Difficult Work Begins

Once the Junior College Board of Trustees organized, many important matters were addressed to prepare the new McHenry County higher education facility for future students. The first few months following the successful 1967 referendum saw many Board of Trustee meetings covering a multitude of topics. Some of the most important included:

• A treasurer and a bank, an essential part of operating the newly formed district
• An attorney for the Board
• The district name
• Office space
• State requirements
• Class facilities
• A college president
• Professional and clerical staff
• An interim campus
• A permanent campus site
• A budget

Once the officers of the board were resolved, several committees were formed, including an Attorney Committee with members William Banker, Thomas Parsley, and Cal Skinner, Sr. The committee to select a Treasurer and a bank consisted of Banker and Skinner. A committee to select a district name included Mrs. Joan Hill, Dr. Harris and Dr. Leschuck.

Tuition Payment Offered

In addition to these housekeeping chores, the Trustees offered to pay the tuition of any resident in the newly formed district who desired to attend summer or fall classes at any public junior college in Illinois. No deadline for applications was set, nor was a cost estimate determined.

Along similar lines, the Board expressed a willingness to accept, without question, all Lake County residents who desired to attend the new McHenry County Junior College when it opened. The Board also offered to accept any high school district adjoining the newly formed district boundaries, even if located in Lake County.

When Will the College Doors Open?

A highly debated question during this time was the date for the college’s official start of classes. Board President Everett Nichols said the major obstacle in getting the college underway was the lack of a college president. A number of the other Trustees shared this view, as well as the State Junior College Board Associate Secretary, Albert Martin, Jr.

Trustee Skinner wanted to see vocational classes offered in the Fall 1967 term, if students, instructors and a location could be found. The application to the State Junior College Board for the $100,000 available to the newly formed district cited this plan. Requirements for the beginning of classes were set by the State Junior College Board and conveyed by Martin.

The difficulties facing the newly formed board were many, and at times the board was not in full agreement. Each member was passionate about what he felt was best for the new district. In the end, a lot of disagreement turned into agreement for the betterment of the college.

More 40th Anniversary Celebration Activities Underway

Following the successful April 15^th celebration open house, more anniversary events are planned for this summer and fall. Event details will be posted at www.mchenry.edu/mccanniversary as the program develops. Pages will change regularly, so visit often. Be sure to share your memories and photos on the MCC blog and electronic time capsule. You also can call toll-free 1-866-788-9911 or send an email with contact information to 40years@mchenry.edu for more information on upcoming events!

Iris Bryan