JJC Board Chairman Jim Budzinski Resigns After Five Years of Service

The Joliet Junior College (JJC) Board of Trustees accepted the resignation of board chairman Jim Budzinski during its regular June board meeting. Budzinski is concluding five years of dedicated service to the College, including the last four years spent serving as chairman of the board.

Elected in 2021, Budzinski’s term on the board was originally set to end in April 2027. Throughout his tenure, Budzinski set a new standard for trustee leadership at JJC, serving two terms as chairman. A champion for students, innovation and equity, he has been a driving force behind numerous College initiatives. 

“Jim has been an invaluable partner to College leadership, always guiding us with integrity and a deep commitment to strong board governance, said Dr. Clyne Namuo, JJC president. “As a volunteer, he truly modeled servant leadership, giving his time generously to the institution without seeking recognition. We are grateful for his dedicated service and the lasting example he leaves behind.”  

Chairman Budzinski has been a passionate advocate for responsible, accountable governance. Under his leadership, the board took proactive steps to safeguard its integrity and functionality, including leading the effort to engage board members to serve as direct liaisons to the Association of Community College Trustees (ACCT) and lead the efforts to conduct the first-ever board self-evaluation in JJC’s history. 

Budzinski’s commitment to ethical leadership was further reflected in JJC's adoption of 'trustee in good standing' language and a code of ethics. These measures ensure the board governs itself both fairly and effectively. 

“It has been an honor to work alongside dedicated trustees, administrators, faculty, staff and students in advancing Joliet Junior College,” said Budzinksi. “During my tenure, I have been committed to strengthening governance, establishing strong policy and leadership, and providing insight to help fulfill the mission of this institution. I am deeply grateful to have served the District 525 community and look forward to what Dr. Namuo and the College will accomplish in the future.” 

Beyond his leadership at the College, Budzinski has a long history of community service. His local impact spans decades of youth coaching and volunteerism, as well as mentoring students in computer science and STEM education. Whether attending legislative events to advocate for the College or supporting local initiatives, Budzinski’s steady presence and values-driven approach have left a lasting impact on the JJC community. 

Per board policy, vice chair Nancy Garcia Guillen will assume the role of chair for the next 60 days to ensure continuity of leadership.  

"As chair of the board, I want to express my deepest gratitude to Jim for his exceptional leadership, unwavering dedication and lasting contributions to the College community." said Garcia Guillen. "It is both an honor and a responsibility to build upon the strong foundation he has established. I am fully committed to working in partnership with Dr. Namuo and the JJC administration to ensure a seamless transition and to advance our shared mission of serving students, supporting employees and strengthening the future of the College." 

JJC is governed by a seven-member Board of Trustees, all of whom are elected from within the College’s seven-county district. Information about the board can be found on the JJC Board of Trustees webpage.  

Media inquiries should be directed to Katie Smith, communications and media manager, at katherine.smith@jjc.edu