The Multicultural Leadership Program (MCLP) has named Heartland Community College President Keith Cornille as the recipient of the 2026 Community Servant Leadership Award.
Dr. Cornille has served as President of Heartland Community College since July of 2018. Prior to joining Heartland, he spent 18 years at Madison Area Technical College, rising to Executive Vice President/Chief Student Services Officer. During his 40-year career in higher education, he has served in various roles at Indiana University-Southeast (New Albany, IN), College of DuPage (Glen Ellyn, IL), and Richard J. Daley College in Chicago.
In addition to leading Heartland Community College in his role as president, Dr. Cornille previously served as Chair of the Illinois Council of Community College Presidents.
He serves as the Chair of the Illinois Green Economy Network Board, and is active in the local community serving a various groups including the Chamber of Commerce, United Way of McLean County, Boys and Girls Community Advisory Committee, BN Economic Development Council, and has served on the Greater Livingston Community Economic Development Council, just to mention a few.
Dr. Cornille also volunteers his time at Midwest Food Bank, Home Sweet Home Ministries, and provides other community services regularly throughout the region.
“It is an honor to receive the Servant Leadership Award. Organizations like MCLP show what a great community we have, and how, through collective efforts, we strengthen and improve the places we live in a lasting way,” said Dr. Cornille.
The Multicultural Leadership Program (MCLP) is a 501(c)3 nonprofit serving central Illinois since 2009. The program has developed nearly 500 local leaders and partnered with over 60 nonprofits. MCLP alumni are making an extraordinary impact across industries and communities—leading with purpose, integrity, and a commitment to positive change.
