John W. Lumber: College of Lake County Board Candidate

Name: John W. Lumber

Age: 76

Family: Divorced with one adult age son

Education: B.S. and M.A. Degrees in History from Marquette University. Additional graduate study at NIU, Kent State U, and Marquette University.

Occupation: Retired Dean of Social Sciences, College of Lake County

Appointed Office: Member and President of Lake County Sheriff's Merit Commission, 1976-79

Other Community Involvement: Lecturer, Lake County Government Project, 1976-77

E-Mail Address: jlumber@clcillinois.edu

Campaign Facebook:  John W. Lumber

Why are you running?

During my first term on the Board I was able to work with the administration to develop the college's first Strategic Plan, a Facilities Master Plan, and a Financial Plan. I would like to be involved in the continuing implementation of these plans in a second term.

In what ways would the College of Lake County benefit from your service?

Prior to retiring I had 31 years of experience at CLC, 9 years as a member of the history faculty and 22 years as the Dean of Social Sciences.  The range of responsibilities associated with these positions have provided me with an understanding of the needs, issues, and culture of the college.

What is the biggest challenge the college faces and what should be done to address it?

The biggest challenge facing the college is the availability of sufficient financial resources to support the college's mission. Over the past several years the state has reduced its financial support to community colleges. Currently the legislature is contemplating moving a greater share of the financial burden of funding the pension system to community colleges. While we are looking at different approaches to reducing operating costs, additional revenues may also be required. Other than state support the major revenue sources are property taxes and tuition.

What do you think the college does well?

The college does several things well. These include offering courses of study for students wishing to transfer to baccalaureate institutions that parallel those at four-year institutions. It offers courses of study which prepare for employment in avariety of areas. It also offers a variety of courses in the area of adult education. It provides a variety of cultural experiences to the external community as well as the college community.

What should be some of the college's priorities over the next several years?

a. Maintain the affordability of a college education

b. Commit ourselves to improving students' completion rate

c. Being responsible stewards in the expenditure of students' tuition and property tax revenues

What would you like the voters to know?

During my first term I have worked to insure that quality, accountability, and cost effectiveness are at the heart of the Board's decision making.