Pictured above, from left: Lyon College Vice President for Advancement David Hutchison, Polk & Paddle proprietors Dustin and Tham Dayberry, Lyon College Education and Adventure Program Director and Polk & Paddle Brewing Operations Manager Mac Harn, and Lyon College Associate Professor of Biology Alexander Beeser gather inside Polk & Paddle in Batesville.
Lyon College is partnering with Independence County’s first brewery since Prohibition to offer its students an innovative educational opportunity.
The college announced a collaboration on Monday with Polk & Paddle, a new private club in downtown Batesville. Through the partnership with Lyon College, Polk & Paddle will also serve a regular rotation of in-house ales, brewed on-site by the college’s brewing operations team.
Polk & Paddle, owned by local residents Dustin and Tham Dayberry, will open its doors this month at 146 N. 3rd St., across from the Independence County Library. The establishment will feature a pub-style menu and a selection of Arkansas-made beers on tap.
The brewing program at Lyon College began four years ago under the leadership of associate professor of biology Dr. Alexander Beeser, according to the college.
Beeser, an accomplished home brewer, developed a fermentation science class that has since evolved into a popular course among students and community members alike. This educational initiative laid the foundation for the current collaboration, where Lyon College students will have the opportunity to gain hands-on experience in brewing as part of their studies, the college said.
“This partnership with Polk & Paddle represents the culmination of years of hard work and innovation,” said Dr. Melissa Taverner, president of Lyon College. “We are excited to see our students apply their knowledge in a real-world setting, contributing to the growth and revitalization of our local community. This venture is a perfect example of how education and entrepreneurship can come together to create something truly special.”
The brewing equipment, purchased through generous donations, will be housed in the lower level of Polk & Paddle. Mac Harn, the brewing operations manager and new director of Lyon College’s outdoor education and adventure program (LEAP), will oversee the brewing operations.
Lyon College said Harn, who brings a wealth of experience in both brewing and outdoor recreational management, will also manage a team of student interns, who must be at least 21 years of age and who will assist in the brewing process.
“Being able to merge my passions for brewing and outdoor education in this role is a dream come true,” said Harn. “I’m excited to work with Lyon College students to create something that not only tastes great but also adds value to our community.”
The Dayberrys, who have poured their hearts into renovating the historic property that once housed the Lyon College Kilted Kiln, are equally enthusiastic about the partnership.
“We are thrilled to collaborate with Lyon College on this venture,” said Dustin and Tham Dayberry. “Bringing craft brewing to Batesville has been a long-time dream of ours, and we’re honored to work with such a respected institution to make it a reality.”
Dr. David Hutchison, vice president for advancement at Lyon College, emphasized the significance of community support in making this venture possible.
“This collaboration is a testament to the power of community partnership for the greater good,” Dr. Hutchison said. “We are deeply grateful to our donors and supporters who have helped us bring this project to life. Their contributions have enabled us to provide our students with unique, hands-on learning experiences while also contributing to the economic and cultural vibrancy of Batesville.”
The beers brewed at Polk & Paddle will bear the Lyon College brand and will be available exclusively within the restaurant and the surrounding entertainment district. Due to local regulations, the beers will not be available for takeaway in cans or growlers, as Independence County remains a dry county. Lyon College will neither produce nor offer beer for sale on its campus.
Lyon College said on Monday that it is proud to be part of this dynamic new chapter for Batesville and looks forward to the positive impact this collaboration will have on the college, the students and the broader community.
Image provided by Lyon College
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