John Wood Community College has added education to its lineup of 2x2 online programs.  Launched last June, the 2x2 accelerated online program features a “bite size learning” approach.  The program allows students to take two eight-week online courses at a time to complete the first two years of a bachelor’s degree.   

The College’s online enrollment has surged in the last few years, which led to the launch of the 2x2 program last June.

Education is the seventh major to be offered in the 2 x2 format.  Other options in the 2x2 program include: accounting, business, economics, history, psychology, sociology and general studies.

“It is much more manageable to focus on two classes at a time, which is what many of our adult students prefer to do,” Stephanie Phillips, JWCC’s online technology coordinator said.  “When those two classes can be completed in eight weeks, a degree seems that much more possible.”

 “This is a convenient way for the right type of student to start a bachelor’s degree or step up into the next level of their career,” Amy Kallenbach, JWCC’s 2x2 advisor said.  “The benefit for our online students is they start smart in two key areas – support and cost.”

As a community college, JWCC specializes in supporting first-time college students from all backgrounds and adults training for careers or promotions.  Many adults have the drive and time management skills to take full advantage of an accelerated program, while others depend upon an institution with JWCC’s mission to help them assess realistic course completion timeframes and learning environments. 

In addition to strong support, JWCC’s cost is hundreds of dollars less than any regional university or for-profit university.

One class at JWCC is $531 compared to $1,500 at the University of Phoenix or $1,100 to $1,300 at other Midwestern public and private universities.

“We provide the best of both worlds, and advise students accordingly,” Kallenbach said.  “This new program allows the motivated adult to accelerate their first two years of college at a community college price, if that is what works best for them. “

Kallenbach leads the express admission and registration process for all 2x2 students and technical expert Stephanie Phillips turns a computer screen into a comfortable learning environment.

Prior to any enrollment conversations, students are encouraged to make sure online is an appropriate learning environment for them by viewing a demo course and taking a quiz at www.jwcc.edu/online.  Additionally, a customized orientation and first year course is tailored to provide a solid foundation for online learning. 

More information is available from Kallenbach at akallenbach@jwcc.edu or jwcc.edu/2x2.

Participants Will Be Registered to Win a Free Class

Almost 40 percent of students at John Wood Community College are sitting at the “Adults Table”.   Adult or “non-traditional” students are 24 years of age or older.  It’s a population with needs beyond what classes to choose and how to join student government.   Most adult students are juggling full-time jobs, children’s activities, and even caring for an aging parent.

That’s why JWCC has created a visit day just for adults. Current adult students at JWCC will join with recent alumni in small groups to answer the three key questions on the minds of older students considering college – time, money and results.

As an added incentive, individuals who attend the visit day will be registered to win their first class at JWCC for free.

“This definitely isn’t your typical college visit day,” Billy Schaffer, JWCC director of admissions said. “Think of it as getting the inside scoop from a friend on how to pay for college, find the time to take courses, carpool and work at the same time.”

Schaffer said that the majority of adult students think that it’s impossible to afford college.  “Actually, students over the age of 24 receive more financial assistance on average than our traditional-age students,” he said.  “Plus, a lot of adult students take a couple courses at a time, which makes things more manageable in terms of time and money.”

The Adult Visit Day is scheduled to fit the adults’ lifestyles. It will be held Tuesday, July 21 from 5:30-7 p.m at JWCC’s Quincy campus at 48^th and Harrison. Childcare will be provided free of charge for participants.

A brief introduction and welcome will be provided by JWCC alumni who will share the results of their decision to earn a college degree.  Visitors will later take part in small groups to gain tips on what to expect in a college class, available financial support, how to relate to instructors, careers in demand, online courses and how to connect with other adult students at JWCC.  Each small group discussion will last about 20 minutes to allow for individual questions. Each group will be led by an adult student currently attending JWCC or college faculty or support staff.

Visitors will learn about grants and scholarships, how to file the Free Application for Federal Student Aid, learn which careers are in demand and make contacts with adult students at JWCC as well as admissions, financial aid and support staff. Attendees can also make appointments to get help filing the Free Application for Federal Student Aid or schedule a session with career counselors to determine a possible new career path based on abilities and experience.

Online registration is encouraged, but not required, at www.jwcc.edu/adult . Interested individuals may also contact Robin Martin at 217.641.4338 or martin@jwcc.edu to ask questions or register for the event. 

