A VISION FOR ILLINOIS CENTRAL COLLEGE’S FUTURE
BUILDING ON A STRONG FOUNDATION
As a proud graduate of Illinois Central College and having served 2 terms on the ICC Foundation, including being named President in 2020, I have witnessed firsthand the transformative power of our community college. My journey from student to Director of Strategic Philanthropy Officer for OSF has given me a unique perspective on the vital role ICC plays in our region’s growth and development.
WHY YOUR VOICE MATTERS
The landscape of higher education is changing rapidly, and our community college must evolve to meet new challenges. With enrollment patterns shifting and our regional economy in transition, ICC needs forward-thinking leadership that understands both our history and our potential.
OUR SHARED PRIORITIES
As your candidate for the ICC Board of Trustees, I am committed to:
- Modernizing our approach to education while maintaining academic excellence
- Strengthening partnerships between ICC and local employers
- Ensuring fiscal responsibility and transparent governance
- Expanding opportunities for career and technical education
A FRESH PERSPECTIVE
While our current Board has served admirably, the time has come for new energy and ideas. My experience in both education and healthcare sectors positions me to help guide ICC through its next chapter of growth and innovation.
LOOKING FORWARD
Together, we can build an ICC that:
- Responds effectively to our changing workforce needs
- Provides affordable, accessible education for all
- Serves as a catalyst for regional economic development
- Maintains its position as a cornerstone of our community
JOIN OUR CAMPAIGN
Your support is crucial in this effort to strengthen ICC’s future. I would be honored to serve as your voice on the ICC Board of Trustees and work together to ensure our college not only survives but thrives in the years ahead.

Christine Bare-Kemper, a lifelong resident of Peoria and current director of strategic philanthropy at OSF Healthcare Foundation, announces her candidacy for Illinois Central College Board of Trustees. A proud graduate of Illinois Central College with a track record of integrity, selfless service, community involvement, inspiring others, and continued involvement with Illinois Central College post-graduation, Bare-Kemper is focused on continuing ICC’s mission: "Through learning, minds change. We believe by changing minds, we can change the world."
Bare-Kemper served six years on the Illinois Central College Foundation Board, her last year as president. She is also known to speak at various forums and groups about her background and personal story of how ICC started the journey to the successful life she lives today.
Christine is trusted in the Peoria community as a caring person who gives. Her passion is to foster and maintain relationships between businesses, not-for-profits and local residents. These relationships have produced business partnerships, successful fundraising, and, most importantly, happiness. Her philosophy is simple: "Life is a series of choices. Choose wisely and make a positive difference."
In addition to the ICC Foundation, Christine has served and continues to serve on local boards and foundations as a way to continue giving back to the community she loves.
"I am where I am today because of my start at Illinois Central College. I could not be more grateful and proud of the education I received and the boost it gave me in my confidence and my life track. It is my desire to continue to serve the institution that served me."