Colleges Bring Value to Rural Communities
Over the course of my career, I have had the privilege of traveling thousands of miles on the beautiful backroads of Appalachia as well as Middle and West Tennessee. I have visited schools, participated in town halls, worked booths at state fairs, and met with local employers to discuss workforce needs. No matter where I go, I always tout the value of pursuing some form of higher education. I note that there are many options, ranging from trade and technical schools to certificate programs to community colleges and four-year institutions, like East Tennessee State University where I serve as President.
I have often found people in rural communities to be some of the most steadfast believers in the power of education. They understand the critical role advanced learning plays in preparing their children for a rapidly changing workforce and world. They know a college degree can set them up for career success and is one of the surest paths to economic mobility. Yet, when I talk to rural families about sending their kids to college, their hopes are tempered by a tinge of sadness.
I know why, and I understand. For decades, rural communities across our nation have suffered the pain and loss of seeing their children leave home — not just for college, but for good. There is a fear that sending our kids off to college means draining our small towns of the lifeblood needed to power the future. But I believe sending more students to college is the key to reinvigorating our rural communities.
We are now fully immersed in the information age, an era in which many jobs are no longer tied to geographic location. That means more of today’s graduates can earn a degree and then bring their talent and skills back home without sacrificing job opportunities. The impact of a four-year college degree is tremendous, not just for those who earn it, but for the communities in which they live and serve. It creates ripple effects ranging from a stronger and more resilient economy to better community health outcomes to increased arts and cultural activities.
Over the course of their lifetime, the average bachelor’s degree holder will contribute $278,000 more to local economies compared to the average high school graduate. This economic injection supports local businesses, which in turn can reinvest in schools, parks, and vital infrastructure projects, enhancing the overall quality of life. A well- educated workforce also helps attract new businesses and jobs to diversify the economy, making it less vulnerable to economic downturns or industry changes. Beyond economic contributions, college-educated individuals also bolster civic engagement, displaying higher propensities to vote and volunteer.
Research led by the USDA found that keeping students in rural communities after high school was less important than encouraging them to come back — once they have more fully developed the skills and experience needed to serve and lead. College graduates who return fill crucial roles for local communities as doctors, pharmacists, bankers, lawyers, hospital administrators and teachers. They sustain family-owned businesses and take over businesses from retiring owners. Higher education also is a boon to the agricultural backbone of rural areas, equipping the next generation with the acumen to modernize and maintain the prosperity of legacy farms. These types of entrepreneurial efforts and self-employment improve the employment base and expand existing services.
To the esteemed leaders in our rural towns — from local government officials to faith leaders to small business owners — I extend a call to action. Join me in promoting the value of higher education. As influential figures in your communities, you want the best for your neighbors. It is why you have chosen to lead them, represent them, mentor them, and live alongside them. Encourage those in your community, young and old, to advance their education and skills. Let them know their knowledge and talents are needed and can be put to good use right here at home. By doing so, we advocate for an investment that not only fortifies individuals but also serves as the underpinning for vibrant, dynamic, and adaptable rural life.
A four-year degree is good for rural citizens and good for rural communities. Learn more about how you can share this message by visiting the Four the Future website.
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