Carl Sandburg College on Tuesday announced the atrium of its new Science & Technology Center will bear the name of Graham Health System following a $500,000 commitment from the non-profit healthcare network in support of student success.
Sandburg and Graham officials, along with the Galesburg Chamber of Commerce, gathered for the announcement inside the $27 million Science & Technology Center, which opened last year on Sandburg’s Galesburg campus.
Graham’s commitment came in two parts: a $250,000 pledge in January 2024 to fund the Graham Scholars program — which covers all educational fees for students in select health, career and technical programs, and an additional $250,000 gift announced Tuesday. That gift will support the Graham Healthcare Scholars program for students pursuing nursing and other health professions.
“This level of commitment reflects a partner that stays engaged and invests strategically in the long-term needs of District 518,” Sandburg Vice President of Advancement Eric Johnson said. “Graham Health System has consistently supported students' emergency needs, helped strengthen the nursing program and assisted students as they persist along their career pathways. It leads directly to jobs in our communities and helps strengthen our workforce.”
The latest contribution also pushed the Sandburg Foundation beyond its $350,000 Giving Tuesday fundraising goal.
Graham Health System, which operates a hospital in Canton and 12 medical clinics across Fulton, Knox, Mason, McDonough and Peoria counties, said the investment aligns with its responsibility to strengthen the region’s health care workforce.
Graham Medical Group is also expanding services locally. Its Center for Ambulatory Care on North Seminary Street in Galesburg is set to add an ambulatory surgery center next year.
That expansion is expected to increase demand for nurses and other clinical staff.