JWCC Trustees Approve Balanced Budget for 2016 Fiscal Year

Budget Includes $556,000 Less from State of Illinois

The John Wood Community College Board of Trustees approved a $14,317,600 balanced budget for the 2016 fiscal year during its regular meeting Wednesday, July 15 at the College’s center in Pittsfield.  The 2016 fiscal for JWCC is July 1, 2015 to June 30, 2016.

The 2016 fiscal year budget is $23,000 less than 2015 and includes a $556,000 reduction in state funding.

In the past four fiscal years, JWCC has cut $1.3 million in operating costs.  In 2012, the College’s budget was $15.6 million, compared to $14.3 million for 2016.

The leaner budget maintains the same level and quality of academic programs and services.

The drop in state funding for next year is expected to be mostly offset by a projected increase in credit hours taken by students at a slightly higher tuition rate.  JWCC also restructured business services and operations and career and technical areas to save operational costs.

JWCC projects students to enroll in 43,100 credit hours next year, an increase of 2,600 from last year’s budgeted total of 41,700.

In-district tuition per credit hour will change from $142 to $147.  The bump amounts to an extra $160 a year for in-district students taking 32 credit hours. JWCC’s average full-time, in-district cost of $4,704 for next year compares favorably with other public and private colleges in the region that have annual tuition and fees ranging from $10,000 to $25,000 annually.

In other business, the Board:

Approved appointment of Josh Welker, dean of business services and institutional effectiveness, as the College’s treasurer. Welker was appointed to the dean position and the College’s chief financial officer in April.  Susan Fifer, JWCC director of fiscal services, was appointed assistant treasurer.

Approved JWCC’s treasurer to be bonded, as required by Illinois Statute.  The Illinois Community College (ICCB) Risk Management Consortium has contracted with The Hartford to provide coverage to members at a reduced cost. Trustees approved $6 million bonding level for the College’s treasurer.

Adopted the Strategic Plan and Objectives for the 2016 Fiscal Year.

Authorized submission of a $40,000- $50,000 grant application to the Marion Gardner Jackson Trust for a digital skills lab.

Received a report on the College’s image survey.

 The next regular meeting of the JWCC Board of Trustees is scheduled for August 16 at JWCC’s Quincy campus at 48^th and Harrison.

Recognized Martin Nall of Camp Point for his service as the Illinois Community College Board (ICCB) student representative on the Illinois Community College Trustee’s Association and Brandon Carl of West Point for his service as JWCC’s student representative to the ICCB.

John Wood Community College will offer Introduction to Logistics Management (LOM 100) this fall on Tuesday evenings from 6 to 9 p.m. at the Quincy campus at 48^th and Harrison.  Registration is currently underway for the 16 week class that begins August 17.

Topics covered in the course include an overview of logistics and supply chain management, customer service and inventory management for personnel working in retail, wholesale and manufacturing sectors.

The course is part of JWCC’s new associate in applied science and certificate programs in logistics and operations management.  Individuals involved in the programs will take courses involving global supply chain logistics life cycle, material handling, safety, technology, communications, packaging, shipping/receiving, dispatch, tracking, measurements and metric conversions, inventory control, product storage and quality control.

The purpose of the program is to raise the level of performance of logistics and warehouse workers and train individuals as Certified Logistics Technicians (CLTs).  A CLT is someone who has demonstrated mastery of the core competencies of material handling at entry level front line through supervisory levels at logistics related companies.

To register, call JWCC at 217.224.6500.  Class size is limited, so students are encouraged to register as soon as possible.  For more information about these classes call David Hetzler at 217.641.4953.

This workforce training program is funded in whole or part by a Trade Adjustment Assistance Community College and Career Training (TAACCCT) grant awarded to JWCC as part of the Mississippi River Transportation, Distribution and Logistics Consortium by the U.S. Department of Labor’s Employment and Training Administration.

An information session about the Truck Driver Training Program at John Wood Community College will be held Monday, August 3, at 6:30 p.m. at the Workforce Development Center, 4220 Kochs Lane, Quincy.

The next class starts Monday, August 17. Classes meet Monday through Friday, 7 a.m. to 5 p.m., for four weeks plus a one week pre-session.

Representatives from the Truck Driver Training Program will give a brief presentation reviewing admission requirements, registration, and career opportunities in the trucking industry.

The JWCC Truck Driver Training Program offers the latest technology to educate students including an up-to-date computer lab. Industry standard equipment is used as teaching tools and courses are certified by the Professional Truck Driver Institute.Area truck driving firms are hiring now. Some employers may fund tuition costs.      

