Macomb, IL— Spoon River College celebrated the grand opening of its newly renovated Macomb campus with a ribbon-cutting ceremony on September 3. Located at 2500 East Jackson Street, the new space marks a significant step in expanding educational opportunities in McDonough County.
“As Illinois’ world-class institutions continue to train the next generation of healthcare professionals, I am proud to see Spoon River College open its renovated site to students across West Central Illinois,” said Governor JB Pritzker. “Our historic state investments in community colleges and universities are enhancing academic facilities and programs, bolstering an array of workforce development opportunities for Illinois students.”
Since 1983, the institution had operated out of the high school building on South Johnson Street. In 2006, the Board of Trustees approved the purchase of the East Jackson Street site, planning for this development with the goal of growing academic and career training programs in the region. Phase 1 of the expansion was completed in 2009, with the opening of the SRC Office of Community Outreach in a portion of the space. The remaining 66,000 square feet has now been fully renovated to include classrooms, simulation laboratories, support services, and office areas.
“What a truly momentous day this is for Spoon River College, for the City of Macomb, and for all the communities we serve,” said Dr. Curt Oldfield, President of Spoon River College. “Having the space to expand our existing career programs and to build new ones, with HVAC and Industrial Maintenance at the top of the list, will be significant in terms of workforce preparation in West Central Illinois. 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.”
The funding is made possible by the bipartisan Rebuild Illinois Capital program, with state investments totaling $6 million, $1 million in congressionally directed funds to support rural healthcare expansion, and $11.7 million in local funding through the Capital Development Board. Additionally, Graham Health Services (GHS) has invested $250,000 to fund the development of the Spoon River College School of Nursing and Allied Health Learning Lab, creating a clear pathway from RN certification to a Bachelor of Science in Nursing (BSN) at the Graham Hospital College of Nursing. GHS provides patient care in their hospital in Canton, and in 12 medical clinics in Fulton, Knox, Mason, McDonough, and Peoria counties.
“The new academic facility at Spoon River College reflects the state’s commitment to investing in infrastructure that will directly benefit our students, like those in west-central Illinois, said TJ Edwards, Executive Director of the Illinois Capital Development Board. “CDB ensured this project will serve as a hub for healthcare education, workforce training, and academic support long-term.”
“This is exactly the kind of collaboration our region needs,” said Dr Oldfield. “We’re grateful for Graham Health System’s support and proud to work alongside them to invest in students, strengthen the healthcare workforce, and adapt to emerging healthcare needs.”
“I am very excited for Spoon River College as they open their doors at their new campus here in Macomb. For over 60 years, the residents of Western Illinois have been served by this school as they enter their academic years or continue their education to advance their careers, and this new center will further advance Spoon River’s contributions to our economy,” said State Senator Mike Halpin (D – Rock Island). “The investments by the Board of Trustees and the State of Illinois to make this facility happen will have a tremendous impact on the students, staff, and faculty, while also attracting new enrollment with this state-of-the-art learning environment.”
“As a lifelong resident and business operator in Western Illinois, I have seen first-hand the contributions Spoon River College has had in our communities. The two-year programs offered here have grown the professional workforce of the region for decades, and this new facility will bolster their impact for many decades to come,” remarked State Representative Dan Swanson (R – Alpha). As a member of the House Higher Education; Appropriations – Higher Education Committees, I am heartened to have such a commitment to the community colleges of Illinois, particularly here in the 71st District.”
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.