The University of Arkansas Community College at Batesville (UACCB) is the second institution nationwide to earn gold Caring Campus Certification, distinguishing the college for its commitment to implementing and sustaining a culture of care.
“To me, nothing is more important than caring,” Director of Institutional Research and Caring Campus Task Force lead Rhonda Loper said. “My goal from the very beginning was achieving that gold standard, and everyone across our entire campus knew we were going for the gold. Earning gold tells the story of UACCB and the outstanding job we’re doing to care for our students.”
UACCB staff have made care part of the everyday campus experience by wearing nametags, following the 10-foot rule, making warm referrals, and creating a cross-department reference guide. The college has also developed practices unique to its campus, including replacing “visitors” with “guests,” expanding the 10-foot rule into a “Within Eyesight” commitment, and using a “call ahead” practice to create seamless transitions for students who need support.
Care extends to employees, too. UACCB recognizes employees through birthday celebrations, shout-outs, and a Caring Campus Champion program. The college has also embedded Caring Campus into its institutional practices, including job descriptions, new employee orientations, all-campus meetings, and its strategic plan.
“The success of our students is telling the story of the success of Caring Campus,” Loper said. “We’re a small institution, but we saw the highest enrollment we’ve had in six years this past fall. We also reported high retention and graduation rates last school year.”
Caring Campus Network members can earn Caring Campus Certification and receive discounted registration rates for the Caring Campus Conference 2026: Developing a Legacy of Impact, taking place Nov. 11-13 in Nashville.
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