Kaskaskia College held a ceremony and ribbon cutting to commemorate the naming of the Animal Disease Laboratory the John D. Cavaletto Agricultural Center.
Former State Representative John Cavaletto was able to procure the building for $1 and was instrumental in getting it back in working order.
State Representative Charlie Meier recalled Cavaletto’s determination on the project.
“He changed the direction and the way things are going. The other lab that was closed in northern Illinois sits there and is used for a little bit of storage and that’s all. It’s not maintained. Look at the building we have here for the students of Kaskaskia College because of you, John.”
According to the Kaskaskia College’s press release, former Illinois State Rep. John Cavaletto played a pivotal role in negotiating with the governor’s office and the Illinois General Assembly to pass legislation approving the sale of the former Animal Disease lab to Kaskaskia College for the symbolic price of $1, demonstrating his commitment to advancing the educational mission of Kaskaskia College. Now, the Kaskaskia College Agricultural Center, the former lab, added a 48,000 sq. ft building that expanded the ability of the college to better serve KC students.
“John and his wife, Connie Cavaletto, have demonstrated remarkable generosity as steadfast supporters of the college and its foundation, showcasing their unwavering commitment,” stated Kaskaskia College President George Evans. “Without John’s leadership and support, not only in advocating for this building sale but also during the historic state budget impasse, KC would not be in the same position as we are today.”
Read more at Southern Illinois Now here.