Lt. Governor Simon Statement on State of the Union

CARBONDALE – Lt. Governor Sheila Simon pledged to work with President Obama and Illinois schools to send more students into the workforce with college credentials that qualify them for in-demand jobs.  

“President Obama’s blueprint for our economy is built on a strong, skilled American workforce,” Simon said. “A growing number of jobs require employees to hold more than a high school education, but not necessarily a bachelor’s degree. Illinois community colleges are poised to help more students earn career certificates and associate degrees that translate to good-paying jobs. I will work with the colleges, state leaders, and President Obama to ensure that we offer clear paths to employment. If our students work hard in school, we want them to find a job here in Illinois that will enable them to raise a family, own a home, and save for retirement. Our focus on college completion will help create an America that’s built to last.”