Tickets HERE
View the conference schedule HERE
Join us in Union, Missouri, from September 17–19, 2025, for the Rural Community College Alliance’s national conference. This year’s theme, Gateway to the Best: Show Me Rural Excellence, celebrates the innovation, resilience, and impact of rural community colleges across the country.
Connect with educators, leaders, and advocates as we explore proven strategies, share success stories, and champion the future of rural education. With engaging workshops, dynamic keynote speakers, and unparalleled networking opportunities, this is the can’t-miss event for anyone passionate about rural student success.
Let’s shine a spotlight on rural excellence—together.
Host College:
East Central College Union, Missouri
Destination information can be found by clicking HERE
Travel and Lodging
St. Louis Lambert International Airport
RCCA has reserved blocks of rooms at the following hotels in the area all listed are within a 15 minute drive to the East Central Campus
Follow the links below to contact the hotels where we have blocks of rooms reserved for the RCCA Conference.
Super 8 by Wyndham (Washington MO)
Old Dutch Hotel and Tavern (Washington MO)
Here are some additional hotels in the area we do not have blocks reserved at those listed below.
The Lindenhoff Bed and Breakfast
RURAL COMMUNITY COLLEGE ALLIANCE NATIONAL CONFERENCE AWARDS
In recognition of the strength of rural community colleges, the RCCA Board of Directors has established four awards that recognize rural college excellence.
Innovation & Access
Community colleges are uniquely positioned to promote and deliver on innovation and access. This award acknowledges and showcases innovative/access programs and projects that have had a significant influence upon institutional and student success and that demonstrate a commitment to excellence.
Community Engagement
This award acknowledges exemplary community partnerships, community engagement, and outreach programs and initiatives that have had a significant influence upon institutional and student success and that demonstrate a commitment to excellence inconnecting with our communities.
Workforce Development & Innovation
Rural community colleges are vital in promoting workforce development and being catalysts for innovation. This award acknowledges programs and projects that have significantly impacted institutional and student success and demonstrate a commitment to excellence in workforce development and innovation.
Rising Star Award
The Rising Star Award recognizes the emerging leaders within rural community colleges who exhibit exceptional promise and dedication to advancing the mission of their institutions. This award celebrates those who are poised to make significant contributions to the future of rural community colleges.
Nomination Process
Our members are encouraged to self-nominate or nominate a fellow colleague for these awards.
The information requested is as follows:
- Name of Institution
- Name and Contact Information of Nominator and College Role
- Identification of the Award for the Nomination
- Summary of Program, Initiative, or Partnership (150 words maximum)
- Data that validates the effectiveness of the summary.
The deadline for Nominations is August 7th, 2025. Please send nominations electronically to Christopher Breitmeyer, RCCA President, at president@ruralccalliance.org.
To become a partner for the RCCA 2025 Conference email president@ruralccalliance.org.
Partners for the 2025 Conference
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