A kitchenette in Illinois Valley Community College’s new Dr. Alfred E. Wisgoski Agricultural Education Center will be named in honor of Hometown National Bank in recognition of a $10,000 gift to the building campaign, the IVCC Foundation announced.

Hometown National Bank opened as La Salle National Bank and has been deeply rooted in the Illinois Valley since the late 19th century. After opening a second branch in Joliet and construction of its new headquarters in La Salle, the bank’s name was changed to Hometown, which served to embody its strong ties to all the communities it serves.

“Agriculture has always been at the heart of our communities and we believe that investing in education is one of the best ways to ensure its future. We are proud to support the Ag Forward Campaign and help create a space where students can learn, collaborate, and prepare to become the next generation of agricultural leaders,” said J. David Conterio, President and Chief Executive Officer of Hometown National Bank.

"We are incredibly grateful for Hometown National Bank's investment in the future of agriculture and our students," said IVCC President Dr. Tracy Morris. "This gift reflects the bank's longstanding commitment to strengthening our local communities through education. Their support will have a lasting impact on generations of students."

The $7.6 million Agricultural Education Center 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. Community support through the Ag Forward Campaign will help ensure the facility continues to meet the evolving needs of students and employers throughout the Illinois Valley.

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. It will help redefine the IVCC Agriculture program, outfitting the College to train and upskill agriculture workers by expanding opportunities for hands-on learning, workforce development, and partnerships with local agriculture businesses and organizations.

For more information about the Ag Forward Campaign or naming opportunities, contact the IVCC Foundation at (815) 224-0551 or visit ivcc.edu/foundation.