Moraine Valley Community College ranked No. 1 in the Best College/University and Best Adult Education categories in The Times Media Company’s 2023 “Southland Your Times” Best of Southland contest. The college moved up to the top spot following a second place ranking in 2022.

Readers of the “Southland Your Times” who live in and around Frankfort, Mokena, New Lenox, Orland Park and Tinley Park were asked to vote for their favorite local businesses and services, among other categories. According to the media company’s president, Thomas Schager, “Over 141,000 votes were cast by more than 10,000 unique voters in more than 180 categories. This shows that the readers recognize the value of these enterprises and want to applaud those that consistently exceed expectations.”

Dr. Pamela J. Haney, college president, said Moraine Valley is honored to receive this recognition. “Learning we were voted No. 1 in the Best College/University category calls to attention our mission of continuous improvement and dedication to providing diverse learning opportunities and environments,” she said. “Our college team works tirelessly to create a caring atmosphere where students feel valued, welcomed and empowered. This recognition also speaks volumes to our cohesive Board of Trustees, engaged students, faculty, staff, motivated administrative team and community support. I am excited about what Moraine Valley has accomplished, and we will continue to work hard to serve our students and communities.”

The college’s Adult Basic Education (ABE) Program also advanced one spot to No. 1 in its category. The program serves over 1,000 students from over 40 countries annually. It includes English as a Second Language, Illinois High School Diploma and citizenship classes; a transition and bridge program for students matriculating on to college courses; and student support services and activities to keep students engaged at Moraine Valley. The program continues to meet the needs of the college’s 26 communities by offering courses six days a week in the morning, afternoon and evening at the main campus in Palos Hills and the extension sites in Blue Island and Tinley Park.

“Our dedicated staff and instructors have demonstrated a commitment to our students that far exceeds traditional class instruction — they engage students with co-curricular activities, offer continuous support and have built a trusted relationship with our students who hail from around the globe. I am extremely proud of our team and appreciate their continued dedication to student success,” said Dr. Nina Shoman-Dajani, assistant dean of Learning Enrichment and College Readiness, which houses ABE.

For more information about Moraine Valley, visit www.morainevalley.edu.