Black Hawk College extends contract for President Dr. Jeremy Thomas
Black Hawk College President Dr. Jeremy Thomas will remain in his role through June 30th, 2030, following the Board of Trustees’ unanimous approval of a four-year contract extension. Thomas became president in June of 2023 and has now completed the original term of his contract. Board Chair Fritz Larsen says Thomas has pushed the college to think bigger, with a focus on students, workforce development, and community partnerships. Under his leadership, Black Hawk has seen enrollment growth, expanded employer and education partnerships, and investments in modern career training facilities. Thomas says the progress reflects the work of faculty, staff, students, trustees, alumni, and community partners.
“Jeremy has challenged us to think bigger about what Black Hawk College can be,” said Fritz Larsen, board chair. “His focus on students, workforce development and community partnerships has strengthened the college in measurable ways.”
“From expanding educational opportunities and strengthening relationships with employers to investing in state-of-the-art facilities that prepare students for successful careers, his leadership is creating lasting value for our students, our communities and the regional economy,” Larsen said.
Since he took the helm, the college has seen sustained enrollment growth, expanded partnerships with business, industry, and educational institutions, and continued investment in modern learning spaces. Those upgrades are aimed at preparing students for high-demand careers and meeting the changing needs of local employers. The college has also strengthened workforce and transfer pathways while enhancing career and technical education facilities. Beyond the classroom, Black Hawk has gained regional and national recognition through championship athletics and competitive livestock, equine, and agriculture judging teams.
“I am grateful for the board’s confidence and the opportunity to continue serving Black Hawk College,” Dr. Thomas said.
“Everything we’ve accomplished has been possible because of our faculty, staff, trustees, students, alumni and community partners,” he said.
“Together, we will continue creating opportunities for students, strengthening our communities and changing lives through education.”
Black Hawk College continues to play a major role in regional education and workforce development across western Illinois. Serving more than 225,000 residents in all or part of nine counties, the college operates as a single institution with campuses in Moline and near Kewanee, plus several outreach locations. Its programs include career training, transfer education, workforce development and community learning opportunities. College leaders say that broad reach helps support local employers, strengthen career pathways and contribute to the economic vitality of communities across Bureau, Henderson, Henry, Knox, Marshall, Mercer, Rock Island, Stark and Whiteside counties.