ASUMH Chancellor Selected for National Role Shaping Community College Leadership

Dr. Bentley Wallace appointed to the Presidents Academy Executive Committee of the American Association of Community Colleges

Published on Feb. 9, 2026

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Arkansas State University-Mountain Home Chancellor Dr. Bentley Wallace has been appointed to the Presidents Academy Executive Committee of the American Association of Community Colleges (AACC), a national leadership body focused on the future of community college presidencies. Wallace was appointed by AACC President and CEO Dr. DeRionne Pollard following his nomination, and will help develop a new model of presidential leadership emphasizing agility, courage, and impact.

Why it matters

This appointment reflects confidence in Dr. Wallace's vision, leadership, and commitment to shaping the future of community college presidencies at a time when community colleges are navigating a period of rapid change. As a member of the executive committee, Wallace will contribute to preparing current and future leaders to guide institutions through this changing higher education landscape.

The details

The Presidents Academy Executive Committee plays a role in shaping leadership development for community college presidents across the country. As a member, Wallace will help develop a new model of presidential leadership emphasizing agility, courage, and impact.

  • On February 9, 2026, Dr. Bentley Wallace was appointed to the Presidents Academy Executive Committee of the American Association of Community Colleges.

The players

Dr. Bentley Wallace

The Chancellor of Arkansas State University-Mountain Home.

Dr. DeRionne Pollard

The President and CEO of the American Association of Community Colleges.

American Association of Community Colleges (AACC)

The primary advocacy organization for the nation's community colleges, representing nearly 1,000 two-year, associate degree-granting institutions and more than 10 million students.

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What they’re saying

“Reimagining the community college presidency has entered a new era, and this appointment reflects confidence in Dr. Wallace's vision, leadership, and commitment to shaping what comes next.”

— Dr. DeRionne Pollard, President and CEO, American Association of Community Colleges (ktlo.com)

“I'm honored to be appointed to the Presidents Academy Executive Committee and grateful to AACC for the opportunity to serve. Community colleges are navigating a period of rapid change, and this work is about preparing leaders who can respond with clarity, courage, and a deep commitment to student success. I'm proud to represent Arkansas State University-Mountain Home and contribute to shaping the future of community college leadership nationwide.”

— Dr. Bentley Wallace, Chancellor, Arkansas State University-Mountain Home (ktlo.com)

The takeaway

This appointment of Dr. Bentley Wallace to the Presidents Academy Executive Committee of the AACC demonstrates the national recognition of his leadership and vision for community college presidencies at a time of rapid change in higher education. His role on this committee will allow him to contribute to shaping the future of community college leadership across the country.