The Willard & Pat Walker Charitable Foundation recently gifted $250,000 to the NorthWest Arkansas Community College (NWACC) Foundation in support of the Foundation’s NWACC NOW! capital campaign that raises funds for NWACC’s new facility in Washington County. In recognition of the Walker Foundation’s gift, the college will name its new facility’s information commons, Pat and Willard Walker Information Commons.
“Mom and dad made our home in Springdale,” said Johnny Mike Walker, chairman of the board of the Willard & Pat Walker Charitable Foundation. “I am excited to see the tremendous growth in our region and in Springdale. The Walker Foundation is thrilled to be a part of the expansion of NWACC in Springdale and to provide our hometown with greater access to quality higher education.”
NWACC – Washington County, located in Springdale, opened to students in January 2020 and offers courses in general education, nursing, health information management and emergency medical response. It houses NWACC’s High School Relations which oversees the Early College Experience program and holds a number of student services such as admissions and financial aid assistance, academic advising, academic support services, transfer services and more.
“By partnering with NWACC to build a location in Washington County, the Walker Foundation is signaling our commitment to create more opportunities to connect our local community members with valuable resources to enrich and improve their lives,” said Mandy Macke, executive director and vice chairman of the Willard & Pat Walker Charitable Foundation.
The goal of NWACC Foundation’s capital campaign, NWACC NOW!, is to raise $12 million for the new 38,000 square foot NWACC – Washington County and grow the college’s presence in Northwest Arkansas to meet the needs of the community and future generations of students.
“The Willard & Pat Walker Foundation continues to invest generously in the lives of so many in our community,” said NWACC President Dr. Evelyn E. Jorgenson. “We are humbled and grateful for the continued support of so many who have stepped forward in support of NWACC’s mission to provide access to quality, affordable higher education for thousands of students.”
To make a donation or for more information on the capital campaign, visit www.nwaccfoundation.org or contact Executive Director of Advancement and NWACC Foundation Liz Anderson at eanderson14@nwacc.edu.