Kitchenette inside the IVCC new AG Complex named after Hometown National Bank

Hometown National Bank is putting its support behind the future of agriculture education in the Illinois Valley. The bank has donated $10,000 to Illinois Valley Community College’s Ag Forward campaign. The contribution will name a kitchenette inside the new Doctor Alfred E. Wisgoski Agricultural Education Center.

The IVCC Foundation says the donation supports the Ag Forward Campaign, which has raised more than $1.7 million through naming opportunities. Hometown National Bank President and CEO J. David Conterio says the investment reflects agriculture’s central role in local communities and the importance of preparing future leaders.

“Agriculture has always been at the heart of our communities and we believe that investing in education is one of the best ways to ensure its future. We are proud to support the Ag Forward Campaign and help create a space where students can learn, collaborate, and prepare to become the next generation of agricultural leaders,” said J. David Conterio, President and Chief Executive Officer of Hometown National Bank.

The facility is expected to open in 2027. College officials say the center will include conference rooms, flexible classroom space, and areas designed to support hands-on learning. The project aims to expand opportunities for students preparing for careers in agriculture and related industries.

“We are incredibly grateful for Hometown National Bank’s investment in the future of agriculture and our students,” said IVCC President Dr. Tracy Morris. “This gift reflects the bank’s longstanding commitment to strengthening our local communities through education. Their support will have a lasting impact on generations of students.”

The $7.6 million Agricultural Education Center project is being supported through community contributions and public grants. Funding includes $3.5 million from the U.S. Department of Economic Development Administration, along with $240,000 from the Illinois Department of Commerce and Economic Opportunity. The center is part of IVCC’s Ag Forward Campaign, aimed at expanding opportunities for students and strengthening the region’s agricultural workforce.

Naming opportunities are also available through the IVCC Foundation. For details, call 815-224-0551 or visit ivcc.edu/foundation.

Pictured: J. David Conterio, President and Chief Executive Officer of Hometown National Bank (left), and Tammy L. Humpage, Senior Vice President and Trust Officer (right), recently presented IVCC President Dr. Tracy Morris (center) with a contribution to IVCC’s Ag Forward building campaign.