Dr. Jo Alice Blondin

FORT SMITH, AR. — The Arkansas Colleges of Health Education (ACHE) Board of Trustees has appointed Jo Alice Blondin, PhD, as Interim President, effective July 13, 2026.

Dr. Blondin brings 33 years of progressive leadership experience in higher education and a distinguished record of service to students, institutions, and accrediting organizations. Most recently, she served as President of Clark State College in Springfield, Ohio. Her career also includes service as Chair and Trustee of the Higher Learning Commission Board of Trustees and as Chancellor of Arkansas Tech University–Ozark Campus.

Throughout her career, Dr. Blondin has been recognized for her commitment to student success, institutional excellence, and strategic growth. Her leadership experience spans community colleges, universities, and national higher education organizations, where she has helped guide institutions through periods of innovation, expansion, and transformation.

As Interim President, Dr. Blondin will provide leadership and guidance as ACHE continues its mission of educating future healthcare professionals and advancing excellence in health sciences education.

“Dr. Blondin is a proven leader whose career has been defined by a commitment to student success, academic excellence, and institutional growth,” said Mike Barr, Chair of the ACHE Board of Trustees. “The Board is confident that her experience, vision, and collaborative leadership style will serve ACHE well during this transition. We are pleased to welcome her to the institution and look forward to working with her as we continue building on ACHE’s strong foundation.”

Dr. Blondin said she is honored to join the institution and support its mission. “I am excited to join Arkansas Colleges of Health Education and to work alongside its dedicated faculty, staff, students, and community partners,” said Dr. Blondin. “ACHE has established an outstanding reputation for educating healthcare professionals and serving the region through innovation and excellence. I look forward to supporting the institution’s continued growth and helping advance its mission of improving health and healthcare outcomes through education.”

She added, “Returning to Arkansas is especially meaningful to me. Earlier in my career, I had the opportunity to live and work in this area, and it became a place that I truly cherished both personally and professionally. The opportunities I found here contributed significantly to my growth as a higher education leader. I am excited to return and contribute to the continued success of ACHE and its mission of educating the next generation of healthcare professionals.”

2026 MSB Graduates

Fort Smith, AR — The Arkansas Colleges of Health Education (ACHE) celebrated a major milestone on May 23 as approximately 233 graduates crossed the stage during the institution’s 2026 Commencement Ceremony.

The Class of 2026 included graduates from the Doctor of Osteopathic Medicine (DO), Doctor of Physical Therapy (DPT), Doctor of Occupational Therapy (OTD), and Master of Science in Biomedicine (MSB) programs. This year’s ceremony was particularly significant as ACHE celebrated the inaugural graduating class of its Master of Public Health (MPH) program, marking another step forward in the institution’s continued growth and commitment to improving health outcomes in Arkansas and beyond.

The Class of 2026 includes approximately 136 Doctor of Osteopathic Medicine graduates, 35 Doctor of Physical Therapy graduates, 16 Doctor of Occupational Therapy graduates, 34 Master of Science in Biomedicine graduates, and 12 Master of Public Health graduates.

For these graduates, commencement represents more than the completion of a degree. It marks the beginning of careers dedicated to improving lives and strengthening communities. Many members of the Class of 2026 will go on to serve patients and populations across Arkansas and the surrounding region, helping expand access to healthcare, improve patient outcomes, and address critical workforce needs in rural and underserved areas.

Founded with a mission to improve healthcare in the River Valley and beyond, ACHE continues to educate the next generation of healthcare leaders through programs that emphasize excellence, compassion, and patient-centered care. The achievements of the Class of 2026 reflect that mission and the institution’s ongoing investment in building a stronger healthcare workforce for the communities it serves.

Following the ceremony, graduates, family members, faculty, and staff gathered on the front lawn of the ARCOM building for a celebratory picnic, recognizing the hard work, perseverance, and accomplishments that brought the Class of 2026 to this important milestone.

Kyle D. Parker, JD will transition to the role of President Emeritus.