For information, contact the Truck Driver Training Program, 217.224.5362. 

John Wood Community College will offer Fundamentals of Construction Practices (CST 100) at the Workforce Development Center (WDC) during the Fall 2015 semester. Registration is currently underway for classes that begin August 17.

The class will meet on Wednesdays from 4 to 6 p.m. and is an introduction to the basic fundamentals of construction safety, materials, tools, and practices involved in modern building. The course will stress O.S.H.A. regulations as they pertain to construction, and also will cover material uses and limitations, as well as tool descriptions and uses.

Other construction classes being offered at the WDC in the fall include Site Work and Construction (CST 105), Rough Frame Construction 1 (CST 110), Print Reading (CST 115), Rough Frame Construction 2 (CST 200), and Concrete (CST 220). All classes will meet on Tuesdays and Thursdays, except for Print Reading, which will meet on Wednesdays from 1 to 4 p.m.

Each class is about 85 percent hands-on training on various projects. The program is geared to prepare students for the real world work environment, where there is high demand for construction workers.

To register, call JWCC at 217.224.6500. Class size is limited, so students are encouraged to register as soon as possible. For more information about these classes and prerequisites please call Dan Arnsman at 217.641.4922.

John Wood Community College will offer Introduction to Web Page Design (CSC 146) in the Macintosh Lab using Adobe CreativeSuite CS6 during the fall 2015 semester. Registration is currently underway for classes that begin August 17.

Topics covered in the course include web design theory, creating web pages in hypertext markup language (HTML), an introduction to cascadingstyle sheets (CSS), creating web pages using the industry standard Web creation software (Adobe Dreamweaver), and much more. 

Other graphic design classes being offered in the Macintosh Lab in the fall include Desktop Publishing with InDesign , Computerized Illustration (Adobe Illustrator), Portable Document Format (PDF) , Graphic and Photo Manipulation (Adobe Photoshop), Advanced Web Page Design (Adobe Dreamweaver), Web Graphics & Interactivity (Adobe Flash and Fireworks), and Advanced Graphic Applications (Adobe Photoshop). 

Introduction to Web Page Design is offered in classroom format on Wednesdays from 9:00 to 10:50 a.m.

Computerized Illustration is a blended course (part classroom and part online).  The classroom portion will meet on Tuesdays from 9:00 to 10: 45 a.m.   

The other six classes are being offered through the open learning center on Mondays from 1:00 to 4:00 p.m. or 5:00 to 8:00 p.m.  The software is available at the 48^th street campus in the Mac lab and in the JWCC Library.

To register, call JWCC at 217.224.6500.  Class size is limited, so students are encouraged to register as soon as possible.  For more information about these classes and prerequisites please call Barbara Stoll at 217.641.4520.

Budget Includes $556,000 Less from State of Illinois

The John Wood Community College Board of Trustees approved a tentative $14,317,600 balanced budget for next year during its regular meeting Wednesday, June 17. 

The 2016 fiscal year budget is $23,000 less than the current year and includes a $556,000 reduction in state funding.

In the past four fiscal years, JWCC has cut $1.3 million in operating costs.  In 2012, the College’s budget was $15.6 million, compared to $14.3 million for next fiscal year.

A leaner budget has been achieved while maintaining the same level and quality of academic programs and services. JWCC President Mike Elbe says the College continually searches for ways to operate more efficiently and effectively.

“The Board and the College have been very conservative budget managers,” Elbe said. “We find ways to live within our means while relying less and less on state support. “

The drop in state funding for next year is expected to be mostly offset by a projected increase in credit hours taken by students at a slightly higher tuition rate.  JWCC also restructured business services and operations and career and technical areas to save operational costs.

JWCC projects students to enroll in 43,100 credit hours next year, an increase of 2,600 from last year’s budgeted total of 41,700.

 In-district tuition per credit hour will change from $142 to $147.  The bump amounts to an extra $160 a year for in-district students taking 32 credit hours. JWCC’s average full-time in-district cost of $4,704 for next year compares favorably with other public and private colleges in the region that have annual tuition and fees ranging from $10,000 to $25,000 annually.

The 2016 budget document was posted June 15 and will remain on display for 30 days for public review.  The budget will be formally adopted during the July board meeting.

In other business, the Board:

Recognized Jalen Poindexter, JWCC baseball player who earned all-region, all-conference and all-American honors in the 2015 season.

Received an update on the JWCC Foundation from Barbara Holthaus, JWCC director of advancement.

