Illinois Valley Community College welcomes Wayne Duerkes to the counseling department as its newest transfer coordinator.

Where are you from?
I am originally from Somonauk, IL, but I am presently in Peru.

Where did you attend
college and what degree(s) do you hold?
I started later in life at Waubonsee Community College and then Transfer to NIU for my BS and MA, then I went to Iowa State for my PhD. All as a history major.

What classes or positions are you currently assigned?
I am the new Transfer Coordinator, and I assist students with transferring to four-year institutions and make sure that many of our courses qualify for transfer credit.

Are you new to teaching? If not, where did you teach before IVCC?
I taught at Iowa State and Simpson College, both in Iowa.

What are your initial impressions?
I am immensely impressed with all aspects of IVCC. The intense student centric focus is amazing.

What is your favorite aspect of IVCC?
The support of the other members of the team.

What is your favorite thing about the Illinois Valley area?
As an Illinois historian, the deep and important history of the region.

What should a student know about you?
The most important thing that students should know about me is that I have a passion in helping them achieve their long-term goals.