What is HEARRR?

HEARRR is an alliance of four, non-profit, higher education institutions that share a long-term commitment to the vitality of the Rock River Region. All four members have worked actively for decades to improve the education, the economy, the workforce, health services, culture, and social well-being across the region. In addition to serving this region well for a very long time, they also deliver high-quality, fully accredited programs.

The leaders of the Alliance are committed to addressing the needs and aspirations of this area. They represent four institutions:

President John Peters, Northern Illinois University
Interim President Richard Kneedler, Rockford College
President Jack Becherer, Rock Valley College
Dean Martin Lipsky, University of Illinois College of Medicine at Rockford

Fast Facts on HEARRR Members

Northern Illinois University

History: Founded in 1895
Type: Comprehensive Teaching and Research University
Enrollment: 25,000 students
Programs: 22 Baccalaureate, Master's, and Doctoral degrees delivered by seven colleges
Accreditation: Fully accredited by North Central Association, all programs fully accredited by professional associations.

Leader: John G. Peters, President

Rock Valley College

History: Founded in 1964
Type: Community College
Enrollment: 9,475 students
Programs: Associate degrees for transfer in 60 disciplines, Career-related Associate degrees in 23 areas and 72 short-term certificates
Accreditation: Fully accredited by North Central Association; all programs fully accredited by professional associations.

Leader: Jack Becherer, President

Rockford College

History: Founded in 1847
Type: Independent, coeducational, liberal arts institution
Enrollment: 800 students
Programs: Baccalaureate degrees in 31 majors, plus 2 Master's degrees
Accreditation: Fully accredited by North Central Association

Leader: Richard Kneedler, Interim President

University of Illinois College of Medicine at Rockford

History: Founded in 1972
Type: University College of Medicine
Enrollment: 160 students
Programs: M.D., 4 Master's degrees, professional development
Accreditation: All programs fully accredited by professional associations

Leader: Martin Lipsky, Dean