Joliet Junior College Named a 2026 Most Promising Places to Work in Community Colleges Award Winner

Joliet Junior College (JJC) is proud to announce it has been named a 2026 Most Promising Places to Work in Community Colleges award winner by the National Institute for Staff and Organizational Development (NISOD) in partnership with The EduLedger.

JJC is among a select group of community colleges nationwide recognized for best-in-class student and staff recruitment and retention practices, inclusive learning and working environments, and meaningful community service and engagement opportunities.

This recognition reflects JJC's continued commitment to fostering a campus where all individuals feel welcomed, respected and valued. Founded as the nation's first public community college, JJC offers a purpose-driven, student-centered workplace rooted in community and belonging. Employees are united by a shared commitment to student success and are supported by leadership that values individuals as whole people and recognizes the connection between employee well-being and professional growth.

"Joliet Junior College's continued recognition as a most promising place to work speaks to the strength of our people and our shared values," said Judy Connelly, chief human resources officer. "By prioritizing inclusion, communication and care for one another, we create an environment where employees and students can thrive."

Amid the challenges of the past six years, JJC has maintained a positive work environment by emphasizing clear communication, flexibility and empathy. The College has remained focused on connection, well-being and shared purpose during times of change.

JJC has been recognized as a Most Promising Place to Work in Community Colleges in 2022, 2023, 2025 and 2026. The College has also earned national recognition for its diversity, equity and inclusion efforts, including the Higher Education Excellence in Diversity Award.

Most Promising Places to Work in Community College award winners will be formally recognized in May during the NISOD Conference: Advancing Community College Student Engagement, taking place May 23-26 in Austin, Texas.