African American Business Association Names JJC Community Partner of the Year

Joliet Junior College (JJC) accepted the African American Business Association of Will County’s (AABA) Community Partner of the Year Award during the 2023 AABA Juneteenth CEO Gala in June. 

The award is presented annually to a community partner that has demonstrated excellence in partnering with AABA to provide opportunities that benefit the community and furthering the AABA Mission. 

“JJC was selected as this year’s community partner honoree because of the success the college has experienced securing additional funding for the Entrepreneur and Business Center and the transformational work being done in the areas of diversity, equity and inclusion,” said AABA president Chris Parker. “In addition, Dr. (Yolanda) Farmer’s tangible approach to community and servant leadership has spoken great volumes to AABA and our local communities. She inspires the business community to keep its mission and vision front and center and remain resilient through all seasons of business.”

Farmer attended several AABA meetings throughout the year and moderated AABA’s strategic planning session, sharing her expertise in strategic plan development and leadership with the AABA board. 

AABA announced in September 2022 it would become an independent 501c(6) organization, a decision made with enthusiastic support from then-parent organization Joliet Region Chamber of Commerce and existing AABA membership. AABA works to facilitate better access to opportunity and resources for black entrepreneurs and business owners across Will County.  

“I am inspired by this recognition because I have often said that a successful community college is one that is deeply embedded into the community that it serves,” said JJC President Dr. Clyne Namuo. “I am looking forward to continuing the partnership with AABA and the impact these two institutions can make together. It is my promise to you as president of JJC that you will continue to find a place for the support of AABA’s mission within the walls of Joliet Junior College.”

For media inquiries, please contact Media and Communications Manager, Katherine Smith at katherine.smith@jjc.edu or 815-280-2844.