Williams Donation to Help Fund New Career Center
Southeastern Illinois College has announced plans to break ground in Carmi on a career and technical education center for welding, commercial driver’s license (CDL), and auto/diesel programs, as well as introductory trades education. The new complex will be located to the north of the David L Stanley White County Center on SIC’s Carmi campus.
College officials said they have worked with local economic and educational leaders for years gathering feedback on what is needed in the area to maintain a strong workforce.
The center will be the regional hub for career and workforce educational needs in the northern region of SIC’s district.
“Our K-12 partners have asked for career dual credit opportunities in certain disciplines, and we are here to serve those needs with this facility,” said SIC Vice President of Academic Affairs Karen Weiss.
The facility will be built in two phases. State and local funds from the SIC Board of Trustees combined with a $500,000 gift from Stan Williams of Carmi will make the center a reality.
“Mr. Williams has been a very successful businessman in his life and a strong supporter of his community. His gift will help sow the seeds of high-quality education in areas of need right here in White County,” said SIC President Dr. Jonah Rice. “Generosity like this is the real backbone of success for such projects.”
“Stan’s commitment to vocational education spans decades as he served on the Little Wabash Area Vocational Center board in the 1970s,” said Dr. Frank Barbre, SIC Board Vice Chair. “As a businessman and community leader, Stan knows firsthand the value of quality career and technical training for the young people in our area.”
“Mr. William’s gift provides us with more resources to make this a premiere training and career complex, helping the college fulfill a dream of some 20 years ago,” said SIC Board Chair Dr. Pat York.
The new center is being designed, and construction will begin in the spring of 2022 with substantial completion of the two major phases near December 2023.
“I am pleased to be a part of this project,” said Williams. “The knowledge and skills gained from programs such as this are vital to our local community.”
More details will be forthcoming regarding a dedication ceremony.
Southeastern Illinois College was founded in 1960 and offers more than 50 degree and certificate programs. At $106 per credit hour, SIC boasts one of the lowest tuition rates in the region. Over 70% of students receive some form of financial aid or scholarships. SIC serves 4,000 full or part-time students per year, includes locations in Harrisburg and Carmi, and employs approximately 140 full- and part-time employees. For more information, visit www.sic.edu.
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