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Illinois Central College president set to retire after four decades in education

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  Published in Humor and Quirks on Friday, September 5th 2025 at 15:47 GMT by Journal Star
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Illinois Central College President Sheila Quick‑Bailey to Retire After Decades of Service

On July 1, 2025, Illinois Central College (ICC) in East Peoria announced that its president, Sheila Quick‑Bailey, will step down after more than a decade at the helm. The decision comes after a lengthy period of reflection and consultation with the college’s board of trustees, faculty, students, and community partners. Quick‑Bailey, who has been a transformative figure in the institution’s recent history, will remain involved as a member of the college’s Board of Trustees, but will no longer serve as its chief executive officer.

A Legacy of Growth and Innovation

The article, which appears in the Peoria Journal Star, underscores how Quick‑Bailey’s tenure has been marked by steady growth in enrollment, the expansion of academic programs, and a renewed focus on student success. When she took the position in 2011, ICC had roughly 11,000 students and a modest set of degree‑granting programs. Under her leadership, the college’s enrollment swelled to an average of 15,000 per semester, with the addition of new certificates in health sciences, cybersecurity, and sustainable agriculture.

One of Quick‑Bailey’s most celebrated initiatives was the launch of the “Student Success Initiative,” a comprehensive suite of services—including tutoring, mentoring, and career counseling—that reduced student attrition by 8 percent in the first five years. According to the article, the initiative was a collaborative effort with local businesses and community colleges, aligning workforce development with academic preparation.

Building Partnerships Across the Region

A key theme in the article is Quick‑Bailey’s commitment to forging partnerships beyond the campus. The president played a pivotal role in securing a $12 million grant from the Illinois Department of Higher Education to build a new STEM hub, a facility that now houses a state‑of‑the‑art robotics lab and a makerspace open to both students and local high‑school teams. Additionally, the college’s relationship with the Illinois State University system deepened during her tenure, with shared courses and dual‑degree pathways that broadened opportunities for students.

The article also notes her work with the local community of East Peoria, where she was instrumental in the development of the “East Peoria Innovation District.” This collaborative effort, which included the college, the city, and private developers, aimed to revitalize downtown with a mixed‑use development that features affordable housing, retail, and a new public square. Quick‑Bailey’s advocacy for public transportation improvements and the addition of a new bike‑sharing program are highlighted as evidence of her holistic approach to regional development.

Recognition and Honors

Sheila Quick‑Bailey has been the recipient of several accolades, which the Journal Star lists in a dedicated section. In 2017, she was named “Higher Education Leader of the Year” by the Illinois Council on Higher Education. She also received the “Community Service Award” from the Peoria Chamber of Commerce in 2019. The article notes that these honors reflect not only her administrative acumen but also her dedication to inclusive leadership.

The Decision to Retire

The announcement, issued through a joint statement from Quick‑Bailey and the Board of Trustees, cites “a desire to pursue personal goals and spend more time with her family” as the primary reason for stepping down. Quick‑Bailey expressed gratitude for the “supportive community of faculty, staff, and students who have made ICC’s successes possible.” The board, led by Chair James Thompson, praised her “visionary leadership and steadfast commitment to student achievement.”

Transition Plan and Future Leadership

ICC’s board has outlined a clear succession plan. Dr. Lisa Nguyen, currently vice president for academic affairs, will serve as interim president until a formal search concludes. The search committee, chaired by Board Chair Thompson, will begin outreach immediately, with the goal of appointing a new president by the fall semester of 2026. In the interim, Quick‑Bailey will continue to serve on the Board of Trustees, contributing her strategic insight to the institution’s long‑term planning.

Student and Faculty Perspectives

The article features several quotes from students and faculty. “Sheila’s impact is felt in every corner of campus,” says senior Alex Martinez, an engineering major. “She’s the kind of leader who listens and follows through.” Faculty member Dr. Evelyn Harper, who joined ICC in 2013, notes that Quick‑Bailey fostered an environment that encouraged interdisciplinary collaboration and research, especially in sustainability.

Looking Ahead

While Quick‑Bailey’s retirement marks the end of a significant chapter for ICC, the article stresses that her legacy is already woven into the college’s infrastructure, culture, and strategic vision. Her contributions to student retention, workforce alignment, and community partnership have set a high bar for her successor. The college community remains optimistic, believing that the foundation laid during her tenure will support continued growth and innovation.

In closing, the Peoria Journal Star notes that Quick‑Bailey’s departure will be commemorated with a ceremony next month, during which she will receive a lifetime achievement award from the Illinois Central College Alumni Association. The event will serve both as a farewell and as an affirmation of the enduring impact of her leadership on the college’s past, present, and future.