Macomb, IL. – Spoon River College held a ribbon-cutting and open house Wednesday, September 3, to celebrate the completion of the final renovations at their East Jackson Street campus, allowing them to move their operations from the South Johnson Street building.
“What a truly momentous day this is for Spoon River College, for the City of Macomb, and for all the communities we serve. Today, we officially open the doors to a new era of opportunity, growth, and education,” said Dr. Curt Oldfield, President of Spoon River College.
Oldfield expressed his appreciation to the State of Illinois for their support of the project, saying “Their investment in community colleges ensures that education remains accessible, affordable, and transformative for students across this region.” Others recognized were Hein Construction and Quick Electric for turning a vision into a reality, the Spoon River College Board of Trustees for their commitment to the project, and the Macomb community, who “stood shoulder to shoulder with Spoon River College, championing education and economic growth.”
Also speaking were Lisa Hennigh, Deputy Director of Construction on behalf of the Capital Development Board; Kevin Meade, SRC Board of Trustee and former SRC Foundation Board member; Justice Keene, SRC student; and Macomb Mayor Michael Inman.
Graham Health System was recognized for their generous investment in what is now the Graham Health System Nursing and Allied Health Learning Lab.
“As we prepare to cut this ribbon, let us remember that what we dedicate today is more than brick and mortar. It is a place of promise. It is a home for learning. And it is a legacy that will shape lives for generations to come,” said Oldfield. “The future begins today, right here, at the Macomb Campus.”
Tours of the campus and refreshments were available following the ribbon-cutting.
Funding for the project included a Rebuild Illinois grant for $6.2 million, approximately $1 million from congressionally appropriated funds to support the expansion of rural health care, and $10 million in local funds.
Spoon River College is a two-year, public community college in West Central Illinois dedicated to providing students a quality education. With campuses in Canton and Macomb, and Learning Centers in Havana and Rushville, Spoon River College serves students in a 1,566 square miles area including portions of Fulton, McDonough, Mason, Schuyler and Knox counties.