Joliet Junior College Board of Trustees Approves FY26 Budget

Joliet Junior College (JJC) announces the adoption of its fiscal year 2026 (FY26) budget, marking the institution’s 53rd consecutive year of balanced financial planning. The $122 million budget underscores JJC’s commitment to fiscal responsibility, educational excellence and community impact.

“This budget is more than numbers — it’s a reflection of our mission, our values and our vision for the future,” said Dr. Clyne Namuo, JJC president. “We are investing strategically in the people, programs and infrastructure that will empower our students and strengthen our community.”

Key highlights of the FY26 budget include:

• Sustained affordability: For the third consecutive year, JJC has maintained flat tuition rates, made possible through strong state support, local property tax contributions and strategic resource alignment.
• Enhanced student support: New positions in academic advising aim to reduce student-to-advisor ratios, ensuring more personalized guidance and support.
• Expansion of dual credit programs: Continued growth of the 12x12x12 dual credit initiative is supported by the addition of a dedicated position to lead this effort.
• Technology and infrastructure upgrades: Following a comprehensive IT assessment, key roles are being added to bolster JJC’s digital infrastructure and support innovation in learning environments.

The FY26 budget represents a 4.66% increase over the FY25 budget and is bolstered by a 2.9% increase in base operating support from the state of Illinois. Continued monetary award program funding also signals a strong public commitment to higher education. The new fiscal year will begin July 1.

“As we navigate the evolving landscape of higher education, we do so with optimism, creativity and a shared sense of purpose,” said Dr. Namuo. “Together, we are building a stronger, more inclusive and more innovative future — one student, one initiative and one investment at a time.”

JJC has received the Government Finance Officers Association Certificate of Achievement for Excellence in Financial Reporting for 24 years in a row. This recognition acknowledges excellence in government financial practices.

For more information about JJC and its FY26 budget, please visit www.jjc.edu.