1970-1979

In the 1970s, Illinois reached for gender equality, legal reforms, and increased awareness of women's issues, as the state played a crucial role in shaping the evolving political and educational landscape during this pivotal decade.

Basketball player jumps to shoot a basket from the side. Several players in the background stand ready to catch it. — The college moves into the new campus building at 1700 Spartan Drive. Elgin Community College opens a new gym with a basketball game against Waubonsee Community College.

students pictured in a registration in cafeteria lining up — In 1970, the Illinois Community College Board (ICCB) created the Student Trustee role in community colleges. Pictured here from the same era is the student registration in cafeteria area (Building A)

Elgin Community College Library — ECC hosts a dedication and open house of the new campus. North Central Association of Colleges and Secondary Schools renews ECC's three-year accreditation. ECC renamed The Resources Center the Renner Learning Resources Center in honor of President Gilbert Renner. ECC introduced Dr. Robert L. Appel Jr., EdD, as the second president of Elgin Community College, effective September 27, 1971.

Fish-eye view from behind the information desk. Two card catalogs create an aisle towards the lounge area. — This mid-1970s fisheye photo of the Renner Learning Resources Center showcases its original layout and design, offering a unique historical perspective on the educational institution's architecture.

Fish-eye view of seating area between library book stacks. Photo taken from ground looking up. — In the mid-1970s, a photograph of Elgin Community College's library, the Renner Learning Resources Center, was captured, showcasing its initial configuration and layout.

Fish-eye view of rows of library workstations with privacy walls. — In the mid-1970s, a photograph captured the initial configuration and layout of Elgin Community College's library with student work cubicles, designed as tranquil spaces for individuals to study in peace and quiet, contributing an essential aspect to the educational environment of the time.

A student works on the tire of a raised car. — Here, a dedicated student is actively engaged in honing their skills by working on a tire in the automotive program at Elgin Community College.

Two dental assistant students practice on a dummy in a dental chair as a professor guides them. — ECC made history by forging the inaugural educational pact between the ECC Dental Assisting Program and the Waubonsee Community College Automotive Program. This groundbreaking agreement opened doors to a dynamic exchange of expertise, skills, and limitless potential, leaving an enduring mark on both programs.

7 board members mingle with each other in an open space. — The ECC Board of Trustees establishes the Orrin G. Thompson Excellence in Teaching Award. Junior College District 509 annexes Central Community Unit District No. 301. Mr. Brian Dardis was the first student trustee for D 509 (at the time Junior College District No. 509), serving from 1973-1974. He was certified as the first non-voting student member of the Board on December 11, 1973.

Closeup of Robert L Appel Junior leaning in a chair. — ECC marks a remarkable milestone as it commemorates its 25th anniversary since its inception. The North Central Association of Colleges and Secondary Schools enthusiastically renews Elgin Community College's accreditation for another vibrant five years. In an exciting development, Junior College District 509 expands its influence by annexing School District 303.

Robert L. Appel Jr. — The official college name changed from Junior College District 509 to Community College District 509. Mark Hopkins, EdD, becomes the third president of Elgin Community College.

Photo of the Elgin Community College sign in Spring with flowers — The official college name changed from Junior College District 509 to Community College District 509. Mark Hopkins, EdD, becomes the third president of Elgin Community College.

An instructor directs a student at a piano as six other students follow along with lap keyboards. — Community Outreach for Placement and Assessment (COPA) Center opens in the Elgin YMCA. Private music lessons become available as the college opens its Conservatory of Music.

An instructor points to sheet music for two students with trumpets. — In this early ECC music program photo, a music instructor and two brass students are seen in a rehearsal room with soundproofing. The image beautifully captures the collaborative and focused atmosphere of musical education at Elgin Community College.

Front exterior of YMCA building. — Initially, the YMCA Building served as the original home for business classes before transforming into the headquarters of ABEC in the 1970s. During the 1960s, a remodeled basement within this building played host to business classes, and in the subsequent decade, it became a hub for Adult Education classes. Unfortunately, the building met its demise in the early 2000s through demolition.

ECC Campus 1977 — Elgin Community College receives a $1 million Advanced Institutional Development Program Grant from the Department of Health, Education, and Welfare.

Seven faculty members pose in front of the Applied Business Technology Building with a stack of moving boxes. — The Faculty Development Office opens with funding through the AIDP Grant.

Full group of the Elgin Choral Union — ECC opens the new Industrial Technology Building, maintaining its seven-year accreditation. ECC celebrates its 30th anniversary with the Elgin Choral Union performance.

Brass band performing on a stage — Adorned in coordinated suits and ties, a brass band takes the stage at Elgin Community College, presenting a polished and harmonious performance.

Then and Now

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