Adopted a resolution to comply with the Prevailing Wage Act for public works construction projects at the College.

Approved renewal of United Way of Adams County Partner Agreement for the Retired and Senior Volunteer Program (RSVP) hosted by JWCC.

Approved a 10 year intergovernmental cooperation agreement with the University of Illinois for shared use of the Agricultural Education Center and Orr Agronomy Research Facility in Baylis, Illinois.

Approved $141,182 in tuition and fees, bookstore and miscellaneous write-offs from the prior 18 month to two year period.  JWCC will continue to seek payment on write-offs through a collection service.

Approved five-year pouring agreement with Refreshment Services Pepsi.

Approved two Resource Allocation Management Plan (RAMP) documents for submission to the Illinois Community College Board (ICCB).  The RAMP documents are filed to be considered for State of Illinois matching funds for JWCC capital projects.  RAMP documents were approved for construction of a new outlying facility in the southeast portion of JWCC’s district and expansion of the College’s Workforce Development Center (WDC).  RAMP documents are required to be updated and filed annually. ICCB will submit the requests for inclusion in the list of projects for the 2017 State of Illinois capital budget.  The RAMP document for the outlying facility was originally filed in 2010, and the WDC expansion document was originally filed in 2014.

Approved payment of Illinois Community College Trustee Association Dues for fiscal year 2016.

Approved confirmation of a three-year faculty association agreement.

Authorized submission of a $143, 320 grant application to the Illinois Community College Board for Perkins funding for direct student aid and tutoring assistance for students in career and technical programs as well as purchase of instructional supplies. Previous funding benefitted 215 students in career and technical programs.

Authorized acceptance of $11,500 in grant funding from United Way of Adams County to support the Retired and Senior Volunteer Program (RSVP) Medical Transportation and Recruitment and Placement Programs. Previous funding provided 182 seniors transportation to 762 medical appointments.

 The next regular meeting of the JWCC Board of Trustees is scheduled for July 15 at the Pittsfield Education Center at 1308 W. Washington.

College students who wish to transfer into John Wood Community College from another university can attend “Transfer in Tuesday” on June 30.

 Transfer In Tuesday is a new event designed to cater to the needs of those students who are thinking about coming to JWCC for more one-on-one instruction, more affordable tuition or to attend college closer to home. Roughly five percent of JWCC enrollment comes from students who transfer in from other four-year colleges and universities. 

 “Sometimes as a senior in high school, students feel that the grass is greener anywhere but in their hometown,” Billy Schaffer, JWCC director of admissions said.  “What some find is that isn’t always the case.  We have many students who return home, come to John Wood and wish they would have started here in the first place.  It is just a better fit for them. They like the more one-on-one instruction to build a solid academic foundation and explore majors.  That is why we created Transfer In Tuesday, so those students realize the opportunities they can have at JWCC.”

 Students looking to transfer into JWCC can attend the June 30 event to learn more about the school, take a tour, ask about the 23 academic majors at JWCC, have transcripts reviewed and discuss registration options.

 Tanner Zanger is one of many students who transferred in to JWCC this year after completing one semester away from home. He began his freshman year at Southern Illinois University Edwardsville in the fall, but transferred to JWCC to for the spring semester.

  “I just didn’t feel comfortable there, felt trapped under the price of it, and wanted more one-on-one instruction,” Zanger said. “I thought I had to go away to college because that’s what most of my friends did.  When I started to think for myself I decided to transfer to John Wood and I couldn’t be happier.”

 As soon as Zanger stepped on campus, he knew he was in the right place.

 “The second I came, I was instantly accepted, felt at home and appreciated the fact that my professors care if I’m in class and expect me to perform well,” he said.  “That makes me want to work hard for them.  Plus, I’ve had a blast here outside of the classroom, there’s so much going on.  You just have to come on campus and see for yourself.”

 More information and registration for Transfer In Tuesday can be made at www.jwcc.edu/greener or by contacting Schaffer at 217.641.4314 or admissions@jwcc.edu.

John Wood Community College will host 40 students from Brigham Young University’s Young Ambassadors Performance Group and several members of The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter Day Saints for a service project at the College’s Spring Valley Trails and Arboretum Saturday, June 13 from 9 a.m. to noon.

The BYU Young Ambassadors are a group of singers, dancers and musicians who travel the world to provide heart-warming musical theater entertainment, community outreach and service.

JWCC staff and students will work alongside BYU students and LDS members to maintain and clean the three public trails located east of the College’s Quincy campus at 48^th and Harrison.

