Office of the President

Dr. Karen Weiss is the seventh president of Southeastern Illinois College. Dr. Weiss brings over 25 years of experience in higher education to her new role and has been a dedicated member of the SIC family since 1993, when she first joined the college as a part-time adjunct instructor in communications.

Dr. Weiss’s academic credentials are impressive, including a Doctorate in Education with a focus on Higher Education from Oakland City University. She also holds a Master of Science degree in Communications and a Bachelor of Science in Speech Communication with a minor in Public Relations, both from Illinois State University. Her commitment to academic excellence and student success has been evident throughout her career, particularly during her tenure as Vice President of Academic Affairs at SIC, where she played a pivotal role in overseeing academic programs and maintaining accreditation standards.

In addition to her academic and administrative roles, Dr. Weiss has been actively involved in professional and community organizations. She is a current member of the Illinois Council of Community College Presidents (ICCCP) and has previously served as President of the Chief Academic Officers Group for Illinois Community Colleges. Her community involvement includes being an active member of the Harrisburg Rotary Club, serving multiple terms on the Norris City-Omaha-Enfield School Board, and participating in various local initiatives such as the Enfield Mule Days Association and the Carmi Chamber of Commerce, where she once served as President of the Board of Directors.

In her role as president, Dr. Weiss aims to continue strengthening SIC’s fiscal sustainability, promoting accountable learning, and keeping the college firmly student-focused.