JJC Receives Surprise $1.9 Million from IRS Employee Retention Credit

Joliet Junior College Board of Trustees Meeting | October 15, 2025

Article Summary
Joliet Junior College has received an unexpected $1.9 million windfall from the federal Employee Retention Credit (ERC), a COVID-era tax credit designed to reward employers who kept staff on their payroll during the pandemic. The successful application, spearheaded by Vice President of Administrative Services and Finance Karen Kissel, will provide the funding for the college’s planned land acquisition in Grundy County.

JJC Employee Retention Credit Key Points:

• The college received a check for $1.9 million from the IRS for the Employee Retention Credit.

• The initiative was led by Vice President Karen Kissel, who pursued the credit despite skepticism from peers.

• The funds are designated to cover the cost of the land purchase for the new Grundy County campus.

• The ERC was a federal stimulus program created to encourage businesses to keep employees on their payroll during 2020 and 2021.

JOLIET, Il. – In a surprise announcement that drew applause and a standing ovation, Joliet Junior College President Dr. Clyne Namuo revealed that the college has secured $1.9 million in unplanned revenue from the IRS Employee Retention Credit (ERC).

During his president’s report at the October 15 board meeting, Dr. Namuo lauded Vice President of Administrative Services and Finance, Karen Kissel, for her persistence in applying for the complex federal tax credit.

“A few months ago, Karen Kissel came to us and had an idea that actually many of her peers did not support,” Dr. Namuo explained. “The idea that since JJC kept people employed through the pandemic… that we would be eligible for the employee retention credit.”

Despite skepticism, Kissel worked with a vendor to navigate the application process, resulting in the seven-figure check. Dr. Namuo humorously noted that he repeatedly asked “Are you sure?” upon learning the news, but confirmed the funds are secured.

The president immediately announced how the unexpected money will be used. “Before you get too excited, we have allocated those resources to the land acquisition for Morris and Grundy County expansion,” he stated, adding a layer of good news to the board’s earlier vote authorizing the land purchase negotiations. The announcement concluded with an “Employee Spotlight” on Kissel for her successful initiative.