Bentonville Welcomes Inaugural President for New STEM University

BENTONVILLE, AR. - Bentonville's ambitious new STEM-focused university has reached a significant milestone with the appointment of Dr. David Mazyck as its inaugural president. This institution, first announced in May 2025, is slated to become a cornerstone of a new mixed-use development situated on the former Walmart Home Office site, a project spearheaded by Tom and Steuart Walton.

The selection of Dr. Mazyck marks a pivotal moment in the university's development. Steuart Walton expressed confidence in the choice, stating in a news release, "We set out to find a leader capable of turning an ambitious vision into a world-class institution. Dr. Mazyck brings the imagination, intellectual rigor, and builder's instinct to create something genuinely new in higher education... his arrival marks the beginning of an exciting new chapter, and we're eager to get started."

Dr. Mazyck brings a wealth of academic and leadership experience to his new role. He previously served as Professor and Head of the School of Engineering Design and Innovation at Pennsylvania State University, where he also earned multiple degrees. Prior to that, he dedicated 22 years to the University of Florida as a Professor of Environmental Engineering Sciences, holding numerous leadership positions during his tenure.

Grateful for the opportunity, Dr. Mazyck articulated his vision for the university: "We are creating an environment where learning and execution are inseparable, where industry is embedded as a partner, and where students graduate not just prepared, but confident in their ability to build, lead, and solve real problems from day one." He emphasized the university's potential as a "catalyst for regional talent, economic mobility, and long-term growth, strengthening Northwest Arkansas while shaping a national model for what STEM education can become."

This announcement coincides with the commencement of site preparation at 508 and 608 Southwest 8th Street. The existing structures will be carefully deconstructed, with plans to recycle and salvage an estimated 7,000 tons of concrete and 900 tons of metal. The university anticipates welcoming its first cohort of approximately 500 students in 2029.