Our Story
Our College & Community
On This Page: Our History | 50th Anniversary | Past Presidents
Kishwaukee College has served the communities of northern Illinois since 1968, providing accessible, high-quality education and workforce training. The College district includes 31 communities and serves a population of more than 100,000 residents.
Our History
Kishwaukee College has served the communities of northern Illinois since opening its doors in 1968. Over the decades, the College has expanded its programs, services and partnerships to support student success, workforce development and community growth across the district.
Today, Kish continues to provide transfer programs, career and technical education, adult education and workforce training to students in DeKalb, Sycamore, Rochelle and surrounding communities.
Lincoln Highway & the Kish Campus
Kishwaukee College is home to a historical marker recognizing the first seedling mile of the Lincoln Highway, built in 1914 west of Malta, Illinois. The Lincoln Highway was one of the first transcontinental highways in the United States and played an important role in early transportation infrastructure.
Explore the Lincoln Highway Collection
Learn More About Lincoln Highway
Kishwaukee College Archives
The Kishwaukee College Archives preserves the history of the institution through documents, photographs, publications and other materials that reflect the development of the College and its community.
Researchers and visitors may request access to archival materials through the Kishwaukee College Library.
Community Impact
For more than five decades, Kishwaukee College has worked alongside local communities, businesses and organizations to support regional growth and opportunity. The College provides workforce training, continuing education and community programs that strengthen the local economy and expand access to education.
Kish employees and leaders also serve on numerous local boards and organizations, contributing their expertise to initiatives that support the development of the region.
Kishwaukee College Presidents
Since its founding in 1968, Kishwaukee College has been guided by dedicated leaders who have helped shape the College’s mission, growth and impact on the communities it serves. Each president has played an important role in advancing student success, expanding programs and strengthening partnerships across the region.