Kane County Reporter

Rep. Randy Hultgren (R-IL) recently organized a roundtable of community-college leaders to address major issues facing higher education at a gathering of his Higher Education Advisory Committee (HEAC) in Washington, D.C.

Hultgren's agenda included funding-reauthorization legislation, career and technical education, and the Department of Labor’s new overtime regulation, as well as student-loan debt. Present at the meeting were a half-dozen presidents from community and junior colleges in Hultgren’s District 14.

Guests included Laurie Borowicz of Kishwaukee College, Judy Mitchell of Joliet Junior College, Ann Rondeau from College of DuPage, David Sam of Elgin Community College, Clinton Gabbard from McHenry County College, and Christine Sobek of Waubonsee Community College. The College of Lake County also sent a representative in lieu of its president, Jerry Weber, who was unable to attend.

“I rely on the members of my Higher Education Advisory Committee to inform me of their needs and challenges they face as they seek to educate,” Hultgren said. “At this most recent meeting, we tackled important issues, such as transparency in student loans, regulation-compliance requirements for managing federal student aid, promoting workforce development and career readiness, and meeting the needs of a diverse and changing student population.”

Known for his advocacy of STEM education, as well as home schooling, Hultgren has received numerous awards from science organizations in recognition of his work.

“I was pleased to congratulate and welcome our newest college presidents,” Hultgren said. “I look forward to building our relationship as we work together for the benefit of northern Illinois.”