Stewart Joins Arkansas Tech Career Center Leadership – Arkansas Tech University

Shirley Stewart is the new assistant director at Arkansas Tech Career Center.

“I am thrilled to join the ATCC team, where every day presents an opportunity to support and empower students in the pursuit of growth and success, said Stewart. “I believe that all education is relevant, especially when it directly connects individuals to the skills and knowledge they need to thrive both inside and outside the classroom. The relationships we build — whether with students, parents, faculty, high schools or industry partners — are the cornerstone of meaningful growth and a stronger community. Together, we are not just preparing individuals for careers. We are helping elevate the state of Arkansas by building a skilled, resilient workforce. It is both humbling and inspiring to be a part of this journey.”

Stewart has previously served Arkansas Tech University as assessment coordinator at ATU-Ozark Campus from 2021-24 and as an administrative specialist III at ATU-Ozark from 2018-21. Through those roles, she gained experience in leadership and supervision, team management, program development, educational workshop design and implementation, mentorship, student success initiatives, stakeholder engagement, online learning content creation, event planning, budget management and regulatory compliance.

She has also provided tecnhnological and academic support for faculty and students through admissions, registration and career development processes.

“We are pleased to welcome Shirley Stewart to the ATCC team,” said Arron DeGracia, ATCC director. “With her extensive experience at ATU-Ozark Campus, where she served in multiple roles, she brings invaluable knowledge in the alignment of our programs. Her expertise in curriculum development, assessment and instruction will be instrumental in elevating program quality and enriching the educational experience for our students”.

Stewart holds a Master of Education degree in instructional technology and design from Arkansas Tech and a Bachelor of Science degree in organizational leadership from Rogers State University.

ATCC is serving approximately 815 students from 21 area school districts and K-12 entities during the fall 2024 semester. The main ATCC location is on the Russellville High School campus.

For more information about Arkansas Tech Career Center and its programs, visit www.atu.edu/careercenter.