Fort Smith, Arkansas, April 13, 2026 – The Arkansas Colleges of Health Education (ACHE) today announced that Kyle D. Parker, JD, will transition to the role of President Emeritus, effective June 30, 2026. The title of President Emeritus is reserved for distinguished leaders whose service has left a lasting legacy, allowing them to continue serving as ambassadors for the institution. The ACHE Board of Trustees bestowed this honor in recognition of Parker’s leadership and enduring impact on ACHE.

Parker’s vision and leadership have been foundational to the creation and growth of ACHE. As the institution’s first hire in April 2014, he played a pivotal role in shaping its direction from the very beginning. From those early efforts, Parker led the formation of ACHE, establishing a bold and innovative model designed to address critical healthcare workforce needs.

Under his leadership, ACHE has grown from its original program, the Arkansas College of Osteopathic Medicine (ARCOM), into a comprehensive academic institution with eight thriving academic programs. His strategic vision extended beyond academics, shaping a dynamic, student-centered campus that includes modern student housing, dining options, retail spaces, and a grocery store, with continued growth planned. The campus also features the Celebration Garden and Wellness Park, a 12-acre space with walking trails, a playground, and water features. Parker was also instrumental in the purchase and renovations of the Research Institute Health & Wellness Center, a 317,000-square-foot facility dedicated to promoting health and wellness to the community. The facility is the home to a state-of-the-art biomedical research lab.

Parker also championed strong community and clinical partnerships, including key collaborations with Mercy Hospital and Mercy Clinic, ensuring students receive high-quality, hands-on training while strengthening healthcare delivery across the region.

“On behalf of the Board of Trustees, we extend our deepest gratitude to Dr. Parker for his extraordinary leadership and unwavering dedication to ACHE,” said Mike Barr, Chair of the ACHE Board of Trustees. “His vision transformed an idea into a thriving institution, and his impact will be felt for generations to come. As we honor the legacy that brought the organization to this point, we also affirm our responsibility as a Board to build upon the strong foundation established by Dr. Parker and sustain our mission to educate compassionate healthcare professionals. The Board looks forward to a period of discernment in finding Dr. Parker’s successor. The institution is blessed with a strong leadership team in place to guide us through this significant transition.”

“It has been the honor of a lifetime to help build ACHE and work alongside so many dedicated individuals who share a passion for improving healthcare through education,” said Parker. “I am incredibly proud of what we have accomplished together and look forward to seeing the institution continue to grow and thrive.”

As he transitions to President Emeritus, Parker looks forward to spending more time with his family, especially his granddaughter, and pursuing his interests in travel and photography.

A celebration honoring Parker’s contributions will be announced at a later date.

Visitors will have the opportunity to tour the Arkansas College of Osteopathic Medicine (ARCOM) 7000 Chad Colley Blvd., the College of Health Sciences (CoHS) 7006 Chad Colley Blvd., and the ACHE Research Institute Health & Wellness Center (RIHWC) 1000 Fianna Way. Each space reflects ACHE’s commitment to preparing the next generation of healthcare professionals while also serving the community through education, outreach, and wellness initiatives. 

Guests will experience a variety of interactive demonstrations and activities across campus. Visitors can explore simulation labs where faculty and students demonstrate adult and pediatric medical scenarios using high-fidelity manikins, observe osteopathic manipulative medicine (OMM) demonstrations, and walk through the anatomy lab to learn about the vital role of donor programs in medical education. Hands-on science activities will also be available, including microscope demonstrations and interactive exercises that explore how the body works. 

Additional stations will highlight student learning and community engagement, including a public health student panel discussing community projects and interactive displays focused on wellness and resilience. Guests visiting the College of Health Sciences may also participate in functional movement, balance, and fall-risk screenings led by physical therapy faculty and students. Occupational Therapy faculty and students will showcase their learning labs and offer hands-on experiences that give visitors a glimpse into how future occupational therapists are trained at ACHE. 

The ACHE Research Institute Health & Wellness Center will also feature tours and classroom activities, as well as the Altman Gallery Exhibition: A Celebration of Choctaw Art and Culture, giving visitors the chance to experience the intersection of research, wellness, and the arts. 

“At ACHE, our vision has always been rooted in service to the community,” said Kyle Parker, JD, President & CEO of ACHE. “Everything we do, from our programs and partnerships to our facilities, is designed with people in mind. We’re proud to be a place where education and community come together to build a healthier future for the region.” 

