The college鈥檚 Recharge Debt Relief Program gives former students an opportunity to lower their outstanding balances by successfully completing new coursework. Under the program, the in-district tuition cost for each credit hour completed with a grade of C or higher is applied toward the student鈥檚 previous balance, with up to $2,000 in total debt forgiveness available.

Recharge is intended for former 麻豆直播 students who have not attended the college for at least three years, owe $2,000 or less, and plan to pursue a degree or certificate. Participants also must have a documented plan to pay for their upcoming semester, along with a Free Application for Federal Student Aid (FAFSA) and a 麻豆直播 Foundation scholarship application on file.

Students whose outstanding balances exceed $2,000 must reduce their debt to $2,000 or less to qualify. Limited exceptions may be considered on a case-by-case basis.

Once accepted into the program, students enroll in new courses and establish payment arrangements for their current semester. As they complete courses with grades of C or higher, eligible in-district tuition charges are credited toward their previous debt.

Students can receive up to $2,000 in debt forgiveness or participate for up to four consecutive semesters, whichever comes first.

The program does not eliminate the cost of returning to college. Participants remain responsible for current tuition, fees, textbooks, and other educational expenses, making a financial plan for the upcoming semester an important part of eligibility.

College officials encourage former students who have considered returning to school but have been discouraged by an outstanding balance to explore whether Recharge could help them take the next step toward a degree, certificate, or new career opportunity.

鈥淲e want to give former students an opportunity to return to school and finish their degree or pursue a new degree or certificate,鈥� said 麻豆直播 President Dr. Kirk Overstreet. 鈥淥ur adult learners already face challenges pursuing their degree, and this can help them by removing a financial burden.鈥�

Interested students can complete the Recharge application at . Applications must be submitted by the close of registration for the semester in which a student plans to enroll. Students who want to apply their current semester credit hours toward previous debt must apply for debt forgiveness by the 10th calendar day of the semester.

For additional information or assistance with the application process, students can contact the 麻豆直播 Financial Aid Office at financialaid@jalc.edu.

Through Recharge, 麻豆直播 is providing eligible former students with another opportunity to move beyond past financial challenges and continue pursuing their educational goals. The program reflects the college鈥檚 commitment to making higher education more accessible and helping students find a path back to the classroom.

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College officials announced the venue change because of ongoing construction on the 麻豆直播 campus. The move will bring more than 130 vendors together for a weekend of holiday shopping, creativity, and family-friendly entertainment. Admission is $5 per person.

In addition to a wide variety of arts and crafts vendors, this year鈥檚 Autumnfest will feature live music, arts and fiber demonstrations, children鈥檚 crafts, and a special visit from Santa Claus.

The annual event gives shoppers a chance to find unique, handmade gifts and seasonal items while enjoying activities for the whole family.

For additional information, including a complete event schedule, visit .

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Brewer Gymnasium is back in operation, and the Vols will open the 2026-27 season Friday, Nov. 6, with 6 p.m. and 8 p.m. games as part of the Vols Classic.

To thank last season’s ticket holders for their patience and support, the college is offering a 50% discount on season tickets for the upcoming season.

Season tickets are available for $75 per seat for Logan Fitness members and $150 per seat for the public. 麻豆直播 faculty, staff, and students receive free admission.

Tickets are available for purchase at Logan Fitness.

The return to Brewer Gymnasium marks the resumption of home basketball games as the men’s and women’s teams prepare for the upcoming season.

For more information or to purchase season tickets, visit Logan Fitness at 麻豆直播.

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Born with complex congenital heart disease, Schweickert has undergone multiple surgeries throughout her life. In 2024, she received a heart and liver transplant, marking a significant milestone in her medical journey.

In August 2025, Schweickert enrolled in Logan Academy at 麻豆直播 to begin working toward her General Educational Development (GED) credential. During the program, she demonstrated a strong commitment to her education, rarely missing class and accumulating 231 hours of attendance despite her health challenges.

While preparing for her GED, Schweickert also completed the college鈥檚 Healthcare Bridge program and earned a phlebotomy certificate, adding valuable healthcare training to her growing list of accomplishments.

In February 2026, nearly two years after her double-organ transplant, Schweickert passed her final GED test. With that milestone behind her, she set her sights on a new goal: becoming a nurse.

