[Freeport, Ill.] — Highland Community College celebrated the dedication of the Switzer Family Research Farm on September 17, recognizing the generosity of Steve and Dorleen Switzer and the lasting impact their estate gifts have made on agriculture education at Highland.
The dedication marked the culmination of significant investment in Highland’s agriculture program and highlighted the College’s continued commitment to providing students with hands-on, applied learning opportunities.
Lead gifts from the estate of Steve and Dorleen Switzer have helped transform the research farm and strengthen the resources available to Highland agriculture students. Their generosity supported the development of a sub-irrigation system, the construction of integral facilities at the farm owned by the Foundation and operated by college students, and efforts, alongside other key contributors, to secure equipment necessary for meaningful hands-on learning experiences.
The Switzers’ support reflects a deep commitment to agriculture, education and the future of northwest Illinois. The newly dedicated farm will provide students with opportunities to study crop production, soil health, water management, agricultural technology and other evolving practices in a real-world setting. The research farm serves as an extension of Highland’s agriculture classrooms, allowing students to connect academic instruction with practical experience in the field.
The Switzers’ generosity also demonstrates the long-term impact individuals and families can have through estate and planned giving.
“Steve and Dorleen’s generosity is a powerful example of how an estate gift can transform opportunities for generations of students,” said Dan Dick, Executive Director of the Highland Community College Foundation. “Their investment will continue making a difference far beyond this dedication. Across our region, individuals and families have an incredible opportunity to shape the future of our communities through Highland. Through the College’s Heritage Society, donors can create a legacy that strengthens education, supports students and makes a generational difference in northwest Illinois.”
The Highland Community College Foundation’s Heritage Society recognizes individuals who have included Highland in their estate plans or established other planned gifts benefiting the College and its students.
The September 17 dedication brought together members of the Switzer family and friends, College representatives, agriculture supporters, donors and community members to celebrate the farm and recognize the many individuals whose support has helped strengthen Highland’s agriculture program.
The Switzer Family Research Farm will continue to serve as a center for agricultural education, experimentation and hands-on learning, helping prepare Highland students to contribute to one of northwest Illinois’ most important industries.
About Highland Community College
Highland Community College serves northwest Illinois by providing accessible, high-quality educational opportunities that strengthen students, communities and the regional workforce. Through academic programs, career and technical education, workforce development and community partnerships, Highland prepares students for continued education, successful careers and lifelong learning.