That commitment is reflected not only in the classroom, but also in the many ways ACHE connects with the community throughout the year. Faculty and students participate in free clinics, outreach events, and programs designed to expand access to care and promote overall well-being across the region. 

ACHE’s impact also extends beyond healthcare services. Each year, the campus hosts camps and day programs that introduce local students to hands-on healthcare simulations, as well as culinary, ceramics, and STEAM experiences. These programs encourage curiosity, build confidence, and inspire future educational and career pathways. 

The upcoming Community Open House offers a unique opportunity for everyone to see these efforts up close while experiencing the campus firsthand. Whether you’re familiar with ACHE or visiting for the first time, the Community Open House provides a welcoming chance to explore the campus, learn more about its programs, and see how ACHE continues to connect education, healthcare, and community in meaningful ways.  

For updates on the event, click here. 

FORT SMITH, AR –

Hosted by the ACHE Center for Clinical Skills Development, the large-scale event brought together students from the Doctor of Osteopathic Medicine (DO), Doctor of Occupational Therapy (OTD), Doctor of Physical Therapy (DPT), Master of Science in Biomedicine (MSB), and Master of Public Health (MPH) programs for a full day of teamwork, competition, and hands-on learning. 

Unlike traditional field days, the Unified Field Day combined academic and clinical challenges with wellness and fun. Students were randomly assigned to interprofessional teams, each including members from every ACHE program, to encourage collaboration and understanding across disciplines. Teams created their own names and logos before moving through a series of interactive stations located throughout campus. 

Activities included a geriatric safety station, where participants simulated performing daily tasks while experiencing conditions such as limited vision or peripheral neuropathy; a patient safety escape room, where students identified risks and mistakes in a simulated patient room; and Cardiac Corner, which challenged students to recognize common EKG rhythms in both adults and pediatric patients. Other stations tested skills in public health, clinical reasoning, teamwork, and patient care. 

“The goal of this event is multi-fold,” said Kerrie Sanders, Director of the ACHE Center for Clinical Skills Development. “First, the students work side by side with peers who will one day be clinicians in different patient care fields, fostering understanding and respect among professions. By gamifying these skills, we hope students retain the information and become more familiar with the concepts needed to treat patients safely and effectively.” 

Sanders added that the ultimate goal of the event is to advance patient safety and advocacy through experiential learning. “These students will soon be treating patients across the nation. The care they provide will reflect our institution’s values. Through activities like this, we can help shape that care, improve the culture of medicine, and empower our students to change lives beyond the traditional scope of medicine.” 

Leaders from ACHE and UAFS at the signing ceremony. Two current ACHE students pictured are also proud UAFS alumni.

The University of Arkansas – Fort Smith (UAFS) and the Arkansas Colleges of Health Education (ACHE) signed a new affiliation agreement on August 25 that guarantees qualified UAFS students an admissions interview for graduate programs at ACHE.

The partnership creates a formal pathway for UAFS students seeking admission to ACHE’s Arkansas College of Osteopathic Medicine, School of Physical Therapy, School of Occupational Therapy, and Master of Science in Biomedicine program.

Under the agreement, UAFS applicants who meet specific academic and professional criteria will bypass ACHE’s initial screening process and automatically receive an admissions interview. To be eligible for interview consideration, students must complete all prerequisite coursework from a regionally accredited institution and meet minimum GPA and entrance exam scores specific to each ACHE program.

“We have 29 UAFS alums right now enrolled across all of our programs, and we want that number to grow,” said ACHE Assistant Provost Christopher Smith, Ed.D. “And we believe that through this agreement, building strong relationships from the top all the way across our institutions, and ensuring that those relationships continue to grow and continue to benefit both of us, will make that possible.”

“We want that smooth transition from UAFS to ACHE and to then, hopefully, keep those individuals here in the River Valley to be therapists, physicians, and other healthcare professionals.”

UAFS Provost and Vice Chancellor for Academic Affairs Shadow Robinson, Ph.D., echoed the importance of regional partnerships to drive regional success.

