The three rounds of federal COVID-19 stimulus for higher education institutions and students have been very beneficial, Arkansas State University President Chuck Welch said during ASU’s recent quarterly meeting. Guidance has only recently been received for the second round of funding, he said, so students will start seeing those benefits soon, followed later by the third round of support. “We’re looking at how we can use funds for strategic purposes and maximize opportunities post-pandemic,” Welch said. “State budgeting in Arkansas continues to excel. General revenues are outperforming the state forecast by $529 million. My colleagues around the country are not experiencing that. We feel better about not facing budget cuts for the coming year.”