News

Dr. Bentley Wallace selected president at SouthArk in El Dorado

Dr. Bentley Wallace, dean of the School of Technical and Professional Studies at University of Arkansas Pulaski Technical College, will join South Arkansas Community College (SouthArk) in El Dorado, Ark., as president beginning Feb. 1.

South Arkansas Community College Board of Trustees decided to hire Dr. Wallace Jan. 2 in a unanimous vote. His last day at UA-Pulaski Tech will be Jan. 31.

“This is a very bittersweet moment for Darby, Miller, and me,” Wallace said. “North Little Rock has been so good to us over the past seven years, and we are grateful for the many close friends we have made during that time.

“Leaving UA-PTC is a hard decision because I have learned so much working alongside so many wonderful colleagues. None of our accomplishments were made in isolation; the collaboration and genuine spirit of doing what is best for students permeates this place, and I am going to miss it very much.

“Thank you to everyone who made my time at UA-PTC special. I will carry your kindness and generosity with me as we move on this new path at SouthArk. You are a great team, and I am very fortunate to have been a part of it. Peace to you all, and I look forward to our paths crossing again soon.”

UA-PTC will begin a search for a new dean in the next week two weeks. An interim appointment is currently being reviewed and the outcome of the review will be announced as soon as later this week.

“Bentley has done an incredible job for UA-PTC,” said UA-PTC Chancellor Margaret Ellibee. “His vision, leadership, and community relationships have elevated this college in regard to technical education and meaningful business partnerships. We will miss him as a colleague and friend. SouthArk is fortunate to have Dr. Wallace has their new President!”

South Arkansas Community College was formed in 1992 from a merger of the El Dorado branch of Southern Arkansas University and Oil Belt Technical College. The former Oil Belt campus is known as East Campus and the former SAU-El Dorado location is known as the West Campus. SouthArk serves Union, Bradley, Chicot, and Ashley Counties.