Joliet Junior College Joins Effort as Gov. Pritzker Announces Legislation to Expand Community College Baccalaureate Degrees

Illinois Gov. J.B. Pritzker introduced a historic educational legislative priority during the annual State of the State address that would allow community colleges in Illinois to offer baccalaureate degrees. This initiative addresses Illinois’ growing workforce needs and would continue Joliet Junior College’s long-standing mission of innovation and workforce development.

"JJC is proud to support a more unified education system in Illinois — one that keeps students learning, working and building their futures right here in our state,” said Dr. Clyne Namuo, JJC president. “By expanding access to bachelor’s degrees through CCB programs, we are not only bridging critical education gaps but also strengthening our workforce and communities. When students can earn their degrees close to home, they are more likely to stay, contribute and drive Illinois forward."

Namuo has played a pivotal role in advancing the community college baccalaureate (CCB) initiative, serving as the lead for the Illinois Council of Community College Presidents (ICCCP) Baccalaureate Degree Taskforce. His efforts have included testifying before the Illinois Senate Higher Education Committee and leveraging best practices from other states to advocate for the legislation. Having previously contributed to the successful implementation of CCB degrees in Arizona, Namuo will continue to provide valuable experience and leadership to the initiative.

A survey of Illinois community college students was conducted — 200 of whom were JJC students — and their support was overwhelming, with many citing their ability to continue their educational pursuits without interrupting their existing daily lives and commitments.

“Community college bachelor’s programs would remove big obstacles like high costs, traditional scheduling and distance from home,” said one surveyed JJC student. “It would be easier for me to continue my education if I could stay at JJC.”

CCB programs complement, rather than compete with, existing four-year institutions by serving a distinct student population — working adults, place-bound students and those facing financial barriers who might not otherwise pursue a bachelor’s degree. CCB programs fill a critical gap by offering flexible, workforce-aligned pathways that make bachelor's degrees accessible to those with career and family obligations. Together, these two higher education models will work toward a greater goal: increasing degree attainment and developing a more skilled and educated workforce that strengthens Illinois' economy and communities.

If passed, the legislation would align Illinois with 24 other states that have successfully implemented Community College Baccalaureate programs. By providing local, cost-effective bachelor’s degree pathways, the initiative ensures students can advance their education without sacrificing their jobs, families or community commitments.

The Illinois Community College Board is leading the effort to expand Community College Baccalaureate programs in Illinois, with strong support from the Illinois Community College Trustees Association (ICCTA) and the Illinois Council of Community College Presidents (ICCCP). Together, these organizations represent Illinois’ 45 community colleges  the nation’s third-largest system and the state’s leading public workforce trainer.

To learn more about the proposed Community College Baccalaureate legislation and its benefits, review the joint release issued by the Illinois Community College Board or the Illinois Community College Trustees Association CCB webpage for a timeline to legislation.