Lake Land College recognizes students at annual banquet Posted on May 17, 2017 At the Lake Land College Student Recognition Banquet, seven students received the Outstanding Student Award for their academic division. In the back row, from left are: Carley Travis, Agriculture; Ashlee Burton, Humanities and Communications; Kaitlin Slifer, Business; Andrea Speece, Allied Health; in the front row, from left are: Michelle Janes, Technology; Jessie Macklin, Math and Science; Cassandra Eilers, Social Science and Education. Lake Land College recently honored more than 130 students at the annual Student Recognition Banquet hosted by the Student Government Association. Students were recognized for their academic achievements, elected offices and organizational roles for the academic year. Seven students received the Outstanding Student Award for their academic division. The awards are given to a student from each academic division who has displayed excellence within his/her division as well as contributed to Lake Land College and the community. The Outstanding Award Recipients include: Ashlee Burton, Charleston, Humanities and Communications Division; Cassandra Eilers, Pana, Social Sciences and Education Division; Michelle Janes, Mattoon, Technology Division; Carley Travis, Oblong, Agriculture Division; Jessie Macklin, Effingham, Math and Science Division; Kaitlin Slifer, Stewardson, Business Division and Andrea Speece, Paris, Allied Health Division. The criteria of the award include: graduation from a program with 30 or more hours during the 2016-2017 academic year, a cumulative GPA of 3.0 or higher, outstanding contributions to the division and outstanding contributions to Lake Land College and the community. The following students were also recognized for their participation in the organizations listed: Student Representatives to the Board of Trustees Jensyn Morrison, Cowden, 2016-2017 representative Who’s Who Among American Junior College Students Melanie Adams, Windsor Maria Amill, Lakewood Kaylee Beals, Neoga Jessica Blazich, Neoga Alex Bohnhoff, Dieterich Kassidy Bonebrake, Charleston Madison Boone, Shelbyville Dustin Borries, Effingham Autumn Brandenburg, Casey Michelle Burrus, Mattoon Ashlee Burton, Charleston Audrey Casey, Toledo Hope Collier, Effingham Morgan Damery, Mattoon Kelcie Darnell, Shelbyville Robert Devries, Mattoon Blake Dunham, Charleston Madison Easton, Neoga Brianna Eller, Mattoon Katelyn Fisher, Mattoon Courtney Flach, Montrose Ian Goatley, Charleston Bailey Gowin, Mattoon Tyler Haak, Mattoon Abby Hagen, Watson Peyton Hagerman, Sullivan Cassandra Hall, Neoga Melvin Hawkins, Mattoon Myah Herbord, Pana Taylor Higgins, Windsor Kaylie Huizenga, Morrison Morgan Hunter, Mattoon Michelle Janes, Mattoon Kelly Keitel, Effingham Lily Laatsch, Altamont Danielle Lash, Pana Jessie Macklin, Effingham Jeffery Martin, Paris Lacy Maulding, Casey Sara McRoberts, Mattoon Charles Meaker, Mattoon Sheldon Meyer, Shelbyville Mary Moenning, Hayfield MN Jensyn Morrison, Cowden Tegan Murphy, Mattoon Vincent Myers, Altamont Emily Neuhauser, Mattoon Lina Ngoopos, Mattoon Beth Niemerg, Edgewood Dylan Ohnesorge, Strasburg Lakaylee Ordner, Sigel Charles Osley, Mattoon Dymond Randle, Mattoon Megan Reiher, Belleville Julia Roberts, Farina Rachel Schultz, Stewardson Tyler Schuring, Mattoon Mark Shirley, Mattoon Kaitlin Slifer, Stewardson Clayton Slifer, Mattoon Marissa Sliger, Pana Caitlin Sloan, Beecher City Andrea Speece, Paris Kara Springman, Sullivan Devon Still, Bethany Jordan Thoele, Teutopolis Carley Travis, Oblong Samantha Valentine, Mattoon Daria Voronia, Mattoon Tristen Warner, Gays Emily Watson, Mattoon Allison Wheeler, Bethany Mikayla Willoughby, Mattoon Dallas Wilson, Charleston Madison Yoder, Mattoon 4.0 GPA Zachary J. Armstrong, Mattoon Christopher J. Arnold, Effingham Dylan W. Bailey, Louisville Kaylee M. Beals, Neoga Nathan A. Bonifer, Mattoon Sarah A. Brown, Toledo Steven M. Bryant, Effingham Rebekah L. Buescher, Charleston Ashlee M. Burton, Charleston Elizabeth M. Colbert, Mattoon Rachel M. Deters, Sigel Constance Durflinger, Marshall