Dr. Jerry Wallace, President of Danville Community College (DCC), has been recognized with the prestigious Rising Star Award by the Rural Community College Alliance (RCCA). This award celebrates emerging leaders within rural community colleges who demonstrate exceptional promise and dedication to advancing their institutions’ missions.
"I was honored to present Dr. Jerry Wallace with the RCCA Rising Star Award," said Chris Breitmeyer, President of the RCCA. "Dr. Wallace's innovative approach, from boosting enrollment to strengthening community ties, demonstrates his commitment to both student success and the greater community. His creative initiatives, like the People and Places tours and the ‘Ace the Mighty’ book tour, show how deeply he understands the value of engagement and service. Dr. Wallace’s passion and dedication make him an exemplary leader, and this recognition is well deserved."
Since assuming his role as president in 2022 at the age of 38, Dr. Wallace has led DCC to remarkable achievements, including a sustained increase in student enrollment and greater community engagement. Under his leadership, DCC experienced a 6% enrollment increase during the 2022-23 academic year, followed by an 8% increase in 2023-24. These efforts have resulted in six consecutive semesters of growth, positioning DCC as a model for other rural community colleges.
In conjunction with Institutional Advancement & Development, Dr. Wallace participates in a community outreach program called 'People and Places' , where he meets with local leaders to strengthen ties between DCC and its service area. His focus on fostering a positive campus culture through engaging activities, such as Employee Appreciation Day, Campus Movie Night, Halloween Costume Contests, Holiday Decorating Challenges, and many more, has earned him high praise from students and staff alike.
Dr. Wallace's contributions extend beyond the campus. His volunteerism and involvement in local organizations—like packing meals for the Kiwanis Club, his service on many community boards, and reading to more than 2500 elementary school students across three school districts—exemplify his commitment to improving the quality of life for those around him.
"I am honored and humbled to be recognized as the RCCA Rising Star Award Recipient for 2024," said Dr. Jerry Wallace. "I accept this prestigious award on behalf of the incredible faculty and staff of Danville Community College who are tirelessly committed to the mission of our institution. It is our collective effort that makes DCC such an amazing place to be."
Dr. Wallace's innovative spirit, dedication, and passion for community service continue to pave the way for the future of rural education.
For more information about Danville Community College, visit www.danville.edu.
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