I would like to extend a warm welcome to each student who will join us at Kankakee Community College. As we begin the fall semester with increased enrollment, the faculty and staff are making every effort to ensure our students continue to receive the quality education that has been a long-standing tradition of the college. 

I have had the opportunity in my first month to meet with many of the employees of the college and some community residents as well. As I begin to explore my new community and meet people, I am heartened by the support and the excellent reputation that exists for the college as an educational provider and a community partner. I truly enjoy meeting people in the community who are proud alumni of KCC. Whether he or she took several courses or is a graduate, the sentiment I’ve encountered is the same – pride and a feeling of personal satisfaction and achievement.

Another aspect of our community college experience is the clubs, student activities and athletic events that we provide for our students. I am a firm believer in the importance of student development and leadership.  Thus, I am looking forward to participating in the activities on campus and attending many of our athletic games. I hope to meet many more of our students and community residents at these events.

I wish all our students, community members, faculty and staff a most successful school year in 2009-10.

 -- John Avendano, Ph.D.

Dr. 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. Avendano most recently served as vice president of Academic Affairs and Student Development and Services at Illinois Central College in East Peoria.