Dr. Melanie Whitelow is the new director of Continuing Education and Business Partnerships at Kankakee Community College.
In this role, Whitelow will oversee KCC’s customized training and continuing education area, which serve business, industry, public service and community members. She will also work directly with local employers to build partnerships which strengthen the skills of both current and potential employees.
Whitelow has a bachelor’s degree in physical anthropology and a master’s degree in education with a concentration in workforce education and development, both from Southern Illinois University at Carbondale. In 2024, she earned a doctorate in educational leadership from Chicago State University.
Her administrative background includes roles at Southern Illinois University; Chicago State University College of Education; and Governors State University, office of the vice president of Administration and Finance.
Each year, about 1,500 people complete non-credit workforce training and professional development at KCC. While these seminars and workshops do not offer college credit, many—including those in health care, social services, and education—qualify for continuing education or professional development units. Other programs lead to industry-recognized credentials, such as CPR Healthcare Provider and Food Safety Manager Certification.
More information about KCC’s Continuing Education and Business Partnerships options are at continuinged.kcc.edu.
Whitelow can be reached at mwhitelow@kcc.edu or 815-802-8204.
An All-American pitcher from KCC has signed with the Milwaukee Brewers.
Peyton Niksch, a 6-foot tall right-hander from Lowell, Indiana, signed a minor league contract with the Brewers on July 15.
In his sophomore season at KCC, Niksch was a 1st Team All-American in NJCAA Div. II Region 4 Player of the Year. For the 2025 season, Niksch had a 1.36 ERA; 107 strikeouts; and a perfect Game vs. Olney Central College on Sunday, March 2.
In two years at KCC, Niksch earned 16 Wins, had 178 Strikeouts and a 2.22 ERA.
“I’m incredibly excited for Peyton as he begins the next chapter with the Milwaukee Brewers,” said Bryce Shafer, KCC’s baseball coach and athletic director. “He’s earned this opportunity with all the hard work, discipline, and dedication that he has shown here at KCC. Watching him chase his dream of becoming a big leaguer is something truly special, and I couldn’t be more proud of the person and player he has become. I’ll be following closely as he competes against the best in the world. This is just the beginning for him.”
Another distinction for Niksch is that he earned a 4.0 GPA at KCC, earning an Associate in Arts Transfer degree.
The new coordinator of equity, diversity and inclusion at Kankakee Community College is Melany Villagomez.
“Melany is passionate about student advocacy and nurturing a culture of belonging,” said Kendra Souligne, KCC director of financial aid and student engagement. “She will strive for not only the representation of all students, but to also foster an environment in which students find their personal road to success through mentorship and collaboration.”
Villagomez is primarily responsible for KCC’s Center for Equity, Diversity & Inclusion, along with internal and external cultural programming and messaging from the EDI Center, Souligne said. She also will develop a new student success mentorship program. Her role includes assisting all students to find pertinent resources as they start college as well as support to stay enrolled to meet their academic goals.
“As the new Coordinator of Equity, Diversity, and Inclusion, I am honored to return to Kankakee Community College, my alma mater, to continue fostering a culture where every student feels seen, supported and empowered,” Villagomez said. “My goal is to build on the invaluable work already in motion and expand efforts that celebrate diversity and advance equity across campus in an effort to foster a culture of acceptance and belonging.”
Villagomez previously served as the Family Advocacy Center program lead at the Spanish Community Center, where she coordinated services and provided case management for underrepresented groups and low-income families. She has also worked for the City of Kankakee Mayor’s Office and Midland States Bank. A first-generation college graduate, Villagomez has an associate degree from KCC and a bachelor’s degree in political science with a minor in global studies from Governors State University.
KCC’s Center for Equity, Diversity & Inclusion offers computers, a printer, free snacks and beverages, as well as an assortment of diverse books and resources to broaden your horizons. Events are frequently held in the space, and it is open at other times as a gathering space.
KCC Student Life has teamed up with local community organizations to help KCC’s students connect, serve, and grow through volunteer opportunities!
The Community Connections page on the Student Life webpage — is a good resource for finding volunteer opportunities in our area. Whether you’re passionate about helping kids, supporting the environment, or giving back in other meaningful ways, there’s something for everyone.
“The page is actively updated as we make more connections with community organizations,” said Maurice Sullivan, coordinator of student life at KCC.
The Community Connections page offers:
“Volunteering is a great way to build your resume, explore career interests, meet new people, and make a lasting impact — all while giving back to the community that supports us,” Sullivan said.
Check out the Community Connections page to find your perfect volunteer match! Visit the KCC Student Life webpage to get started.
