Adam O’Neal has been named the new chancellor of the University of Arkansas–East Arkansas Community College, following approval from the UA System board of trustees on Wednesday in Harrisburg.
O’Neal, who has served as the college’s vice chancellor for student services since 2019, will step into the top administrative role at the institution located in Forrest City. He brings more than two decades of experience in education, including time as a K–12 principal and various leadership roles within the community college system.
“I’m honored and excited about this opportunity,” O’Neal said Wednesday. “I’m truly invested in this college and community. We’re already in a great place—things are going very well.”
In his current role, O’Neal oversees student services and contributes to strategic planning across the college. He first joined the institution as dean of student services, and his responsibilities have grown steadily over the years. He is currently working toward a Doctor of Education in Educational Leadership at Liberty University.
The University of Arkansas–East Arkansas Community College serves students across several counties in eastern Arkansas, including St. Francis, Lee, and Monroe. The school offers associate degrees, workforce training, and dual enrollment opportunities for local high school students. O’Neal’s appointment comes at a time when community colleges across the state are seeing increased enrollment and renewed attention for their role in workforce development.
UA System President Mark Slattery praised O’Neal’s deep commitment to student success and community engagement. “Adam’s leadership has already made a significant impact at East Arkansas Community College,” Slattery said. “His experience and vision make him the right person to lead the institution forward.”
O’Neal takes over from Dr. Lawrence R. Bell, who served as chancellor for five years before stepping down earlier this year. During Bell’s tenure, the college expanded its dual credit offerings and strengthened partnerships with local school districts and industries.
Forrest City residents may recognize O’Neal’s name from his frequent appearances at local events and his involvement with regional education initiatives. He and his family have deep ties to the area, and he’s been a vocal advocate for increasing access to higher education in underserved communities.
“This is more than just a job for me,” O’Neal said. “It’s about making sure every student who walks through our doors has the support they need to succeed.”
The UA System, which includes the University of Arkansas flagship campus in Fayetteville and several regional colleges, has been working to strengthen its community college network in recent years. That includes expanding online course offerings and aligning programs with workforce needs across Arkansas.
O’Neal’s appointment reflects a broader trend of promoting from within at UA System institutions. Several recent leadership changes across the system have involved internal candidates, a move officials say helps maintain continuity and institutional knowledge.
As chancellor, O’Neal will oversee daily operations, strategic planning, and budget management for the East Arkansas campus. He plans to prioritize student completion rates, community partnerships, and workforce-aligned programs in the months ahead.
“We’ve got a strong foundation here,” he said. “Now it’s about building on that and making sure we’re meeting the needs of our students and our region.”
Source: NWA Democrat Gazette