“I think all of us have in our hearts a mission to serve this region,” Robinson said. “We know that the demand and need for health care is going to go up. And at a university committed to social mobility, we want to see our students get those amazing jobs, hopefully in this area. You help make that possible. And as we look to spur the economic growth of our community, you help make that possible, too.”

Concluding the signing, ACHE President & CEO Kyle Parker, JD, explained that affiliation agreements of this nature are rare.  “We want to make sure that we always bring in the best. These affiliation agreements, we do them very sparingly, because when we sign them we look to institutions that expect the best out of their students as well.”

He explained that last year more than 6,600 applicants applied to the Doctor of Osteopathic Medicine program, “And we chose the best of the brightest.”

“It thrills me to get our two institutions together,” he said. “We don’t compete, we compliment, and that is what matters here.”

For each program, applicants must receive certification from a designated UAFS faculty or staff member verifying that all eligibility criteria are met. Interviews may be conducted on-site or online, depending on the program.

Although a guaranteed interview is offered under the agreement, admission is not guaranteed. Students who are accepted but defer enrollment may be required to pay the deposit for their originally scheduled start year, subject to approval.

The agreement is effective for three years and will automatically renew annually unless terminated by either institution with 90 days’ written notice. It will continue to apply to currently enrolled UAFS students at the time of any termination.

Terms of the Linkage: 

1. Guaranteed Acceptance to ARCOM

MSB students will be granted guaranteed acceptance to ARCOM if they meet the following criteria: 

• Fall Semester Performance: Achieve a minimum 3.2 GPA by the conclusion of the fall semester.
• Overall Academic Standing: Maintain a minimum 3.0 cumulative GPA upon successful completion of the MSB program.
• Conduct: Remain in good conduct standing throughout the MSB program.
• Recommendations: Obtain:
  • A formal recommendation from the MSB Program Director.
  • One additional letter of recommendation from an MSB faculty member.
• Admissions Requirements: Meet all other ARCOM admissions requirements, including completion of a verified AACOMAS application.

Students who meet the fall GPA threshold but do not maintain the 3.0 cumulative GPA requirement will be subject to a full review by the ARCOM Admissions Committee. 

2. Guaranteed Interview Option

MSB students who complete the program with a minimum 3.0 cumulative GPA and remain in good standing are guaranteed an interview with ARCOM. 

3. Regular application

MSB students who do not meet these criteria may still apply to ARCOM. 

4. Program Monitoring

Admissions and program officials from both ARCOM and MSB will meet annually to review student performance and adjust the agreement as needed to uphold standards and ensure successful student outcomes. 

Leaders and Students on the Impact 

“This agreement reflects our continued commitment to student success and to strengthening the pathway to medical education in Arkansas and beyond,” said Kyle D. Parker, JD, President & CEO of ACHE. 

Matthew White, PhD, Director of the ACHE MSB Program, said:
“Since the MSB program started in 2019, the vast majority of students that come to our program are aspiring to go to medical school. To that end, the program has placed over 170 students thus far, that’s 90% of our graduates, into medical schools across the country. Thankfully, most of those actually choose to stay right here at ARCOM. We want to provide our students and our prospective students with the opportunity to achieve their dreams of attending medical school. With that, I’m very pleased to announce this guaranteed pathway into ARCOM.” 

Antonio Gachineiro, ACHE MSB alum (Class of 2025) and current ARCOM student doctor, shared the student perspective: “For me, the ACHE MSB program was the best academic decision ever in terms of preparation for my academic career in medical school. I do believe that linking the MSB program with ARCOM is extremely beneficial for the school and for the students as well, given that the pathway for medical school applications is extremely time consuming, expensive, and stressful.”  

Shannon Jimenez, DO, Dean of ARCOM, emphasized the importance of the linkage:
“Today is really important for ARCOM, ACHE, and our Master of Science in Biomedicine program. The MSB students who persevere and excel in the program consistently become some of the most successful ARCOM students. The MSB program is especially meaningful to me because it serves students who may be non-traditional, underrepresented, first generation, or who simply need a little more mentorship and structure to get started in professional school. By finding that foundation, the program not only prepares them academically, but also provides the confidence and resilience that we know makes for outstanding healthcare providers.” 

