FREEPORT, IL — The Community Foundation of Northern Illinois (CFNIL) honored the area’s best and brightest leaders and organizations on December 11 at the Prairie Street Brewing Co. in downtown Rockford. Hundreds of local residents assembled to recognize outstanding leadership, service, and dedication to community improvement.
Highland Community College (HCC) is proud to announce that its President, Chris Kuberski, has been recognized with the Community Champion Award for Stephenson County at the annual Excalibur and Excelsior Award Ceremony.
“When I came to Northwest Illinois to serve at Highland in 2015, my personal goal and commitment was to leave the institution and region in a better position than it was when I arrived,” said Chris Kuberski. “It warms my heart and brings me great joy to know that others believe I have.”
Kuberski’s career has been defined by service above self. She has guided Highland through the storm of a global pandemic, secured millions in grant funding for our local community, overseen more than $18 million in campus improvements, and expanded academic programs in critical fields. By aligning programs with regional industry needs, HCC ensures a steady pipeline of skilled workers, helping local employers thrive while attracting new investment to the area.
A servant leader, trusted collaborator, and community champion, she has devoted her career to improving lives in northern Illinois. She currently serves on the boards of the Greater Freeport Partnership, Northwest Illinois Economic Development (NWILED), and the Region 1 Planning Council. In these capacities, she brings the voice of education to conversations about economic growth, regional planning, and community development.