Lynn Enzor and Trinity Foster, ACCLA graduates
Trinity Foster, a Political Science student, and Lynn Enzor, a Master of Public Administration student, have graduated from the Arkansas Collegiate Civic Leadership Academy (ACCLA), a statewide program designed to develop the next generation of civic leaders.
ACCLA, a statewide initiative of the Winthrop Rockefeller Institute, brings together college students from across Arkansas for a year-long experience focused on civic engagement, leadership development, and public service. Participants engage in sessions on government, elections, media literacy, and values-based leadership, while completing service-learning projects that address real-world community challenges.
Foster and Enzor were among a select group of students chosen for the 2025–26 cohort, representing Southern Arkansas University in a collaborative, statewide learning environment.
Trinity Foster focused on civic engagement and community-based leadership throughout the program. “Being part of the inaugural ACCLA cohort strengthened my passion for serving through government,” Foster said. “I leave with a deeper understanding of civic responsibility, stronger knowledge of public policy, and inspiration from an incredible group of peers.”
Lynn Enzor further developed her understanding of public service, governance, and community impact through her participation in the Academy.
“ACCLA expanded my understanding of how government works and the role citizens play in it,” Enzor said. “The experience reinforced that everyone has a place in civic life—whether through voting, volunteering, or public service.”
Participants from Southern Arkansas University, Foster and Enzor, worked closely with faculty mentors throughout the program, connecting academic learning to real-world civic engagement and public service.
“Trinity and Lynn demonstrated exceptional commitment to civic engagement throughout the program,” Amber Overholser said. “They not only deepened their understanding of public policy and governance, but also applied that knowledge in meaningful ways within their communities. They represent the kind of thoughtful, engaged leaders ACCLA is designed to develop.”
Throughout the program, students participated in structured dialogue, leadership training, and experiential learning opportunities designed to strengthen their ability to contribute to their communities. The Academy emphasizes collaboration across institutions and encourages thoughtful engagement with complex civic issues.
By completing ACCLA, Foster and Enzor join a growing network of emerging leaders across Arkansas committed to strengthening civic life through informed participation and public service.
The Arkansas Collegiate Civic Leadership Academy (ACCLA) is a statewide initiative of the Winthrop Rockefeller Institute. The program is designed to equip upper-level college students with the knowledge, skills, and experiences necessary to become effective leaders in their communities and beyond. ACCLA began accepting applications for the 2026-2027 academic year on April 24th.
Students can learn more about the program here: https://rockefellerinstitute.org/programs/arkansas-collegiate-civic-leadership-academy/.
Contact Information: Amber Overholser, PhD, Associate Professor/MPA Program Director, 870-235-4270, aroverholser@saumag.edu
About SAU:
Southern Arkansas University provides students with the complete college experience in a caring environment of service, innovation, and community. With more than 100 degrees across four distinct colleges and the School of Graduate Studies, SAU initiates new degree programs to meet the needs of today’s career and professional trends. To learn more about SAU, visit www.saumag.edu.
