For the first time in more than a decade, Kishwaukee College saw an enrollment increase during the 2022-23 school year.

This spring, College enrollment is 12.4% higher than last spring. For the current year, College enrollment is 5.3% higher than the previous year.

“With all of the unprecedented circumstances over the last decade, including a budget impasse and a global pandemic, Kishwaukee College has worked incredibly hard to adjust to the challenges, providing students with an education that fit their needs, as well as the needs of the community,” said Dr. Laurie Borowicz, President of Kishwaukee College. “The increase in enrollment is a positive trend for the College and the communities we serve.”

Following a national trend, Kish last saw an enrollment increase in 2012. Statewide, the entire Illinois Community College System has seen lower enrollment numbers every year since 2010, according to data from the Illinois Community College Board. During this time, the College has evolved as the higher education landscape changed. The focus during this time has been on enhanced support services and changing program and course offerings to meet the needs of students and the local workforce while at the same time adjusting to the enrollment declines.

“Resilient planning has allowed College leadership to continue its focus on providing equitable, student-centered education,” said Bob Johnson, Chair of the Board of Trustees. “The enrollment increases we have seen this year are a positive step forward, and we will continue to adapt and innovate to our students’ needs.”

Kishwaukee College serves approximately 4,000 students each year, offering transfer programs, career-ready degrees and certificates, short-term training and more. For more information on Kishwaukee College, visit kish.edu.