U.S. Senators Blanche Lincoln and Mark Pryor and Representative Marion Berry announced today that Phillips Community College of the University of Arkansas will receive a $66,555 Rural Development grant through the United States Department of Agriculture (USDA).

Phillips Community College will use the funding to replace distance learning labs on each of its three campuses in Helena-West Helena, DeWitt, and Stuttgart.  Its distance learning program offers college level courses and job training courses to rural residents.

“Having grown up in Phillips County, I know that access to resources and information is key,” said Lincoln.  “Distance learning is a vital tool that allows Americans living in rural areas to connect with the rest of the world.  I applaud Phillips Community College for seeking these federal dollars to enhance this essential program.”

“Online learning is an exciting opportunity for working parents and other potential students who don’t have the time or resources to travel to and from class,” said Pryor.  “I commend Phillips Community College for seeking this funding and strengthening their capacity to reach out and educate as many students as possible.”

"By using technology, this grant will help rural residents obtain the education and training they need to explore an even larger amount of career opportunities," said Berry.  "The key to a better future is through education and I am pleased this federal funding will be used to invest in the lives of individuals as well as the future of the Delta."

USDA Rural Development grants support public facilities and services, promote economic development, and offer technical assistance to help address the diverse and unique needs of rural communities.