McHenry County College (MCC) hosted a groundbreaking ceremony and a student preview event on Tuesday, September 16 for its new Engagement Hall, a 250-person capacity space designed to bring students, employees, and partners of the College together for a variety of special programs and events.
The Engagement Hall will serve as a dynamic, multi-functional venue where MCC can host a wide range of events and opportunities, including job fairs, student activities and presentations, donor celebrations, and alumni engagement events—without disrupting key student spaces like the MCC Café and Gym. As a dedicated event space on campus, it will allow the College to expand the kinds of programming and activities it offers, bringing more possibilities to students, staff, and the community.
“We envisioned a space that invites people to come together—not just to meet, but to imagine, to create, and to celebrate what’s possible,” said MCC President Dr. Clint Gabbard. “The Engagement Hall will serve as a vibrant hub for the people and partnerships that shape our college.”
Located adjacent to the cafeteria and commons area, the new hall will include a dedicated entrance with outdoor seating; a permanent main stage with built-in sound and lighting systems; flexible interior layout for banquets, exhibits, classes, or performances; and a warm, modern design with wood beams and natural textures.
As part of the renovation, the College will also re-imagine the Building B entrance to create a more welcoming and clear entry point to campus for students and visitors.
The total project cost is $9.3 million. MCC had already set aside $7.29 million from its capital fund, with a generous $2 million donation from a private donor covering the remainder.
“Every square foot of this hall is designed with purpose—to support our students, celebrate their successes, and bring people together in meaningful ways,” Gabbard added.
Construction on the Engagement Hall and new Building B entrance begins the week of September 15. During construction, the Building B Main Entrance (B14) will be closed. Those who typically use that entrance can use the Luecht Auditorium Entrance (B12) or Building D Entrance (D20). Building C Entrance (C45) is also closed.
The MCC Engagement Hall is anticipated to open in late Summer 2026.