Harper College will be closed on Wednesday, February 12 in observance of Lincoln's Day.
Governor JB Pritzker on February 19 announced support for new legislation that would
allow Illinois community colleges to offer baccalaureate degrees in high-demand fields.
This initiative aims to expand access to affordable, flexible higher education options
for working adults and address the state’s growing workforce needs.
Harper College President Dr. Avis Proctor said community college baccalaureate degrees would build upon the strong partnerships the college enjoys through its University Center and programs like Engineering Pathways to University of Illinois.
"Community college baccalaureate programs offer a critical step forward in expanding access to affordable education in high-demand and emerging fields, closing workforce gaps and strengthening our communities,” Dr. Proctor said. “By removing financial and geographical barriers for students who aspire to earn a four-year degree and a more prosperous future, this transformative movement can propel Illinois to achieve our Thriving Illinois strategic plan goals. We look forward to partnering with universities and regional employers in a collaborative fashion to achieve more equitable outcomes in degree attainment and meet our state's economic development goals and evolving workforce needs.”
To learn more about the proposed Community College Baccalaureate legislation and its benefits, read this joint release by the Illinois Community College Board, Illinois Community College Trustees Association and Illinois Council of Community College Presidents.