/ NEWPORT (Ark.) – Newly awarded grant funds will help Arkansas State University-Newport expand three essential programs and allow students to receive more hands-on experience. ASU-Newport is the recipient of three Regional Workforce Grants through the Arkansas Department of Higher Education. The grants, totaling $518,000, are part of the Phase II Award process. ASUN’s nursing program received a $297,000 Regional Workforce Grant that will be used to expand simulation experiences. Simulation is a vital part of the learning process for future nurses. It helps them to learn and navigate possible situations before entering the hospital setting. ASUN instructors relied heavily on simulations during the COVID-19 pandemic to supplement the lack of clinical instruction.