Dupage Policy Journal

Heidi Holan’s appointment to the College of DuPage board seems like a natural occurrence given her longtime ties to the school and area.

“As a 35-year resident in the district, my family ties to the College of DuPage are strong,” Holan, tabbed by fellow board members to serve out the remaining three years of newly elected state Rep. Deanne Mazzochi’s term, told the DuPage Policy Journal. “My husband and oldest son have received associate degrees from the college and my youngest son is currently enrolled as a student. I have attended classes at COD and was a member of the Budget Committee prior to being appointed as trustee."

Holan said she does not foresee much changing with her arrival, given the strong turn the school has made in recent years following the controversy that publicly erupted in 2017 amid news of a $763,000 retirement package paid to former college President Robert Breuder.

“We plan to continue taking the same path we’ve taken the last few years, which is a strong commitment to initiatives that benefit students,” Holan said, naming such programs as guided pathways and project higher education as examples. “Our goal is to help students choose and complete programs of study that are more aligned with their employment goals.”

After being so closely associated with the school for so many years, Holan said she relishes the chance to officially be a part of deciding its direction going forward.

"I am grateful for this opportunity to serve my community and seek to fulfill the mission of the college by providing an accessible, affordable and comprehensive education” Holan said. “In the performance of my duties as a trustee, I will continue to exercise the values it promotes: integrity, honesty, respect and responsibility, so that the College of DuPage continues to be a valuable resource within our community."

Holan, who previously ran twice as a Republican for state representative in the 46th District, vowed to always put the community first.

“I want to be meeting the student goals we outline in the mission statement,” she said. As for her new colleagues, she added, “I promise I will do everything I can to work with everyone.”