Rio to Host Ribbon Cutting and Open House at New McArthur Center

University of Rio Grande and Rio Grande Community College invites community members, students, and regional leaders to celebrate the grand opening of its new McArthur Center, a state-of-the-art facility designed to expand access to higher education and create new opportunities across Vinton County and the surrounding Appalachian region.

The celebration will be on June 26 with opening remarks and an official ribbon cutting ceremony at 10 a.m., followed by guided tours of the facility until 1 p.m.

Part of a $12 million grant through the Ohio Appalachian Community Grant Program, the project was announced in early 2024 and opened to students this spring. 

The 22,000 square foot center serves as a hub for affordable, high-quality education, with a focus on workforce-critical fields such as healthcare and manufacturing. The center provides greater access to educational resources for students who have historically faced geographic and economic barriers.

“The McArthur Center represents a transformative investment in the region’s future, reinforcing Rio’s mission to expand educational access, strengthen the workforce, and drive economic growth throughout southern Ohio,” said President Ryan Smith.

In addition to Rio, Holzer Health System and Ohio Means Jobs also have space inside of the new facility. Holzer staff will also be at the event for tours of their new clinical space. 

Community members are encouraged to attend the grand opening celebration and explore how the new facility will serve as a beacon of opportunity for generations to come.

McArthur Center Grand Opening & Ribbon Cutting 
Time: 10 a.m. — Remarks and Ceremony 
Tours: 11 a.m. – 1 p.m. 
Location: 105 Cherry Hill Lane, McArthur