Kish College Foundation announces creation of Janice Vida Owens Endowment

Janice Owens

The Kishwaukee College Foundation has announced the creation of a new endowment thanks to a generous donation from retired Office Systems program instructor Janice Owens.  

The new fund provides scholarships for full-time and part-time students pursuing a degree or certificate in Kish’s Office Systems program.

“I thoroughly enjoyed my 30 years of teaching in the Office Systems department at Kishwaukee College. Managing the changes in technology was a challenge. Assisting students as they gained skills that helped them reach their goals was a joy. Now, I am hoping to help future students along their way,” Owens said.

Owens started at Kish in 1978 and worked as a full-time instructor until 2008. She continued to teach as an adjunct instructor from 2008 to 2012. During her tenure, the Office Systems program underwent major changes to keep up with the evolving nature of the workforce and office climates. Owens said one of her proudest moments was when the College transitioned the program from Secretarial Sciences to Office Systems.  

“Janice’s continued support for the College and the Office Systems program is greatly appreciated. She has already contributed so much as an instructor and has now created a new legacy that will support students and our community well into the future,” said Dr. Kayte Hamel, Kishwaukee College Foundation Executive Director.

The Kishwaukee College Foundation manages more than 110 funds dedicated to scholarships, program enhancements and the overall needs of the College. Learn more at kish.edu/foundation.