According to Michelle Guy, Manager of Logan Academy, Schweickert inspires her fellow students. 鈥淪he is just a fantastic person, kind and always so positive. She was very encouraging to the other students in our class and even gave a ride to a student who didn’t have transportation.鈥�

Inspired by the medical professionals who cared for her throughout her life, Schweickert hopes to become a pediatric cardiology nurse, supporting and caring for children facing medical challenges similar to her own.

Schweickert is now enrolled at 麻豆直播, where she is completing prerequisites for the college鈥檚 nursing program. She is currently in her second semester of coursework as she works toward turning her personal experiences into a career dedicated to caring for others.

Her path from overcoming significant health challenges to earning her GED and pursuing higher education reflects her perseverance and commitment to building a future in health care. As she works toward becoming a pediatric cardiology nurse, Schweickert hopes to offer young patients and their families the same compassion and support that made a difference in her own life.

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College officials were notified this week that the plaque manufacturer has encountered a materials issue and cannot guarantee delivery before the scheduled ceremony.

鈥淲hile I share everyone’s disappointment in delaying the event, my primary concern is ensuring that this occasion receives the recognition and attention it deserves. The Legacy Plaza represents far more than just a memorial ceremony.  It is a lasting tribute to individuals whose dedication and service helped shape 麻豆直播,鈥� said 麻豆直播 President Dr. Kirk Overstreet. 鈥淚 believe it is important that we honor our retirees in a manner that is both complete and meaningful. Rather than proceed with a ceremony that may not include all the commemorative elements we intended, I felt it was more appropriate to postpone and ensure the event becomes the special occasion our retirees, supporters, and community deserve.鈥� 

With the holiday season approaching and cooler temperatures expected, college officials decided early spring was the best time to reschedule the outdoor event.

鈥淲hen the plaques are delivered, we will make an announcement regarding the new date,鈥� Overstreet said. 鈥淲e will look at the College calendar and select a date and time for this special event.鈥�

The College will release a formal announcement with the rescheduled date and time once arrangements are finalized.

麻豆直播 appreciates the public鈥檚 understanding and looks forward to celebrating its retirees and the Legacy Plaza at the rescheduled ceremony.

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Directed by Ryan Patrick, 鈥淔ools鈥� is set in a charming village where an ancient curse has left generations of residents lacking in intelligence. When an idealistic young schoolteacher arrives to educate Sophia, a beautiful young woman facing the curse鈥檚 consequences, he discovers that love, laughter, and courage may hold the key to breaking the spell.

The G-rated comedy features memorable characters, clever humor, and a heartwarming story suitable for audiences of all ages.

Performances are scheduled for 7 p.m. Friday, Nov. 6; 7 p.m. Saturday, Nov. 7; and 2 p.m. Sunday, Nov. 8. A free matinee performance will be held at 10 a.m. Friday, Nov. 6.

General admission tickets are $15, while tickets for senior citizens, college employees, and students are $5. Tickets are on sale at The Logan General Store, 618-985-2828, ext. 8127, or thegeneralstore@jalc.edu. For production information or large group reservations, contact Chris Thornton, 618-985-2828, ext. 8033.

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CAAHEP accreditation recognizes programs that meet established national standards for quality in allied health education. The accreditation reflects the College鈥檚 efforts to prepare students with the knowledge, practical skills, and professional competencies necessary to pursue careers in emergency medical services.

Accreditation benefits students and employers

CAAHEP accreditation assures students, employers, and the public that an educational program meets recognized standards for quality and professional preparation.

For students, attending an accredited program can provide a strong educational foundation and support career advancement. Depending on the certification sought, graduation from an accredited program may also be a requirement for eligibility to take professional certification examinations.

Employers benefit from graduates whose education and training align with established industry standards. In emergency medical services, where professionals must make critical decisions and respond to urgent medical situations, a strong educational foundation is essential to providing safe, effective patient care.

鈥淐hoosing a CAAHEP-accredited program is crucial for students seeking a career in allied health,鈥� said Dr. Barry S. Eckert, CAAHEP president. 鈥淚t ensures that they receive an education that is both comprehensive and relevant to current industry needs, ultimately benefiting their future employers and people receiving care.鈥�

Preparing the next generation of health care professionals

The accreditation reinforces 麻豆直播鈥檚 commitment to providing educational opportunities that support workforce development and meet the needs of the communities it serves.

