About SIC
Board of Trustees
Facts & History
MAPS & DIRECTIONS
President’s Welcome
Moving Forward
In the pursuit of progress and enduring success, it's imperative to begin with a solid foundation and effective leadership. As the legendary basketball coach John Wooden once remarked, "A strong foundation is essential for lasting success." This principle serves as the cornerstone upon which all future endeavors are built. Dr. Rice’s leadership provided that firm foundation from which the College can continue to serve as a catalyst for progress for this region.
Building upon established successes is the next crucial step. There are a few projects still “in progress” to be completed this next academic year, including the Williams Career and Training Center in Carmi and the second of two new certificate programs focused on dual enrollment with our secondary partners. We also want to continue to fortify our infrastructure with routine maintenance and upgrades to existing buildings and grounds, as well as open more learning pathways for students. Continuing our alliance with Rend Lake College is important to expand existing programs and services to strengthen our footprint in Southern Illinois. These efforts not only solidify current achievements but also provide a springboard for future growth and innovation.
However, true advancement necessitates the courage to forge new paths. Introducing innovative programs in agriculture, competency-based education (CBE), and increasing dual credit career pathways through our CTE Academy and other dual enrollment programs can open doors to previously unexplored opportunities. By embracing change and pioneering novel approaches, SIC can stay at the forefront of educational excellence.
Furthermore, meaningful progress cannot occur in isolation; it requires active engagement with faculty, staff, students and the community. Internally, the focus is on continually assessing and strengthening institutional practices to meet the needs of our students, faculty and staff, as well as addressing federal and state requirements. Externally, the focus is on meeting the needs of our constituents by collaborating with local stakeholders, identifying workforce demands, and fostering partnerships with community and civic groups in creating a symbiotic relationship between SIC and its broader environment.
In essence, moving forward involves a multifaceted approach that combines a steadfast commitment to foundational principles, leveraging existing successes, exploring new frontiers, and fostering robust community engagement. By embracing this holistic strategy, Southeastern Illinois College can navigate the ever-evolving landscape of education while remaining steadfast in its pursuit of excellence and relevance.
Dr. Karen Weiss, SIC President