COMMEND-CHRISTINA KUBERSKI

104th Regular Session Introduced by John Cabello and 1 co-sponsor

The resolution formally commends Christina Kuberski for her leadership and lasting contributions to Highland Community College and the Freeport region.

Resolution Adopted

Summary of HR0964 (104th General Assembly, Illinois)

Purpose and Intent

HR0964 is a House Resolution commending Christina "Chris" Kuberski for her leadership and distinguished career in higher education, particularly at Highland Community College, and for her broader contributions to the Freeport region and the state of Illinois.

Key Provisions and Changes

Formal Recognition: The resolution formally acknowledges and commends Chris Kuberski for her leadership, service, and achievements.

Highlighted Accomplishments:

Named the ninth president of Highland Community College in July 2020, after previously serving as executive vice president for five years.
Leadership credited with:
Workplace culture improvements
Recognition through regional employer awards (Best of the Region Community's Choice Award, 101–500 employees, for three consecutive years)
National recognition by SmartAsset as a top-performing community college based on student success metrics (ranked 59th nationwide, first in Illinois for student success criteria such as retention, affordability, and student-to-faculty ratio)
Campus enhancements including new welding and CNC laboratories, nursing simulation hospital, mobile medical unit, renovations to fine arts facilities, improved student spaces, a new welcome center, and a new testing center
Investments in technology and student support systems (DegreeWorks, CourseLeaf catalog management)
Service as a peer reviewer for the Higher Learning Commission and participation in the Alliance for Innovation and Transformation

Community Involvement: Notes her engagement on boards such as the Greater Freeport Partnership, Northwest Illinois Economic Development, and Region 1 Planning Council.

Honors and Recognitions: Mentions awards including the 2021 YWCA Women of Achievement Business Award, the 2025 Stephenson County Community Champion Award, and coverage as one of Northwest Quarterly’s “25 Most Interesting People.”

Who/What Would Be Affected

Primary beneficiary: Christina "Chris" Kuberski, in formal recognition by the Illinois House of Representatives.

Indirect effects: Elevates the profile of Highland Community College and the Freeport region by highlighting leadership and institutional improvements; may foster goodwill and community pride.

Procedural and Timeline Aspects

Type of measure: Non-binding House Resolution (commendatory in nature).

Sponsor information: Co-sponsors John Cabello and Tony McCombie.

Effective effect: No legal or regulatory changes; the resolution serves as a ceremonial acknowledgment and public record.

Typical process: Passed by the Illinois House of Representatives as a formal expression of appreciation; would typically accompany presentation to the honoree.

Potential Impact

Symbolic/ ceremonial impact: Provides formal recognition of a college president’s leadership and contributions to higher education and regional development.

Public relations: May enhance visibility for Highland Community College and its initiatives, potentially supporting ongoing or future community partnerships and fundraising efforts.

No fiscal or policy changes: The resolution does not create mandates, funding, or regulatory changes.