Coming Together for a Common Cause: Southern Illinois Community College Presidents Meet with Senators Dale Fowler and Terri Bryant to Discuss Community College Issues

Earlier this month, John A. Logan College President Dr. Kirk Overstreet, Kaskaskia College President Dr. George Evans, and Southeastern Illinois College President Dr. Karen Weiss gathered at John A. Logan College (JALC) to discuss critical legislative issues impacting local higher education institutions with State Senators Dale Fowler and Terri Bryant.

The meeting centered on several key topics, including the proposed Community College Baccalaureate degree, Dual Credit programs, and the FY 26 funding for community colleges. The presidents came together to express their shared concerns and priorities in the ongoing discussions about Illinois’s future of community college education.

The Community College Baccalaureate degree initiative was a major topic of conversation, as college leaders highlighted the importance of expanding educational opportunities for students seeking a four-year degree while remaining in their local communities. Additionally, discussions focused on Dual Credit programs’ vital role in allowing high school students to earn college credits and how legislative support can enhance these opportunities.

Equally significant was the conversation around the funding for community colleges in the upcoming fiscal year. Leaders emphasized the need for adequate financial resources to ensure the continued success of community colleges in providing high-quality education and workforce development.

“We’re grateful to Senators Fowler and Bryant for meeting with us and hearing our concerns,” said JALC President Dr. Kirk Overstreet. “This collaboration is essential to ensuring that our institutions are supported in their mission to provide affordable, accessible education for students in Southern Illinois.”

The meeting underscored the shared commitment of community college leaders and state lawmakers to advance the interests of higher education in Illinois and to work together to address the needs of students, faculty, and staff across the state.

“The Community Colleges of Illinois serve over 400,000 students yearly and significantly impact the work readiness and transfer of students to our four-year partners,” said Evans. “We are dedicated to continuing that tradition and are excited by the opportunities to serve our regions and the state through various initiatives, including the CCB.”

President Weiss agreed and stated that all southern Illinois community colleges are dedicated to working with our partners at SIU to provide the region with affordable and pertinent training and education.

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Article provided by JALC.