CHAMPAIGN, Ill. (Chambana Today) — Parkland College’s Board of Trustees approved the fiscal year 2026 budget and a slate of capital improvement projects during its regular monthly meeting on Wednesday. Despite an operating deficit of just under $2 million, the board moved forward with plans aimed at strengthening campus infrastructure and public safety.
The $1,997,604 deficit accounts for estimated salary increases, healthcare costs, and significant capital expenditures tied to long-term campus maintenance. Structural and mechanical improvements under the Protection, Health, and Safety (PHS) project plans include roof and window replacements, HVAC upgrades, and new security camera systems across campus.
Trustees also appointed Parkland alum and Urbana native Gavin Granse as a peace officer. Granse, who began law enforcement training with Parkland in January 2025, completed the college’s field training program in August and is now cleared for solo patrol duties.
During the meeting, the board also recognized several faculty and staff members with annual excellence awards:
- Teaching Excellence Award: Steven Rutledge, Professor of English and Humanities
- Outstanding Faculty Leadership: Marya Burke, Counselor, Counseling Support Center
- Staff Gold Award: Brian Walker, Custodian (5+ years)
- Staff Green Award: Megan Johnson, Lead CVT, Veterinary Technology (under 5 years)
In other business, the board approved the $60,012 purchase of subscription services from American Government Services, LLC, and accepted external grant funding from the Illinois Community College Board, Illinois Arts Council, and Illinois Board of Higher Education.
Personnel appointments included roles in marketing, workforce development, financial aid, and allied health. Job classification modifications for support staff were also approved.
More information about the meeting, including budget documents and award recipient bios, is available at parkland.edu.
