Most recently, Freeman served as the Entrepreneurial Specialist for the Small Business Development Center at the Hannibal Regional Economic Development Council. In this role, he provided vital resources to underserved entrepreneurial communities across a seven-county region. His work was guided by strong personal relationships and community-informed program development that elevated local startup ecosystems. 

“Sean has a strong understanding of the opportunities and challenges facing our region, and we are excited to welcome him to this role,” said Leslie Sieck, Vice President for  Strategic Initiatives at C-SC and former Executive Director of Tri-State Development. “His experience, relationships, and community-first mindset will be invaluable as we continue to expand the reach and impact of Tri-State Development.” 

In addition to his economic development expertise, Freeman brings a background in  higher education, having previously served as Director of Admissions at Hannibal-LaGrange University. His combined experience uniquely positions him to continue and grow the impact of Tri-State Development through training, tools, and resources that support long-term regional economic growth. 

Freeman will work closely with Sieck, who recently stepped into a new leadership role at C-SC to support the continued growth of strategic programs and initiatives that serve the broader tri-state region. Tri-State Development is an initiative of 91ֱ�� focused on supporting economic and community growth across a 42-county region in northeast Missouri, west-central Illinois, and southeast Iowa. 

This selection follows a rigorous double-blind review process, highlighting 91ֱ��’s growing influence as a leader in rural economic development. During the conference, Sieck will demonstrate how small colleges serve as powerful catalysts for economic transformation, showcasing the college’s data-driven collaboration, workforce initiatives, and community partnerships.

“Being selected to present at UIIN is a testament to the groundbreaking work happening at 91ֱ��,” said Sieck. “We are proving that small colleges are not just educational institutions, they are engines of economic and community transformation. Through collaboration, data-driven innovation, and a deep commitment to engagement, we are reshaping the role of higher education in rural revitalization. Sharing our model on an international stage is not only an opportunity, it’s a call to action for small, rural institutions everywhere to recognize their power to drive real change.”

UIIN is a globally recognized network that fosters collaboration between universities and industry to drive innovation and economic impact. Past presenters at the conference have included institutions such as Oxford, Tufts University, and the University of Auckland. 91ֱ��’s participation reinforces its position as a thought leader in leveraging higher education for rural economic success.

For more information about 91ֱ��’s economic development initiatives, visit

About 91ֱ��
91ֱ��, situated on 140 acres in Canton, Missouri, atop The Hill overlooking the Mississippi River, was founded in 1853 by members of the Disciples of Christ Church. Today, more than 1,000 students from around the world shape their futures in academic excellence with opportunities in 80 majors and minors, five graduate programs, 21 NAIA inter-collegiate athletics, 35 diverse student organizations, and many campus-life events.

Featured in The Daily Yonder, a non-profit news organization dedicated to covering rural America, the economic development program is showcasing how regional partnerships can drive economic growth, promote sustainability, and create jobs. The Daily Yonder, a project of the Center for Rural Strategies, highlights the program as a shining example of how innovative initiatives can help rural communities overcome traditional barriers to growth and prosperity.

“We’re proud to see our work recognized by The Daily Yonder,” said Leslie Sieck, executive director of Tri-State Development. “This recognition underscores the importance of regional collaboration and the potential it has to uplift rural areas across state lines.”

The Tri-State Development program, a collaboration of 42 rural counties in northeast Missouri, southeast Iowa, and western Illinois, is continuing its mission to stimulate economic growth by leveraging regional strengths and fostering cross-border cooperation.

“We are honored to receive this recognition for our work through Tri-State Development. This recognition not only highlights the importance of economic growth but also reinforces the College’s commitment to strengthening the economic fabric of our community,” said Culver-Stockton President Lauren Schellenberger.

As a project of the Center for Rural Strategies, The Daily Yonder continues its mission to shed light on the economic and social challenges facing rural America while celebrating the success stories that demonstrate the resilience and ingenuity of rural communities.

For more information about the Tri-State Development program please contact Leslie Sieck, Executive Director, phone: 573-288-6000 ext. 6395, email: lsieck@culver.edu.

About the Center for Rural Strategies:
The Center for Rural Strategies is a national non-profit organization committed to improving rural conditions through media. By leveraging the power of storytelling, the Center works to inspire policy changes, promote rural prosperity, and give a voice to rural communities in the national conversation.

Recently featured through The Daily Yonder, Economic Development Program Connects Counties Across State Lines and Varied Geographies by Anya Slepyan. January 28, 2025. For more rural reporting and small-town stories visit dailyyonder.com.

