The $3.5 million John H. Weitendorf, Sr. Agricultural Education Center was conceived to enhance educational opportunities found within Joliet Junior College's Agricultural and Horticultural Sciences Departments for faculty, students, and the Joliet community.

The concept of the education and event center relates to the priority of science education, as well as agricultural abundance.  In both plant and animal agriculture, the Agricultural Sciences department is seeking facilities, technologies, and curriculum to improve the delivery and effectiveness of agri-science information to students of all ages and backgrounds.  Plant and animal laboratory facilities will allow for countless workshops, seminars, and other growth opportunities for growers, producers, and those who educate agricultural youth.

The most critical educational experience offered through this center will be the extensive agricultural literacy programs targeted to the non-agricultural population. Joliet Junior College provides avenues for improving the knowledge and expertise of today’s agricultural producer by serving as a bridge to industry.

The facility is necessitated by the lack of suitable facilities at our current location. Successful realization of the mission of the Agricultural Sciences department and the community college system as a whole, requires that institutions provide the most current information and experiences to all those in need, regardless of their financial or social status. We strive to reach that realization, but are often limited by the depth of financial commitment from the public education system. The generosity and commitment of private companies and individuals with a common interest in the advancement of the agriculture industry will bring us closer to achieving the goals and objectives shared by all in this most important and vital field of agriculture.

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