Arkansas Civic Leadership Academy: Preparation for a Future as a Civic Leader
Throughout this academic year, I have had the unique opportunity to participate in the inaugural Arkansas Collegiate Civic Leadership Academy. Organized through the Winthrop Rockefeller Institute, it brings together junior- and senior-level undergraduate students from colleges and universities across Arkansas who share a common commitment to public service and civic engagement.
During my time at the Academy, I have had an immersive learning experience through monthly in-person and online educational sessions that cover the many areas of civic life important to Arkansas. These sessions have explored topics ranging from the administration of campaigns and elections at the state and local level to the structure and function of the United States and Arkansas judicial systems to the essential role that journalism and media play in a healthy democracy.
Later this month, we will convene at the Arkansas Municipal League for a session on state and local government, further grounding our understanding of Arkansas’s institutions and history.
One of the most impactful aspects of the academy has been the opportunity to learn directly from accomplished Arkansan civic leaders and public servants. Through this program I have had the opportunity and privilege of engaging with figures such as 46th Governor of Arkansas Asa Hutchinson; Associate Justice of the Arkansas Supreme Court J. Cody Hillard; Marty Sullivan, Director of the Arkansas Administrative Office of the Courts; and respected scholars from Arkansas institutions, including Dr. John C. Davis of the University of Arkansas and Dr. Derek Slagle of the University of Arkansas at Little Rock.
Just as meaningful has been the chance to collaborate and learn with fellow students who all share the same passion and drive to become the next generation of civic leaders for Arkansas.
During my time in the academy, I have gained a better understanding of what it means to be an effective and efficient civic leader, not only in the present but also for decades to come. As a student who is deeply interested and passionate about government, civic engagement, and civic education, I have gained an immense insight into the inner workings of both our state’s institutions and the leadership skills that are necessary in order to become an effective civic leader in order to serve the public with integrity and purpose.
These important lessons have been further strengthened by my internship with Engage Arkansas, where I have had the firsthand experience of seeing how civic participation and education can create a lasting impact.
The skills and knowledge I have gained through my experiences have solidified my commitment to a future career in the public sector. As I prepare to pursue a master’s degree in public administration and a career in the public sector, the Arkansas Collegiate Civic Leadership Academy has given me a strong foundation and a community of peers and mentors that I will carry forward.
Programs like the Arkansas Collegiate Civic Leadership Academy are vital to ensuring that Arkansas continues to cultivate an informed and engaged generation of civic leaders. I am incredibly grateful for the opportunity to be part of the inaugural cohort, and I am excited to apply what I have learned at the academy to my community and state.
This article is part of the Engage Arkansas 2026 Civic Challenge. The Civic Challenge focuses on one vital impact area affecting Arkansans statewide each month. In February, Engage Arkansas highlighted the importance of youth leadership. To learn more about Engage Arkansas, visit EngageArkansas.org.
Axton Tackett, February 2026