In The Know
April, 2026
Message From the President
Dear Campus Community,
As we head toward the end of the semester, it feels like a good time to pause, reflect on what we’ve accomplished together this year, and look ahead to what’s coming next for our campus.
One of the most visible themes this year has been construction. We’ve broken ground on four major projects and completed both the Harrison-Bruce Baseball and Softball Facility and the C and E Wing renovation. Projects of this size always come with some growing pains, but our students and employees have handled the disruptions with patience and grace. Most importantly, the work across the College has continued to progress, thanks to your commitment and resilience.
John A. Logan College continues to have a strong and meaningful impact across our region. Enrollment, retention, and completion are all on the rise. A recent report from the Illinois Community College Board also showed the College generated a total economic impact of $244.3 million in fiscal year 2023–24, supporting 3,616 jobs throughout Southern Illinois. That’s something everyone at JALC can be proud of.
I’d also like to highlight the excellent work of Dr. Stephanie Chaney Hartford, Emily Monti, and Joseph Dethrow, who recently presented at the HLC National Conference. Their session, “A Practical, Campus-Wide Approach to Preparing an HLC Interim Report,” shared real-world strategies for approaching accreditation work through collaboration, strong organization, and campus-wide engagement. It’s a great example of Logan leadership being recognized well beyond our campus.
Our students continue to shine inside and outside the classroom. The Model Illinois Government Team was named Outstanding Small Delegation at this year’s competition in Springfield, and we recently welcomed new members during our Phi Theta Kappa induction ceremony. I’m incredibly proud of our PTK students and the continued recognition of our chapter as one of the Top 50 in the nation.
Athletics has given us a lot to celebrate as well. Men’s and women’s basketball found success despite playing much of the year without a home gym. Volleyball had another strong season, and our baseball, softball, and men’s and women’s golf teams are enjoying productive spring seasons with postseason play ahead. I want to congratulate Head Baseball Coach Kyle Surprenant on earning his 400th career win, and recognize Kameron Yearsley, who is one home run away from tying the national home run record that has stood since 1999. Kameron will take his first shot at the record at home on Thursday, May 30.
I want to congratulate Rebecca Corbit, associate professor of biology and chair of life and physical sciences, who has been named the 2026 Faculty of the Year.
On April 30, we’ll hold a campus forum to talk through the results of the recent employee satisfaction survey. I’ll address the feedback we received, share next steps, and reaffirm my commitment to improving communication and transparency across the College. One way we’ll continue strengthening communication is through this monthly report. Going forward, each member of the President’s Cabinet will share a short “Things You Need to Know” update as part of this newsletter.
I have had several questions regarding trees on campus and retiree plaques. We have had two issues with some of the trees on campus. First, some of the trees on campus had grown so tall that they were blocking some of our security cameras. As a safety precaution, we have removed those trees. The College has also placed plaques at the bases of trees throughout campus to honor faculty and staff who have retired after 15 or more years of service. Those trees were located throughout campus, and many did not have sidewalks nearby, which made it hard for retirees and their families to visit the plaques. In addition to location issues, some of those trees have died from disease.
I am pleased to announce that those plaques will be relocated to the patio outside the Conference Center near the statue of General Logan. When the relocation is complete, we will hold a ceremony to welcome back our retirees. This will be a beautiful and meaningful addition to the patio and far more accessible to our retirees.
Commencement is right around the corner and will take place on May 16 at Mountain Dew Park. The graduation ceremony begins at 10:00 a.m., followed by the Nurse Pinning Ceremony at 2:00 p.m., both of which I know we are looking forward to!
This is an especially busy stretch as we prepare for graduation, complete our budget process for next year, and continue work on our HLC accreditation visit, among other ongoing tasks. While things never seem to slow down on campus, I hope each of you can take some time this summer to rest, recharge, and spend time with family and friends. The work you’ve done this year has been outstanding, and I’m confident the year ahead will build on that momentum.
Regards,
Kirk Overstreet, PhD. 
President, John A. Logan College
Things You Need to Know
Cabinet Report
Dr. Stephanie Chaney Hartford
During the Spring 2026 semester, our Higher Learning Commission (HLC) work has continued to focus on evidence collection in preparation for the comprehensive site visit scheduled for February 14–15, 2028. Each month this semester has been dedicated to gathering evidence aligned with one of the four HLC criteria. April, which focuses on Criterion Four, will conclude in the coming days.
Additionally, criterion teams continue to meet in workshops to review collected evidence and identify any gaps that need to be addressed. This past week, Criterion Team 3 met for its evidence review workshop.
