
Editor’s Note: A version of this story first appeared in Mile Markers, a twice monthly newsletter from Open Campus about the role of colleges in rural America. You can join the mailing list at the bottom of this article to receive future editions in your inbox. Jeff Alexander was settling into retired life, after three decades as a teacher, principal, and superintendent in Arkansas — that is, until a friend called with a unique opportunity. He took the virtual interview on a Wednesday in January of 2023, and received his...