Brianna N. Eller, Mattoon Courtney M. Flach, Montrose Beth-Anne Graham, Farina Abby P. Hagen, Watson Cassandra J. Hall, Neoga Sara Heumann, Mansfield Center, CT Shane D. Hout, Arcola Kaylie A. Huizenga, Mattoon Trevor M. Justice, Ashmore Kelly S. Keitel, Effingham Zachary P. Lensink, Mattoon Cheryl J. Macklin, Effingham Christine B. Martin, Toledo Zachary S. Mayberry, Sullivan Jana M. Messer, Charleston Teresa M. Meyer, Effingham Scott N. Mighell, Mattoon Blair K. Monroe, Bethany Danny R. Nelson, Sullivan Alyssa N. Nichols, Mattoon Jarred M. O’Leary, Mason Shirley R. Osborne, Effingham Christina E. Panici, Mattoon Kelly R. Prescott, Mattoon Konnor P. Pruemer, Effingham Justin E. Reinneck, Belleville Hannah M. Richardson, Assumption Kelly A. Sager, Mattoon Zachary R. Schneider, Lerna Steven D. Schrock, Toledo Cathy M. Sowa, Charleston Jeffrey K. Stevenson, Effingham Kaden A. Sweeney, Charleston Katherine S. Tipsword, Shelbyville Jessica L. Watson, Neoga Ryan C. Wells, West Union Kayana L. Wenglarz, Mattoon Julie M. Wente, Sigel Aaron M. Wesch, Hindsboro Mikayla L. Willoughby, Mattoon Ronald C. Winkler, Kansas Coral J. Woods, Tower Hill Student Ambassadors Autumn Brandenburg, Casey Maddison Taylor Caldwell, Mattoon Carson Leigh Goff, Mattoon Josiah Kinert, Lovington Lily Laatsch, Altamont Karla Madden, Mattoon Charles J. Meaker, Mattoon Mary Moenning, Mattoon Jensyn Morrison, Cowden Dylan Ohnesorge, Strasburg Charles Osley, Mattoon Sidney Smith, Mattoon Carley Travis, Mattoon Navigator Editor-in-Chief: Allison Wheeler, Bethany Managing Editor: Derby Roan, Mattoon Business Manager: Steven Oliver, Charleston Photographer: Mackenzie Crable, Mattoon Staff Reporter: Sara McRoberts, Mattoon Distribution/Archives: Darrius Frazier, Charleston Student Activity Board Jessie Macklin, Effingham, Chairperson Chayli Blackwell, Mattoon, Vice Chairperson Caitlin Sloan, Beecher City, Secretary Kelly Keitel, Effingham, Treasurer Bailey Boswell, Pana Kaitlyn Denton, Pana Carrie Ann Dilley, Cowden Nick Esslinger, Strasburg Erin Friese, Stewardson Lucas Hill, St. Elmo Ross Lynch, Pana Riley Pruemer, Dieterich Aubrey Puckett, Pana Lebo Sango, Mattoon Gael Tshilombo, Mattoon Miranda Myers, Paris Student Government Association Melanie Adams, Windsor, President Cassandra Hall, Neoga, Vice President Taylor Higgins, Windsor, Secretary Kristen Morlen, Windsor, Treasurer Madison Easton, Neoga, Public Info Officer Kaitlin Slifer, Stewardson, Parliamentarian Chandler Ballinger, Stewardson Jessica Blazich, Neoga Lacie Butler, Mattoon Orlando Waltero Campuzano, Mattoon Blake Dunham, Charleston Brock Hammond, Shelbyville Cole Keller, Charleston Jensyn Morrison, Cowden Lina Ngoopos, Mattoon Emily Stutzman, Arthur -30- Lake Land College District 517, located in Mattoon, Illinois, serves the second largest community college district in the state, with a total population of 189,869. The Lake Land College district comprises all or part of 15 counties and 31 public school districts in rural east central Illinois. Counties served by Lake Land College include: Christian, Clark, Clay, Coles, Crawford, Cumberland, Douglas, Edgar, Effingham, Fayette, Jasper, Macon, Montgomery, Moultrie and Shelby
Lake Land College hosts annual business and computer contest Posted on May 16, 2017 Flora High School won the 2017 Lake Land College Business and Computer Contest. Pictured left to right are Kaleb Fritch, Devon Warren, Logan Moses, Laker Louie, Aven Kimmell, Lane Stanford and Alicia Westjohn, business instructor, Flora High School. Individual winners in the 2017 Lake Land College Business and Computer Contest are pictured left to right Kimberly Davis, Arthur Lovington Atwood Hammond High School, PowerPoint; Cameron Noel, Kansas, Kansas High School, Word; Lane Stanford, Flora, Flora High School, General Business/Current Events; Devan Warren, Flora, Flora High School, Accounting. Not pictured is Grant Sims, Shelbyville, Shelbyville High School, MOS Excel. Flora High School placed first in the team event at the annual Business and Computer Contest sponsored by the Lake Land College