Dr. Susan LaPanne
Purchasing:
As we approach the end of the fiscal year, several Purchasing deadlines are nearing. Shannon Newman shared the timeline via email on April 20, and additional information is available on Fiscal Year Closeout Dates.
Please also remember that PCard statements are released on the 6th of each month and are due to Purchasing by the 15th.
Risk Management:
The College has named John Gwaltney, Risk Manager, as the College’s Compliance Officer. In this role, he is working to identify and document all compliance-related tasks across campus.
John will be visiting departments to gather information on compliance responsibilities. If he reaches out to your area, please note that this effort is intended to create a centralized “directory” of compliance activities, allowing him to better connect inquiries to the appropriate campus experts.
Business Services:
The College’s recent bond issuance was well received by the market, with strong investor interest. These funds will support planned upgrades, repairs, and improvements to campus facilities, including projects previously delayed.
It is important to note that bond funds are restricted and may only be used for purposes outlined in the Official Offering Statement. They cannot be used for operating expenses such as salaries, benefits, or routine materials.
Dr. Rachel Sveda-Webb
New Student Orientation Days will conclude with Carterville on April 29, Marion and Mary Logan High School on April 30, and a makeup day on May 5.
“Finish Strong” events for students are taking place April 28–30, with events on April 29 and 30 funded through an Illinois Community College Board (ICCB) Mental Health Grant.
Additionally, JALC has been awarded the ICCB Access and Equity in Dual Credit Grant, which will expand and enhance dual credit opportunities for rural high schools.
Dr. Nathan Arnett
We are pleased to announce that Barnes & Noble College has been selected as the College’s bookstore provider beginning in Fall 2026.
The LMS Evaluation Team has also recommended adopting Canvas, provided by Instructure, as the College’s next Learning Management System. Implementation is planned for Summer 2027, replacing the current system.
Arts and Sciences:
Faculty from the Life and Physical Science Department participated in Du Quoin Elementary/Middle School’s after-school STEM Day on April 15. The event served 84 students in grades K–8 and was well-received.
CTE and Workforce Training:
- Applied Technology faculty attended the 2026 Herrin Career Expo on April 24, networking with employers and engaging students on career pathways.
- The Highway Construction Careers Training Program (HCCTP) graduated 13 students on April 24. One graduate, Justin Johnson, signed with the Mid-American Carpenters Regional Council (Local 662).
- Ag Mechanics Day was held April 21, with 45 students from six schools competing in hands-on technical events.
Chief Ron Webb
The JALC Police Department received a grant from the Illinois Law Enforcement Training and Standards Board for more than $45,000. The funding will support the replacement of body-worn cameras and installation of cameras in police vehicles. Deployment is expected by the end of April.
Jennifer Fuller
Since January 1, nearly 40 Administrative Procedures have been updated. Most revisions clarify and better document existing practices. The full Administrative Procedure Manual is available online.
Legislative advocacy efforts continue at both the state and federal levels, including support for Workforce Pell, community college baccalaureate degrees (HB 5319), and restoration of PATH Grant funding. JALC representatives will attend ICCTA Lobby Day in Springfield on May 6.
There has also been a significant increase in FOIA requests. Departments interested in FOIA training are encouraged to contact Jennifer Fuller.
Scott Elliott
IT continues to support technology planning for construction-related projects, including classrooms, offices, and infrastructure. Progress is ongoing with new Softdocs workflows, including forms for teaching schedules, travel advances, print requests, and class drops.
Additional updates include:
- Rolling out replacement computers for employees
- Expanding DUO multi-factor authentication to students (pending board approval)
- Continued progress toward ADA Title II compliance ahead of the April 2027 deadline
- Launch of a SharePoint Refresh Task Force
Congratulations to Travis Geske on earning the Nutanix Certified Professional – Multicloud Infrastructure certification.
Staci Shafer
The Advancement and Foundation Office has established a new $25,000 endowment to support nursing students. The team is collaborating with Media Arts students to produce a promotional video highlighting the Promise Scholarship and is partnering with local high schools to coordinate scholarship award ceremonies.
Stephanie Harner
Human Resources continues advancing workforce and compliance initiatives in preparation for FY27. Updates include:
- Alignment of position descriptions
- Enhancements to training processes
- Updates to Administrative Procedure 811 (Student Employment)
HR is also coordinating the upcoming employee appreciation and retirement recognition event and promoting professional development opportunities for employees.
Kara Bevis
The Bursar Office is finalizing plans with Nelnet to implement integrated past-due payment plans beginning in Spring 2026. This system will allow students to enroll through the MyJALC portal, with payments automatically recorded.
