Rural-Serving Institutions Aren’t Who You Think They Are

Abstract

Abstract In Short Absent a formal definition or measure, it has not been possible to comprehensively identify rural-serving institutions (RSIs) for the purpose of research and policy making. RSIs enroll a considerable share of students from underrepresented backgrounds, and many are also minority-serving institutions. These institutions serve a larger share of students receiving Pell grants, as well as communities facing persistent poverty, low employment, and population loss. Given the important role they play, RSIs deserve greater investment from state legislatures, the federal government, and philanthropic gifts.