[Freeport, IL] — This April, Highland Community College (HCC) joins colleges nationwide in celebrating Community College Month (#CCMonth), a campaign led by the Association of Community College Trustees to spotlight the essential role community and technical colleges play in powering America’s workforce and expanding economic opportunity.
HCC continues to advance student success through innovative partnerships and programs. Recently, the College approved new transfer agreements with Illinois State University (ISU) to create smoother pathways for students in education programs. Funded by a $30,000 Grow Your Own–Illinois grant, the agreements allow students to complete many courses at HCC before transferring to ISU to earn their bachelor’s degrees.
The College has also leveraged the $1,060,899 Strengthening Community Colleges Training Grant to expand its high-demand welding and CNC programs in northwest Illinois. Since 2022, welding enrollment has doubled and CNC enrollment has grown 50%, bringing both programs to full capacity. In addition, through Highland’s partnerships with Caldwell and Honeywell, the College is connecting students with meaningful jobs, allowing them to apply their skill and launch their careers.
In recognition of its strong student outcomes, including retention, completion, and transfer rates, Highland Community College has been named one of 200 institutions eligible to compete for the 2027 Aspen Prize for Community College Excellence. This prestigious award honors community colleges nationwide that demonstrate high performance and effective practices that improve student success. Over the next 20 months, selected colleges will undergo a rigorous review process, with the winner to be announced in spring 2027.
Highland President, Chris Kuberski, said, “Highland Community College continues to live out its Mission by providing quality educational opportunities that meet regional workforce needs. Whether a student wants to obtain a short-term certificate, a two-year degree, or prepare to transfer to a four-year university, “It’s all here” at Highland.”
Highland will be hosting an Express Registration event on Saturday, April 18 from 9 a.m. until 1 p.m. New and returning students can meet with advisors, register for classes, get financial aid guidance, and complete placement testing – all in one convenient visit.
For more information about Highland Community College and its programs, visit highland.edu.
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