Eric Darden was already an accomplished educator before he considered enrollment at Arkansas Tech University.
He believes his experiences in the ATU Master of Education degree program have pushed him to new heights.
“The coursework really challenged me to not just do mediocre or average work,” said Darden. “It challenged me to pursue a higher level of work in my quest to be educated as a leader. I took strength from my mother. She always affirmed that I could do great things.”
Darden was among those honored during the spring 2023 commencement ceremony for the ATU Graduate College at Tucker Coliseum in Russellville on Friday, May 5.
He has served as director of the alternative school for the Texarkana School District (Ark.) for four years. Now, he has an advanced credential befitting an educational leader.
“I kept on procrastinating,” said Darden. “My reason for not doing this sooner was I couldn’t find a fully online program. After COVID, a lot of them came up and Arkansas Tech was given to me by one of my co-workers. It seemed to fit very well. The professors were great. Dr. (Bill) Morelan was absolutely wonderful in helping me become a more professional educator. It’s been a great experience.”
Tess Fritschie certainly agrees. She has spent the last six years of her life at ATU.
The Fort Smith product first enrolled at ATU in 2017. She earned an associate degree and a bachelor’s degree in psychology before beginning work on her Master of Science degree in student affairs administration, which she completed during the spring 2023 semester.
“2017 me had no idea what was in store,” said Fritschie. “I have goals and dreams now. I didn’t know what I wanted to do coming in, and now I have three degrees and a desire to work with students. Arkansas Tech gave me that passion. Seeing how the professionals here like Dr. (Keegan) Nichols work with students…I want to be that for someone else.”
Debra Myton has been an educator and leader in four school districts around the State of Arkansas. A native of Brinkley and resident of North Little Rock, Myton already held six post-secondary credentials from three institutions before she enrolled at Arkansas Tech.
She took the next step in her journey by completing ATU’s Doctor of Education degree in school leadership. Myton was among six students to earn that credential during spring 2023.
“The world is an oyster,” said Myton, “and I’m hoping to inspire many people in my family to aspire to something greater, whatever it might be.”
Taylor Jones is at the outset of her adventure as an educator.
“I heard the education program at Arkansas Tech was the best in the State of Arkansas,” said Jones. “I loved every single minute of it. The professors have been so helpful throughout my journey. Dr. (Heather) Stefanski was my No. 1 supporter. I love her.”
Jones said the lessons she learned in the ATU Master of Arts in Teaching degree program will help her enrich the lives of children as she embarks upon her career. She lives in Prairie Grove and hopes to teach in northwest Arkansas.
“The kids I worked with during my internship kept me going,” said Jones. “I built great relationships with them, and my family and friends were so important in helping and guiding me. I am looking forward to starting my future.”
Learn more about opportunities for graduate study at Arkansas Tech by visiting www.atu.edu/gradcollege.
