Rasmussen College’s community leadership efforts are being recognized. The Village of Romeoville, Ill. named the Romeoville/Joliet campus the 2012 Large Business of the Year. Campus President Amy King accepted the award at the Annual State of the Village Address on Tuesday, Jan. 8 in front of 350 attendees.
“I’m still beaming we were able to accomplish this one,” said King. “There are more than 600 businesses in Romeoville, so it’s truly an honor.”
Village of Romeoville Mayor John Noak praised Rasmussen College for being an active member of the community since opening in 2010. He credited the college for creating 50 new jobs in the Romeoville area. Noak also highlighted King’s personal involvement as Chair of the Romeoville Chamber of Commerce and for serving on the Board of Directors for the Will County Center for Economic Development. But King isn’t alone. Rasmussen College staff also serves as members of Kiwanis, March of Dimes and Partners in Education through the Chamber of Commerce.
“I always tell my team we are a hub in the community, not a spoke,” said King. “We are looked at as a resource for various businesses, community organizations and nonprofits, and I think the Village of Romeoville recognized we’ve made active contributions.”
King says her campus has a lot to be proud of, but its recent partnership with the Romeoville Fire Academy to create the Fire Science Associate’s Degree program really stands out. Through this exclusive partnership, Rasmussen College instructors provide real-life field skills training in facilities designed to simulate real-world fire scenarios.
“We’re providing our students with such a unique experience, and I’m really proud of that,” said King.
King acknowledges this award will be tough to beat next year, but she says her campus will continue to play a major role in the community.
“It’s who we are,” said King. “We don’t just serve our students but our local businesses and community as well.”
