Two months ago the Rend Lake College Board of Trustees agreed that it would build the 1,365 square foot addition, but it would not commit funds from the existing college budget. The Rend Lake College Foundation took up the challenge to raise the money led by Pinckneyville residents and foundation board members Dr. Bill Roe, Mary Pericolosi and Kevin Pyatt. Retired member, Dr. Gene Stotlar also championed the effort.

                “It’s a big plus for Pinckneyville to have a facility such as that three miles from town,” Stotlar said. “How many of these kids wouldn’t be going to college if Rend Lake wasn’t here in our community?”

                With more than $270,000 in the bank, Foundation Chief Executive Officer Pat Kern said she hopes to have the remaining $125,000 raised by the end of the year. If that goal is met then construction would begin next spring.

                The Foundation held a press conference at the Pinckneyville satellite campus Wednesday to increase awareness of its fundraising efforts. It also outlined creative ways it is attempting to obtain the cash such as selling naming rights to the new lab at a cost of $75,000, as well as three existing classrooms at $50,000 a pop.

                Kern said there are parties interested in purchasing naming rights, but wouldn’t disclose who they were.

                The 5,915 square foot Pinckneyville facility opened in 2002 and has served more than 3,700 in that time. That includes 276 PCHS students who have participated in the college’s tuition-free, dual- credit program.

                Those interested in donating money to this cause can contact the Foundation at 437-5321, ex. 1214, or by writing it at 468 Ken Gray Parkway, Ina, Ill. 62836.