University of Arkansas Community College Rich Mountain

University of Arkansas Community College Rich Mountain (UACCRM) stands as a vital public community college nestled in Mena, Arkansas. It's known for fostering an environment where students can thrive, offering comprehensive pathways, particularly in its strong liberal arts and business concentrations. With a commitment to serving its community, UACCRM provides accessible education designed to prepare students for further academic pursuits or direct entry into the workforce.

UACCRM's journey began in 1973 as the Rich Mountain Vocational-Technical School, serving as an affiliate of the Arkansas Department of Vocational Education. It welcomed its inaugural class of approximately 250 students in 1975. A pivotal moment arrived in 1983 when the school merged with Henderson State University's off-campus program, establishing Rich Mountain Community College and forming the Polk County community college district. This evolution underscored its growing role in regional higher education.

Its academic excellence was formally recognized in 1990 with accreditation by the North Central Association of Colleges and Schools, a status re-affirmed in 2005 with the prestigious acknowledgment as a "model rural community college." Today, the forty-acre main campus boasts modern facilities, including the Machine Tool Maintenance Building, the St. John's Library, and active broadcasting studios like the KRMN-LP 101.1 FM radio station and the RMCC TV studio, providing hands-on learning experiences. In 2017, the college joined the esteemed University of Arkansas System, further enhancing its resources and opportunities for students.