim Hannah of the Arkansas Supreme Court will be the speaker Saturday, May 10, for North Arkansas College’s commencement exercises.   The college will award 411 degrees, certificates, or certificates of proficiency to 395 graduates this year.  Fifty students are graduating with honors, and 27 have a perfect 4.0 grade point average.  The ceremony will take place at 10 a.m. in Pioneer Pavilion on Northark’s South Campus.

    Of the 411 degrees, certificates, and certificates of proficiency to be awarded, 124 were completed during the fall semester of 2007, 65 are scheduled for completion this summer, and 222 will be awarded this spring.  The 411 graduates will receive 100 associate of arts degrees, 8 associate of science degrees, 129 associate of applied science degrees, 119 certificates, and 55 certificates of proficiency.

    The student welcome for the commencement will be provided by Fines Levi Hudson of Mount Judea, the son of Richard and Anita Hudson.  Levi will receive an associate of arts degree.

    Ashley Arnold of Harrison, granddaughter of Steve and Loretta Tarochione, will offer the invocation.  Ashley was a member of the Northark Lady Pioneers for the last two years.  She will be receiving an associate of arts degree.

    Kevin Yoder will give the benediction.  Kevin will receive an associate of applied science degree in registered nursing.

    Music will be provided by the Harrison High School Concert Band directed by Jana Johnson.  The Star Spangled Banner and My Wish will be performed by Kyla Horton, daughter of Danny and Shirley Horton.  Kyla was a 2007 Northark graduate and now attends the University of Central Arkansas.

    Grand Marshals will be Northark instructors Bruce Hall and Cheryl Keymer.

    Commencement awards will be presented by James Troy Massey, chairman of the board of trustees of North Arkansas College.  Degrees and certificates will be awarded by Northark President Dr. Jeff Olson.