Southeastern Illinois College: A Hub of Education and Culture

Southeastern Illinois College (SIC), located in Harrisburg, Illinois, is a public community college established in 1960. The college offers Associate degrees and stands as a vital educational and cultural hub in the region. SIC's origins trace back to classes held in the basement of Harrisburg High School, and it has since grown to become a comprehensive institution with a wide array of programs and facilities. The campus is home to the Ella Elizabeth Hise Museum of Regional Art, which showcases artwork from Southern Illinois and the surrounding region. The museum's mission is to foster an appreciation for the visual arts through exhibits, programs, and cultural partnerships. The museum itself was made possible by a donation from William C. Hise, in honor of his sister Ella Elizabeth Hise, who was a teacher and art supervisor in the Harrisburg Public Schools. SIC is also known for its archery program, which includes both indoor and outdoor ranges. The indoor archery center is a 12-lane facility that is open to students and the public, with leagues and instructional classes available. SIC's archery teams have achieved national recognition, competing against and defeating Division I universities. The Melba Patton Library offers a vast collection of resources, including books, periodicals, and online databases. The library supports the college's curriculum and provides a space for students to study and conduct research. Beyond academics and the arts, SIC provides a range of athletic programs, including basketball, baseball, softball, and cross country. The college also has a strong speech team, the Forensic Falcons, which has consistently ranked among the top community college forensics programs in the nation.