FORT SMITH, AR — The Arkansas Colleges of Health Education (ACHE) will open its doors to the community on Saturday, April 11, from 2:00–4:00 p.m. for a special Community Open House. Guests are invited to explore three of ACHE’s state-of-the-art facilities, meet members of the campus community, and learn more about how ACHE is shaping the future of healthcare in the River Valley and beyond.
Visitors will have the opportunity to tour the Arkansas College of Osteopathic Medicine (ARCOM) 7000 Chad Colley Blvd., the College of Health Sciences (CoHS) 7006 Chad Colley Blvd., and the ACHE Research Institute Health & Wellness Center (RIHWC) 1000 Fianna Way. Each space reflects ACHE’s commitment to preparing the next generation of healthcare professionals while also serving the community through education, outreach, and wellness initiatives.
Guests will experience a variety of interactive demonstrations and activities across campus. Visitors can explore simulation labs where faculty and students demonstrate adult and pediatric medical scenarios using high-fidelity manikins, observe osteopathic manipulative medicine (OMM) demonstrations, and walk through the anatomy lab to learn about the vital role of donor programs in medical education. Hands-on science activities will also be available, including microscope demonstrations and interactive exercises that explore how the body works.
Additional stations will highlight student learning and community engagement, including a public health student panel discussing community projects and interactive displays focused on wellness and resilience. Guests visiting the College of Health Sciences may also participate in functional movement, balance, and fall-risk screenings led by physical therapy faculty and students. Occupational Therapy faculty and students will showcase their learning labs and offer hands-on experiences that give visitors a glimpse into how future occupational therapists are trained at ACHE.
The ACHE Research Institute Health & Wellness Center will also feature tours and classroom activities, as well as the Altman Gallery Exhibition: A Celebration of Choctaw Art and Culture, giving visitors the chance to experience the intersection of research, wellness, and the arts.
“At ACHE, our vision has always been rooted in service to the community,” said Kyle Parker, JD, President & CEO of ACHE. “Everything we do, from our programs and partnerships to our facilities, is designed with people in mind. We’re proud to be a place where education and community come together to build a healthier future for the region.”
That commitment is reflected not only in the classroom, but also in the many ways ACHE connects with the community throughout the year. Faculty and students participate in free clinics, outreach events, and programs designed to expand access to care and promote overall well-being across the region.
ACHE’s impact also extends beyond healthcare services. Each year, the campus hosts camps and day programs that introduce local students to hands-on healthcare simulations, as well as culinary, ceramics, and STEAM experiences. These programs encourage curiosity, build confidence, and inspire future educational and career pathways.
The upcoming Community Open House offers a unique opportunity for everyone to see these efforts up close while experiencing the campus firsthand. Whether you’re familiar with ACHE or visiting for the first time, the Community Open House provides a welcoming chance to explore the campus, learn more about its programs, and see how ACHE continues to connect education, healthcare, and community in meaningful ways.
For updates on the event, click here.