Following the service project, the Young Ambassadors will provide a free shortened performance of their production, Heartsongs – Melodies of Love, at the Quincy Mall at 2 p.m.   The show highlights hits from artists like The Beatles and Michael Buble’.

The world-traveled group performs extensively both nationally and internationally.  In the past decade, the group has toured over 13 states and fourteen countries, including Australia, China, Korea, Brazil and Argentina

For more information about the BYU and LDS visit to Quincy, contact Barb Holthaus, JWCC director of advancement, at 217.641.4104 or Sr. Judy Thomas at 801.360.0798.

Individuals interested in pursuing a nursing or health science related career are encouraged to attend an information session about John Wood Community College’s programs August 20 at 6 p.m. in the College’s cafeteria located in the lower level of the Student/Administrative Center at the Quincy campus at 48^th and Harrison.   

Participants will learn more about JWCC’s nursing, surgical technology, medical laboratory technology, certified nursing assistant and radiologic technology programs and admission requirements.

Attendees will have an opportunity to talk to Marcheta Hays, JWCC coordinator for the CNA program, about program expectations, courses, labs, clinical opportunities, support services and financial considerations. Information sessions will be held monthly at JWCC and are designed for both those currently attending JWCC and those who are thinking about going back to school.

Contact Hollie Perry for more information at hperry@jwcc.edu or 217.641.4551. More information about JWCC’s health science programs can be found at jwcc.edu/academics/choose/health-sciences. 

 To offer more convenient options for students to complete general education requirements, John Wood Community College will now deliver Art Appreciation classes in two new formats.  A new Monday evening only course is available during the fall semester for 16 weeks.  Students may also choose to take the art course in a condensed 12 week section starting September 14 on Monday and Wednesday mornings.

 Students can complete the traditional fine art requirement for a bachelor’s degree by enrolling in Art Appreciation this fall on Monday evenings from 6 to 8:30 p.m. starting August 17.John Bartz III will teach the course.

 A new 12 week format will allow students to complete the Art Appreciation course on Monday and Wednesday mornings from 9:05 a.m. to 10:45 a.m. Michael Chlebanowski, veteran artist, instructor and graphic designer, will be the instructor.

 The Art Appreciation course is designed to expose and cultivate an awareness of art in our culture.  Instruction will also cover some contemporary art. Art majors and students pursuing other bachelor’s degrees will benefit from the course.

 Registration for both courses is currently underway for current and new students at JWCC.  For more information, contact JWCC admissions at 217.641.4337 or admissions@jwcc.edu or visit www.jwcc.edu/courses.  More details about art courses at JWCC  is available from Addie Sebarkrob at aseabarkrob@jwcc.edu or 217.641.4997. 

Eight students completing John Wood Community College’s Surgical Technology Program were honored at a recognition ceremony held at JWCC on August 14. 

Surgical Technology Program Chair Cathy Wittler and Associate Faculty Member Kelly Stivers conducted a pinning and certificate presentation for graduates. Graduating students involved in the ceremony included Kristen Moore and Hali Luebbehusen, who provided the invocation and benediction and Emilee Keppner, who presented the student address.

JWCC Surgical Technology clinical sites were recognized for their dedication to JWCC’s program. Clinical sites include: Blessing Hospital, The Surgery Center of Quincy; McDonough District Hospital, Macomb; Great River Medical Center, West Burlington, Iowa; Hannibal Regional Hospital; St. Mary Medical Center, Galesburg, IL; and Fort Madison Community Hospital.

The 15th class to graduate from JWCC’s program include the following:

         IL            Camp Point       Kristen Moore

                         Quincy             Elizabeth Barnes

                                                 Alexa Clair

                                                 Emilee Keppner

                                                 Hali Luebbehusen

                                                 Denise Marquardt

                       Ursa                  Dakota Avery

         MO        Hannibal            Nathan Reece

College students who wish to transfer into John Wood Community College from another university can attend “Transfer in Tuesday” on June 30.

 Transfer In Tuesday is a new event designed to cater to the needs of those students who are thinking about coming to JWCC for more one-on-one instruction, more affordable tuition or to attend college closer to home. Roughly five percent of JWCC enrollment comes from students who transfer in from other four-year colleges and universities. 

 “Sometimes as a senior in high school, students feel that the grass is greener anywhere but in their hometown,” Billy Schaffer, JWCC director of admissions said.  “What some find is that isn’t always the case.  We have many students who return home, come to John Wood and wish they would have started here in the first place.  It is just a better fit for them. They like the more one-on-one instruction to build a solid academic foundation and explore majors.  That is why we created Transfer In Tuesday, so those students realize the opportunities they can have at JWCC.”

