SSC reviews strategic plan and approves retirements
The 2025-30 roadmap, available for review on the college’s website, calls for improving retention, growing community partnerships, investing in human capital, and data-informed decision making.
South Suburban College trustees reviewed efforts to keep students enrolled and approved three employee retirements during their Sept. 10 meeting in South Holland.
An update on the college’s 2025-30 strategic plan reported 11 professional certifications earned by staff and 78 course enrollments focused on HyFlex and online instruction. The training was described as part of efforts to improve teaching and student retention. The plan, initially presented to trustees Sept. 11, 2025, calls for improving retention, graduation and transfer rates, according to the college’s website.
The update also outlined preparations for a Higher Learning Commission accreditation visit in 2028. The Commission, a nonprofit accreditor recognized by the United States Department of Education, accredits institutions nationwide. Trustees were told they would receive a written report with additional data.
The board approved John Pigatti’s retirement as full-time manager of athletic recruitment and retention, effective Oct. 31. His retirement letter cited 20 years at the college. Pigatti coached the Bulldogs to an undefeated 33-0 season and the 2022 National Junior College Athletic Association Division II championship, according to the college.
“We all remember that magical undefeated season,” board chairman Terry Wells said.
New business
Trustees also approved the retirements of custodians Robert Boyd, effective Sept. 30, and Frances Fields, effective Nov. 30, and authorized advertising job descriptions to fill both positions.
In financial business, trustees approved about $6.03 million in August bills. Chief financial officer Thomas Agnew reported July revenue of about $4.66 million and expenditures of $3.86 million across all funds, leaving revenue about $799,871 above expenses.
The board appointed Gabriela Santiago as student help desk coordinator, effective Sept. 14, with a $50,578 starting annual salary, and granted pharmacy technician faculty member Sharlene Chapman tenure beginning in January 2027.
Trustees reappointed Samantha Slager in echocardiography, Gregory Mitchell in legal studies and Sikisha Bramlett-Randle in cosmetology for the 2027 calendar year.
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