Ricky Tompkins, Ed.D., has been named chancellor at the University of Arkansas Hope-Texarkana.
The UA system board unanimously approved UA System President Jay Silveria’s recommendation. Tompkins, currently the vice president for technical education and workforce development at North Arkansas College, is expected to begin his new role as UAHT chancellor on Feb. 1, 2026.
Tompkins, 52, has a long history of service to higher education through many roles at institutions in Arkansas and with Arkansas Community Colleges.
“Dr. Tompkins brings energy and passion for ensuring those around him have opportunities to advance and succeed, and he stood out as the right fit to continue the college’s innovative approach to engaging with the communities and students it serves,” Silveria said. “All of the finalists were high-quality choices and could succeed at UAHT, and the search advisory committee should be commended for its work to ensure a bright future at the campus. I’m looking forward to working with Dr. Tompkins and the UAHT team as they continue serving as a model for student success and community engagement within the UA System.”
Tompkins earned a doctorate from UA Little Rock, a master’s degree from Henderson State University and a bachelor’s degree from East Texas Baptist University. He was previously director of the Center for Student Success for Arkansas Community Colleges, vice president for learning and chief academic officer at NorthWest Arkansas Community College, and director of the Institute for Corporate and Public Safety. He has taught at college and university levels, published in academic and professional journals, and keynoted and presented at national higher education meetings and conferences.
“Considering the level of expertise and dedication to student success of the other finalists, I’m honored to have been identified by the committee, chosen by President Silveria, and approved by the board of trustees to be the next chancellor at UAHT,” Tompkins said. “I have incredible respect for what UAHT has accomplished before me, and I can’t wait to join the incredible team on campus and get to work continuing the high level of success that’s already been established. I see many opportunities to continue growing new ideas to serve the Hope-Texarkana communities and impacting the lives of students and the workforce in that part of the state.”
READ ALSO: Challenges and Opportunities: AGFC Director Doug Schoenrock Lays Out a Bold Agenda
