The tires will be used by ASU-Newport’s Commercial Driver Institute, which operates several tractor-trailer rigs in its training program.

Don Darden, marketing communications manager for the Commercial Division of Bridgestone/Firestone, visited the ASU-Newport facility to announce the gift.

"Schools like ASU-Newport need more than bricks, mortar and books to do their work," he commented. "At Bridgestone/Firestone, we’re happy to contribute the tires on which tomorrow’s truck drivers will learn their skills."

Darden said his company is committed to supporting professional education as a way to improve the trucking industry.

"We believe that ASU-Newport’s commercial driver education program is making a significant contribution to the level of professionalism among America’s truck drivers," he explained. "By contributing tires for ASU’s vehicles, we are proud to be a part of that effort."

Dr. Larry N. Williams, chancellor of the ASU-Newport campus, expressed the institution’s appreciation for the gift.

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"We are very pleased that Bridgestone/Firestone North American Tire LLC has chosen to support our Commercial Driver Institute by donating these new truck tires," he said. "This gift of support not only helps us with operating the program, but it makes a strong statement throughout the industry about the quality of training we provide to commercial drivers at ASU-Newport."

Williams also cited John Kent of Batesville, who is an affiliated Bridgestone/Firestone dealer, and Nelson "Bulldog" Drummond, executive director of the Tire Dealer Association, who were instrumental arranging the donation.

Bridgestone/Firestone’s gift to ASU-Newport includes enough Firestone tires to outfit one full tractor, and enough Bridgestone tires to outfit two full tractors.

This includes two Firestone premium steer axle radials, eight Firestone premium drive axle radials, four Bridgestone premium steer axle radials, and 16 Bridgestone premium drive axle radials.

ASU-Newport operates the largest collegiate commercial driver training program in the state. With more than 22 trucks and seven full-time faculty members, it graduates more than 700 students annually. It is the only certified program in the state of Arkansas and has placed graduates with all major transportation carriers throughout the state.

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