Arkansas State University - Newport

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News
October 2021

2021 ACC Honorees Announced

Arkansas State University-Newport is honored to be represented by such distinguished alumni, faculty, staff and students. At the 2021  Arkansas Community Colleges (ACC) Fall Conference, four individuals were honored for their success and dedication to ASU-Newport. ACC recognized each honoree during their virtual event on October 11 and 12.

Outstanding Alumni: Dr. Katlyn Steimel 

Dr. Katlyn Steimel

Katlyn Steimel joined ASU-Newport as a concurrent student in 2007. In 2010, she graduated from Newport High School and also earned her Associate’s degree from ASUN. Katlyn obtained her B.S. Biology at A-State in 2013 and graduated from the accelerated BSN program in 2015. She attended the University of Arkansas, obtaining her Doctor of Nursing Practice, FNP in 2020. Dr. Steimel served as the Director of the Arkansas Rural Nursing Education Consortium (ARNEC) LPN-to-RN Program in 2020 before joining A-State as an Assistant Professor of Nursing. She and her husband enjoy traveling and spending time with their Yorkie-poo. 

Academic All-Star: Alicia Ballard

Alicia Ballard

Alicia Ballard is proof that people can achieve their dreams. Alicia started taking classes with ASUN through distance learning and was successful. She has now completed 28 hours toward her AA degree with a high G.P.A. Alicia has helped to mentor other young women starting college, all while working and raising her children. Alicia plans to pursue a social work degree at A-State after she graduates from ASUN. She is an inspiration to those who know her, and she is always offering to help anyone she can. 

Outstanding Faculty: Irina Reynolds

Irina Reynolds

As an Assistant Professor of Oral Communications/College & Life Skills, Irina works closely with ASUN's newest students to ensure their successful transition into post-secondary education. She exemplifies ASUN's values, especially being student-focused. Irina takes a genuine interest in the lives and success of each of her students, and as a result, is known and loved by all. She is one of ASUN's most positive and engaging faculty members, as well as one of its most community-oriented employees. Irina regularly participates in events on campus and throughout the community, and she always does so with a great attitude and a smile. 

Outstanding Staff: Deborah Metheny

Deborah Metheny

As an Admissions and College Engagement Specialist, Deborah is one of the first people ASUN students interact with when they come to our Jonesboro campus. She is always there to greet students with a smile and to serve their needs in any way she can. Students seek Deborah out by name because of her excellent customer service and cheery demeanor. She is always willing to extend her knowledge to others in her department and across the institution as well. Deborah has served in many roles during her tenure at ASUN, and she has adapted quickly to change and done so with enthusiasm. 

Please join us in congratulating these four individuals who represent ASUN on a daily basis with pride, dedication and service.