Suzanne Hoban: Candidate profile
Bio
Name: Suzanne Hoban
City: Woodstock
Office sought: McHenry County College board of trustees
Age: 56
Family: Husband, John Sullivan, 3 children - John, James, Clara
Occupation: Executive Director, Family Health Partnership Clinic
Education: BA, Anthropology and Political Science, - University of Illinois Urbana, Master in Public Health, University of Illinois, Chicago
Civic involvement: Board Member - Leadership Greater McHenry County; Board Member Emeritus - Community Foundation of McHenry County; Board Member - Illinois Association of Free and Charitable Clinics; Commission Member - Senior Services Grant Commission, McHenry County.
Previous elected offices held: None
Website: www.citizensforsuzannehoban.com
Facebook: citizens for Suzanne Hoban
Issue questions
Describe your vision for the primary role of a community college.
I believe a community college should be the hub of community learning - a campus where students can pursue associates degrees and professional or technical certificates; a resource that local businesses can tap into to enhance employee skills, and a place accessible to any community member who wants to learn something new - from painting to beekeeping. As a local leader, and the daughter of a community college teacher, I value the contributions that the community college brings to those it serves.
How well is your community college fulfilling that role? What changes, if any, need to be made?
McHenry County College is well positioned to excel in this role, and has begun to do so. With the addition of the Liebman Science Center, its partnerships with the Mater Gardeners Program, and its commitment to diversity and student success, it is well on its way to lead in that sector. The strong leadership at the college has strengthened its faculty and its commitment to education.
Are you currently employed by or retired from a school district, if so, which one? Is any member of your direct family - spouse, child or child-in-law - employed by the school district where you are seeking a school board seat?
No.
Is a tax rate increase needed and, if so, how do you justify it?
At this time, I don't believe a tax increase is warranted. This needs to be monitored closely, however.
Community colleges provide many services to a diverse population. Is there a service your college should be providing that it is not, or reaching a segment of the population that it is not?
McHenry County College has made student success a pillar of its strategy. From its Early Alert Program, to its Student mentoring Program, MCC recognizes and values diversity of all kinds in its students and works to ensure all feel welcome and supported. It has made a strong effort in recruiting a more diverse faculty and staff, and this can make a significant difference in the success of its students.