Phillips Community College Chancellor Arkansas County Kim Kirby presented a program at the Dumas Chamber of Commerce Meeting held Tuesday, November 2, 2021.
Kirby said they have a close relationship with Dumas Public Schools and is glad they are able to continue working with the district. She talked about the challenges colleges face with the onset of Covid. They saw increase in enrollment after the pandemic started due to cost, increase in traditional students, and transfer program from the community college to U of A schools.
Kirby talked about how they had both online and on campus classes during 2020. Teachers also adapted to teach both online and in person if a teacher or student had to be quarantined. PCCUA -Dewitt also provides a food pantry with needed items for students and Ridge runner recharge, an online mental health support program for faculty, staff and students. PCC provides a nursing program that has a 100 percent pass rate for LPN and named top program consistently in the state of Arkansas.
“So we have excellent faculty and excellent support systems and its right here at home,” Kirby said.
The Dinner, provided by Phillips Community College, included chicken dressing prepared by the mother of Shawanna Wansley.
Chamber members approved October minutes. Annette Cowen presented the October Financial Report, which included an income of $1,630, expenses of $3,6169.11 and a deficit of $1, 986.11.
The Chamber membership heard Standing Committee reports from The College of Aspiring Artist, MainStreet Dumas, and City of Dumas. Onie Norman presented the events and speakers of the College of Aspiring Artist Innovation Day.
Julianne Gasaway reported the organization preparation for Merry MainStreet and that cookbooks are now available for purchase. She said a group is being put together that will do a mural to be painted on Meador Pharmacy and they are seeking community input for the project. The City of Dumas asked for input from the Chamber concerning cell towers in Dumas city limits.
