Staff

James "Jim" Reed, Jr. became the Illinois Community College Trustees Association's sixth Executive Director on July 15, 2019. 

Prior to joining ICCTA, Reed served as Director of Government Relations for the Illinois Education Association, which represents 131,000 teachers and education support professionals across the state of Illinois. 

He also served as Deputy Legislative Director for Illinois Attorney General Lisa Madigan from 2002-2006 and as Legislative Director for Citizen Action/Illinois. 

Since joining ICCTA, Reed has guided the association to develop a strategic plan, secured the membership of all 39 Illinois community college districts, and visited 35 colleges across the state. His focus has been to facilitate board retreats on topics ranging from board roles & responsibilities, executive transitioning, DEI (Diversity, Equity & Inclusion), and dispute resolution. Under his leadership, the association has strengthened its relationship with the Illinois Council of Community College Presidents and the Illinois Community College Board. 

In addition, Reed has been actively engaged in fulfilling a Joyce Foundation grant to explore the possibility/opportunity for Illinois community colleges to offer baccalaureate degrees. The initiative is focused on fulfilling workforce needs and providing access to baccalaureate completion for students who would not otherwise be likely to attain the degree.