2026 ACHE Commencement Celebrates New Healthcare Leaders Ready to Serve

ARCOM 2026 Graduates

Fort Smith, AR — The Arkansas Colleges of Health Education (ACHE) celebrated a major milestone on May 23 as approximately 233 graduates crossed the stage during the institution’s 2026 Commencement Ceremony.

The Class of 2026 included graduates from the Doctor of Osteopathic Medicine (DO), Doctor of Physical Therapy (DPT), Doctor of Occupational Therapy (OTD), and Master of Science in Biomedicine (MSB) programs. This year’s ceremony was particularly significant as ACHE celebrated the inaugural graduating class of its Master of Public Health (MPH) program, marking another step forward in the institution’s continued growth and commitment to improving health outcomes in Arkansas and beyond.

The Class of 2026 includes approximately 136 Doctor of Osteopathic Medicine graduates, 35 Doctor of Physical Therapy graduates, 16 Doctor of Occupational Therapy graduates, 34 Master of Science in Biomedicine graduates, and 12 Master of Public Health graduates.

For these graduates, commencement represents more than the completion of a degree. It marks the beginning of careers dedicated to improving lives and strengthening communities. Many members of the Class of 2026 will go on to serve patients and populations across Arkansas and the surrounding region, helping expand access to healthcare, improve patient outcomes, and address critical workforce needs in rural and underserved areas.

Founded with a mission to improve healthcare in the River Valley and beyond, ACHE continues to educate the next generation of healthcare leaders through programs that emphasize excellence, compassion, and patient-centered care. The achievements of the Class of 2026 reflect that mission and the institution’s ongoing investment in building a stronger healthcare workforce for the communities it serves.

Following the ceremony, graduates, family members, faculty, and staff gathered on the front lawn of the ARCOM building for a celebratory picnic, recognizing the hard work, perseverance, and accomplishments that brought the Class of 2026 to this important milestone.