IVCC Breaks Ground on the Dr. Alfred E. Wisgoski Agricultural Education Center

Illinois Valley Community College broke ground on the $7.6 million Dr. Alfred E. Wisgoski Agricultural Education Center on Friday, planting the seeds of growth for the expanding agriculture program while honoring the legacy of one of the College’s foremost leaders and supporters.

Local dignitaries, College Board of Trustees members and employees, representatives of the agribusiness community and members of the public joined President Dr. Tracy Morris and members of the Wisgoski family at a groundbreaking ceremony on the site just south of the main campus.

Made possible in part by a $3.5 million U.S. Department of Economic Development Administration grant and a $240,000 IL Department of Commerce and Economic Opportunity grant, the facility will help redefine the IVCC Agriculture program, outfitting IVCC to train and upskill agriculture workers, aid in development of new technology and develop sustainable practices.

Equipped with leading-edge innovation labs and technology, the 10,250-square-foot building puts students at the heart of the College’s 153-acre test plots, where they can easily apply theory to practice. The dedicated agricultural space makes hosting more community-based programs for youth and agri-industry possible.

The building also features conference rooms, lounge areas, flexible classroom space and room for a future greenhouse. It is expected to be complete and ready for occupation in 2027.

“Ag has long been a cornerstone of our community, and here at IVCC, we are proud to see that tradition thrive. Since 2020, our agriculture program has grown by 48 percent. By investing in the next generation of agriculture students, we are ensuring that this vital program continues to flourish for years to come,” Dr. Morris told the audience.

A $1 million gift from the Wisgoski family ensures continuation of the legacy of the longest-serving president in College history. Dr. Wisgoski presided over two decades of unprecedented growth, fiscal stability, and academic excellence, all while spearheading community economic development and workforce training efforts.

Dr. Wisgoski retired in 1996 after serving 22 years as president, ending a 47-year bond with the College that began when he enrolled at LPO Junior College.

To learn more about the Agricultural Complex expansion and the IVCC Foundation fundraising effort, AgForward, visit www.ivcc.edu/agforward or contact Executive Director of the Foundation Tracy Beattie at 815-224-0550.