Lincoln Land Community College (LLCC) Market Research Report

Background

Overview

Established in 1967, Lincoln Land Community College (LLCC) is a public community college located in Springfield, Illinois. It serves a 15-county district, making it the largest community college district in Illinois by land area, covering 4,115 square miles. LLCC offers a diverse range of educational programs, including transfer-focused degrees, health care, and workforce training, catering to over 12,000 individuals annually through credit and non-credit courses.

Mission and Vision

• Mission: To transform lives and strengthen our communities through learning.

• Vision: LLCC aspires to provide high-quality learning experiences for all seeking to improve their knowledge and skills while serving as a catalyst for economic growth that enriches our communities.

Values

• Diversity and Equity: Fostering a sense of belonging in working and learning environments.

• Affordability: Recognizing the cost-effective pathway to achieve educational goals.

• Collaboration: Creating a culture of collaboration with communities, students, and within the institution.

• Teaching and Learning: Valuing student learning and life advancement through education.

• Agility: Adapting to best serve the needs of students and the community.

• Integrity: Operating in an ethical, trustworthy, truthful, and fair manner.

Key Strategic Focus

Core Objectives

• Student Support: Increasing student persistence and completion rates by resolving enrollment barriers.

• Teaching and Learning: Enhancing student engagement through improved learning spaces and experiences.

• Valuing People: Advancing practices that foster a healthy learning and campus culture.

• Institutional Awareness: Enhancing engagement with district employers and community partners.

Areas of Specialization

LLCC offers approximately 100 areas of study, including liberal arts, health sciences, and technical programs. Notable programs include Registered Nursing, Biological & Physical Sciences, and Mechanical Technologies.

Key Technologies Utilized

LLCC has been an innovator in online education, offering online classes since 1997. The college utilizes various digital platforms to deliver online, hybrid, and synchronous courses, ensuring flexibility and accessibility for students.

Primary Markets Targeted

LLCC serves a diverse student body, including traditional students, adult learners, and underserved populations. The college's programs are designed to meet the educational and workforce needs of central Illinois communities.

Financials and Funding

Tuition and Fees

• In-State Tuition (2023-2024): $3,288 per year.

• Out-of-State Tuition (2023-2024): $9,864 per year.

• Fees: $384.

• Books and Supplies: $912.

Financial Aid

In 2022, 91% of undergraduate students received financial aid through grants, and 22% received aid through loans. The average net price after financial aid was $4,265.

Endowment

As of the end of the 2022 fiscal year, LLCC's endowment was valued at approximately $24.7 million, with a return of $937,000 (3.79%).

Recent Funding Initiatives

In December 2023, LLCC received a $10,000 PATH Scholarship grant from the Ellucian Foundation to support students facing economic hardship. The funds were distributed to 10 students in the TRIO Student Support Services program to assist with tuition, fees, books, and other educational expenses.

Pipeline Development

Program Development

LLCC continually develops and updates its academic programs to align with industry demands and community needs. The college offers a range of degrees and certificates in fields such as health sciences, liberal arts, and technical education.

Workforce Training

The college provides workforce training programs, including the Open Door Workforce Equity Initiative, which offers free training opportunities and support for low-income students, focusing on high-skill, high-wage, in-demand occupations.

Technological Platform and Innovation

Online Education

LLCC has been a pioneer in online education, offering online classes since 1997. The college utilizes various digital platforms to deliver online, hybrid, and synchronous courses, ensuring flexibility and accessibility for students.

Innovative Programs

The Open Door Workforce Equity Initiative provides free training opportunities and support for low-income students, focusing on high-skill, high-wage, in-demand occupations.

Leadership Team

President

• Dr. Charlotte J. Warren: Serving as president since 2006, Dr. Warren has led LLCC through significant expansions and program developments. She holds the title of Colonel, Retired and Honorary Brigadier General for the Georgia National Guard and has served on the Reserve Forces Policy Board in Washington, D.C.

Key Executives

• Lesley Frederick: Vice President, Student Services.

• Paula Luebbert: Assistant Vice President, Corporate/Government Training and Economic Development.

• Candace Silas: Director, Open Door Program.

These leaders have been instrumental in initiatives like the Open Door Workforce Equity Initiative, which received the 2020-2021 Innovation of the Year Award.

Leadership Changes

As of the latest available information, there have been no recent significant changes or appointments within LLCC's leadership team.

Competitor Profile

Market Insights and Dynamics

LLCC operates within the Illinois Community College System, which comprises 48 community colleges serving diverse student populations. The system is governed by the Illinois Community College Board and the Illinois Board of Higher Education.

Competitor Analysis

Key competitors include other community colleges in Illinois, such as Lewis and Clark Community College and Lake Land College. These institutions offer similar programs and serve overlapping geographic regions. LLCC differentiates itself through its extensive district coverage, diverse program offerings, and commitment to affordability and accessibility.

Strategic Collaborations and Partnerships

Community Engagement

LLCC collaborates with local businesses and organizations through program advisory committees, ensuring that its programs align with workforce needs and contribute to regional economic development.

Educational Partnerships

The college partners with local high schools to offer dual credit programs, allowing students to earn college credits while completing high school. Additionally, LLCC has agreements with four-year institutions to facilitate seamless transfer opportunities for students pursuing bachelor's degrees.

Operational Insights

Student Demographics

In 2022, LLCC had a total enrollment of 4,444 students, with 37.6% enrolled full-time. The student body was 70% White, 10.8% Black or African American, and 4.66% Hispanic or Latino. Approximately 32% of students were over the age of 25.

Class Formats

LLCC offers various class formats, including face-to-face, online, hybrid, and synchronous courses, providing flexibility to meet diverse student needs.

Strategic Opportunities and Future Directions

Program Expansion

LLCC plans to continue expanding its program offerings, particularly in high-demand fields such as health sciences and technology, to meet evolving workforce needs.

Community Engagement

The college aims to strengthen partnerships with local businesses and organizations to enhance workforce development initiatives and provide students with practical experience through internships and apprenticeships.

Technological Advancements

LLCC is committed to integrating emerging technologies into its curriculum and expanding online learning opportunities to increase accessibility and support student success.