Arkansas Research Spotlight: Ouachita Baptist University chemistry professor Dr. Sharon Hamilton and student Mieya Kirby are drawing attention for work ranging from dissolvable, medication-delivering surgical stitches to emerging research leadership. Community STEM & Robotics: Arkansas 4-H teams from Grant County earned top-five finishes at the 2026 International SeaPerch Challenge, showing strong engineering talent from local students. Higher Ed Milestone: A-State’s New York Institute of Technology College of Osteopathic Medicine marked its 10th anniversary, highlighting continued growth in Arkansas medical training. Public Science & Safety: Doctors at NYIT-AR State University are urging sun protection with SPF 30+ and frequent reapplication to reduce long-term skin cancer risk. Tech Policy & AI: U.S. lawmakers warned foreign influence may be targeting U.S. data center buildout tied to AI, while Pulaski County residents are set for a public roundtable on hyperscale data centers and a possible moratorium. Earth & Space: A total solar eclipse is set for Aug. 12, with totality visible in parts of Europe and a partial view across much of North America. STEM Education Access: Arkansas Tech’s Upward Bound program is running a summer residential track for students studying math, science, and robotics. Local Governance & Heritage Tech: The Arkansas National Guard Museum is getting a modernization grant to expand interactive, digital exhibits.