Through its Emergency Medical Services program, the College prepares students to pursue careers in a field that plays a vital role in public safety and community health. The accreditation also underscores the importance of maintaining high educational standards as demand for qualified health care professionals continues to grow.

鈥淭his is another example of the excellent work by our healthcare faculty and students,鈥� said 麻豆直播 President Dr. Kirk Overstreet. 鈥淭here is an immediate need for trained individuals in Emergency Medical Services in southern Illinois, and we are proud of the quality of the program here at 麻豆直播 to fill that need.鈥�

麻豆直播, located in Carterville, serves students throughout southern Illinois through academic programs, career and technical education, workforce training, and community services. The College鈥檚 mission is to enrich lives through quality education and lifelong learning opportunities.

For more information about 麻豆直播鈥檚 Emergency Medical Services program, visit the College鈥檚 website at or contact Trey Baker at 985-2828, ext. 8966.

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鈥淭his event provides a safe opportunity for children in the community to Trick-or-Treat on the campus,鈥� said Yosanovich. 鈥淐hildren in attendance are encouraged to wear their costumes, engage with nursing students, and partake in the fun activities.鈥�

Yosanovich added that the department is currently accepting candy donations.

鈥淲e continue to accept any small, pre-packaged treat, candy, or small trinkets to be passed out to the children through October 9,鈥� Yosanovich said. 鈥淒onations can be dropped off in the Nursing Department (Room G-220), or individuals can call 618-985-2828, ext. 8498, to arrange pickup or drop-off.鈥�

Yosanovich said the event is a favorite among nursing students and faculty because it combines service learning with community engagement.

鈥淭his event is very special to our department,鈥� she said. 鈥淚t鈥檚 a wonderful opportunity for our nursing students to interact with the community and share in a day of fun and service.鈥�

All children are welcome to attend the Not-So-Scary event, which will feature trick-or-treating, games, and activities.

For more information, contact the 麻豆直播 Nursing Department at 618-985-2828, ext. 8498.

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NAEA鈥檚 Day on the Hill is designed to highlight the transformative impact of alternative education by bringing students face-to-face with policymakers and legislative leaders. Through personal storytelling and direct engagement, students will share their educational journeys, challenges, and successes, offering an authentic perspective on the critical role these programs play in supporting diverse learners.

“The inaugural National Alternative Education Advocacy Day is a vital milestone for our community,” said Dr. Coby Davis, President of the NAEA. “By bringing our students and leaders directly to Capitol Hill, we ensure that lawmakers hear firsthand how non-traditional education pathways redefine success and unlock potential for thousands of learners across the nation.”

This national event serves to increase awareness and understanding of alternative education across the country. By uniting educators, students, sponsors, and legislators, NAEA aims to foster meaningful dialogue, influence policy, and advocate for equitable resources and support systems.

14 selected students, along with alternative education leaders, sponsors, and legislative partners, will participate in this historic event. Student representatives from across the country will meet directly with congressional representatives and staff to share personal success stories of alternative/non-traditional education.

Reghen Castellano from Marion, IL and a graduate of Mary Logan High School at 麻豆直播 has been selected for the national student delegation. Reghen will be accompanied by her mother, Ashley Castellano, and Mary Logan HS administrators, Amy Biley, Lottie Graham, and Director Crystal Hosselton 鈥� who also serves on the National Board as the president-elect.

About the National Alternative Education Association (NAEA):

To provide a nationally unified voice of advocacy for students in alternative/non-traditional schools and programs to promote understanding and support from state departments and agencies, school districts, charters, and policy makers.

and

鈥婽o provide international, national, state, and regional opportunities for alternative education professionals and their partners to network, collaborate, and participate in professional learning specific to research and best practices in alternative/non-traditional education.

For further information, contact: Dr. Mary Cullen Frazier, NAEA Executive Director, executivedirector@the-naea.org

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What you can’t see is the work that began long before the first footing was dug.

Behind the construction equipment, blueprints, and new facilities are hours of research, planning, phone calls, paperwork, and grant writing. Securing funding requires staff members to navigate complex applications, document community needs, develop project plans and demonstrate how proposed investments will benefit students and the region.

