Meeting Summary: Joliet Junior College Board of Trustees for June 25, 2025

The Joliet Junior College Board of Trustees met on Wednesday, June 25, 2025. Key actions included the approval of the fiscal year 2026 budget after a contentious debate and hearing a report on the success of the college’s “12x12x12” dual credit initiative. The meeting also highlighted board tensions over legal bills and featured a discussion on the importance of inclusivity and campus flag raisings.

Budget Approved After Postponement Fails: The board approved a $322.3 million budget for fiscal year 2026 on a 6-1 vote with one abstention. The vote followed a failed motion to postpone, which was requested by trustees who felt they needed more time to review the document. The debate highlighted divisions over the budget process, which the board agreed to review for future years.

‘12x12x12’ Initiative boosts Enrollment: President Dr. Clyne Namuo reported that the “12x12x12” dual credit initiative has significantly increased student participation and the number of JJC credits earned in high school. The program has also boosted the percentage of local high school graduates who choose to attend JJC, with the college’s “yield rate” increasing from a historical average of 17% to nearly 20%.

Board Tensions Surface: The approval of monthly bills sparked a debate over redacted legal invoices, with some trustees arguing the practice hinders their oversight and the college’s attorney stating it is necessary to protect legal strategy. The discussion, along with trustee comments on past board sanctions and travel budgets, revealed ongoing friction among board members.

Focus on Inclusivity and Belonging: A recent graduate urged the board to “be courageous” and continue supporting cultural flag-raising ceremonies, calling them vital symbols of respect and belonging for students. Several trustees echoed the sentiment, reaffirming the college’s commitment to being a safe and welcoming environment, especially in light of perceived threats to marginalized communities from the federal government.

Facilities Master Plan Kicks Off: The board received a presentation on the process for creating a new 10-to-15-year facilities master plan. The process, led by Legat Architects, will involve extensive data gathering and departmental interviews this fall to define needs, followed by the development of construction and renovation options next spring. A final plan is expected by summer 2026.

Joliet Area Historical Museum Honored: The college celebrated its partnership with the Joliet Area Historical Museum, which was recently named the 2025 Illinois Museum of the Year. Museum CEO Greg Perbolt addressed the board, thanking JJC for its support. Amy Walker, the JJC library’s department chair, will now serve as the college’s representative on the museum’s board.

Women’s Golf Team Wins National Championship: President Namuo and the board congratulated the JJC women’s golf team for winning the national championship. The team’s trophy was displayed at the meeting as a symbol of the successful investment in the college’s athletic programs.

New Policies Introduced: The board held first readings for three policies, including an update to the pay-for-performance plan for non-union employees, revisions to retiree benefits, and a new policy for hazing prevention. The policies will return for a second reading and a final vote at a future meeting.

Eastern Campus Development Plan Submitted: The board approved its annual Resource Allocation and Management Plan (RAMP) for submission to the state. The document includes a long-term project for a potential Eastern Campus to better serve the Lincoln Way area, a step required to be eligible for any future state capital funding for the project.

ERP Project Moves Forward: The board approved a three-year agreement with Ellucian to continue its transition to a new Enterprise Resource Planning (ERP) system. With a new go-live date of December 2025, the project is moving into an “optimization and modernization” phase. A comprehensive update on the project’s budget and timeline will be presented in August.

Larry Weirs Named JD Ross Award Recipient: Trustee Diane Harris announced that longtime community volunteer Larry Weirs will receive this year’s JD Ross Extraordinary Service Award. Weirs will be formally honored at the college’s Night of Stars celebration on September 9.