FREEPORT— For the second year straight this fall, Highland Community College has been voted the best workplace of its size in the area in an annual contest.
HCC won Top Employer (101-500 employees category) in the 2024 Best of the Region Community’s Choice Awards. The program is sponsored by The Journal-Standard, with winners selected by readers.
Highland’s repeat recognitions are a testament to the college’s daily commitment to living its mission, values and cultural beliefs, institutional leadership says.
“Being named a top employer for the second consecutive year is a recognition of our continued efforts to create a supportive and inclusive workplace,” said Karen Brown, HCC’s Director of Human Resources. “This award reflects the dedication of our entire team and our focus on a positive culture that includes employee well-being, growth and collaboration.”
Momentum has also multiplied on campus in more immediately visible ways — from a continuing trend of enrollment gains to ongoing facility renovation projects. Highland’s president asserts these developments are just a couple of many ways staff and faculty share a passion for helping students.
“Highland has been intentional about creating an exceptional employee experience that we believe, in turn, ripples to create an exceptional student experience,” said HCC President Chris Kuberski. “While the work is ongoing, the distinction of Top Employer for the second year running reflects the progress of our efforts. Thank you to Highland’s employees for uniting to serve our students and community.”
For more on Highland Community College and available job opportunities, visit highland.edu.
HCC Foundation receives Adkins Energy grant for Agriculture
The Highland Community Foundation is proud to announce a generous grant from Adkins Energy, enabling the HCC Agriculture program to purchase state-of-the-art bovine ultrasound and birthing simulator.
“The support from Adkins Energy represents a significant investment in the future of agricultural education at Highland,” said Olivia Kepner, an agriculture instructor at Highland. “With this simulator, our students will have the opportunity to develop crucial skills that will set them apart in today’s competitive job market.”
The simulator enhances hands-on learning for students in animal science and veterinary programs. It allows them to gain life experience in bovine birthing and ultrasound procedures in a controlled educational setting.
The Highland Agriculture Department continues to focus on providing top-tier educational experiences that blend traditional learning with modern technology. This underscores the commitment to preparing students for the challenges and opportunities in agriculture. Students graduate ready to enter successful careers in the evolving fields of agriculture, veterinary medicine and animal husbandry.
For more about the Agricultures programs and the Foundation, visit highland.edu.
