Harper banks on Senate freshman for degree bill

Officials at Harper College are hoping a fresh face can get a controversial bill to offer bachelor's degrees moving through the state Senate.

Dan Kotowski, a freshman Democrat from Park Ridge, has became the lead sponsor of the legislation for the Palatine community college.

The main reason he's taking it on is because of the community need, Kotowski says.

"The reality is that students and families are having a difficult time affording four-year college and universities," he said. "This is a great educational effort for people in the district."

Plus, he says, the plan would foster partnerships with area businesses.

Harper College has been trying to get a bill through the state Legislature that would allow the school to offer two 4-year degrees as part of a pilot program.

Since the idea was approved in 2002 by the college board of trustees, Harper has been lobbying to change a state law that bans community colleges from offering bachelor's degrees.

In April, the measure was approved by the state House in a 69-48 vote.

If approved by the Senate, Harper would offer four-year degrees in two areas: public safety administration-homeland security and technology management.

It must pass through the Senate by the end of 2008.

The proposal has faced much opposition from state schools and legislators who represent them.

Fred Crespo, a Democrat from Hoffman Estates, sponsored the bill in the House in his first term in office.

After it passed, he acknowledged it being a "tough fight" for a freshman to take on.

"We have to rethink what we're doing in the Senate," said college spokesman Phil Burdick. "We're banking on another freshman."

New lawmakers bring innovation and fresh ideas to Springfield, which is why Kotowski is a good fit, says Burdick.

"We have a strong coalition of supporters," said Kotowski. "I am hopeful that we're going to move forward."

He said he's working with the previous sponsor, Sen. Susan Garrett, a Lake Forest Democrat.

Proponents of the bill say not all Illinois students who are interested in the disciplines Harper would offer can afford or have access to a four-year college.

The pilot programs will be completely funded through tuition and corporate donations, Harper officials say.

These degrees would be on a pilot basis and the legislation would "sunset" after four years, meaning that another vote will be needed for the program to continue.

The concept is now allowed in 12 other states.