Arkansas Colleges of Health Education Expands in Fort Smith

The Arkansas Colleges of Health Education (ACHE) is expanding again, bringing new energy and opportunity to Fort Smith.

 

Since opening less than a decade ago, ACHE has grown into one of the region’s biggest education success stories. The campus now includes schools of osteopathic medicine, physical therapy, occupational therapy, and biomedical research — with more programs on the way.

 

Beyond the Classroom

 

ACHE’s impact reaches well beyond campus. Through partnerships with local hospitals, clinics, and nonprofits, students provide free screenings, health fairs, and volunteer hours across the River Valley.

 

Research and Innovation

 

The university’s growing research wing is tackling challenges like rural healthcare access and chronic disease prevention.

 

Leaders say the goal is to train doctors and practitioners who understand the needs of smaller communities like those in western Arkansas.

 

Community Pride

 

ACHE has also boosted Fort Smith’s economy, bringing hundreds of students, faculty, and medical professionals to live, work, and serve in the city.

 

The Takeaway

 

From labs to local clinics, ACHE is redefining what higher education can do for community health.