The Rural Community College Alliance (RCCA) is thrilled to announce Christopher Breitmeyer's appointment as its new president, effective June 6.

Breitmeyer brings over 25 years of experience in higher education. He holds a Master of Science in Zoology from Arizona State University and a Bachelor of Science in Biology from Illinois State University.

He began his career as a Professor of Biology, where he enjoyed teaching and learning with his students at Yavapai College in Clarkdale, Ariz. He then served as Dean of Math, Science, and Health at Saint Charles Community College in Cottleville, Mo, followed by his role as Vice President of Academic and Student Affairs at the same institution before moving to the role of President at Clatsop Community College (CCC) in Astoria, Ore.

Breitmeyer brings a passion for student success and extensive rural college leadership

experience from his time at CCC. As he steps into his new role at RCCA, Breitmeyer is eager to

advance the mission of the organization and the colleges it serves.

“I am thrilled to join the RCCA as president, and I look forward to working with our members to

strengthen rural education and create pathways to success for all students.”

In his free time, Breitmeyer enjoys spending time with family and friends, playing sports,

gardening, and hiking with his dogs.

WASHINGTON, June 21, 2024 – U.S. Department of Agriculture (USDA) Rural Development Under Secretary Dr. Basil Gooden announced today that USDA is making available $25 million through the Broadband Technical Assistance (BTA) Program to help local organizations, cooperatives, and Tribes expand affordable high-speed internet projects in rural communities.

The Department will begin accepting applications on June 21, 2024.

Labor market information (LMI) includes various data such as unemployment rates, labor force participation, economic indicators, industry trends, occupational data, wage statistics, and employment forecasts. Community colleges can use this information to plan new programs, update current programs, support fundraising, and provide career counseling to students.

However, it can be challenging for community college leaders to collect and use this data. In this post, Iris Palmer outlines where LMI comes from, its strengths and weaknesses, and how to apply it.