NorthWest Arkansas Community College NorthWest Arkansas Community College NorthWest Arkansas Community College
NorthWest Arkansas Community College

Public Relations

Retail Program sees enrollment increase

Retail Orientation 1      BENTONVILLE (Friday, August 08, 2008) – The Retail Management Program at NorthWest Arkansas Community College held two separate “Enrollment Days” during the months of June and July 2008.

      These generated a growth explosion from 35 new students in the spring 2008 to 145 newly declared majors. The Associate of Applied Science degree in Business Management, with a specialization in Retail was funded by a grant from the Wal-Mart Foundation.

      “I am delighted to see the large number of students enrolling in our program. I believe that this is attributed to the uniquely designed degree plan with its two certificates, which students can attain on their path toward completing the full degree,” said Margie Vance, Director of the Retail Management Program.

      “The high caliber of students interested in the program come from not only Wal-Mart and Sam’s Club, but also from other diverse backgrounds. “

      The Retail Management Program held its first student orientation meeting on Tuesday, August 5, in the Wal-Mart Auditorium of the Shewmaker Center. The Retail Team provided important information to the students on various subjects to help guide them through the academic system at NWACC.

      The Retail Team also announced the formation of the Retail Leadership Society, a new student club. Students enrolled in the Retail Management Program who have at least a 2.5 GPA are encouraged to apply. The benefits to the students include but are not limited to the following: developing Interview and resume skills; developing leadership skills; internships with local retailers; mentoring with retail professionals; networking -- for advancement in retail professions; retail site visits; book scholarships; and possible study abroad.

      The Retail Leadership Society will be comprised of an elite group of Retail Management students who are willing to make the extra effort and therefore earn the extra advantages that this organization has to offer. There will be a one-time $10 membership fee, to purchase a Retail Leadership Society shirt.

      For more information, please contact Ms. Kelley Rose, Business Instructor at 479-986-6780.

      In addition, Martin Harrell, Academic Advisor enlightened the students about the importance of strategically planning ahead when scheduling classes. He announced that business faculty are working towards completing the online development of courses to offer the entire degree online by spring 2009. He encouraged the students to contact him for assistance with academic advising. He can be reached at 479-986-4017 or via e-mail him at mharrell2@nwacc.edu.

      Ms. Patrice Whitley presented information pertaining to financial aid, payment plan fees, non-payment drop date, tuition refund dates, etc. She also encouraged the students to contact the Financial Aid Office at 479-619-4329 or go to the College’s website at www.NWACC.edu to learn more about important dates in the Academic Calendar. For questions regarding the Retail Management Program, please contact Ms. Whitley at 479-936-5161 or e-mail her at pwhitley@nwacc.edu.

      The Retail Management Program also has a newly created Retail Advisory Committee, which is comprised of 36 professional business members with diverse backgrounds in both business and retailing. The Retail Advisory members held their first meeting June 27, and they provided feedback, comments and suggestions to enhance the program, thus ensuring the program meets current Retail industry needs. Anyone wishing to join the Retail Advisory Committee is welcomed to contact Vance at 479-986-4070 or e-mail her at mvance@nwacc.edu.

For questions/comments on this content, contact Margie Vance
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PICTURED ABOVE: On the left is Kelley Rose, Business Instructor and Student Advisor for the newly formed Retail Leadership Society, and on the right is Amanda Capron, the new President for the Retail Leadership Society.

This page was last updated on:  December 21, 2009 @ 8:51 am

 
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