SEARK College appoints Donna Hunnicutt Vice President of Instruction
Southeast Arkansas College (SEARK) is pleased to announce the appointment of Dr. Donna Hunnicutt as Vice President of Instruction, effective October 1, 2024.
SEARK President Dr. Tyrone Jackson shared his excitement stating, “Dr. Hunnicutt is a remarkable asset to our campus, contributing extensive knowledge from her background in both four-year and two-year higher education institutions. Her experience with accreditation through the Higher Learning Commission (HLC) highlights her dedication to maintaining academic standards and ensuring quality educational opportunities.”
Dr. Hunnicutt brings over 20 years of experience in higher education to this role. As a native of Arkansas, she possesses a deep understanding of our region that enhances her perspective on both our campus culture and the needs of the local industry to set SEARK apart from the competition.
Dr. Hunnicutt has held prominent leadership roles in Academic Affairs at Shorter College, Eastern Oklahoma State College, and the University of Arkansas at Monticello, where she dedicated 20 years as a faculty, CAEP Coordinator, and Graduate Studies Coordinator within the UAM School of Education. Her extensive background in accreditation, assessment, and program development will play a crucial role in advancing the college's academic offerings.
As Vice President of Instruction, Dr. Hunnicutt will manage academic affairs, with a particular emphasis on accreditation, assessment, and institutional effectiveness. In her role as the HLC Accreditation Liaison Officer, she will ensure adherence to accreditation standards, organize relevant activities, prepare reports, and coordinate site visits. Additionally, she will focus on developing strategies to assess student learning, work alongside faculty to refine assessment methods, and oversee the accreditation process by collaborating with various departments to maintain compliance with established standards.
Her appointment comes at a pivotal time for SEARK as the college continues to revitalize its programs and services to meet the evolving needs of its student body and the broader community. With a strong commitment to student success, Dr. Hunnicutt plans to implement initiatives that support academic achievement, promote faculty development, and enhance the overall educational experience.
“I am incredibly excited to join SEARK College as the new Vice President of Instruction,” stated Dr. Hunnicutt. “SEARK has a strong commitment to student success and community engagement, and I look forward to working alongside the talented faculty and staff to enhance academic programs and support services. Together, we will create innovative learning experiences that empower our students to achieve their goals and thrive in an ever-changing world."
The SEARK community looks forward to the positive changes Dr. Hunnicutt will bring through her dedication to education and unique skills set. Her leadership is expected to greatly influence the college's growth and enhance student success.