Gov. Sanders appoints Aaron Abbott to Arkansas education board

LITTLE ROCK, Ark. (KNWA/KFTA) — Gov. Sarah Huckabee Sanders has appointed Springdale resident Aaron Abbott to the Arkansas State Board of Education.

Abbott will serve a term ending June 30, 2032, replacing Kathy McFetridge.

Sanders said Abbott’s “extensive background in education and steadfast commitment that every child can learn” make him a strong fit for the board as Arkansas continues to implement the LEARNS Act.

“Education is all about building the future and with people like Aaron advocating for our kids, fighting for parents, and supporting educators, that future is bright,” Sanders said in a news release.

Abbott said he was “honored and humbled” by the appointment.

“The changes underway are putting parents at the center, raising literacy rates, and building stronger pathways from the classroom to careers or college,” Abbott said. “I’m looking forward to working with the governor, my fellow board members, and communities across Arkansas to help ensure every student is set up for success.”

Abbott works as an account manager and consultant at Halda, partnering with colleges and universities on student recruitment and engagement. He previously held leadership roles in enrollment management at the University of Arkansas, John Brown University and Williams Baptist University.

A native of Northeast Arkansas, Abbott holds a doctorate in higher education from the University of Arkansas. He lives in Springdale with his wife, Chelsea, and their four children.