President's Voice

As we embrace April and all the excitement ahead for Waubonsee Community College this spring we proudly celebrate National Community College Month—a time to honor the vital role that community colleges play in shaping lives and driving progress. This month holds particular significance as we reflect on the profound impact of community colleges nationwide, including here at Waubonsee.

One of the defining aspects of community colleges is our commitment to provide access and meet the evolving needs of students and communities. At Waubonsee, our online and flexible learning options allow students to take classes when and where it works best for them while still delivering an affordable and high-quality education.

Community colleges stand as beacons of opportunity, as engines of social mobility, empowering students to pursue their dreams and achieve success in various industries, like Britney Daniels, author of "Journal of a Black Queer Nurse," and Hall of Fame inductee Maxzine Rossler. At Waubonsee, we take immense pride in our mission to provide a transformative educational experience that opens doors and creates pathways to brighter futures for all students.

Community colleges remain adaptable and responsive by navigating an ever-changing landscape shaped by technological advancements, economic shifts, and societal changes. We equip students with the knowledge, skills, and competencies needed to thrive in dynamic environments and contribute meaningfully to society. Waubonsee’s state-of-the-art Technical Education Center is scheduled to open for classes in Fall 2025 to help us meet the evolving and expanding needs within the automotive technology, auto body, and welding industries.

During National Community College Month at Waubonsee we don't just celebrate the achievements of our students and alumni, we also recognize the faculty, staff and administrators that all work so hard to support our students’ dreams; faculty like Dr. Sheela Vemu who was recently recognized by the American Association of Community Colleges. Whether pursuing degrees, certificates, or workforce training, our employees are helping our students make a positive impact in their communities and beyond. Our entire college community is helping to shape future leaders, innovators, and changemakers.

Furthermore, community colleges serve as hubs of economic development and workforce training. We regularly collaborate with local industries, businesses, and employers to provide relevant, career-focused education that meets labor market demands. Through partnerships and initiatives, community colleges like ours contribute to building a skilled workforce and driving regional prosperity.

As we commemorate National Community College Month, I invite our community members to join us in celebrating the transformative power of education. Please take a moment to recognize the dedication of faculty and staff who inspire and support our students daily. Reflect on the achievements of our graduates making meaningful contributions in diverse fields and sectors.

We are committed to excellence, equity, and innovation at Waubonsee Community College. We pledge to continue empowering individuals, transforming communities, and advancing the collective pursuit of knowledge and opportunity. Let us envision a future where education remains a beacon of hope and possibility for all.

Past communications from Dr. Knetl