Fort Smith, AR — Arkansas Colleges of Health Education (ACHE) celebrated a remarkable evening of generosity and community support at the 2026 On Call Gala, where nearly $600,000 was raised to benefit the ACHE Scholarship Endowment.
On Saturday, February 28, nearly 450 supporters gathered to celebrate ACHE students and the future of health care. Choctaw Casino & Resort Pocola served as the presenting sponsor for the 2026 On Call Gala, providing generous support that helped make the event a memorable success. Thanks to the generosity of attendees and donors, the evening proved to be an extraordinary success. In total, $584,000 was raised, with every dollar going directly to the ACHE Scholarship Endowment to help reduce financial barriers for students pursuing careers in health care.
A highlight of the evening was the live auction, which brought excitement and momentum throughout the room. The paddle raise alone generated an astounding $300,000. This remarkable achievement was made possible through generous gifts made during the event, along with matching support from the Degan Foundation, the Fort Smith Regional Healthcare Foundation, and an anonymous donor.
“The success of the On Call Gala reflects the incredible collaboration across ACHE, along with the dedication of our volunteers and the generosity of our supporters,” said Jarred Rego, Director of Advancement. “Events like this are only possible when so many people come together in support of our students, our mission, and the future of health care.”
The funds raised will have a lasting impact by expanding scholarship support through the ACHE Scholarship Endowment. These contributions will help remove financial barriers for students and empower future physicians and health care professionals to serve communities across the region for years to come.
