Senator Forby Procures $40,000 Grant to Help With SIC’s Capital Improvement Efforts
Illinois State Senator Gary Forby recently visited Southeastern Illinois College to announce that $40,000 in state construction funds will be coming the college’s way to help with renovations and upgrades to the student center.
According to Forby, the grant, made available through the Illinois Department of Commerce & Economic Opportunity, is part of a larger development initiative designed to invest in roads, bridges, schools, and other infrastructure while providing thousands of construction jobs across the state.
“It is so important, now more than ever, that our younger generation has access to quality education. As a legislator, I am doing everything I can to encourage growth at the colleges in my district. And I am proud to say that Southern Illinois has some of the best colleges in the state,” expressed Forby.
SIC President Jonah Rice thanked the senator for helping secure state funding to provide much-needed financial support for the student-focused project, which is designed to enhance the study and dining areas of the college’s student center among other renovations.
“This funding comes at an opportune time following the many repairs SIC has made because of the leap day tornado that destroyed many of our roofs, windows, and signage,” said Rice.
“Given these funds and the additional contributions from the SIC Foundation and the Board of Trustees for assorted projects, students will enjoy multiple upgrades and improvements to common space that have been neglected for some time, especially with all our post-storm work.”
While on campus, Forby also received an update on the finishing touches of campus reconstruction following the February 29 tornado that swept through Saline County.
“It was amazing to see everyone come together in a time of need. There were people who came out every day for weeks to volunteer. The people of Southern Illinois really rallied to help a community in need,” said Forby.
The senator toured the campus and saw first-hand the significant progress being made toward repairing the roofs, windows, and surrounding grounds and facilities. Rice pointed out during the tour that it took hundreds of volunteers working tirelessly to help put things back to their original condition.
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Written by Archie Blair, SIC Public Information