Business Division and Club IT. Other high schools participating in the event were Arthur Lovington Atwood Hammond High School, Centralia High School, Champaign Centennial High School, Champaign Central High School, Charleston High School, Flora High School, Kansas High School, Martinsville Jr./Sr. High School, Neoga High School, Newton Community High School, Paris High School, PBL High School, Shelbyville High School, St. Elmo High School, and Windsor Jr./Sr. High School. “We look forward to this contest every year,” said Kathy Black, division chair business/business instructor and coordinator of the contest. “We enjoy seeing and visiting with area business teachers and interacting with talented students. It’s a great opportunity for students to showcase their business and computer skills.” Students from area high schools competed in the following categories: accounting, general business and current events, MOS Word, MOS PowerPoint, and MOS Excel. Depending on the category, students either completed a written test or a hands-on test on the computer. First place winners of each contest received a 3-credit-hour tuition waiver from Lake Land College. The winners are as follows: Accounting: Devon Warren, Flora High School General Business and Current Events: Lane Stanford, Flora High School MOS Word: Cameron Noel, Kansas High School MOS PowerPoint: Kimberly Davis, Arthur Lovington Atwood Hammond High School MOS Excel: Grant Sims, Shelbyville High School For more information, contact Black at 217-234-5348 or by email at kblack@lakelandcollege.edu.
Still time to register for the Foundation Golf Outing Posted on May 15, 2017 There is still time to register for the Lake Land College Foundation Golf Outing on Friday, May 26 at Meadowview Golf Course. New to this year’s prize offerings are the guarantee that a golfer will win a trip for two (not including airfare) to one of more than 3,000 resort locations in the U.S. and Caribbean sponsored by Pilson’s Auto Center. The award will go to the person with the closest to the pin shot on Hole #13. Registration and lunch for the participants will be at 11 a.m. with a shotgun start at noon, followed by dinner at the end of the day. The entry fee is $125 per golfer or $500 per team of four and includes lunch, 18-holes, cart, refreshments and dinner. All proceeds benefit the Lake Land College Foundation. The golf outing will follow a scramble format with teams of four. Teams or individuals can sign up through the Lake Land College Foundation at lakelandcollege.edu/foundation/golf or by calling 217- 234-5363. Individuals will be placed on a team. Organizations or individuals can support the foundation with a $100 donation to the golf classic as a tee sponsor. While golfing, participants will have the chance to win a car sponsored by KC Summers for a hole-in-one on a par three; and other major prizes such as $5,000 cash at the putting contest and a skins game. Prizes will be awarded for low-net and low-gross scores for all male teams, all female teams and mixed (two male, two female) teams. The winners and raffle prizes will be announced at the dinner following the tournament. All proceeds assist the Lake Land College Foundation in the mission to help students as they pursue a better life through the power of a Lake Land College education. To register for the golf outing, visit lakelandcollege.edu/foundation/golf or contact Jackie Joines at 217-234-5354 or jjoines@lakelandcollege.edu. All mail entries should be sent to the following address: Lake Land College Foundation Golf Classic, 5001 Lake Land Blvd., Mattoon, IL 61938 -30- Lake Land College District 517, located in Mattoon, Illinois, serves the second largest community college district in the state, with a total population of 189,869. The Lake Land College district comprises all or part of 15 counties and 31 public school districts in rural east central Illinois. Counties served by Lake Land College include: Christian, Clark, Clay, Coles, Crawford, Cumberland, Douglas, Edgar, Effingham, Fayette, Jasper, Macon, Montgomery, Moultrie and Shelby.