Matthew White, PhD (Director of the ACHE MSB Program) and Shannon Jimenez, DO (Dean of ARCOM)

In 2017, the Arkansas College of Osteopathic Medicine (ARCOM) welcomed its first class of 150 medical students. Today, ARCOM has trained over 600 student doctors, with four graduating classes now contributing to healthcare across Arkansas and beyond.

Under the leadership of President and CEO Kyle D. Parker, JD, ACHE has expanded to more than 250 employees and added key programs, including the Master of Science in Biomedicine, the College of Health Sciences, which includes the School of Physical Therapy and School of Occupational Therapy, and most recently, a Master of Public Health program which focuses on rural and community health.

ACHE’s campus has grown to 542 acres, with notable developments such as The Residents student housing, the state-of-the-art Research Institute Health & Wellness Center (RIHWC), and vibrant spaces like the Celebration Garden and Wellness Park, and Heritage Community. The RIHWC, which opened its first floor in 2023, is already a hub for community classes, events, and advanced health science research and innovation. The Biomedical Resource Center and Center for Rehabilitation Research opened in November of 2024 at the RIHWC. These facilities will strengthen the healthcare landscape in our community and set a new standard for patient-centered research and education in Arkansas and beyond.

As ACHE celebrates its 10th anniversary, Fort Smith continues to grow and thrive, with over 4,000 new homes built and exciting new businesses flourishing in the Chaffee Crossing area. The future looks bright for ACHE as it builds on this momentum, expanding its programs, enhancing research opportunities, and deepening its connection throughout the community. Here’s to an even brighter and more impactful decade ahead!

CLICK HERE to watch our video celebrating ACHE’s incredible growth!

Teressa Brown, PT, DPT, PhD – Vice President & Provost

Teressa Brown brings a wealth of experience and a distinguished track record in physical therapy education and academic leadership. Most recently, Brown served as the founding Dean of the ACHE School of Physical Therapy, where she successfully guided the program to full accreditation and ensured its growth and excellence. Brown’s experience includes her tenure at West Coast University in Los Angeles, California, where she played a pivotal role in the establishment of the Physical Therapy, Occupational Therapy, and Pharmacology programs for the for-profit institution.

Brown holds a Bachelor of Science and a Doctor of Physical Therapy degree from Simmons University. In January 2015, she earned her PhD in Health Professions Education from Simmons University as well. Her primary research areas include instructional methods and assessment practices in anatomy education and predictors of success or difficulty in the DPT curriculum.

As Provost, Brown will lead all academic activities and faculty affairs, oversee budgeting, faculty hiring, and performance, and spearhead academic planning initiatives. Her vision and expertise will be instrumental in driving ACHE’s academic programs to new heights.

Christopher Smith, EdD – Assistant Provost & Director of Diversity, Equity, and Inclusion

Christopher Smith joined ACHE in 2022 as the Director of DEI, bringing over seven years of experience in higher education and DEI-related fields. Smith has a deep dedication to student success and has spearheaded campus-wide initiatives focused on recruitment and retention. He has also actively contributed to state and system-wide task forces on race and equity.

During the 2020-2021 academic year, Smith served as Acting Provost at the University of Arkansas Hope-Texarkana. Smith provided oversight of academic policies and programs while ensuring accessible, quality education during the COVID-19 pandemic. In addition, Smith worked closely with academic leadership on faculty appointments, strategic planning, and community outreach, working to enhance the university’s educational offerings and reputation.

In his expanded role as Assistant Provost & Director of DEI, Smith will continue to lead ACHE’s efforts in fostering an inclusive and supportive educational environment. His leadership will be crucial in promoting diversity, equity, and inclusion across all academic programs and institutional initiatives.

Kyle D. Parker, President and CEO stated, “I am thrilled to announce the appointments of our new Provost and Assistant Provost, both of whom have demonstrated exceptional dedication and expertise within our institution. Their deep understanding of our mission and their proven leadership will be instrumental in driving the growth and success of ACHE. As in-house hires, they bring continuity and a profound commitment to our values, ensuring that we continue to provide the highest quality education and support to our students. I look forward to their contributions as we embark on this exciting new chapter.”