

Affordable Education for All: NWACC's Commitment to Empowering Students with President Dennis Rittle
About the Show:
"Surround yourself with people that are going to encourage you, celebrate you, and join with you in the journey to make your life better. That's what we do at NWACC.”
- President Dennis Rittle
Join us for an engaging episode of the I am Northwest Arkansas podcast, where host Randy Wilburn sits down with Dennis Rittle, the President of Northwest Arkansas Community College (NWACC). In this episode, President Rittle illuminates NWACC's commitment to providing accessible and affordable higher education.
He shares his insights on the rising costs of education and the critical need to eliminate financial barriers for students. The discussion highlights NWACC's efforts in offering Pell grants to eligible students, aiding them in covering their educational expenses.
President Rittle advocates for a debt-free graduation, emphasizing the freedom it gives graduates in choosing their career paths without financial constraints. He also points out the value of NWACC as an excellent starting point for students' educational journeys, offering a variety of courses and opportunities to explore different interests and career paths in a cost-effective way.
This episode is a must-listen for students, educators, and anyone looking to understand the importance of affordable education. Tune in for an inspiring conversation that empowers listeners to pursue their educational goals without the stress of financial burdens.
What you will learn in this episode:
- Discover NWACC's deep commitment to education and find out how it can positively impact your academic journey.
- Understand the importance of affordable education and explore how it can open doors to a brighter future without breaking the bank.
- Learn about the benefits of NWACC's hybrid learning model and how it can provide flexibility and convenience while ensuring a quality education.
- Explore the inclusive and diverse learning environment fostered by NWACC, and how it can enrich your educational experience and broaden your perspectives.
- Discover the power of collaboration between NWACC, the community, and local industry, and how it can create unique opportunities for networking and real-world experiences.
All this and more on this episode of the I am Northwest Arkansas podcast.
Important Links and Mentions on the Show*
President Dennis Rittle on LinkedIn
Tune in to KUAF 91.3 FM to listen to the I Am Northwest Arkansas podcast on Ozarks at Large.
This episode is sponsored by*
Signature Bank of Arkansas "Community Banking at its Best!"
Northwest Arkansas Council - "Life Works Here!"
*Note: some of the resources mentioned may be affiliate links. This means we get paid a commission (at no extra cost to you) if you use that link to make a purchase.
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Mentioned in this episode:
FindItNWA.com
Looking to discover the best local businesses in Northwest Arkansas? 🌟 From cozy cafes to essential services, FindItNWA.com has got you covered. Connect with your local community with just one click and explore something great. Visit finditnwa.com today! #LocalBusiness #CommunitySupport"
Winetopia 2025
We’re back at the barn! Winetopia is THE annual event that highlights the best of what our NWA Community has to offer, and we are thrilled to be back at the Barn at the Stonebreaker this year! Winetopia is where you can taste incredible top-tier wine, local craft beer, top-shelf bourbon, a variety of other spirits from our favorite local distilleries, AND hand-crafted mocktails. A specially-selected menu from Stonebreaker catering and our favorite Mia Tarts round out the evening! A ticket is all you need to access one of the most special nights of the year. Your favorite features from Winetopia will be there - the famous wine toss with Carny in the Corner, DJ Shortfuze spinning smooth tracks all night long, and the best silent auction around! You’ve been waiting all year for this event, and it’s now around the corner! We cannot wait to see you there!
Apple Seeds An Evening at the Farm, Saturday, October 11th, 2025
Evening at the Farm is a celebration of community and togetherness. Gather with friends, family, and fellow food enthusiasts for a memorable farm-to-table meal. What began as a small gathering has grown into one of our most beloved traditions, celebrating the flavors of the season and the community that makes it all possible. By attending this event, you'll not only treat yourself to an unforgettable culinary experience but also support our mission to empower and nourish our community.