JJC Chosen to Host National Horticulture Event

Joliet Junior College will host students from more than 60 colleges and universities for the Professional Landcare Network’s 35th Annual Student Career Days March 17 through March 20. 
 
The three-day event, which will be held on the college’s Main Campus, invites horticulture students from across the country to demonstrate their skills in real-world, competitive events, in addition to the chance to participate in a career fair and networking events.
 
Each year, PLANET estimates around 900 students participate in the event. PLANET, an international professional association, chose JJC for the location of their event due to the college’s facilities and offerings geared towards students enrolled in horticulture programs. 
 
The JJC Greenhouse Facility, designed by Legat Architects, is the first community college (and second of any U.S. college or university) greenhouse to register for LEED certification. 
 
Its energy- and water-efficient systems bring the college new ways of growing, conserving, and teaching. The facility also features a formal garden designed by students.

“We are extremely excited to be hosting the 35th PLANET Student Career Days at JJC,” said Lisa Perkins, JJC horticulture professor.

“We have attended with students for the past 18 years — it is finally good to be able to showcase our college and the Joliet area. We have an exceptional community and exceptional alumni — to date, we have 170 volunteers that have come out to support our effort to make this the best PLANET event ever.”