ASU-Beebe Launches 'Hire Vanguard' Initiative to Boost Student Job Success
05/19/2025
BEEBE, Ark. — Arkansas State University–Beebe has launched "Hire Vanguard," a groundbreaking initiative designed to ensure that students have a job lined up when they graduate or transfer to another university.
The program aims to bridge the gap between academia and the professional world, providing students with invaluable experience and career opportunities while simultaneously benefiting local businesses.
Hire Vanguard connects students with area businesses and organizations, offering a range of opportunities including traditional internships, micro-internships, and part-time and full-time jobs. The program provides comprehensive support to students, including career counseling, resumé help, interview preparation, networking events, and more.
“We hope that Hire Vanguard will be a game-changer for our students, giving them a significant advantage in today’s competitive job market. It will also be a tremendous asset to the local economy, providing businesses with access to a talented pool of future professionals,” said Jesse Gonzalez, career placement coordinator.
Gonzalez explained that the program partners with local businesses and organizations, inviting them to participate in and sponsor the Hire Vanguard initiative. By understanding each organization's unique needs, the program helps match them with qualified candidates. Participating businesses benefit by gaining access to talented students, increasing their brand visibility across all campuses, and playing a key role in shaping the future workforce.
“Building on the great success of our Regional Career Center in Searcy, we know our students want to make deep connections with our business community,” said Gonzalez.
Recently, representatives from the White County 911 Dispatch had the opportunity to connect with students in the ASU-Beebe emergency management services program. Since the dispatch is usually the first contact in emergency situations, dispatchers provided information about training and careers for those in EMS career fields.
"Partnering with ASU-Beebe allows us to tap into a talented pool of emerging professionals. Together, we’re creating direct pathways from education to employment that benefit both our company and the local community,” said Abby Holliman, White County 911 dispatcher.
Businesses interested in participating in the Hire Vanguard program are encouraged to contact Gonzalez at (501) 207-6202 or email wjgonzalez@asub.edu.
