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Monthly News & Updates

December | 2024

A Year in Review: Advancing Rural Community Colleges Together

As we prepare to close the year and embrace the opportunities ahead, it’s important to reflect on the challenges, accomplishments, and insights that have shaped our work at the Rural Community College Alliance (RCCA). This year brought significant developments in the landscape of higher education, with several key stories and research findings impacting community colleges, especially in rural areas.

1. The Continued Enrollment Recovery Post-Pandemic

Enrollment trends at community colleges have been a focal point throughout 2024. After years of declines spurred by the pandemic, we’ve finally seen stabilization—and even growth—in key areas. Rural colleges have played a vital role in this rebound by focusing on career-aligned programs, offering flexible learning options, and strengthening local partnerships. However, disparities remain, with some regions and student demographics still lagging. As we move into 2025, we must double down on efforts to meet students where they are and continue rebuilding stronger, more resilient institutions.

2. Federal Focus on Workforce Development

In 2024, workforce development and skills-based training took center stage in federal education policy. Investments in short-term credential programs and sector partnerships are helping rural colleges address local workforce needs. At RCCA, we’ve seen innovative examples of colleges leveraging these opportunities to expand training in high-demand areas like healthcare, advanced manufacturing, and renewable energy. These programs not only create pathways to sustainable employment but also reinforce the critical role community colleges play in driving rural economic development. To that end, our Alliance Learning series will offer a webinar on January 15th, “Converting Short-Term Course Takers to Graduates with Living-Wage Jobs”. Put this on your calendar and learn more about how community colleges ensure that more students benefit from short-term training options and encourage students to continue taking courses that lead to industry-recognized credentials and living wage jobs.

3. The Push for Digital Equity

Digital inclusion remains a significant challenge for rural colleges and their students. This year, research underscored how limited broadband access continues to hinder educational attainment in many rural communities. Federal and state initiatives have aimed to bridge this divide by funding infrastructure and providing resources for digital literacy programs. Community colleges are uniquely positioned to lead in this effort, equipping students and communities with the tools they need to thrive in an increasingly digital world.

Looking Ahead: Embracing the AI-Powered Era

As we reflect on the successes and challenges of the past year, it’s clear that innovation will continue to shape the future of rural education. One of the most exciting opportunities ahead lies in harnessing the power of AI to elevate productivity and empower rural communities.

To help lead this effort, RCCA is hosting a special webinar on January 16, 2025, titled “Embracing the AI-Powered Era: Unlocking Rural Potential.” I encourage you to join us for this transformative session and become part of a movement to make rural America a model for thriving in the AI age. Let’s seize this moment to shape the future of our communities and ensure we’re not left behind in this new landscape.

Join us on January 16, 2025, at Noon EST. Go to our events page for more information.

Dear Colleagues, as I finish my fifth year as president of Miles Community College, which is located in beautiful southeastern Montana, I am grateful for the opportunity to serve our rural communities. Our college understands the nature and fabric of rural communities and we embrace it. I look forward to the next five years and beyond as we work hard at providing Hope and Opportunity to our students. The Hope for a better life and the opportunity to make that Hope a reality!

We continually hear a national narrative about how the American public has lost confidence in higher education. In response, I want to quote Lee Corso and say, “Not so fast my friend!” In a recent Gallup poll, higher education ranked in the Top Four among “Most Trusted Institutions in America” only behind Small Business, the Military, and the Police. In my view, that is pretty good company! In fact, we rank above the Medical System, Organized Religion, the US Supreme Court, and Public Schools.

When you dive a little deeper, public community colleges have the highest approval rating of “Use of Tax Dollars” in all of higher education at 76%. I would venture to say that in our small rural communities, our approval rating is even higher. My proof is that this past Spring, our college was named Business of the Year by our local chamber of commerce in recognition of the tremendous impact we are having in workforce and economic development. This is the first time in our eighty-five year history that we have received such a recognition. I have no doubt that each of your institutions are equally appreciated for the great work you are doing.

So, this holiday season, I encourage you to stay positive and give thanks for the wonderful gift of serving at a rural community college. I have two quotes taped to the computer screen in my office that I will leave you with. The first is, “This is the life we have chosen.” The second is, “This job remains a privilege.” I am grateful for the opportunity to serve. Wishing each of you the very best in everything. Happy Holidays!!

College Spotlight: Bay College Escanaba, MI

At Bay College, located in Michigan’s Upper Peninsula, leadership and community are deeply intertwined. In her role as President, Dr. Nerita Hughes, an African American woman stepping into rural leadership, emphasizes fostering student success, community engagement, and a culture of transparency and accountability.

Under her guidance, Bay College has developed a comprehensive five-year strategic plan rooted in diversity, equity, inclusion, and belonging (DEIB). The plan focuses on key pillars, such as:

Amplifying institutional value and brand identity
Designing a holistic student experience
Cultivating a culture of care and well-being
Building industry-responsive partnerships
Adopting future-ready technology

With a commitment to transparency, data-driven decisions, and innovative enrollment strategies, Bay College continues to grow and serve its community with purpose and vision.

Read the full article to learn more about Bay College's transformation and dedication to community success!

Read full article

Join us for the third installment of the RCCA Alliance Learning Series: How to Engage Students, Faculty, and Staff with Library Literacy

Date & Time: Wednesday, December 18, 1–2 PM EST

Presenter: Dan McClure, Library Director at Clatsop Community College

About the Webinar:

Academic libraries in rural settings play a pivotal role in fostering student success. By prioritizing student-centered programming, libraries can deliver engaging events that support retention, persistence, and institutional goals. Dan McClure will share practical strategies and lessons learned from his extensive experience designing impactful library initiatives tailored to student engagement and institutional alignment.

