Hall of Fame
Dr. John Erwin was President of Illinois Central College from 2001-2015. The athletics department was one of the many beneficiaries of Dr. Erwin’s tenure at ICC. He and fellow 2023 inductee Lorene Ramsey initiated the idea of what would become the ICC CougarPlex, seeing their dream become reality in 2011. Dr. Erwin also expanded the ICC athletic programs, adding men’s and women’s soccer programs as well as cross country. While ICC President, Dr. Erwin witnessed two NJCAA National Championships in women’s basketball (2003, 2006), and one in women’s volleyball (2009).
Always a fervent supporter of Cougar athletics, Dr. Erwin also firmly upheld the pre-eminent position of academics in higher education. He served on many athletics-related boards, including the Executive Committee of the National Junior Community College Athletic Association (NJCAA). He received the George E. Killian Award of Excellence from the NJCCA, which is awarded to individuals who have demonstrated the ideals of volunteerism, achievement, service, leadership and excellence.