Upcoming billing dates:
- Summer bills due May 15
- Fall bills mailed June 29, due July 15
Jeremy Sargent
The West Lobby Expansion project is progressing with structural repair design underway. Other campus construction projects remain on schedule.
A comprehensive campus-wide furniture refresh plan is being developed, with implementation beginning in FY27.
Dr. Steve O’Keefe
As the fiscal year concludes, departments with grant-funded advertising are encouraged to coordinate with Marketing and PR to ensure expenditures are completed by June 30.
With tornado season underway in Southern Illinois, please ensure your JALC Alert contact information is up to date. Emergency communications will be distributed via email, text, social media, and local media outlets.
The department is also developing a new ticketing system for marketing requests and preparing to launch an updated campus map and wayfinding system this summer.
Thank you to Phillip Lane for coordinating the new website mapping and wayfinding program. The mapping will include 360 visuals to help individuals navigate the campus. The new maps will be operational later this summer.
Congratulations to Hilary Holdinghausen on her promotion to Assistant Manager of Digital Marketing.
Greg Starrick
Spring sports are winding down. The Women’s Golf Team recently completed its season at the District Tournament in Tyler, Texas. They did not advance but had an outstanding season. Men’s golf is currently competing in the District Tournament in Springfield, MO.
Baseball player Kam Yearsley is chasing the NJCAA record of most home runs in a season. He currently has 37 home runs, and the record is 38. The Vols play at home on April 30. Coach Kyle Surprenant recently won his 400th game at Logan. Baseball will host the Region Tournament May 6-8.
Softball is also having an outstanding season, and Taylor Siefert recently won her 350th game.
- Baseball: 44–8 overall, Great Rivers Athletic Conference champions; Region 24 Tournament May 13–16
- Softball: 45–8 overall; Region 24 Tournament May 8–10
- Women’s Golf: Completed season at district tournament in Texas
- Men’s Golf: Winners of two recent tournaments, including the JALC Spring Invitational
Dr. Jordan Mays
The results of the employee satisfaction survey will be presented at a college forum on April 30. The College participated in the ICCB Economic Impact Study, and the report stated that JALC has an annual alumni impact of $244.3 million in added income and supports 3,616 jobs. Here are 5 ways to help promote course evaluations: Explain what course evaluations are and why they are important, share how student feedback from evaluations has helped you, dedicate class time to completing evaluations, create a course evaluations D2L tab for easier access, and offer incentives such as bonus points or treats.
News Around Campus
New Statewide Report Highlights the Economic Impact of John A. Logan College on the Regional Economy
A new statewide report released by the Illinois Community College Board highlights the significant economic and social impact of John A. Logan College, underscoring the institution’s role in driving regional growth and student success.
The report, issued in recognition of Community College Month in April, examines how John A. Logan College contributes to the economy across its district and throughout Illinois. Findings show the college generated a total economic impact of $244.3 million in fiscal year 2023–24, supporting 3,616 jobs in the region.
College officials say the data reinforces the institution’s long-standing mission of preparing students for the workforce while strengthening the local economy.
“We are living up to our mission to enrich lives through learning and community engagement, and this report illustrates how John A. Logan College continues to be a powerful economic engine for southern Illinois,” said JALC President, Dr. Kirk Overstreet. “From educating students to supporting local businesses, the impact extends far beyond the classroom.”
The report identifies three primary drivers of economic impact: operations spending, student spending, and alumni contributions.
In fiscal year 2023–24, the college employed 381 full- and part-time faculty and staff, with approximately 83% residing within the College’s district. Total payroll reached $26.7 million, while an additional $17.4 million was spent on facilities, supplies, and services. Together, those expenditures generated $29.3 million in added regional income and supported 407 jobs.
Student spending also contributed to the local economy. About 13% of students came from outside the district, many of whom relocated to attend the college. Combined with retained local students, their spending on housing, food, and transportation added $2.6 million in income and supported local jobs.
The largest impact came from alumni whose education and training have translated into higher earnings and greater workforce productivity. Former students contributed $212.4 million in added income to the regional economy, supporting more than 3,100 jobs.
Overall, the college’s impact accounts for approximately 2.9% of the region’s total gross regional product, with one out of every 26 jobs in the district linked to the college and its students.
Beyond direct economic contributions, the report also highlights strong returns on investment for students, taxpayers, and society.
