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DECATUR, Ill. -- and have announced a new partnership designed to make earning a four-year degree more accessible, affordable, and achievable for students across the region. This agreement, outlined in a newly signed Memorandum of Understanding (MOU), establishes a clear pathway for IECC students to seamlessly transfer into �鶹Լ��’s baccalaureate programs, saving students time and money while providing a high-quality education that prepares them for successful careers. 

IECC’s four colleges — , , , and — serve as exceptional starting points for students pursuing a four-year degree. With small class sizes, dedicated faculty, and a supportive environment, IECC provides students with the foundational coursework and skills needed to succeed at a four-year institution like �鶹Լ��.

“Starting your educational journey at IECC is not only a smart academic decision but also a financially savvy one,” says IECC President Tona Ambrose, who oversees IECC’s enrollment management processes. “Our partnership with �鶹Լ�� University offers students the opportunity to earn a quality education at a fraction of the cost they would face if they began at a four-year institution. Together, we’re helping students reach their educational goals without breaking the bank.”

Significant Savings for Students

One of the key benefits of this partnership is the potential for significant cost savings. By beginning their education at IECC and then transferring to �鶹Լ��, students can save thousands of dollars in tuition and fees. 

“College affordability is a critical concern for many families today,” said Ambrose, “With this agreement, students can reduce their overall educational expenses by completing their first two years at IECC and then transferring to �鶹Լ��, where they can take advantage of our shared commitment to providing high-quality education at an affordable price.” 

This strategic approach allows students to complete their general education and foundational courses at IECC at a lower cost before transitioning to �鶹Լ�� to finish their bachelor’s degrees. 

“As part of our ,’ we have pledged to expand access to �鶹Լ��’s distinctive Performance Learning education through new affordability initiatives,” said �鶹Լ�� President Dr. Jim Reynolds. “Last fall, we introduced the and the to enhance transparency in our tuition rates and support Illinois students who face financial barriers to higher education. These programs are designed to make a �鶹Լ�� education accessible to more students by removing actual and perceived obstacles while advancing our mission to prepare students for professional success, democratic citizenship, and meaningful personal life.” 

A Timely Partnership in a Changing Educational Landscape 

This partnership comes at a pivotal moment in higher education, as colleges and universities nationwide are seeking new ways to address shifting demographic, social, and economic trends. With declining high school graduation rates and an evolving job market, four-year institutions are increasingly eager to develop pipelines and transfer agreements with community colleges to ensure they remain accessible and attractive to prospective students. 

“IECC is thrilled to partner with �鶹Լ�� University to provide students with a seamless transition to earning their bachelor’s degrees,” said Dr. Ryan Gower, Chancellor of Illinois Eastern Community Colleges. “In today’s educational landscape, collaborations like ours are more important than ever. We are committed to creating pathways that make higher education more attainable and responsive to the needs of our students.”  Specifically, the MOU provides for guaranteed admission for IECC students who apply to �鶹Լ��, guaranteed transfer of IECC credits, and a two-year (four semester) timeline to earning their bachelor’s degree upon transfer.  

, including Art, Business Communication, Elementary Education, Sports & Recreation Management, Criminal Justice, History, Political Science, and Theater & Performance Studies.  

Shared Values and Commitment to Student Success 

IECC and �鶹Լ�� share many core values, making this partnership a natural fit. Both institutions are known for their student-centered approaches to teaching and learning, strong emphasis on health professions, performing arts, and intercollegiate athletics. 

“Our institutions are alike in many ways—we’re both small to mid-sized, and we pride ourselves on offering personalized education experiences that put students first,” added Dr. Jay Edgren, IECC Vice Chancellor for Academic Affairs. “This partnership strengthens our shared commitment to preparing students for success in their chosen fields, whether in the health professions, the arts, or beyond.” 

“This partnership between Illinois Eastern Community Colleges and �鶹Լ�� University reflects our shared dedication to student success,” said Jodi Silotto, Vice President of Enrollment, Marketing, and Communications at �鶹Լ��. “By joining forces, we’re creating a streamlined, affordable pathway that enhances access to higher education, which is essential to helping students achieve their educational and career goals.” 

Additionally, �鶹Լ��’s recent changes to its tuition and fee structure underscore its dedication to making a high-quality education accessible to all students, including those transferring from IECC.

“This is a wonderful partnership that truly reflects our shared values,” said Dr. Gower. “�鶹Լ��’s commitment to keeping education affordable aligns perfectly with our mission at IECC, and together, we’re ensuring that students have a clear and supportive path to achieving their academic and career goals.”