Chambana Sun

In an April 14 Facebook post, Sen. Thomas Bennett (R-Morris) cheered Community College Month.

“Happy Community College month,” he wrote. “Let's appreciate the valuable role community colleges have in Illinois.”

Gov. J.B. Pritzker recently declared April "Community College Month" in Illinois. Pritzker made the declaration to raise awareness of community colleges and how they can help students financially and academically.

On April 13, the Assocation of Community College Trustees shared a video by former first lady Michelle Obama, who congratulated students continuing, or resuming their education at a community college. 

"No matter what twists and turns in your life ahead, no one can take your education away from you," Obama said. "It's not just something to help you earn a paycheck, but make a difference for your family an your community. Getting your education isn't easy, but it's definitely worth it."

The organization accompanied the video with, "Huge thanks to former First Lady @MichelleObama for joining the #CCMonth campaign! Please keep spreading the word about the value & importance of community colleges!" 

Bennett represents the 53rd District of Illinois that included Bureau, Ford, Grundy, Iroquois, LaSalle, Livingston, Marshall, McLean, Peoria, Putnam, Tazewell, Will, and Woodford counties. From 2015 to early 2023, Bennett served as the state representative for the 106th District. Bennett has served as a high school and junior high science teacher and IT professional at State Farm Insurance. 

While working and raising a family, Bennett served as a K-12 school board member, member of the local pre-school board and chairman for two years. He was a member of the Parkland College Board of Trustees, including three years as chairman. As a legislator, Bennett has served on task forces and commissions focused on early childhood, teacher assessments, environment and energy.