Leslie Sieck, executive director of Tri-State Development at Culver-Stockton College, has been nominated for the prestigious National Rural Innovators Initiative recognition. The nomination was made by Mr. Jesse Uhlmeyer, Superintendent at Canton R-V School District, and a valued community partner.
Sieck has been at the forefront of driving economic growth and development in the rural regions encompassing 42 counties across Missouri, Iowa, and Illinois. Her leadership and dedication have fostered collaboration and innovation, making her a deserving candidate for this esteemed recognition.
“I nominated Leslie for recognition in the National Rural Innovators Initiative. Under her visionary leadership, Tri-State Development and Culver-Stockton College have demonstrated an unmatched commitment to economic growth across our remote, rural region,” stated Uhlmeyer.
In an area with traditional rural challenges, Leslie’s efforts have brought about transformative changes. By uniting these rural counties, she has created a robust network that communicates effectively with state and federal leaders, representing over 700,000 people.
Sieck has been the driving force behind various initiatives, including a unique region-wide internship program for college students, a monthly newsletter providing valuable data and regional comparisons, and strategic decision-making on critical issues such as childcare shortages, higher education attainment, key transportation projects, workforce housing, rural broadband access, and river development. She also organizes an annual summit to address these vital concerns and unite stakeholders.
Sieck’s leadership has created an environment that nurtures innovation and collaboration, ensuring that isolated rural communities can access the knowledge, tools, resources, and networks necessary for growth. Her efforts have increased economic activity, entrepreneurial support, improved workforce readiness, and enhanced community cohesion.
“I am genuinely honored to have been nominated for recognition through the Rural Innovators Initiative and humbled by Mr. Uhlmeyer’s endorsement of the work that Tri-State Development is doing within the region. This recognition highlights the collaborative efforts and dedication of many stakeholders across the 42 rural counties that we serve,” stated Sieck. “Our progress results from the relentless support from our community partners and the strategic initiatives led by Culver-Stockton College to boost economic development and prosperity throughout the region. This recognition belongs to everyone involved, reflecting the collective commitment to fostering growth and prosperity in our rural communities.”
Recognizing Sieck and Tri-State Development at Culver-Stockton College, one of the few federally designated rural colleges, honors the significant work being done and serves as a model for other regions facing similar challenges. This nomination is a testament to the innovation and impact that Leslie and her team bring to rural development.
About Tri-State Development: Tri-State Development, a program of Culver-Stockton College, is a regional economic and community development organization focused on research and fostering partnerships, strategies, and initiatives that promote investment and enhance the quality of life across the region. With a commitment to sustainable growth and regional collaboration, Tri-State Development serves 42 counties spanning 22,415 square miles with a combined population of over 740,000 residents.
Culver-Stockton College has over 170 years of experience in educating students in the liberal arts academic tradition. Located in Canton, Missouri, the campus overlooks the Mississippi River and is located at the center of the Tri-State Development 42-county region.
Contact the Marketing & Public Relations Office, at pr@culver.edu or 573-288-6000 ext. 6728 for more information.
NOTE: A number that appears immediately after a person’s name (i.e. Jane Doe ’18) is a reference to the year that person earned their bachelor’s degree from Culver-Stockton.