Philander Smith University

Philander Smith University is a small, privately supported, historically black, four-year liberal arts institution related to the Board of Higher Education and Ministry of the United Methodist Church.

The college offers four degrees—bachelor of arts, bachelor of science, bachelor of business administration and bachelor of social work. The college’s mission is to graduate academically accomplished students, grounded as advocates for social justice, determined to change the world for the better.

Philander Smith University, the only UNCF-member institution in Arkansas, strives to provide a quality education for all regardless of race, religion, sex, national origin or ethnic background.

Philander Smith University Library — Philander Smith University Donald W. Reynolds Library & Technology Center, Little Rock, Arkansas

3 female Philander Smith University students laughing together outside on campus

LaQuisha Guillory - Miss Philander Smith UNCF

Miss Philander Smith LaQuisha Guillory — LaQuisha Guillory - Miss Philander Smith UNCF

Philander Smith University president looks at African historical artifacts

Group shot of Philander Smith University choir

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UNCF’s STEM Summit in Silicon Valley Propels Students into the AI Era

A smiling group of people standing behind a UNCF block sign Last month, we held a two-day UNCF STEM Innovation Summit in Silicon Valley, San Francisco, CA—a launchpad into the future of technology for 50 students from 22 HBCUs. Through this fully funded opportunity, HBCU and Bay Area students earned an AI certification, gained hands-on experience with AI and machine learning, strengthened their resumes, had headshot photos taken and networked with leaders in tech.

At the Summit, titled “Building the Next Gen of AI Innovators, from HBCUs to the Bay”, students gained hands-on experience with AI, biotech, fintech, gaming, cybersecurity and tech entrepreneurship. It also offered financial literacy workshops, helping students alleviate college debt and focus on wealth-building, as well as career development sessions such as resume critiques, interview coaching and access to employers at a career fair. >>Read More

Philander Smith University Secures $7 Million Federal Investment to Strengthen Health & Science Programs

Philander Smith College Harry R. Kendall Center Philander Smith University announced Monday it has secured $7 million in federal funding through a Congressionally Directed Spending request by U.S. Senator John Boozman (R-AR) to support improvements to the Harry R. Kendall Health and Science Center and expand training capacity for its nursing program.

The announcement was made during a press conference held in the atrium of the Harry R. Kendall Health and Science Center on the Philander Smith University campus.

The investment will support facility and equipment upgrades, the acquisition of a mobile unit for the nursing program, and related campus improvements designed to strengthen healthcare workforce preparation and expand opportunities for students pursuing careers in nursing and allied health. >>Read More