Shawnee Community College president accepts chancellor position with Illinois Eastern Community Colleges
FOX23 News at 9 p.m
ULLIN, Ill., (KBSI) — Shawnee Community College President Dr. Timothy L. Taylor has accepted the position of chancellor of Illinois Eastern Community Colleges and will leave his current role in August.
Taylor will conclude his service as president of Shawnee Community College on Aug. 14 and begin his new position with IECC on Aug. 15.
Taylor joined Shawnee Community College in September 2020 during the COVID-19 pandemic. During his tenure, the college expanded educational opportunities, strengthened partnerships with regional school districts, employers and community organizations, improved governance and accountability systems, completed a successful Higher Learning Commission reaffirmation with no findings and increased financial stability.
The college also developed a long-term facilities master plan, secured state, federal and philanthropic funding for infrastructure improvements and increased its visibility across the region and state.
Shawnee Community College Board Chair Steve Heisner thanked Taylor for his leadership.
“Dr. Taylor assumed leadership of the college during one of the most challenging periods in higher education,” Heisner said. “Throughout his tenure, he provided steady leadership that helped guide the institution through the pandemic, strengthen governance and accountability systems, maintain financial stability, advance student success initiatives and position the college for long-term success.”
Taylor said he is proud of the work accomplished during his time at Shawnee.
“When I arrived at Shawnee in September 2020, the college — like institutions across the nation — was facing unprecedented challenges associated with the COVID-19 pandemic,” Taylor said. “Together, our board, employees, students and communities met those challenges and positioned the college for a strong and sustainable future.”
Taylor said he will remain committed to the college through his final day and will work with the Board of Trustees and leadership team to ensure a smooth transition.
The Shawnee Community College Board of Trustees is expected to discuss transition planning and next steps in the coming weeks.
