Arkansas State University-Beebe proudly acknowledged Danfoss Power Solutions and the company’s Human Resources Manager Shane Muse as invaluable community partners during the “Heart of a Vanguard” donor banquet on Feb. 15. The event, held at the Robbins Sandford Grand Hall in Searcy, commemorated the profound contributions of donors exceeding $1,000 in monetary or in-kind support to ASU-Beebe.
Dr. Jennifer Methvin, chancellor of ASU-Beebe, emphasized the critical role of community partnerships, beyond mere financial assistance, in advancing the college’s mission.
“Monetary donations, in-kind donations — those are all extremely important in helping us meet our mission, but the partners in our communities who step up and are able to help us in ways that you can’t put a value on — those are important to us as well,” said Methvin.
In her presentation, Methvin underscored Danfoss’s and Muse’s commitment to enhancing students’ lives and educational experiences.
“Danfoss is one of those community partners that doesn’t talk the talk. They walk the walk,” Methvin said. “Shane is a partner with the college that is just unmatched. … He cares about the citizens of this community.”
Methvin commended Danfoss for their multifaceted support, highlighting Muse’s role on ASU-Beebe’s computerized machining technology advisory board, where insights from its members help align program curriculum with industry demands, ensuring graduates possess immediately applicable skills.
Moreover, Danfoss actively collaborates with ASU-Beebe to provide onsite noncredit employee training, fostering a skilled workforce. Their dedication extends to encouraging employees to pursue credit classes at the Searcy campus and nurturing ongoing learning and professional development opportunities.
“They’re also hiring our graduates and promoting them,” said Derrick Holobaugh, senior instructor of computerized machining technology at ASU-Beebe.
Beyond these initiatives, Muse’s involvement in ASU-Beebe’s adult education advisory board and the Searcy Chamber workforce committee underscores his deep-seated commitment to community advancement and workforce development. Danfoss’s sponsorship and active participation in ASU-Beebe’s Vanguard Discovery Camp — a summer day camp tailored for 4th through 6th graders with an emphasis on science, technology, engineering, arts and mathematics — further exemplify the company’s dedication to nurturing future talent.
“Anything that we ask of Shane, he does,” Methvin said. “He’s at the table any time we need him with a smile on his face.”
Expressing gratitude for the partnership, Muse affirmed the symbiotic relationship between Danfoss and ASU-Beebe, which is rooted in shared workforce development and community enrichment objectives.
ASU-Beebe’s computerized machining technology program, hosted at the Searcy campus, equips students with practical skills in designing, prototyping, and manufacturing machined parts. Utilizing cutting-edge technologies such as CNC machines and software like SolidWorks and MasterCam, students gain hands-on experience crucial for success in the industry.
For more information on ASU-Beebe’s programs and offerings, please contact (501) 882-3600 or visit www.asub.edu.