Students who attended John A. Logan College in fiscal year 2023–24 invested a combined $10.4 million in their education. In return, they are expected to see $72.3 million in higher lifetime earnings, equating to a benefit-cost ratio of 7-to-1. The average associate degree graduate earns approximately $6,900 more annually than someone with only a high school diploma.
Taxpayers also benefit from the college’s impact. The report estimates $28.6 million in total taxpayer benefits, including increased tax revenues and reduced demand for public services such as health care, income assistance, and the justice system.
From a broader perspective, the college generates $256.4 million in total social benefits across Illinois, driven by increased earnings, business productivity, and societal savings.
“The economic impact highlighted in this study would be even greater today,” said Overstreet. “We have three major grant-funded construction projects currently underway with local contractors and supplies purchased from local businesses. The graduates from the programs that will benefit from the new facilities will impact our economy for years to come.”
The study concludes that John A. Logan College delivers substantial value to all stakeholders, including students and employers, taxpayers, and the broader community.
“The results demonstrate that the college is a strong investment,” the report states. “Its contributions support economic prosperity, improve quality of life, and help build a more skilled and competitive workforce.”
The analysis was based on fiscal year 2023–24 data from the Illinois Community College Board and the college, as well as labor market data and economic modeling from Lightcast.
Harrison Bruce Prairie Museum Groundbreaking
The Harrison Bruce Foundation held a groundbreaking ceremony for the Julia Harrison-Bruce Prairie Museum at the Harrison Bruce Historical Village on the campus of John A. Logan College at 10:00 a.m. on Friday, April 10.
According to the Harrison Bruce Foundation, the museum will stand as a lasting extension of Julia Harrison Bruce’s vision. In this place, historic exhibits and local art will come together to tell the story of this region. A place where voices are heard through oral storytelling—where memories are shared, recorded, and honored. A place for gatherings, for learning, for community, and for celebrating the rich legacy of Southern Illinois.
JALC Administrators Present at National Accreditation Conference
Three administrators from John A. Logan College were selected to present at the 2026 Higher Learning Commission Annual Conference, marking the first time since 2014 that staff have presented at the national event.
Dr. Stephanie Chaney Hartford, Emily Monti, and Joseph Dethrow led a session titled “A Practical, Campus-Wide Approach to Preparing an HLC Interim Report,” offering attendees actionable strategies for addressing accreditation concerns through effective interim reporting.
The presentation outlined a collaborative, institution-wide framework that emphasized the use of project management tools, cross-campus engagement, and a structured organizational approach aligned with the Higher Learning Commission’s core components.
Attendees received guidance on developing reports that are both responsive and sustainable, while remaining aligned with institutional strategic planning efforts. The presenters highlighted the importance of shared ownership, clear communication, and intentional alignment in producing meaningful accreditation documentation.
College officials said the opportunity reflects John A. Logan College’s ongoing commitment to academic excellence, continuous improvement, and leadership in higher education practices.
“I am extremely proud of our team being selected to present. Hundreds of individuals and groups request to present, and only a few are selected,” said JALC President Dr. Kirk Overstreet. “This is an example of the collaboration and leadership of our accreditation team at JALC.”
The Higher Learning Commission Annual Conference is a national gathering hosted by the Higher Learning Commission (HLC), of the accrediting agencies for colleges and universities in the United States.
Graduation
John A. Logan College will hold the Fifty-Seventh Commencement on Saturday, May 16, 2026, at 10:00 am at Mtn Dew Park in Marion, IL.
Commencement Day Prep and Arrival Guide
Images Around Campus and Beyond
In The Know Links and Updated Information
Institutional Effectiveness and Research
IER SharePoint
The office of institutional effectiveness and research has a newly updated SharePoint site. This new site is broken into the following areas: Dashboards, Enrollment Data, Survey Results, and Student Assessment. Additional information will be updated on this new site over the coming months. The easiest way to access the new SharePoint site is clicking on the “IER SharePoint” link on the left-hand side of the JALC website for Institutional Effectiveness and Research. Or click this link to access the page directly: https://jalcollege.sharepoint.com/sites/InstitutionalEffectivenessandResearch
Human Resources
A list of current open positions at JALC is listed at https://www.jalc.edu/employment/.
John A. Logan College has an institutional membership with NISOD, providing ALL EMPLOYEES access to a wide range of PROFESSIONAL DEVELOPMENT RESOURCES at no cost. These opportunities are designed to support teaching, learning, leadership, and employee success across campus.
Business Services
- The Treasurer’s Report & Financial Report’s can be found on the Board Agendas, Board Packets, and Approved Minutes page under the Board Packet links.
- Budget documents can be found on the Administrative Planning Documents page.