LiTHIUMLEARNS is proud to announce it has received a $25,000 donation from ExxonMobil to support its Mobile STEM Lab initiative. The Mobile STEM Lab will be used to educate students in K-12 school districts across South Arkansas about the Smackover Formation and the national importance of developing critical minerals found in this regional natural resource.

Southern Arkansas University has been awarded a landmark $400,000 grant for a 3-year period from the National Science Foundation – the first NSF award in the institution’s history.

Concurrent career and technical education (CTE) is being delivered to regional high school students through educational partnerships formed as a result of LiTHIUMLEARNS, an Arkansas HIRED Grant, providing workforce development and hands-on training to high school juniors and seniors.

National Recognition: ABET Accreditation Awarded to SAU’s Engineering & Mechanical Programs

Southern Arkansas University proudly hosted the ribbon-cutting and open house for the LiTHIUMLEARNS initiative on Tuesday, September 9, 2025, at its newly dedicated space at 104 Harvey Couch Boulevard. The event drew community members, industry leaders, educators, and elected officials to celebrate a milestone in advancing workforce development and innovation in Southwest Arkansas.