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Des Plaines, Ill. (May 27, 2026) — More than five decades after a group of determined community leaders helped bring Oakton College to life, their legacy is now on display through a permanent campus tribute. During a dedication ceremony on May 26, Oakton unveiled its new Founders’ Wall, honoring the 49 visionaries whose belief in accessible, high-quality education has created opportunities for generations of students.
“Today, we honor the individuals who believed deeply in the power of education and created opportunities that continue to transform lives more than five decades later,” said Oakton College President Joianne L. Smith, Ph.D. “The Founders’ Wall ensures their vision and legacy will continue to inspire future generations and serve as a catalyst for building just and thriving communities.”
The Founders’ Wall, located near the Learning Commons at Oakton’s Des Plaines campus, celebrates the individuals who established what was then Oakton Community College in 1969. The tribute combines archival photography, historical narratives and founder profiles to tell the story of Oakton’s beginnings — from the statewide expansion of Illinois community colleges in the 1960s to Oakton's welcoming of its first students in 1970.
Oakton Community College’s 49 founders include:The dedication was attended by family and loved ones of Oakton’s founders, including Oakton College Trustee Benjamin Salzberg. His father, Frederick Salzberg, Ph.D., was among the College’s founding faculty.
“Oakton College has always been deeply personal to me because this institution shaped both my family’s story and my own,” said Salzberg. “My father’s belief in education and opportunity continues to impact students every day. As a student, alumnus and now trustee, it is incredibly meaningful to honor the founders whose vision and sacrifice created the strong foundation on which Oakton stands today.”
Designed as both a historical installation and a living reflection of Oakton’s mission, the Founders’ Wall emphasizes how the founders’ vision continues through today’s students, employees, alumni and community supporters.
The project originated from Oakton College’s Board of Trustees, who envisioned a permanent tribute recognizing the founders’ lasting contributions to the institution and region. During the ceremony, College leaders reflected on the founders’ enduring impact and the ongoing role community colleges play in expanding educational and workforce opportunities.
In addition to dedicating the Founders’ Wall, Oakton also recognized several new tribute pavers installed in the Des Plaines campus courtyard. The pavers honor students, alumni, employees, community members and loved ones whose stories and contributions remain connected to the College’s history and mission. Funds raised through tribute paver purchases support the Oakton College Educational Foundation, enabling student success by fueling scholarships, investing in academic programs and wrap-around supports to help ensure that students can begin their Oakton journey and persist to achieve their goals.For more information about Tribute Pavers at Oakton, visit Oakton’s website.
The Founders’ Wall is located near the Learning Commons at Oakton College’s Des Plaines campus.