IL HJR0092

Lincoln College, chartered on February 6, 1865, was the first institution named for Abraham Lincoln during his lifetime; the college announced permanent closure effective May 13, 2022.

In the 2019-2020 academic year, Lincoln College enrolled 1,234 students, with 68% MAP-eligible and 62% Pell-eligible, and 60% from minority groups traditionally underrepresented in higher education.

A December 2021 cyberattack disabled the college's systems for recruitment, retention, and fundraising, resulting in unclear enrollment projections and significant shortfalls.

Urges Illinois universities and community colleges to extend application deadlines, waive application and transcript fees, honor Lincoln College credits for transfer, attend the April 14 student transfer fair, and match or exceed financial aid awards for affected students.

Encourages the Illinois Department of Employment Security and Department of Commerce and Economic Opportunity to assist displaced Lincoln College employees in finding new employment.