Arkansas Baptist College

General Information

Arkansas Baptist College (ABC) is a private, Baptist-affiliated historically black college located in Little Rock, Arkansas. It is the only Baptist-affiliated Historically Black College west of the Mississippi River. Founded in 1884 as the Minister's Institute by the Colored Baptists of Arkansas, the college was renamed Arkansas Baptist College in April 1885.

Founding and Early History

The primary objective of the institution was to raise the educational level within the African-American ministry, with a secondary goal of making higher education accessible to young Black men and women in Arkansas. Originally opening at Mt. Zion Baptist Church, the college later moved to its current location at 16th and High Street, now known as Dr. Martin Luther King Jr. Drive.

Mission and Vision

The college's mission is to prepare students for a life of service grounded in academic scholarship and the liberal arts tradition, with a focus on social responsibility and Christian development. It aims to become a leader in Christian-based higher education, fostering lifelong learning and community engagement among its students.

Academic Programs

Arkansas Baptist College offers various academic programs, including bachelor's degrees in Criminal Justice, Business Administration, Human Services, Public Administration, and Religious Studies. Associate degrees are available in Religious Studies, Business Administration, and Christian Education. The college's curriculum is designed to meet the needs of the local community.

Accreditation

Arkansas Baptist College received accreditation from the Higher Learning Commission in 1987. Despite facing challenges, including probationary status in recent years, the college remains accredited.

Campus and Student Life

The college is situated in the historic Little Rock Central High School District, near the Wright Avenue District and Paul Lawrence Dunbar Junior High School. In recent years, ABC has expanded its campus activities with the introduction of athletic programs like football and the redevelopment of its marching band. It also participates in initiatives such as the HBCU C2, an Apple-supported coding and creativity program.

Challenges and Initiatives

Facing financial difficulties, the college has implemented various strategies to regain stability, including partnerships with other educational institutions and corporations to enhance student enrollment and provide new educational experiences. Despite these efforts, enrollment has remained a challenge, with numbers fluctuating in recent years.

Leadership

As of November 2024, Dr. Leslie Rodriguez-McClellon serves as the president of Arkansas Baptist College. She succeeded Dr. Calvin McFadden Sr., who stepped down after approximately one year in the position.

Cultural Significance

Arkansas Baptist College is recognized for its historical significance and cultural contribution to the African-American community in Arkansas. The Old Main Building on its campus, built in 1893, is listed on the National Register of Historic Places.