ECC trustee candidates sound off at forum

Candidates vying for two Elgin Community College trustee seats squared off for the first time Tuesday on campus.

Appearing at a forum sponsored by the school's Support Service Association, its Faculty Association and Student Government Association, candidates introduced themselves to the college community and outlined their priorities if elected.

Incumbent Robert Getz, of Elgin, stressed a need for fiscal responsibility above all else.

"We need to be able to keep the dollars within this community college to support the students within this community college." he said.

Getz said he believes that community colleges across the country have a "front row" responsibility in helping the nation recover from the current financial crisis.

Challenger Rick Green, an automotive professor at ECC for 30 years, said he is a strong believer in the community college system, seeing firsthand the effect of dedicated professionals.

"We need to continue to have an open-door policy, to invite all students in our district to come and take classes," the Elgin resident said.

If the college's $178 million referendum passes, Green says, improving the campus library should take precedence.

Donna Schuring-Redmer, a Kane County Regional Office of Education Support Program coach, said she hopes to bring a better understanding of high school graduates', as well as adult learners', needs to the table. Like Green, Schuring-Redmer, of West Dundee, identified the campus library as a priority.

Robin Lisboa, of Elgin, highlighted the fact that she has worked at the state, local and federal levels.

"All of these doors, all of these people, need to communicate with one another,' said Lisboa, a divisional administrator for English language learning at the state board of education.

With a student population that is more than 30 percent Hispanic, Lisboa said she finds it "surprising that after 60 years our college community still does not reflect the constituents it serves."

Lisboa said she believes it is imperative that ECC fosters an environment that celebrates diversity by providing role models that adequately reflect its community.

The candidates are seeking two four-year terms up for election April 7.