Breaking Educational Barriers in Drew County

At this month’s 100 Families Alliance Meeting in Drew County, community partners and educators came together around a shared goal: helping families in crisis move toward stability—and ultimately, careers—by expanding accessible pathways to education.

The University of Arkansas at Monticello (UAM) emphasized that adults balancing work, parenting, and rebuilding their lives have more options than ever. Speakers from across the university highlighted flexible programs, personalized support, and a deep commitment to walking alongside students from crisis to stability and onward to long-term success.

Landon Grimes, Vice Chancellor for University Advancement and Alumni Engagement, opened with a striking reminder of the barriers many adults face. “Eighty-three percent of college students say mental health is their number one roadblock—and those students are twice as likely to drop out,” he shared. Yet he emphasized that higher education remains one of the most powerful tools for breaking cycles of instability. Grimes spoke openly about how earning his degree directly shaped his career and financial stability, underscoring that education can be a turning point for families seeking a better future. “College,” he said, “is really about commitment, communication, and community.”

Mary Whiting, Director of Admissions and Recruitment, affirmed that UAM’s admissions team meets students where they are—guiding them through each step, especially for adults returning to school or starting for the first time.

Jessica Foxworth, Vice Chancellor for Student Affairs and Dean of Students, described her office as a hub of support for students facing crises outside the classroom. Whether navigating homelessness, foster care history, transportation challenges, or personal emergencies, Foxworth ensures that no student must walk their path alone.

Assistant Dean of Students and Director of Housing and Residence Life, Quantel Williams, emphasized that students are known by name, not number. He shared examples of helping students secure safe, stable housing so they can stay connected to their goals and complete their education.

University Counselor Emily Johnston highlighted mental health and crisis-response services that help students manage stress, trauma, and life transitions—key supports for parents and adults seeking long-term stability.

Director of Student Activities and Affairs, Dylan McClain, added that engagement opportunities—from interest groups to movie nights—help all students, regardless of age or background, find community and belonging on campus.

From the Crossett campus, Assistant Vice Chancellor Dawn Reed discussed the rising demand for technical education and its strong return on investment. She stressed that technical and academic students alike are embraced as full members of the UAM community.

Financial Aid Coordinator Althea Hayden and Scholarship Coordinator Kiara Palmer encouraged students to explore the numerous options available to reduce or eliminate financial barriers to college.

Dorissa Kaufman, Director of Adult Education, reminded the group that adult education offers far more than a GED. Job skills training, short-term certifications, career-focused scholarships, and seamless transitions into UAM help adults quickly build stability and move into long-term employment pathways.

Assistant Vice Chancellor for Academic Success, Cary Johnson, closed by highlighting the campus-wide collaboration that ensures every learner receives wraparound support.

The meeting concluded with Grimes reinforcing UAM’s affordability: one of the lowest tuition rates in Arkansas and a high-value return for students seeking a new start.

From start to finish, the message was clear: education is a powerful bridge from crisis to stability and stability to career. Through partnership, compassion, and diverse pathways, Drew County and UAM continue working together to help families reach their goals and pursue long-term success—one supportive step at a time.