Apply now through December 1, 2025 for the 2026 America Walks Arkansas State Walking College!
The America Walks Arkansas State Walking College is an 18-week, online educational fellowship program for walkable community champions, sponsored and co-managed by the University of Arkansas System, Division of Agriculture Cooperative Extension Service (UADA).
This program is open to residents of Arkansas who are interested in the program and able to commit roughly 4 hours per week from January – June 2026. Fellowships are limited and the application process is competitive.
Fellows will complete a series of modules covering leadership development, coalition-building, walkable community design, local public policy, and strategic planning. The instructional content includes online study materials, Zoom discussion forums with other Fellows, and community assignments. Each Fellow will receive one-on-one coaching from a personal Mentor to assist them in developing a Walking Action Plan for their community.
After completing the Arkansas State Walking College, Fellows will be able to:
- Discuss the history of transportation planning in the U.S. and its role in the status of our current built environment.
- Encourage community members to support and expand local efforts aimed at improving neighborhood safety and walkability.
- Lead public outreach initiatives that use storytelling and strategic messaging to promote healthy approaches to community development.
- Recommend design improvements to public spaces that support active transportation, accessibility, and safe use by residents.
- Work within local government systems to collaborate with officials and professionals on potential policy enhancements.
Requirements:
- Dedicate 4–6 hours per week (January – June).
- Complete reading and writing assignments.
- Participate in weekly video conferencing sessions with Mentor and other fellows.
- Participate in regular one-on-one coaching sessions with Mentor.
- Conduct a community needs assessment.
- Develop an Action Plan to be implemented in the community of your choosing.
Applications will be accepted until 11:59 p.m., December 1, 2025. Fellows will be notified of their acceptance by December 5, 2025.
Please contact Jessica Vincent (jvincent@uada.edu) with any questions.
