Richland Community College, founded in 1971, is a comprehensive Community College with a student-centered focus and a tradition of academic excellence. At Richland, we offer transfer/baccalaureate and career and technical education programs. We are accredited through the Higher Learning Commission of the North Central Association of Colleges and Schools and received its reaccreditation under the Academic Quality Improvement Program in Spring 2008. The college serves approximately 5,000 students annually through its main campus, two Extension Centers, and other off-campus sites throughout the District. The Continuing and Professional Education Division provides professional development courses, community education, courses, and workforce training to over 4,000 people annually. Our primary purpose is to improve the quality of life in Central Illinois by actively serving the educational needs of the people, organizations, and institutions it serves. Richland pledges to provide equal access to education and training for all citizens regardless of race, age, gender, religion, nation origin, ethnic background, or disability. Located in Decatur, Illinois, Richland Community College is within a 20-mile driving radius for students in the surrounding communities. Decatur was named "Best Small metro Area" by Forbes Magazine in 2000. It has an affordable cost of living, with a wide variety of housing choices in the city or one of the nearby villages, and is in close proximity to Springfield, the state's capital. Central Illinois is an area rich in agriculture and manufacturing and is home to Archer Daniels Midland, Tate & Lyle, and Caterpillar. Decatur is also home of the Farm Progress Show, held every two years at Richland Community College's campus.