“I nominated Leslie for recognition in the National Rural Innovators Initiative. Under her visionary leadership, Tri-State Development and 91ֱ�� 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 91ֱ�� 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 91ֱ��, 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 91ֱ��, 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.

91ֱ�� 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.

“We are excited to welcome Appanoose, Keokuk, Lucas, Mahaska, Monroe, and Wayne counties to the Tri-State Development family,” said Leslie Sieck, executive director of Tri-State Development. “Their inclusion marks a pivotal moment in our ongoing efforts to promote regional partnerships among our rural counties and implement strategies that drive investment and improve living standards across our region.”

With this expansion, Tri-State Development now serves a total of 42 counties in 3 states, covering 22,415 square miles and supporting a combined population of 740,000. “Our organization remains committed to developing initiatives that encourage sustainable growth, attract new businesses, and provide residents with enhanced
opportunities for economic prosperity”, added Sieck.

Tri-State Development’s mission is rooted in the belief that regional collaboration is key to unlocking the full potential of our communities. By pooling resources, sharing expertise, working together towards common goals, and speaking with one voice to state and federal officials, rural regions can create a more vibrant and resilient regional economy. “Iowa South is a cooperative collection of community stakeholders focused on expanding the regional economy. Joining Tri-State Development embraces our mission. Regional partners in economic development are essential because they bring diverse resources, perspectives, and expertise, fostering innovation and sustainable growth that benefits the entire region,” said DeGroot.

As it continues to grow, Tri-State Development remains dedicated to advocating for the needs and interests of all its member communities. TSD looks forward to the positive impact this expansion will have on the region and the new possibilities it will create in the collective future.

For more information about Tri-State Development and its initiatives, please visit or contact Leslie Sieck at lsieck@culver.edu

For more information about Iowa South, please contact Deann DeGroot at ddegroot@mahaskachamber.org.

About Tri-State Development:
Tri-State Development, a program of 91ֱ��, 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.

91ֱ�� 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.

The new organizational structure will include an annual meeting held in each of the three states sequentially, and will rebuild the task forces for transportation, the Mississippi River, education, agriculture, tourism, workforce development, connectivity, housing, and other vital areas in order to grow the economies of the entire region. The original and continued intent of the Tri-State Development Summit is to speak with one voice to 3 Governors, 6 United States Senators, 5 United States Representatives and all the State and local elected officials in Illinois, Iowa and Missouri.

The Summit was first established in 1996, following the 1993 major flood on the Mississippi River that resulted in the bridge at Hannibal being closed for 76 days and the bridge in Quincy for 72 days. “These closures,” explains Oakley, “demonstrated the dependence of the region on the River. As a result, the Tri-State Development Summit was originated as a collaborative vision over 25 years ago by a group of regional leaders. The mission of the Summit was to ensure that our entire region work together to address the issues that would allow the entire, approximate 100-mile circle of the tri-state region to grow and thrive economically.”

Oakley adds, “Unfortunately, in recent years, because of lack of funding and the loss of many of the original Summit leadership group, much of the efforts the task forces has declined, with the exception of a Summit meeting held every two years, which in its self has accomplished a good deal.”

“What’s unique about this new partnership,” adds Palmer, “is that there will be a cohesive, daily focus with all sectors coming together to drive positive change. Leadership from higher education institutions will join with economic development organizations, along with a select group of advisors, and specialist in various key areas, that are seeking economic growth in our region. We will be working together to create a pipeline for workforce development initiatives and long-term economic enhancements. Our community and industry leaders will outline task force priorities that will create new opportunities for each of us to contribute. This is an exciting time for us to work together to make significant strides for our shared, collaborative benefit.”

The transformational gift to establish the Tri-State Development Summit at 91ֱ�� will provide for a full-time Executive Director who will serve as the key management leader responsible for overseeing the administration, programs, and strategic plan of the Summit.

“The impact of this gift by Mr. Oakley cannot be overstated,” said Palmer. “What we are creating here is a unique partnership that brings together experts across disciplines and multiple state and county lines in order to make a real, collective impact that will benefit not one of us, but all of us; building a level of distinction for our region that we believe will unlock opportunities for this generation and the next as we tap into the investments of education, community and economic development, infrastructure, policy research and so much more all while addressing the important issues facing our area.”

The Tri-State Development Summit at 91ֱ�� is currently conducting a search for an individual to serve as the Executive Director. To learn more about this opportunity, please contact Leslie Payne, Vice President for Advancement and Marketing, 91ֱ�� at LPayne@culver.edu.