Arkansas State University-Newport Seeks New Chancellor
Arkansas State University-Newport (ASUN) is currently in the process of searching for a new chancellor. The university has announced that Dr. Johnny Moore, the current chancellor, has been appointed as the new president of Rust College in Holly Springs, Mississippi. This transition marks a significant change for ASUN, which has benefited from Moore’s leadership over the past four and a half years.
Dr. Moore joined ASUN in February 2021 and has since played a vital role in shaping the institution’s future. In a statement, he expressed his gratitude for the opportunity to serve as chancellor, calling it “one of the greatest honors of my professional life.” He also emphasized the meaningful impact this new role will have on his family and himself.
Moore highlighted the progress made during his tenure at ASUN, particularly the launch of an inclusive strategic planning process in the fall of 2021. This initiative reaffirmed the institution’s mission and values while setting a bold course for the future. Key priorities included boosting enrollment, retention, and completion rates; establishing an Honors College; strengthening signature programs; improving operational efficiency; elevating marketing and branding efforts; building deeper community partnerships; and achieving record-breaking fundraising outcomes.
Under Moore’s leadership, ASUN also introduced an intercollegiate athletics program and earned the Carnegie Foundation’s designation as an Opportunity College. This recognition highlights ASUN as a model institution for fostering student success through access, opportunity, and workforce outcomes.
Since 2021, ASUN has expanded its academic offerings to align with labor market needs. New programs include radiologic technology, data science/data analytics, and U.S. Department of Labor registered apprenticeships. These additions reflect the university’s commitment to preparing students for successful careers.
Dr. Brendan Kelly, President of the ASU System, expressed appreciation for Moore’s contributions to ASUN’s success. He noted that Moore worked tirelessly to enhance student experiences and meet their needs. Kelly also emphasized the importance of continuing the progress made by ASUN and using this transition as an opportunity to review the institution’s assets, opportunities, and challenges.
Dr. Moore became ASUN’s third chancellor after succeeding Dr. Sandra Massey. Prior to joining ASUN, he served as president of Pierpont Community & Technical College in Fairmont, West Virginia. He also held the position of president and CEO of Philander Smith College in Little Rock from 2012 to 2014. A native of Old Washington, Arkansas, Moore has also served on the board of directors of the Newport Economic Development Commission.
Moore’s last day as chancellor will be July 31. During this time, Dr. Kelly will visit ASUN campuses to engage with faculty, staff, students, and administrators about the next steps in the search for a new chancellor and the overall vision for ASU-Newport. Kelly emphasized the need to proceed expeditiously while ensuring that all campus constituencies are involved in making the best possible decisions to serve students and meet the needs of the communities and employers that ASUN serves.
Established in 2001, ASU-Newport is a two-year community college that serves approximately 4,200 students annually in Northeast Arkansas. The institution operates campuses in Newport, Jonesboro, and Marked Tree, providing accessible education and training opportunities to local residents.
