Greetings and welcome, everyone!
On behalf of the Board of Trustees, faculty, staff and administration, I would like to welcome back our continuing KCC students and extend a warm welcome to our new students for what is expected to be an exciting year. The 2016-17 school year is shaping up to be a memorable and fun year for the college, our students and our entire community.
Through the vision and planning of past community leaders, Kankakee Community College was established in 1966. As a result, we are celebrating the college’s 50th anniversary this year, and you are all invited to celebrate KCC and The Power of Community. The college will have special events and activities throughout the year just for you. Specifically, look for back-to-school activities in early fall and a week-long celebration in October. You also can be part of something bigger at KCC. Join a club, volunteer, join a cause and celebrate with us throughout the year.
As you walk through our doors, I hope you know you are part of something special here at KCC. Beyond the 50th anniversary celebration, it is a special time because of what happens when you are actively engaged in the classroom and in our hallways. Learning and growth happens through many forms; however, to maximize your educational experience and truly reach your goals, I challenge you to get fully involved in your classes and your learning experiences. Success in your academic pursuits requires you to be an active participant with the drive and perseverance to achieve your goals. Likewise, our faculty are dedicated to helping you learn, grow and be successful. As experts in their field, and compassionate, too, our faculty want to see you succeed and reach your goals. Therefore, as we celebrate the history of KCC for 50 years, we look forward to celebrating your accomplishments as you become part of our future history.
You’ve made a wise choice and a wise investment in your future. KCC is here and ready to help you on your educational journey. Most important, you’ll be enhancing your quality of life through learning and through The Power of Community. The 2016-17 school year will be special as I mentioned, and we are excited to have you be part of it.
- John Avendano, Ph.D.
John Avendano became KCC's sixth president on July 1, 2009. He holds a doctorate in educational administration and foundations from Illinois State University in Normal, bachelor’s and master’s degrees from Northern Illinois University in DeKalb, and an associate degree from Waubonsee Community College in Sugar Grove.