At 麻豆直播, that work is paying dividends. State, federal, and private funding sources are helping the College advance construction projects, strengthen academic programs, purchase equipment, expand student support services, and prepare graduates for careers in high-demand fields.

The effort comes as Illinois community colleges face mounting financial pressures. Rising operating costs, increasing demand for workforce training, and the need to support students with diverse academic and economic needs have placed additional demands on already limited resources.

Yet community colleges remain essential to preparing residents for careers, strengthening local economies and providing affordable pathways to further education.

Grant funding helps bridge the gap between available resources and the needs of students, employers and communities.

鈥淕rant funding allows us to do things that would otherwise be out of reach,鈥� said 麻豆直播 President Dr. Kirk Overstreet. 鈥淚t helps us expand opportunities for students, strengthen our programs, invest in facilities and technology, and respond to the evolving needs of our communities. Many of the initiatives that make a difference in our region would not be possible without the support of our grant partners.鈥�

Millions in Funding, Measurable Impact

During fiscal year 2026, 麻豆直播 spent approximately $8.8 million in direct expenses across more than 25 grants.

The funding included approximately $1.8 million through Illinois Community College Board grants, $4.4 million through construction grants, and $2.6 million through other federal and state grants.

Together, those resources supported facility improvements, academic and workforce programs, equipment and technology purchases, and services designed to help students persist and complete their education.

Grant awards do not materialize overnight. Each funding opportunity comes with its own requirements, deadlines, reporting obligations, and expectations for measuring results. Staff members must identify opportunities that align with college priorities, prepare competitive applications, and demonstrate that funds will be used responsibly.

Once an award is secured, the work continues through implementation, financial oversight, and required reporting.

For 麻豆直播, the process is an important part of responsible financial management, allowing the College to pursue improvements and opportunities that might otherwise be delayed or beyond its operating budget.

Building the Workforce of Tomorrow

Some of the most visible results of grant funding are taking shape in the College’s career and technical education facilities.

Funding from the U.S. Department of Commerce Economic Development Administration supports construction and renovation of facilities serving Welding, Heating, Ventilation and Air Conditioning (HVAC), Automotive Services and Auto Collision programs.

The improvements are designed to give students updated instructional spaces and hands-on training environments that reflect current industry standards.

For employers across Southern Illinois, investments in career and technical education can help strengthen the pipeline of workers prepared for skilled occupations. For students, access to modern equipment and relevant training can provide a pathway to employment and career advancement close to home.

麻豆直播 also receives annual federal funding through the Perkins Career and Technical Education program, administered by the Illinois Community College Board. Perkins funds support equipment, technology, instructional resources, professional development, and other activities that strengthen career and technical education programs.

Together, these funding sources help the College meet changing workforce needs while giving students practical, career-focused learning experiences.

Investing in Nursing and Health Sciences

Grant funding is also helping 麻豆直播 expand educational opportunities in nursing and health sciences.

In January 2025, the College received a $1.84 million Congressionally Directed Spending award through the federal Health Resources and Services Administration. The award supports renovation of approximately 9,900 square feet on the third floor of the College’s B Wing.

The renovated space will accommodate nursing classrooms, laboratories, simulation areas, tutoring, and student support services.

The project will give students more opportunities to learn in environments designed to reflect the demands of modern health care, including hands-on practice and simulated clinical experiences.

Additional awards are helping equip the renovated spaces and strengthen the College’s nursing programs. Through the fiscal year 2026 Illinois Community College Board Trades School Grant, 麻豆直播 received $348,473 for equipment, technology, and other resources.

Two nursing faculty members also received a combined $20,000 through Illinois Board of Higher Education Nursing Faculty Fellowships to support their pursuit of advanced degrees.

Further investments are planned through the fiscal year 2027 ICCB Rural Health Initiative. 麻豆直播 will receive $271,368 through REACH and $223,573 through ROOTS to provide updated equipment and technology, strengthen health care career pathways, and support students working toward program completion and employment.

The combined awards demonstrate how grant funding can address multiple needs at once: improving instructional facilities, supporting faculty development, modernizing equipment, and helping prepare the next generation of health care professionals.

