Moraine Valley president appointed to Illinois Community College Board

Illinois Gov. J.B. Pritzker has appointed Dr. Sylvia Jenkins, president of Moraine Valley Community College, to the Illinois Community College Board (ICCB). The ICCB, headquartered in Springfield, is responsible for fiduciary oversight and governing policies of the Illinois community college system.

Jenkins looks forward to serving in this capacity and supporting higher education in Illinois.

“I am honored to have been selected for this role and be given an opportunity to help more people, especially the students we serve,” she said. “Being a part of Moraine Valley for the last 35 years has prepared me for this role, and I will do my best to serve the citizens of Illinois as we seek to provide an accessible and affordable community college system.”

ICCB meets about five times each year throughout the state and works collaboratively with partners such as the Illinois Board of Higher Education, the Illinois Community College Trustees Association and the Illinois Council of Community College Presidents.

Jenkins was recommended for the board by Dr. Brian Durham, executive director of the ICCB, about two months ago. After the recommendation, she interviewed with Deputy Gov. Martin Torres.

Dr. Lazaro Lopez, ICCB chair, said he is pleased to welcome Jenkins to the board.

“Her exemplary leadership during the height of the COVID-19 pandemic helped ensure our community college system remained a safe, supportive and accessible option for countless students across our state,” he added. “Dr. Jenkins’ experience as a college president will bring a unique and valuable perspective to the ICCB, and we are excited to add her distinguished guidance to our board."

Jenkins’ appointment is effective until 2026.