 Students looking to transfer into JWCC can attend the June 30 event to learn more about the school, take a tour, ask about the 23 academic majors at JWCC, have transcripts reviewed and discuss registration options.

 Tanner Zanger is one of many students who transferred in to JWCC this year after completing one semester away from home. He began his freshman year at Southern Illinois University Edwardsville in the fall, but transferred to JWCC to for the spring semester.

  “I just didn’t feel comfortable there, felt trapped under the price of it, and wanted more one-on-one instruction,” Zanger said. “I thought I had to go away to college because that’s what most of my friends did.  When I started to think for myself I decided to transfer to John Wood and I couldn’t be happier.”

 As soon as Zanger stepped on campus, he knew he was in the right place.

 “The second I came, I was instantly accepted, felt at home and appreciated the fact that my professors care if I’m in class and expect me to perform well,” he said.  “That makes me want to work hard for them.  Plus, I’ve had a blast here outside of the classroom, there’s so much going on.  You just have to come on campus and see for yourself.”

 More information and registration for Transfer In Tuesday can be made at www.jwcc.edu/greener or by contacting Schaffer at 217.641.4314 or admissions@jwcc.edu.

During its regular meeting Wednesday, August 19, the John Wood Community College Board of Trustees received an update on current enrollment figures and agreed to accept a $1,575,000 federal grant from the Department of Education to fund Student Support Services at JWCC.

JWCC President Mike Elbe shared that the College has 72 more students today compared to last fall at the same time. The current number of students enrolled today for fall is 2,006 compared to 1,934 last year on the same day.   Total credit hours are relatively flat, standing at 20,786, which is 26 less than last year. 

Elbe noted the numbers are unofficial because students may add or drop courses through next week and this is the first year JWCC will offer a new 12 week term within its traditional16 week semester. New 12 week classes start September 14, and registration is still underway.   The College is awaiting final concurrent enrollment numbers from students taking JWCC courses through their respective high schools and credit hours from adult education/GED courses will be accounted for in the next few weeks.

“We are pleased with the increase in headcount because we have been strategic about our enrollment planning,” Elbe said. “Faculty and staff have been working together to help grow enrollment and I believe we are starting to see the results of our efforts,” Elbe said. “In weeks to come, there are many other opportunities that may positively impact headcount and credit hours.”

Trustees also accepted a $1.5 million federal grant to fund Student Support Services. Nearly 1,700 schools applied for the grant and JWCC was one of 969 to receive funding.  The grant award was the 5^th largest in the state and among the top 20 percent of largest SSS grants in the country. JWCC will receive $315,000 annually for five years to fund the College’s Student Support Services (SSS) TRiO programs and personnel.  SSS serves at-risk youth, who are the first generation in their family to attend college, are from low-income families, or have disabilities.

The grant is designed to increase the retention, graduation, transfer and overall good academic standing rates for at-risk students at JWCC.   The College has received the federal grant for more than 25 years, and each year has met required outcomes. Data from 2014 show that of the at-risk students in SSS programs at JWCC, 99 percent achieved good academic standing and 82 percent persisted, graduated or successfully transferred to a four-year university.

Since receiving the grant funding in 1989, JWCC has served 4,500 first generation, low-income or disabled students.

JWCC sophomore Brandon Carl, a Southeastern High School graduate, credits the program for giving him the extra push to achieve more in college, the workplace and life. He is the first in his family to pursue a bachelor’s degree.

“I’ve learned so much from being in the program that I can apply to life right away,” Carl said.  “There are so many opportunities. I’ve learned how to do my own taxes and some essential workplace skills.  I also used the free tutoring services to push me to boost some grades from B’s to A’s. Plus, the program has helped me visit other colleges to transfer to after John Wood to complete my bachelor’s degree in a business related field.  I never would have known about those schools or traveled to see them otherwise.”

In other business, the Board:

Received a report from Bill LaTour, JWCC dean of operations and campus police chief, on a recent employee trust and communication survey. The College conducted an initial survey in 2013 to begin to measure various indicators of positive communication and trust among JWCC faculty, staff and administration.  The College conducted a follow-up survey in the spring of 2015 after employees’ recommendations for improvement were implemented.  The goal was to improve overall positive responses by 20 percent.  Survey results showed a 35 percent increase in positive responses to trust and communication questions answered by employees. JWCC will conduct another survey in the future and implement more recommendations as part of the College’s continuous improvement efforts.

