Higher Education Leaders Address Challenges at DeKalb Event

Higher education institutions in northern Illinois are confronting significant challenges, including the impact of artificial intelligence, evolving job markets, and diminishing federal funding. Leaders from Northern Illinois University (NIU), Kishwaukee College, and Waubonsee Community College discussed these pressing issues during an annual business leaders event on March 5, 2024, hosted by the DeKalb County Economic Development Corporation in DeKalb.

Kishwaukee College President Lauri Borowicz reflected on the tumultuous changes over the past decade, noting the struggles caused by a budget impasse and the COVID-19 pandemic. “Now we’re just in a world of uncertainty,” Borowicz stated. She highlighted the recent loss of a significant federal grant, which was announced with only a 10-day notice. “This is now our reality,” she added, signalling a shift in how institutions must plan financially.

While Dr. Lisa Freeman, the president of NIU, did not directly address the loss of federal funding, she emphasized the importance of financial aid for students. Freeman noted that approximately 90% of NIU students receive some form of financial assistance. “Our students make up a big part of the population in DeKalb city and DeKalb County, and the challenges they face mirror those of the community,” she remarked, underscoring the necessity of supporting students who navigate complex circumstances.

The event, held at Faranda’s Banquets, brought together various stakeholders, including local business leaders and community members. Melissa Amedeo, the executive director of the DeKalb County Economic Development Corporation, moderated a panel featuring Freeman, Borowicz, and Waubonsee Community College President Brian Knetl. Knetl discussed the value of collaboration among educational institutions, expressing a commitment to enhancing transfer agreements with NIU. “We’re looking at what that next level of transfer looks like,” he stated, aiming for all credits earned at Waubonsee to be transferable to NIU.

The leaders acknowledged that technological advancements, particularly in artificial intelligence, have significantly transformed their operations. Freeman described NIU’s approach as “high-tech, high-touch.” She explained that if a student living on campus stops attending classes, the first notification they receive is from an AI chatbot, prompting them to return to class. If that does not yield results, a residence hall advisor will follow up personally.

The annual business breakfast also attracted representatives from the business sector, including Tara Tenorio from Meta’s DeKalb data center. Tenorio expressed admiration for the community’s resilience and commitment to enhancing its business environment. “Every time I look out into this room, I see a community not just of dreamers and visionaries but also of those willing to dig in and help,” she observed.

On the previous evening, a public hearing at the DeKalb Public Library drew significant interest as city officials discussed a proposed 560-acre data center campus by Endeavour Energy, which also operates a facility in Aurora. While the DeKalb City Council has not yet approved the development, city officials have publicly expressed support.

Local entrepreneur Jamie Walter of Whiskey Acres Distilling Co. emphasized the importance of balancing economic growth with maintaining DeKalb’s agricultural identity. During the hearing, he noted, “DeKalb is a nexus,” suggesting that leaders must navigate development carefully to preserve the city’s character.

In her closing remarks, Amedeo reaffirmed the importance of agriculture in DeKalb County. “We are not going to try to just do away with agriculture and bring in all these businesses, because agriculture is a key part of our life nationally,” she stated, highlighting the need for thoughtful development that honors the region’s heritage.

As higher education leaders continue to adapt to shifting landscapes, their focus remains on fostering collaboration and ensuring support for students amid a backdrop of uncertain funding and technological evolution.