This study explored 118 Rural Public Colleges (RPCs) throughout the United States and the counties in which they are located. The findings show that RPCs act as anchor institutions by facilitating rural health infrastructure and workforce and economic development. Despite narratives of declining enrollments among RPCs, the study finds evidence of growing enrollments among many RPCs as well as diversifying student bodies, which points to the importance of these institutions to promoting rural postsecondary access. The study concludes with research, policy, and practice recommendations to strengthen the contributions RPCs make as anchor institutions to the people and communities they serve.