Walton Heirs Plan New STEM University in Bentonville

Steuart and Tom Walton, grandsons of Walmart founder Sam Walton, have announced plans to establish a new private STEM-focused university in Bentonville, Arkansas, on the site of Walmart's former headquarters. The university aims to offer a modern, flexible, and accessible education model blending STEM and business disciplines, with stackable credentials in areas like computing, automation, logistics, and biomedical technology. The inaugural class is expected to enroll approximately 500 students, with plans to expand to about 1,500 undergraduates and 500 non-degree learners, and tuition will be fully covered in its initial years to attract entrepreneurial candidates. The project is part of a mixed-use development honoring Sam Walton's legacy and responding to the needs of today's economy and future challenges. The initiative is guided by local and national education experts and intends to set a new standard for higher education by fostering innovation, entrepreneurship, and workforce development in a community known for bold thinking. Walmart's Chief People Officer and other regional leaders have expressed support, highlighting the university's potential to drive catalytic economic and educational change in the region.