A faculty office in the new Dr. Alfred E. Wisgoski Agricultural Education Center at Illinois Valley Community College will be named for First State Bank, which contributed $10,000 in support of the new building.

Since 1940, First State Bank has been a locally owned bank committed to providing value-added offerings, backed by exceptional service to the local communities it serves. It does so by providing a combination of cutting-edge banking products and conveniences and employing local professionals who take the time to get to know each customer's banking needs on an individual basis.

The bank is headquartered in Mendota and has 18 additional branches throughout North Central and Central Illinois.

“Agriculture has always been at the core of who we are as a community bank. That is why we are proud to partner with IVCC on the Ag Forward campaign – because supporting education and opportunity in agriculture is really an investment in the future of our entire region,” said Kirk Ross, First State Bank President/CEO.

“We are so thankful for our partnerships with First State Bank. This is a testament to their commitment to our community and to agriculture. Having their name on this office will be a lasting legacy for future generations to see,” said IVCC President Dr. Tracy Morris.

The Center will help redefine the IVCC Agriculture program, outfitting the College to train and upskill agriculture workers, aid in the development of new technology and 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 farm of test plots and cropland, where they can easily apply theory to practice.

The $7.6 million capital project is made possible by community support and public grants, including $3.5 million from the U.S. Department of Economic Development Administration and $240,000 from the Illinois Department of Commerce and Economic Opportunity. Currently, the Ag Forward campaign has brought in more than $1.7 million in support of the project through naming opportunities.

The building, which also features conference rooms, flexible classroom space, and room for a future greenhouse, is expected to be ready for occupancy in 2027. Dr. Alfred E. Wisgoski, for whom the building is named, was the longest serving president in the College’s history.

To learn more about the Dr. Alfred E. Wisgoski Agricultural Education Center and the IVCC Foundation fundraising effort, Ag Forward, visit www.ivcc.edu/agforward or contact Executive Director of the Foundation Tracy Beattie at 815-224-0550.