Meet the Presenter:

Dan McClure, with over 20 years in academic, public, and legal libraries—including 15 as a college library director—has pioneered innovative programming and led significant projects like designing a new library facility for the Pacific Northwest College of Art. A leader in Oregon’s library community, Dan’s dedication to library literacy makes this webinar an invaluable opportunity to gain actionable insights.

To RSVP, email the RCCA President at president@ruralccalliance.org.

This free webinar is open to all RCCA members—please share widely with your colleagues!

We can’t wait to see you there!

Preparing for the 2025 NLS Webinar

As we prepare for the start of the 119th Congress in 2025 and the start of the second Trump Administration, ACCT encourages all community college leaders and stakeholders to join us in Washington DC for the National Legislative Summit. With a new administration, new committee leadership in both chambers, and so many new elected officials, it is a great opportunity to show federal stakeholders the importance of community colleges.

In an effort to help prepare attendees for the NLS, ACCT staff will host a webinar on Tuesday December 10, 2024, at 2 PM ET. During this webinar, we will provide an update on the current federal lay of the land going into the 119th Congress, share best practices and discuss the timelines your college should use as a guide to ensure you maximize your advocacy on behalf of your college while in DC.

You can register for the webinar here.

Rural on the Rocks Event to be Held During ACCT's National Legislative Summit

February 10, 2025 @ 4:00 pm - 5:30 pm

In concert with ACCT, RCCA invites community college leaders to a dynamic event that combines networking and policy discussions with government officials and rural-serving programs. Think of it as a college fair meets networking reception—attendees will have the chance to connect with federal program officials, legislators, rural-focused organizations, and fellow college leaders, all while enjoying drinks and appetizers.

For more information, visit the RCCA events page.

Rural Students Face Fewer Options as Universities Cut Majors

Across rural America, universities are slashing degree programs and majors, leaving students with limited educational choices. With enrollment declines and budget shortfalls, institutions like Delta State University and West Virginia University are cutting programs in fields like history, chemistry, and the humanities. These reductions disproportionately affect rural communities, often leaving students without viable alternatives. Explore how these changes impact access to higher education and the futures of rural students in this detailed report by The Hechinger Report.

🔗 Read the full article

Articles from Inside Higher Ed

The Value of Asynchronous Learning in Today’s Higher Education

A recent opinion piece critiqued asynchronous online courses, but educators Mary Nestor, Millie Tullis, and James Butler present a counterargument, emphasizing the potential of well-designed asynchronous learning. They highlight how intentional course design and modern tools can foster meaningful student-instructor connections, active learning, and accessibility for diverse learners. Read their defense of asynchronous education and its transformative possibilities in the digital era.

Read the full article on Inside Higher Ed

How the Class of 2028 Differs: A New Report on First-Year Students

The Class of 2028 represents the first group of college students whose entire high school experience was shaped by the disruptions of the COVID-19 pandemic. Inside Higher Ed explores a comprehensive new study revealing shifts in mental health needs, social engagement, and perspectives on diversity among these learners. While they are less likely to seek mental health support than previous cohorts, concerns about inclusivity and peer engagement persist.

Dive deeper into these findings and their implications for campus culture and student success in Ashley Mowreader’s article. Read the full report on Inside Higher Ed.

Have States Disinvested in Higher Education? The Debate Continues

A new report from the Cato Institute reignites a nuanced debate about state funding for higher education. Is disinvestment a myth, or does the data reveal deeper systemic challenges? Experts weigh in on funding trends, tuition costs, and the complex dynamics shaping public support for colleges.

High Schools and Four-Year Colleges: A Growing Dual-Enrollment Trend

Four-year colleges are increasingly offering dual-enrollment courses, traditionally a domain of community colleges, to attract high school students. This article explores how institutions like Moravian University and Eastern Connecticut State University are navigating challenges and opportunities in converting dually enrolled students into full-time enrollees. As states invest in dual enrollment as a pathway to higher education, colleges are balancing equity, access, and recruitment goals.

Read the full article on Inside Higher Ed: 4-Year Colleges Ride the Dual-Enrollment Wave

Resources and Opportunities

iRT Secures Funding to Advance Sexual Health Research for Community College Students

Community college students make up a significant portion of the U.S. undergraduate population yet often lack access to critical sexual health resources. iRT's groundbreaking Community College Health Study is bridging this gap by researching the unique challenges and needs of these students.

Thanks to new funding from the NIH, iRT will expand its efforts to engage and retain student participants, ensuring deeper insights into the long-term sexual health of this diverse and underserved population.

Read full article

Introducing Project ACCESS: Accelerating Career Connections and Employment Success Strategies 🌟

Jobs for the Future (JFF), in collaboration with the PwC Foundation, is empowering community and technical colleges to connect learners—especially those facing systemic barriers—with paid work-based learning opportunities and quality jobs. Ten colleges will receive $300,000 sub-awards over two years to scale programs like apprenticeships, career navigation services, and short-term credentials.

Ready to learn more? Join our information session on November 20 and explore how your college can participate. Proposals are due by January 17, 2025, so don’t miss out!

🔗 Learn More & Apply

Save the Date:

RCCA 2025 National Conference

East Central College, Union, Missouri

September 17-19, 2025

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