By Andi Anderson

Illinois Valley Community College has broken ground on the Dr. Alfred E. Wisgoski Agricultural Education Center, a $7.6 million project set to transform agricultural training in the region.

The ceremony, held just south of the main campus, brought together local leaders, trustees, agribusiness representatives, students, and members of the Wisgoski family to celebrate the milestone.

The new 10,250-square-foot facility is designed to give students access to modern resources and hands-on experience. Located near the college’s 153-acre test plots, the centre will allow students to apply classroom knowledge directly in the field.

It will include innovation labs, conference rooms, flexible classrooms, lounge areas, and space for a future greenhouse. The building is expected to be complete in 2027.

The project has been made possible through major funding support, including a $3.5 million U.S. Department of Economic Development Administration grant and a $240,000 Illinois Department of Commerce and Economic Opportunity grant.

In addition, the Wisgoski family contributed $1 million to honour Dr. Alfred Wisgoski, the college’s longest-serving president. He is remembered for leading two decades of growth, financial stability, and community economic development.

Dr. Tracy Morris, President of IVCC, highlighted the importance of the centre. She noted that since 2020, the agriculture program has grown by 48 percent, showing strong student interest. With this new facility, the college will be able to host more community programs, train future agriculture professionals, and support sustainable practices that benefit the region’s economy.

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