UAPB allowing in-person learning for 2021 LIONS Program

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By Deseray McKinzy

The University of Arkansas at Pine Bluff (UAPB) recently announced in a news release that they are happy to welcome the return of in-person learning for the 2021 Learning Institute and Opportunities for New Students (LIONS) Program The news release included that the summer program starts July 6, and students will be enrolled in six credits to complete their foundation courses prior to the fall.

The news release explained that the LIONS Program is a five-week summer residential academic enrichment experience that assists new freshmen admitted to UAPB in making a successful transition from high school and home to college life. The University cautioned that although the pandemic brings challenges, the program’s staff is committed to providing every student the tools needed to achieve academic success.  

According to Dr. Braque Talley, vice-chancellor of Enrollment Management and Student Success, last year,  “…UAPB staff worked diligently to quickly pivot to a virtual setting to help ensure we continued providing all students, especially our low-income and first-generation households the access to higher education.”   

UAPB said students will also receive academic tutoring, take “College Knowledge” seminars, and engage in professional workshops to successfully transition into first-year students.  

Also reflecting on last year’s LIONS Program experience, the program director Carolyn Mills said, “Last year taught our LIONS Program students about the resilience that comes with being a Golden Lion and the support they will always receive at UAPB.” She added, “We are excited to return to in-person learning this summer and want to keep students connected and engaged from day one to ensure successful student outcomes.”  

The University mentioned that the LIONS Program is financially supported in part by a grant from the U.S. Department of Education, Office of Postsecondary Education, Strengthening Institutions, Title III, Part B, Historically Black Colleges and Universities Program. 

Applications for the 2021 LIONS Program are still available. The deadline to apply is May 30.  

For more information about the LIONS Program, please contact LIONS Program director Carolyn Mills at 870-575-8362.