SIC Board Approves Annual Audit, Hears Updates on Enrollment, Facilities, and Student Impact

The Southeastern Illinois College Board of Trustees approved the college’s annual audit and received a series of positive updates during its regular meeting Tuesday, Jan. 20, held in the Rodney J. Brenner Board Room on the Harrisburg campus.

The board approved the annual audit conducted by Kemper CPA Group, which resulted in a clean audit for the second consecutive year. A representative from Kemper CPA Group attended the meeting to review the report and commend the board and college administration.

“Receiving a clean audit for the second year in a row reflects the college’s commitment to accountability and responsible stewardship of public resources,” said SIC President Dr. Karen Weiss. “Our board and staff work diligently to ensure transparency and sound financial practices in everything we do.”

Trustees also reviewed results from a new economic impact study conducted by Lightcast, which highlighted the strong return on investment for SIC students. According to the study, for every $1 students invest in their education at SIC, they receive a $7 return through higher wages and enhanced employment benefits such as insurance, paid time off, and cost-of-living adjustments.

“This study reinforces what we see every day,” Weiss said. “An education at SIC is not just affordable — it provides real, measurable value for our students and their families, both immediately and long-term.”

During administrative reports, trustees received updates on several campus initiatives and upcoming events. The SIC Theatre received new carpeting and paint over the Christmas break, refreshing the space for students and audiences. Spring enrollment is currently on pace to meet or slightly exceed last year’s 10th-day enrollment.

The board was also informed about upcoming activities, including Howl at the Moon, a fundraising event benefiting SIC and Ferrell Hospital, scheduled for Feb. 14 at the college. The event will include a silent auction, with items available for online bidding.

Plans are also underway for a future Homecoming event to recognize former SIC athletes and competitive team members, with a date to be announced.

Academic and arts programming updates included the successful inaugural Honor Band and Choir event held Jan. 18. More than 80 high school students from across the district participated, concluding the day with a public concert. The choir was directed by Lauren Arnett, and the band was directed by Brandon Bryant.

Upcoming theatre events were also announced. SIC Theatre will present Blithe Spirit on Feb. 20. DramaCon will be held Feb. 18 for high school students and Feb. 19 for junior high students, offering a preview of the production along with breakout sessions focused on various theatre-related topics.

Trustees were also informed that the Ella Elizabeth Hise Museum has updated its operating hours and is now open Wednesday, Friday through Monday from 10 a.m. to 6 p.m., and closed on Tuesdays and Thursdays.

In personnel actions, the board approved the hiring of Kat Garrison as a part-time Adult Education Enrollment Assistant. The board also approved the hiring of Dallas Fricker as the full-time TRIO-SSS Project Assistant.

The next regular meeting of the SIC Board of Trustees is scheduled for Tuesday, Feb. 17 in the Rodney J. Brenner Board Room on the Harrisburg campus.

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