Representatives of California Rural Counties (RCRC)

The Representatives of California Rural Counties (RCRC) identified five counties unserved by any of our public higher education systems – Alpine, Amador, Sierra, Modoc and Mariposa. The organization is interested in bringing access to career training and college to these communities, to help them build and support the workforce that is necessary for a strong local economy, while also giving residents the education and training they need to get well-paying jobs.

Karen Zamarripa Consulting was hired to work with the leadership, economic development professionals, and researchers to assess the five counties’ economic and workforce needs and determine what programs matter to each. Ms. Zamarripa played a Key role in educating RCRC about higher education and the public systems, and she gave an overall insight on how to approach them as potential partners. She conducted outreach to the California Community Colleges Chancellors Office (CCCCO), the California State University (CSU) Chancellor’s Office, and University of California (UC) Office of the President, as well as local campuses, on what they are currently doing in these counties and their interest in working with the counties to find solutions. Ms. Zamarripa sought funds to support the planning effort for this important work through private foundations, the Foundation of California Community Colleges, and the California Labor Agency.

Several CSU campuses have now expressed an interest in further discussions on what is possible. In addition, there is ongoing work to seek funds to bring together state and local higher education and K-12 leaders, county elected officials and administrators, economic development and workforce leaders and employers to develop strategies for each of the counties.