Kaskaskia College Board of Trustees approves renaming proposal of Harry L. Crisp Manufacturing and Trades Center

Centralia, Ill.: The Kaskaskia College Board of Trustees convened for its monthly meeting on Monday, January 27, 2025, at Kaskaskia College. Attendees included Bill Hawley (Odin), Linda Stover (Centralia), Jim Beasley (Centralia), Laura Wedekemper (Shattuc), Louis Kalert (Centralia), Craig Finke (Nashville), Bryan Holthaus (Carlyle), and Connor Wademan (Student Trustee).

Trustees approved the proposal to rename the Kaskaskia College Harry L. Crisp Technology Center to the Kaskaskia College Harry L. Crisp Manufacturing and Trades Center. The updated name reflects the facility's expanded mission and programs, including Industrial Technology, Manufacturing Technology, HVAC, Carpentry Occupations, and Welding.

Kaskaskia College's commitment to preparing students for successful careers in manufacturing, skilled trades, and related industries. It also honors Mr. Harry L. Crisp's enduring contributions to education and community development in the region. The Crisp Center formerly was a Pepsi-Cola plant before Harry Crisp donated it to the College in the 1990s. It was then transitioned to instructional space in 2014.

To address ongoing roof leaks at the Trenton Education Center, the Board approved a $53,510 bid from Martin Roofing and Solar of Mascoutah, IL. This proactive decision ensures that necessary repairs are completed before the center's roof further deteriorates.

In personnel actions, the Board approved hiring Shannon Harris as a new Buildings and Grounds Technician and accepted the resignations of Title III Director Tabitha Welch and Police Officer Robert Thompson.