ROCKFORD, IL - The Board of Trustees of Community College District 511 (Rock Valley College) appointed Richard Kennedy to fill the seat vacated by Jarid Funderburg after his resignation on January 1, 2023. 

The Board had 60 days to appoint a new trustee to fill Funderburg’s vacant seat. After a public notice was posted, the Board received nine applications for the vacancy. At a Special Meeting held on February 13, 2023, the board interviewed two finalists and unanimously selected Richard Kennedy. 

Richard Kennedy brings to the position of Rock Valley College Trustee 25 years in public service. He is a lifelong resident of the Rock Valley College District, a graduate of Belvidere High School, and a resident of Machesney Park. His experience is rooted in service to our community; retiring from the Rockford Police Department after two decades of service, and in his retirement, he works with the City of Rockford as a civilian employee with the Rockford Police Department and is a substitute teacher for the Harlem School District. 

“We were fortunate to have two excellent finalists for the trustee vacancy. It has been a positive year for the College, and we are looking forward to Mr. Kennedy joining us to shape the future and direction of Rock Valley College,” said Gloria Cudia, RVC Board of Trustees Board Chair. “Further, we are grateful to Mr. Funderburg for his service and contributions to the College for the last four years.” 

Richard Kennedy will be sworn in at a Special Meeting (virtual) on Tuesday, February 14, at 5:15 p.m. and will fill the position until the term ends in April 2025. 

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