The Richland Community College Foundation was created in February 1980 by the Richland Board of Trustees who realized that private monies could do what public funds could not. They saw a need to seek and invest gifts that were designated for scholarships and other needs the College might have as it grew into a larger institution.
In 1986, the Foundation became a leader in the state when board members and volunteers raised an initial $2 million through charitable gifts. Today, the Foundation manages over $8,000,000 in assets.
Each year the Foundation awards scholarships to over 300 students attending Richland Community College. Several endowed scholarships also provide funds for transfer students to complete degrees at four-year state institutions in the state of Illinois.
The Foundation has led several capital campaigns that helped complete additions on the College's campus. These buildings include the Schrodt Health Education Center, the Industrial Technology Center, and the newest additions, the Dwayne O. Andreas Agribusiness Education Center which opened for classes in 2008.
In addition to raising funds for scholarships and capital projects, the Foundation awards grants for faculty and staff development, has added to the College's art collection, and has purchased state-of-the-art equipment such as human patient simulators for the health professions programs. Through a restricted endowment, the Kitty Lindsay Learning Resource Center is able to add technology each year making sure the Center offers Richland Community College students the latest platforms for learning and accessing information.
In 2007, the Foundation launched a major gifts campaign to rase funds for the future of Richland Community College. INVESTING IN OUR FUTURE will ensure that the College has the resources to continue its tradition of providing excellent higher education and workforce training for the people of the Richland Community College District.
