108 | A Rural Solution to College Completion

The Rural Scoop

Episode Summary
- In this powerful episode of The Rural Scoop, Dr. Melissa Sadorf explores the transformative Montana 10 program—a comprehensive student success initiative tackling the college completion crisis in rural communities. Joined by Crystine Miller, Sarah North Wolfe, Suzanne Forrester, and returning guest Alyssa Ratledge, the conversation delves into the innovative strategies Montana is using to boost graduation rates and empower rural learners. With stories from the ground and data-driven insights, the episode offers a roadmap for rural institutions looking to close equity gaps and strengthen community outcomes through higher education.
Key Discussion Points
1. Understanding the College Completion Gap in Rural Areas
- Barriers rural students face, including affordability, distance, and lack of academic or familial support.
- The ripple effects of non-completion on communities and local economies.
2. The Montana 10 Initiative: Design & Impact
- A 10-point framework providing wraparound support (academic, financial, and social-emotional).
- Implementation across Montana’s public higher ed system, including Montana Tech and UM Western.
3. On-the-Ground Execution
- How Sarah and Suzanne support students through proactive advising, flexible scheduling, and deep personal relationships.
- Use of incentives, tutoring, first-year seminars, and orientation to boost student engagement and outcomes.
4. Institutional & Policy-Level Shifts
- How Montana 10 is influencing performance-based funding, advising models, and long-term planning in public colleges.
- The importance of shifting campus culture to prioritize completion over enrollment.
5. The Role of Research & Evaluation
- Alyssa’s role in evaluating outcomes through MDRC.
- Emphasis on evidence-based policymaking tailored to rural contexts.
6. Start small but be bold.
- Foster partnerships across communities, campuses, and systems.
- Leverage the grit, resilience, and community-minded nature of rural students as an “advantage.”
Closing Summary
- Montana 10 exemplifies what’s possible when policy, research, and grassroots implementation align with the needs of rural students. More than just a support program, it’s a statewide commitment to ensuring that every student—not just those in urban or suburban areas—has the opportunity to complete college and contribute meaningfully to their communities. The message is clear: with intention, connection, and rural grit, college completion can become the norm, not the exception.