Dr. Jeremy Thomas has served as president of Black Hawk College since June 2023, bringing nearly three decades of experience in education and a career in higher education spanning Illinois, Oklahoma, Texas and Louisiana.
As president, Dr. Thomas leads a diverse and talented team serving students across two campuses and three outreach centers in northwestern Illinois. During his tenure, Black Hawk College has experienced significant enrollment growth, expanded partnerships with schools, universities, employers and community organizations, and continued to strengthen its role in workforce and economic development throughout the region. His presidency has also included significant investment in modernizing the college’s campuses, transforming learning environments, career and technical education spaces and athletic facilities to better serve today’s students while positioning Black Hawk College for the future.
A first-generation college student and community college graduate, Dr. Thomas is a strong advocate for the transformative role community colleges play in the lives of students and the communities they serve. His leadership emphasizes relationships, collaboration and creating a culture in which faculty and staff are empowered to respond to changing student and community needs.
Throughout his career, Dr. Thomas has spoken at state, national and international conferences and has contributed to higher education policy discussions at the state and national levels. He is actively engaged in the Quad Cities region and serves with organizations including Two Rivers YMCA, United Way Quad Cities’ Education Council, Renew Moline and the Quad Cities Chamber.
Dr. Thomas began his own higher education journey at community colleges, earning Associate of Arts in music degrees from Northeast Texas Community College and Trinity Valley Community College. He went on to earn bachelor’s and master’s degrees from Northwestern State University, a graduate certificate in academic advising from Kansas State University and a Doctor of Education from Grambling State University.
Dr. Thomas and his wife, Rachel, have been married for more than 26 years and have two daughters.
As the 2025-26 academic year comes to a close, Black Hawk College is proud to celebrate our graduates. Take a look back at all that you’ve accomplished and all the exciting things you’ve experienced this year. Congratulations, Class of 2026!
Community colleges play a vital role in workforce readiness and economic growth across Illinois. At Black Hawk College, students gain the skills, credentials and support needed to succeed, while partnerships with local employers ensure communities thrive through education, opportunity and a future built with purpose.
Black Hawk College’s $29 million Building 2 renovation reflects a commitment to student success and workforce readiness. Featuring advanced labs, flexible learning spaces and in-demand programs, the обновation prepares students for future careers while strengthening the region through innovation, collaboration and opportunity.
