Ouachita Stories

Ouachita Baptist University was recently named one of Arkansas Money & Politics’ Most Admired Companies for 2026, earning the honor for most admired four-year college or university in the state. 

In an interview with AMP’s Mark Carter, Dr. Ben Sells, Ouachita president, noted the university’s strong Arkansas roots.

“Two-thirds of our students come from Arkansas, and we’ve graduated generations of teachers, doctors, pastors, business leaders and public servants who have shaped communities across the state,” Sells said.

One of those students is Chloe Lane, a 2026 Ouachita graduate from Vilonia who double majored in finance and business administration. She refined her skills through intentional classroom instruction and practical experiences, such as the Ary Student Investment Fund — a team of students that manages over $6 million of the university's endowment.

“I’ve had the privilege of learning from professors who care about both the educational and spiritual development of their students,” Lane said. “The opportunities for growth, learning and community that Ouachita provides are truly immeasurable, and I am incredibly grateful to have experienced even a small part of what makes this university so special.”

Ouachita is in its 140th year as a Christ-centered learning community. With more than 80 academic programs and an average class size of 21 students, it has also been named Niche’s Best Small College in Arkansas.

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