Registration Now Open for A-State's Catalyst NEA Economic Development and Leadership Forum
JONESBORO – Arkansas State University’s Neil Griffin College of Business and the Delta Center for Economic Development will host the 2025 Catalyst: NEA Economic Development and Leadership Forum, highlighting the role Northeast Arkansas plays as a key driver of state and regional economic success.
This milestone event will be held on Thursday, Jan. 9, from 11 a.m. to 5 p.m. at the Embassy Suites and Red Wolf Convention Center in Jonesboro.
Attendees will engage with industry leaders and top experts from A-State as they examine pivotal sectors driving growth in the region and across the state, including health care, steel, agriculture and leadership development.
“A-State is at the forefront of shaping the industries that are vital to the prosperity of Northeast Arkansas, the state and beyond,” said Chancellor Todd Shields. “We invite leaders from across the state and region to join us for a forum highlighting A-State’s role in fostering growth and innovation that benefits everyone.”
Enrollment at A-State reached a record 16,687 in the fall semester as the university continues to develop strategic partnerships, enhance workforce development, and offer academic programs that align with industry needs; all efforts that contribute to the broader economic landscape.
“This forum will underscore our role in advancing economic growth and leadership development for the betterment of our students, employees and for all Arkansans,” Shields said. “Our university remains committed to driving progress not just locally, but across the entire state and region.”
Tickets for the forum are priced at $30 per person or $250 for a table of 10, with proceeds supporting student scholarships at A-State. Registration is available online at AState.edu/Catalyst.
Organizers hope to make Catalyst an annual event that expands into additional industries such as advanced manufacturing, banking, energy, food production, tourism, education, engineering, real estate, and more.
For additional information, please contact the event organizers at Catalyst@AState.edu.