Accepted a $37,300 bid from Rupp Masonry Construction, Inc., of Quincy for masonry repairs at JWCC’s Kinscherff Adult Education and Learning Center in downtown Quincy.

Approved phasing out the College’s hospitality/culinary and homeland security programs following the spring 2016 semester due to multiple years of declining enrollment. All current students will be able to complete their respective courses to earn a certificate or degree.  The College will deliver customized training to serve both restaurant/hotel and homeland security industries on an as-needed basis.

The next regular meeting of the JWCC Board of Trustees is scheduled for September 16 at JWCC’s Agricultural Center in Baylis, Ilinois.

John Wood Community College will host a series of lunch and learn sales and marketing training sessions for business and workforce partners. The programs, presented by the Chet Holmes Mastery Institute (CHI), will be held every Friday from 11:45 a.m. to 2 p.m. for seven weeks at JWCC’s Workforce Development Center at 4220 Kochs Lane in Quincy. The first session begins on August 28. Additional sessions will continue every Friday until November 20.

The week of August 31 has been designated as “Workforce Development Week.” To mark this event, the Workforce Board of Western Illinois, in partnership with the Pike County Economic Development Corporation and John Wood Community College, has planned a workshop to celebrate the designation and assist individuals in the community. 

A resume review will be held on Wednesday, September 2 from 4:00pm to 6:00pm at JWCC’s Pittsfield Education Center. Staff will be available to review resumes, assist individuals with resume preparation, answer questions about careers and provide applications for available jobs throughout the area. 

In addition, the Workforce Board of Western Illinois would like to remind everyone that having an updated and professionally crafted resume is important. For assistance in preparing or reviewing your resume, contact the Career Services Department of John Wood Community College at (217) 641-4905. The local workforce system offers a broad and intensive range of individual and business services to equip citizens with higher skills and to supply businesses with qualified workers.

For more information on the event, please contact Pike County Economic Development Corporation Executive Director Gina Sheurman at 217-440-5101 or by email at gsheurman@pikeedc.org.

John Wood Community College will open a nationwide traveling exhibition, “Lincoln: The Constitution and the Civil War,” Friday, September 11, in the College’s Heath Center Art Gallery.  The display is part of a series of Lincoln and Constitution educational events made possible by JWCC, Quincy University’s Brenner Library and the Lincoln-Douglas Debate Interpretive Center.

 The exhibit will open with a public reception at 6 p.m. in the Heath Gallery, followed by a program at 7 p.m. by guest speaker Lincoln Scholar Frank J. Williams to be held in JWCC’s Orr Auditorium.  Williams will explore Lincoln’s role as an attorney and judge pro tem in the Eighth Judicial Circuit in Illinois. The public is invited to attend both events and the exhibit will remain on display through October 16 during JWCC’s regular operating hours.

 Composed of informative panels, the traveling exhibition examines how President Lincoln used the Constitution to confront three intertwined crises of the Civil War – the secession of Southern states, slavery and wartime civil liberties. Panels feature photographic reproductions of original documents, including a draft of Lincoln’s first inaugural speech, the Emancipation Proclamation and the Thirteenth Amendment.

 Williams has been widely acknowledged as a foremost leader of America’s Lincoln fraternity – the large, nationwide community of Lincoln historians, students and enthusiasts. A professional arbitrator and mediator, Williams previously served as Supreme Court Justice in Rhode Island, was a practicing attorney for more than 25 years and is a decorated Army veteran who served in Vietnam. He is one of the nation’s leading authorities on the life and times of Abraham Lincoln. Williams is the author and editor of over 20 books including Lincoln as Hero and Judging Lincoln.

 To continue the celebration of Lincoln, and national Constitution Day, a panel discussion will be held in QU’s MacHugh Theatre Thursday, September 17. A reception will begin at 6:30 p.m. followed by a panel discussion about Lincoln’s Constitutional Legacy featuring QU and JWCC faculty.

 The National Constitution Center and the American Library Association Public Programs Office organized the traveling exhibition, which was made possible by a major grant from the National Endowment for the Humanities (NEH): great ideas brought to life. The traveling exhibition is based on an exhibition of the same name developed by the National Constitution Center.

 The exhibit and related events are free and open to the public.  Contact Barb Lieber, director of JWCC’s Learning Resource Center, at 217.641.4535 or blieber@jwcc.edu for more information. 