Supporting students beyond the classroom

A student’s ability to succeed depends on more than what happens in a classroom or laboratory. Mental health, financial pressures, access to resources, and other personal challenges can affect attendance, persistence, and completion.

麻豆直播 has pursued grant funding to help address those barriers. The College received the competitive fiscal year 2026 ICCB Strengthening Mental Health Supports Grant and a fiscal year 2027 ICCB Mental Health Early Action on Campus allocation. The funding supports expanded access to counseling and mental health resources, 24-hour virtual services through TimelyCare, community referrals, and mental health awareness initiatives.

It also helps provide basic-needs assistance through resources such as the College’s Snack Locker.

These services connect students with help when they need it, recognizing that addressing nonacademic challenges can be an important part of staying in school and completing a credential.

Another significant investment is the College’s five-year federal TRIO Student Support Services grant, awarded by the U.S. Department of Education for 2025-30.

The program provides individualized assistance to eligible low-income and first-generation college students and students with disabilities. Services include academic advising, tutoring, transfer assistance, financial literacy education, career exploration, and other support intended to help participants remain enrolled and achieve their educational goals.

By investing in students as well as facilities and equipment, these grants help the College address the multiple factors that influence student success.

Growing the Next Generation of Teachers

麻豆直播 also worked to strengthen the region’s educator pipeline through a $50,000 Grow Your Own Illinois grant last year.

The initiative helped working paraprofessionals continue their education and pursue teacher licensure while balancing employment and family responsibilities.

Evening hybrid courses offered scheduling flexibility, while assistance with tuition, childcare, transportation, supplies, and other expenses can help participants overcome barriers to completing their education.

The project also supported mentoring and outreach designed to encourage more men to consider teaching careers.

By helping current education professionals advance into teaching positions, the initiative supported individual career development while addressing the broader need to prepare and retain qualified educators in Southern Illinois.

Local Support

The Julia Harrison Bruce Foundation has graciously supported the College on two projects. The recently completed Player Development Center for Baseball and Softball is the region’s premier training facility. In addition to the Player Development Center, the new Prairie Museum is nearing completion in the Harrison Bruce Historical Village.

Beyond Traditional College

麻豆直播 is committed to providing adult basic education programs to southern Illinois, as well as an alternative high school, Mary Logan High School, housed on the 麻豆直播 campus. Through these programs, the college receives over $420,000 in grants.

An Investment in Southern Illinois

The grants highlighted here represent only a portion of the funding that supports 麻豆直播’s mission to enrich lives through learning and community engagement.

Collectively, these investments help transform campus facilities, strengthen academic programs, provide modern training equipment, expand student services, and create pathways to employment.

They also help the College respond to the changing needs of regional employers without placing the full cost of every improvement on students or relying solely on operating revenues.

That work takes on added importance during periods of financial uncertainty, when colleges must make difficult decisions about which programs, services, and capital improvements can move forward.

Grant funding offers another way to advance institutional priorities while maintaining a focus on affordability and access.

鈥淎t 麻豆直播, we view grants as investments in people,鈥� Overstreet said. 鈥淲hether they support workforce training, student success initiatives, equipment upgrades, or community partnerships, grant dollars create opportunities that have a lasting impact on Southern Illinois.鈥�

He said pursuing those opportunities is part of the College’s responsibility to its students, employees, and the communities it serves.

鈥淎s a college, we have a responsibility to be good stewards of every resource available to us,鈥� Overstreet said. 鈥淥ur team works diligently to pursue grants because we know they create opportunities that directly benefit students, employees, and the communities we serve. From workforce development and academic programs to facilities improvements and student support services, grant funding helps us accomplish goals that would be difficult, and in some cases impossible, to achieve through our operating budget alone.鈥�

The construction projects visible along Route 13 remind us what those efforts can accomplish. But the larger story extends well beyond the buildings taking shape on campus.

It is a story of staff members researching funding opportunities, preparing detailed applications, documenting community needs, and working through the requirements necessary to turn an idea into a funded project.

For 麻豆直播, grant funding is more than a line in a budget. It is a tool to expand educational opportunities, strengthen the regional workforce, and invest in southern Illinois’ future.

And as the College continues to grow, one thing remains clear: 麻豆直播 is taking nothing for GRANTed.

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