§ 6-82-1604 - Administration -- Authority of Department of Higher Education.
6-82-1604. Administration -- Authority of Department of Higher Education.
The Department of Higher Education shall administer the Arkansas Workforce Improvement Grant Program provided for in this subchapter and in so doing shall have the following authority and responsibility with respect to the program:
(1) To consider all applications for an Arkansas Workforce Improvement Grant;
(2) To prepare application forms and other forms as it shall deem necessary to properly administer and carry out the purposes of this subchapter and to furnish the forms to persons desiring to make application for a grant;
(3) (A) To determine the necessary procedures for the awarding of grants should the number of eligible applicants exceed funds available, giving priority to those students who exhibit financial need and who meet academic eligibility requirements.
(B) To identify those students who exhibit financial need, the department shall utilize the family contribution method or another acceptable approved methodology;
(4) To determine a termination date for the acceptance of applications;
(5) To require applicants to file such additional information with the department as it may deem necessary and appropriate to carry out the purposes of this subchapter and to prevent fraud or misrepresentation or misleading representation by applicants;
(6) To disburse grants to qualified students;
(7) To adopt rules and regulations as the department deems necessary or appropriate to carry out the purposes of this subchapter;
(8) To cooperate with and receive the cooperation of the approved private and public institutions of postsecondary education in the state and their governing bodies in the administration of the program;
(9) To establish and consult as necessary an advisory committee representing the private and public sectors of postsecondary education in determining guidelines and regulations for administration of the program, including, but not limited to, rules determining academic ability, financial need, and residency;
(10) To employ or engage such professional, administrative, clerical, and other employees as may be necessary to assist the department in the performance of its duties and responsibilities; and
(11) To provide fair and equitable treatment to all approved institutions and students.