Quincy Mayor Kyle Moore will announce details of a new workforce initiative for high school graduates in Quincy on Wednesday August 26, 10 a.m. at the John Wood Community College Workforce Development Center, 4220 Kochs Lane.

Private industry partners, John Wood Community College, Great River Economic Development Foundation, Community Foundation of the Quincy Area and representatives from Quincy’s secondary schools will be part of the announcement.

A full release, interviews and visuals of The Quincy Promise programs will be available at the event. Contact the Mayor’s Office at 228.4545 for more information.

More graduates of Quincy's high schools may go to college tuition free, if they choose to learn skills through a career or technical program that is in high-demand by area employers.

Quincy Mayor Kyle Moore announced "The Quincy Promise," a privately funded educational grant program for graduates of Quincy's high schools, during a press conference at John Wood Community College's Workforce Development Center today.

The announcement celebrated educational heritage month as part of the City of Quincy's 175 anniversary events. Several private companies based in Quincy have donated funds for a four-year pilot program to encourage current seniors and future
graduates of Quincy's secondary schools to pursue specific career and technical programs at JWCC.

The programs provide the new skills needed to fill in-demand, head-of-household positions available at many area companies in sectors such as manufacturing, healthcare and agriculture. Most of the positions require specific skills that can be acquired in one or two years by earning a certificate or applied associate degree from JWCC.
"These companies are literally investing in the promise of Quincy," Moore said. "We have talented young people, who can get the new skills needed to land great paying jobs right here in our area. This is about growing and retaining the future workforce."
Great River Economic Development Foundation President Marcel Wagner says that The Quincy Promise is one way to bridge the skills gap that companies consistently share as an obstacle for growth.
"When we make business visits, nearly every CEO tells us they can't find enough people with the new technical skills they need to grow," Wagner said. "If we can deliver more qualified graduates with the right technical skills in the areas of manufacturing, welding, electrical,healthcare and agriculture for example, it's a win for everyone. Individuals will benefit from solid pay and benefits, companies can grow,
and our economy will be stronger."
Companies like Phibro Animal Health and Titan International pledged funds that may be accessed by graduates of Quincy's high schools as a "last dollar grant" to cover tuition costs after all federal and state financial aid has been applied at JWCC.
"When we at Phibro Animal Health (previously Prince Agri Products) started looking at The Quincy Promise program with Mayor Moore a year ago, our vision was always very much in sync with the Mayor's," said Dean Warras, President of Phibro Animal Health." The benefits of the program for us are several.

One, we improve the attractiveness of Quincy to high school graduates. Second, we see this as a great opportunity to network with students from day one to help them understand who we are as a company and what type of roles we offer to college graduates. Lastly, as a major employer in Quincy it is critical for us to stay closely connected with the labor pool. Via The Quincy Promise program, we are now able to make investments in education towards targeted degrees, develop deep relationships early on with all the students in our targeted degree programs and ultimately, grow the pipeline of potential future employees and improve the likelihood
of our chosen recruits coming to work for us some day- in Quincy."

Paul Reitz, President of Titan International said, " We want every Quincy student to have the opportunity to develop their academic and vocational skills, and it is our hope that upon completing their respective programs at John Wood, they will see the value of joining our local workforce. It is our belief that we have high-caliber talent right here in Quincy, Illinois, and we want to invest in that talent so they can, in
turn, invest in this community."

Partners in The Quincy Promise include the City of Quincy, JWCC, GREDF, Community Foundation of the Quincy Area, Quincy Senior High School, Quincy Notre Dame High School, Quincy Christian School and Quincy Homeschool Association.
As a pilot program, funding is subject to availability for 2016-2019 graduates of Quincy's high schools. Funding is awarded on a graduated scale, based on the total years of attendance in any of Quincy's elementary or secondary schools. Students must meet certain deadlines and complete admission and financial aid forms at JWCC to be eligible for the grant.
Additionally, students must declare a major in one of the many career, technical and health education programs at JWCC,maintain satisfactory academic standing, meet with JWCC's career services and advising personnel and connect with employers
during job fairs and other events. The Quincy Promise funding may be used for up to 64 credit hours at JWCC.
Applications for the program open September 15 and all required materials must be completed by February 1, 2016 to be considered for The Quincy Promise funding. More information, an application and a list of programs is available at
www.jwcc.edu/quincypromise.
Donations to The Quincy Promise grant program may be made by contacting the Community Foundation of the Quincy Area at 217.222.1237.