CHAMPAIGN, IL (Chambana Today) — The Parkland College Board of Trustees has approved naming the campus Career Exploration Center in honor of the late Dr. Joseph M. Sutton, a Southern Illinois University School of Medicine graduate and interventional cardiologist. The center’s new name recognizes Sutton’s dedication to helping students with limited awareness or resources explore career options before graduating high school. The naming will remain in place for at least twenty years.

During Wednesday’s meeting, trustees also administered the oath of office to new student trustee Perla Juarez-Cuevas and reaffirmed board leadership for the coming year. The board recognized April 2026 as Community College Month, highlighting the academic, economic, and equity benefits of public two-year colleges.

Other actions included approving purchases of aviation services and hybrid vehicles, grant applications for workforce and educational initiatives, and personnel appointments. College officials say these decisions demonstrate Parkland’s ongoing commitment to student development, workforce readiness, and community engagement.