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Kathleen Randall, Professor of Education
A Waubonsee Community College faculty member has been recognized by the American Association of Community Colleges (AACC). Kathleen Randall, Professor of Education, was one of 32 faculty selected for the 2025 Dale P. Parnell Faculty Distinction Recognition. This award recognizes individuals who go above and beyond what is required to ensure students succeed academically.
Randall, a proud community college graduate and the daughter of two educators, discovered her passion for teaching in an introductory education course. That pivotal moment launched a career dedicated to honoring her family’s legacy while shaping the future of education across Illinois.
As a leader in the statewide Scaling Education Pathways in Illinois (SEPI) initiative, Randall bridges K-12 and higher education to strengthen the teacher pipeline. Her efforts have helped create a streamlined dual-credit pathway at Waubonsee that enables high school students to earn college credit and transition directly into teacher preparation programs with a clear path to licensure.
According to a 2024 report by the Illinois Association of School Boards and an annual survey by the Illinois Association of Regional Superintendents of Schools (IARSS), 73% of Illinois schools reported teacher shortages, with more than 2,500 positions unfilled or filled by underqualified staff.
With more than 20 years in the classroom, Randall is known for creating an inclusive, welcoming environment where future educators are inspired to explore teaching with curiosity and purpose. Her prior experience supporting high school students with learning, behavioral, and emotional challenges shapes her holistic, student-centered approach to teacher preparation.
Beyond the classroom, Randall actively connects her students to professional networks through the National Educator Association and Illinois Education Association, helping them access statewide conferences and training opportunities.
For Randall, teaching is both a calling and a career, and she works every day to instill that sense of purpose in the next generation of educators. Nearly two decades ago, Randall launched the Waubonsee Student Education Association (WSEA) to support and guide students pursuing careers in teaching, a role she proudly continues today as the group’s longtime advisor.
Randall is involved in other statewide efforts, such as the Illinois Community College Educator Leaders-Grow Your Own Initiative, the Illinois Community College Educational Faculty Association, and the Educators Rising group, all of which are focused on addressing the critical shortage of education professionals in Illinois.
The Dale P. Parnell Distinguished Faculty Designation recognizes individuals making a difference in the classroom. It was named in honor of former AACC President and CEO Dale P. Parnell. Each year, the AACC recognizes community college faculty who have excelled in their chosen fields.
