Office of the President

John A. Logan College officials announced that tenth-day census reporting for the Fall 2025 semester shows a 4.5% increase in student enrollment and a 3.1% increase in credit hours compared to the Fall 2024 semester. The 3,369 students represent the highest enrollment since the fall of 2019.

College President Dr. Kirk Overstreet credited the growth to the collaborative efforts of faculty, staff, and administrators.

“We have worked together to develop strategies that help us meet our students’ needs not only in recruitment, but in retention as well,” Overstreet said.

Overstreet said he is optimistic about the future of the College, citing new initiatives designed to expand opportunities and support student success.

“We have developed programs that help us meet our students where they are,” he said. “Fast-track classes that allow students to choose options other than regular 16-week classes, along with enhanced services like counseling and student support services, have all contributed to the growth.”

The increases mark a positive trend for the Carterville-based community college, which has made enrollment and retention a campus-wide priority.

While the tenth-day census is the traditional enrollment reporting mechanism for colleges and universities, Overstreet noted that John A. Logan College continues to see enrollment growth beyond the census date.

“We offer a variety of 8-, 12-, and 4-week classes that are currently enrolling students. We expect those numbers to add to our overall enrollment by the end of the semester,” he said.

In addition to its focus on retention, the College has invested heavily in infrastructure to support student learning. Recently, construction began on a $14.2 million Career and Technical Education Center. Classroom and lab renovations, as well as upgrades to the physical and life science tutoring center, have also been completed. A new elevator was installed as part of the West Entrance (Logan Hall) project, which is scheduled to begin later this fall. The College will also launch a federally funded project later this year to expand nursing labs and classrooms. The College has also partnered with Deaconess of Illinois to provide a medical clinic inside Logan Fitness.

“We are improving our accessibility and providing our students with facilities and state-of-the-art equipment to prepare them for their best possible future,” Overstreet said.

Logan Fitness at John A. Logan College has seen a noticeable increase in memberships this year, a trend officials attribute to the facility’s around-the-clock availability and friendly, community-focused atmosphere.

The expansion to 24/7 access has enabled members to tailor their workouts to their personal schedules, thereby eliminating one of the most common barriers to regular exercise. Whether early in the morning, late at night, or between classes, the flexibility has proven to be a significant draw for students, faculty, and community members alike.

“Our goal was to make fitness more accessible, and the response has been overwhelming,” said Logan Fitness Director Dr. Bradley Griffith. “People appreciate the convenience, but they also feel comfortable here, and it is that culture and welcoming environment that sets us apart.”

Griffith presented an update at the August meeting of the John A. Logan College Board of Trustees, highlighting the growth at Logan Fitness. According to Griffith, there have been over 11,363 check-ins and over 1,000 users in the first year of 24/7 access.  Membership at the facility has increased substantially over the past two years, with a current total of over 1,757 members. Daily usage also saw significant growth, with 138,064 check-ins in 2024, a 28% increase over 2023.

Regarding the over 11,000 check-ins with 24/7 access, Griffith stressed that over 11,000 times, individuals had the opportunity to exercise when they would not have had the chance previously.

In addition to extended hours, staff members emphasize personalized service, community support, and a wide range of fitness opportunities. The facility includes state-of-the-art exercise equipment, a pool, JALC Athletics’ weight room, and group classes designed to accommodate all fitness levels.

College officials say the growth in memberships reflects a broader commitment to health and wellness on campus and in the surrounding community.

“Logan Fitness is more than just a gym,” said John A. Logan College President Dr. Kirk Overstreet. “It’s a place where people of all ages and backgrounds come together to pursue healthier lifestyles, and we’re proud of the role it plays in supporting both our students and our region.”

John A. Logan College welcomed students back to campus in style this fall, offering a range of activities, treats, and personal touches designed to make the first week of classes both enjoyable and memorable.

From golf cart rides to the front door to free hot dogs, pizza, popcorn, and ice cream, Kick-Off Week gave new and returning students plenty of reasons to feel right at home. “We have really tried to make this week as welcoming as possible for students,” said JALC President Dr. Kirk Overstreet. “It is important for students to have a good experience in their first few weeks of school, and we want to show them just how grateful we are that they made JALC their college choice.”

The celebration began even before the first day of classes. On Friday, prior to the start of classes, dozens of students participated in a campus kick-off event that featured a faculty, staff, and student panel; information sessions with academic departments and programs; campus tours; lunch; and giveaways. The event aimed to connect students with resources and help them feel part of the college community from day one.

The excitement around campus has officials enthusiastic about the Fall 2025 semester, although final enrollment counts will not be released until the tenth day of classes.

According to Overstreet, the success is no accident. “We have made it our campus-wide goal to not only increase enrollment, but to boost retention as well,” he said. “Events like Kick-Off Week are just part of our overall efforts that are showing results.” With strong community spirit, dedicated faculty and staff, and a focus on student success, JALC’s red-carpet welcome signals a promising start to the academic year.