Announcement of Dr. Penny Wills as the Interim President of the RCCA

On behalf of the Rural Community College Alliance (RCCA) Board of Directors, I would like to announce the selection of Dr. Penny Wills as our Interim President. In addition to previously functioning as a member of the RCCA board, she has served, for 15 years, as president of two rural community colleges. Dr. Wills has earned a national reputation for her commitment to student success, regional economic development, and community partnerships. Under her leadership in Iowa, her team created the state’s first STEM Center, passed a major capital bond levy, and qualified as a semi-finalist for a prestigious Aspen Award. During her tenure as President in Arizona, Dr. Wills created the nationally recognized Regional Economic Development Center, Guided Pathways Program, and expanded staff development into International arenas.

Dr. Wills brings an unmatched level of enthusiasm and experiences to RCCA during this critical juncture for rural America. She looks forward to leading RCCA in these challenging times as she is passionate in her support of rural communities and the critical role of their community colleges.

In conclusion, the RCCA Board expresses our sincere appreciation for the service of our former President, Dr. Randy Smith and wishes him success during his post RCCA endeavors.

Thank you for your time during this transition period. (For more information email president@ruralccalliance.org)

Cordially,

Marlon R. Hall, EdD
Board Chair
Rural Community College Alliance