El Dorado, Ark. — South Arkansas College marked a major milestone in its campus transformation on February 16 with a topping out ceremony for Howard Hall, the college’s new student residence hall. The event celebrated the placement of the final structural beam and coincided with the 102nd birthday of William R. “Bill” Howard, the building’s namesake and a longtime supporter of SouthArk.
Howard Hall is a cornerstone of SouthArk’s efforts to enhance the student experience by creating a more complete residential campus. Upon completion in fall 2026, the 100-bed co-educational residence hall will provide safe, affordable housing that supports academic success while fostering connection, pride, and a strong sense of community among students.
“Howard Hall represents a lasting investment in our students and in the future of South Arkansas,” said Dr. Stephanie Tully-Dartez, president of South Arkansas College. “Creating a residential campus allows students to live and learn together while strengthening the sense of community that defines SouthArk.”
The ceremony also honored the extraordinary generosity of Bill Howard, whose longstanding philanthropic support has shaped South Arkansas College through endowed scholarships, workforce training initiatives, and campus enhancements, including Howard Hall and Bill Howard Ballpark. These projects were initially funded through a gift from Murphy Oil Corp., supporting an effort that continues to create long-term opportunities for students across the South Arkansas region.
“Bill Howard has a legacy of support for SouthArk that truly permeates every aspect of our campus,” said Cynthia Reyna, executive director of the SouthArk Foundation. “Celebrating this milestone on his 102nd birthday made the moment especially meaningful and highlighted the lasting impact of his generosity on student lives and our community as a whole.”
Howard Hall is part of a broader campus and community initiative that also includes Bill Howard Ballpark, a new collegiate baseball facility located near downtown El Dorado, area hotels, and SouthArk’s campus along Hillsboro Street. Together, these projects are designed to strengthen SouthArk Athletics, enhance tourism and youth engagement, and create shared spaces that bring students, families, and the community together.
About South Arkansas College
South Arkansas College (SouthArk) is a public two-year institution established in 1992 to serve Union County and the surrounding region. Governed by a nine-member Board of Trustees, the college offers associate degrees, technical certificates, workforce training, and dual-credit opportunities while partnering with regional schools and community organizations to support student success, workforce development, and economic growth across South Arkansas.