A lot has changed on Arkansas State University-Beebe’s campus over the years. Buildings have been constructed, names have changed, and the school has grown. Recently, a small construction project with a big impact has been in the works, and after its completion, the school will have a reconstructed landmark mimicking a structure that was destroyed several years ago.
Across from State Hall, workers have been constructing an arch to serve as a defining architectural symbol for ASU-Beebe. The arch replaces one that was a part of the campus for more than half a century, and school officials joined with alumni, neighbors and businesses to make the new arch a reality.
The original arch was built within a few years of the school becoming part of Arkansas State College in 1955 and was a focal point of the school until a storm hit five years ago, destroying the structure.
“The arch was an original landmark of the campus,” said Carol Johnson, ASU-Beebe interim vice chancellor of institutional advancement. “When it was destroyed in a storm in 2011, there was an outcry from our alumni and the community to rebuild it. The arch is so important to the heritage of our campus, so we knew we had to rebuild it. Every university has their defining icon, and the arch is ours. We are thrilled to see it returned to our campus.”
While the original arch was made of two stone pillars with iron work across the top, the new arch is constructed entirely of brick.
Johnson said the school raised the majority of the funds for the project through donations.
“ASU-Beebe has collected donations from alumni, area residents and businesses to couple with a small insurance settlement to rebuild [the arch],” she said. “Approximately $55,000 was raised, in total, from all sources. We are so appreciative to everyone who donated to make the rebuilding of the arch possible.”
Now that the new arch is nearing completion, Johnson said, school officials hope it gains some of the recognizability that the original arch had as a meeting place for students and a symbol for the school.
“Our hope for the arch is that it will once again become the defining symbol for our campus,” Johnson said. “We hope current and future students embrace the icon as our alumni have. The arch connects our past with our future and unites our campus community.”
Johnson said the arch is near completion and is projected to be finished by Feb. 15. The brick structure is complete, and metal lettering spelling the university’s name will be added, along with accent lighting that will spotlight the arch at night.
Staff writer Angela Spencer can be reached at (501) 244-4307 or aspencer@arkansasonline.com.