Work to Begin on JJC's New Veteran Resource, Learning Centers

Joliet Junior College issued this news release:

JJC will begin construction next month on a new Veterans Resource Center and a new Tutoring and Learning Center as part of the college’s 2013 Master Plan.

A rendering of the new Veterans Resource Center at JJC, scheduled to be completed in spring 2014.

Both projects were identified as priorities for JJC as they will meet critical needs for students and align with the goals of the college’s strategic plan. These new spaces will also repurpose areas within Main Campus that were vacated when the nursing program moved to the Health Professions Center. 

Construction will begin on the Veterans Resource Center in December, with a target completion date of spring 2014. The 1,700 square-foot space on the first floor of C-Building will provide a dedicated area for veterans to gather and socialize, study, have computer access, and space for counseling and meeting.  The new area will include a reception area, counseling room, computer stations and conference room.

The space will be open to all veterans attending the college. Around 300 student veterans use their veteran educational benefits each semester at JJC.

“We are looking forward to having, for the first time, a dedicated space on campus for our veterans,” said Director of Financial Aid David Seward. “This will be a place for student veterans to gather, meet each other and have access to computers and meeting spaces that are for them.”

The new Tutoring and Learning Center, which is being constructed on the second floor of C-Building in the former nursing simulation lab, will consolidate several tutoring resources at the college. Currently spread across Main Campus, tutoring resources including the Academic Skills Center, Speaking Center, Math Learning Center, Writing and Reading Center, and Learning English for Academic Purposes Center (LEAP) will be now be conveniently located in one spot for students.

“This new space will become a one-stop-shop for students who are looking for tutoring,” said Stephanie Braun, academic skills manager. “Students can come by with or without an appointment and get a comprehensive picture of tutoring resources available to them at JJC.”

The 7,900 square-foot space will include 91 computer stations and 10 separate spaces for group or individual tutoring sessions, workshops and trainings. It is projected to be completed in spring 2014, with a grand opening event planned for fall 2014.