Arkansas State University-Beebe students, faculty, staff and alumni were honored at the Arkansas Community Colleges (ACC) 2026 Annual Conference held Oct. 11-13 at the Hot Springs Convention Center.
“We were excited to celebrate each one of our ASU-Beebe awardees with our community colleges colleagues from across the state,” said Dr. Jennifer Methvin, chancellor for ASU-Beebe. “Each one exemplifies the Vanguard spirit through their unique and extremely impactful service and leadership.”
Academic All-Star Award recipient, Grace Tustison from Carlisle, is a first-year health sciences major. Tustison is a former Upward Bound student, a member of the Future Educators Club, TRIO Leadership Council, a resident assistant, and former first-year vice president of the Student Government Association. She was named the 2026 Outstanding First-Year Student and is committed to helping make an impact on the lives of others. Tustison is actively engaged with campus life, leading others in service both in and outside of the classroom. After completing her associate degree at ASU-Beebe, Tustison plans to pursue a bachelor’s degree in nursing at Arkansas State University.
Outstanding Alumni Award recipient Debbie Elgen is a respected business and community leader whose service and dedication have made a lasting impact across White County and beyond. A graduate of ASU-Beebe, she is a financial advisor with Edward Jones and has served on numerous civic and nonprofit boards, including the Searcy Chamber of Commerce, White County Community Foundation and the ASU-Beebe Board of Visitors and Development Council. Elgen is the recipient of several honors, including the ASU-Beebe Citizenship Award, Searcy Chamber Small Business of the Year and Emerging Business of the Year. Her leadership, service, and commitment to education continue to positively influence the community.
Outstanding Faculty Award recipient, Chad Duncheon is an assistant professor of business and an accounting/program coordinator for the career education division. He is passionate about helping his students inside and outside the classroom, engaging in several student life activities each semester. During his second year, he revitalized a business club that had been inactive for several years. Duncheon is also a dedicated servant to the school. During the past academic year, he served on the new student orientation committee, shared governance council, tenure review committee, and chaired the employee development committee. In his free time, he can be found on the golf course.
Outstanding Staff Award recipient, Cassidy Davison, is a lab coordinator for the math and science division. She was nominated for her passion for STEM education, ensuring students obtain the lab skills and experience necessary to pursue their respective careers. She received an associate degree from ASU-Beebe and a bachelor’s degree in environmental health science from the University of Arkansas at Little Rock. When the division found itself short-staffed, Davison stepped in and kept everything running smoothly. At recruitment events, she created interactive experiences for prospective students, engaging with genuine warmth, and bringing energy to every event. Beyond events and daily duties, Davison is a mentor, steady presence, and true leader.
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