Skip to main content
Illinois Eastern Community Colleges (IECC) is reporting steady enrollment this fall, with strong gains among dual credit, career and technical, transfer, and adult education students. While overall full-time equivalent (FTE) enrollment is down just 0.5 percent, Vice Chancellor of Institutional Outreach Tona Ambrose, who directs IECC’s enrollment management efforts, says the numbers reflect stability and strength across the district’s four colleges—Frontier Community College, Lincoln Trail College, Olney Central College, and Wabash Valley College.
Ambrose said the district’s core campus operations remain stable, and that enrollment declines have occurred primarily within IECC’s Business and Industry division—a result of purposeful, strategic operational decisions rather than decreased student interest.
“IECC’s overall FTE decline of just 0.5 percent is a strong indicator of stability and resilience in today’s challenging higher education landscape,” said Ambrose. “This consistency reflects the intentional and collaborative work happening across our district. It shows that our strategies are working, our programs are relevant, and our colleges are effectively supporting persistence and completion.”
FTE, or full-time equivalent, represents the total number of course hours taken by all students, converted into the equivalent number of full-time students. It is a key measure used by colleges to assess overall enrollment trends.
Dual Credit and First-Time Student Growth
Dual credit enrollment continues to be one of IECC’s strongest growth areas, thanks to expanded course offerings, flexible delivery options, and strong partnerships with local high schools.
“Our Directors of Dual Credit, faculty and staff, together with high school counselors, instructors, and administrators deserve recognition for helping students see the value of earning college credit early,” Ambrose said. “Their collaboration has helped more students get a head start on their college and career goals.”
In addition to dual credit growth, IECC also saw an increase in first-time college students across the district—a promising sign that more students are choosing IECC to begin their higher education journey close to home.
Career and Technical Education Momentum
Enrollment in career and technical programs also rose, reflecting student interest in hands-on, high-wage career paths and the district’s close ties with regional employers. Programs in areas such as Health Professions, Broadband Telecommunications, Electrical Distribution Systems, Industrial Maintenance Technology, and Diesel Equipment Technology continue to attract students.
“That growth is fueled by our faculty who bring real-world expertise into the classroom, our academic deans who align programs with workforce needs, and employers who collaborate on equipment, internships, and curriculum,” Ambrose said. “Together, they’re ensuring that students gain the skills, credentials, and experience employers value most.”
Strong Transfer and Adult Education Results
Transfer enrollment is also increasing, reflecting the success of students who start their academic journey with IECC before transferring to four-year universities to complete their bachelor’s degrees. That growth is supported by clear academic pathways, personalized advising, and strong articulation agreements that make the transition smoother and more affordable.
“Every successful transfer represents more than just a number—it’s proof that IECC’s focus to prepare students for the next step in their education and careers is working,” Ambrose said.
Adult education enrollment is climbing as well, supported by targeted outreach, flexible learning options, and initiatives like ICAPS (Integrated Career and Academic Preparation System) and AMOC (Alternative Method of Credentialing). “These programs allow adult learners to earn credentials while improving foundational skills, with the added support of career coaching and other wraparound services,” Ambrose explained.
Collaboration and Innovation Across the District
Ambrose credits the success to district-wide collaboration and IECC’s ongoing work with Guided Pathways, which helps students identify clear academic and career goals early in their college journey. “Enrollment management and our growth take everyone at IECC,” she said. “Our faculty, staff, and leaders across the district have worked tirelessly to engage students and support them every step of the way.”
Looking ahead, Ambrose said the district will continue to focus on expanding access, increasing reach, and ensuring educational and career relevance. “Ultimately, IECC’s greatest strength lies in our people—those who are committed to our mission and who continue to dream big and meet students where they are,” she said.