Lake Land College students honored for All-Illinois Community College Academic Team Posted on Melanie Adams, Sullivan, and Jensyn Morrison, Cowden, were nominated by Lake Land College for the All-Illinois Community College Academic Team. The nominations, submitted by the Phi Theta Kappa Honors Society advisor, are based on academic achievement, leadership skills and participation in various campus and community activities. In early April, Morrison and Adams were honored at a statewide Phi Theta Kappa banquet in Springfield for their outstanding achievements and inclusion on the All Illinois Community College Academic Team. Adams was the valedictorian at Windsor Melanie Adams, Sullivan, was nominated by Lake Land College for the All-Illinois Community College Academic Team. The nominations, submitted by the Phi Theta Kappa Honors Society advisor, are based on academic achievement, leadership skills and participation in various campus and community activities. Pictured left to right are: David Hellmich, president ambassador representing the Illinois Community College Presidents Council and president of Sauk Valley Community College, Adams, Karen Hunter Anderson, executive director of the Illinois Community College Board. Jensyn Morrison, Cowden, was nominated by Lake Land College for the All-Illinois Community College Academic Team. The nominations, submitted by the Phi Theta Kappa Honors Society advisor, are based on academic achievement, leadership skills and participation in various campus and community activities. Pictured left to right are: David Hellmich, president ambassador representing the Illinois Community College Presidents Council and president of Sauk Valley Community College, Morrison and Karen Hunter Anderson, executive director of the Illinois Community College Board. High School where she was also named an Illinois State Scholar. She received the Presidential Scholarship from Lake Land College and has been active in Phi Theta Kappa, honors courses and the Student Government Association (SGA). She currently serves as president of SGA. She graduated from Lake Land College with an associate degree in psychology in May and will transfer to Eastern Illinois University to continue her study of psychology/criminology. Morrison, a graduate of Cowden-Herrick High School, is also among Lake Land College’s first class of Presidential Scholars. She has been active in Phi Theta Kappa, as a Student Ambassador, a member of the Student Government Association, and was elected student trustee. As the student trustee to the Lake Land College Board of Trustees, she has been active in the Illinois Community College Board-Student Advisory Committee including serving as legislative chair. Morrison presented the student address at commencement and graduated with an associate degree in psychology. She will transfer to Eastern Illinois University in the fall to continue her study of psychology and neuroscience. – 30 –
Foundation Honors Donors at Annual Reception Posted on May 14, 2017 The Lake Land College Foundation recently honored several donors who have reached significant levels of lifetime giving at the annual Donor Reception. Pictured left to right are Dave Storm (back) and Debra Storm front; Jeff Stovall (back) and Tina Stovall (front); Deacon Patient representing Agri-Fab (back); Audrey Harshman (front): Brian Harshman; Janet Mead and Roger Mead, and Meg Yargus, foundation board president. More than 34 donors were recently recognized for lifetime giving during the Lake Land College Foundation’s annual Donor Reception. “We are so fortunate to have committed donors who continue to give and invest in Lake Land College and our students,” said Jackie Joines, executive director for college advancement. “We see the legacy of their gifts in the hundreds of students who are able to accomplish their educational goals through the generous support of the donors we recognize this evening.” The following people were recognized: Gerald Forsythe and Neal Tire were recognized in the President’s Gold Council for reaching a lifetime giving level of $500,000 to $999,999. Grunloh Construction Inc. and Heartland Dental, LLC were recognized in the President’s Silver Council for reaching a lifetime giving level of $100,000 to $499,999. Agri-fab, Inc., First National Bank of Pana, Sarah Bush Lincoln Health Center and Leslie Hill were recognized in the Leadership Guild for reaching a lifetime giving level of $50,000 to $99,999. CTS Control Technology & Solutions, Karen Fuqua Foundation, Roger & Janet Mead, Jennifer Nay and S & K Air Power Tool & Supply were recognized in the Trustee’s Guild for reaching a lifetime giving level of $25,000 to $49,999. Sheila Harshman, Lisa Hickman, Hydro-Gear, Jack & Jennifer Jansen, John Kelley, Robert & Lana Pancoast, Richard Green Company Inc, Shelby Memorial Hospital, Dave & Debra Storm, Jeff & Tina Stovall and were recognized in the Educator’s Guild for reaching a lifetime giving level of $10,000 to $24,999. Bryan & Krista Burrell, City of Marshall, Karin Edwards, Mike & Jackie Joines, Lakeland Apartments, Susan Leach, David & Dawn Ligon, David & Carolyn Lorton, Paul & Christine McKillip and Monahan Partners were recognized in the Scholar’s Club for reaching a lifetime giving level of $5,000 to $9,999. – 30 –
Lake Land College celebrates agriculture students at annual awards banquet Posted on May 12, 2017 Pictured in the front row, left to right, are: Julie Wente, Aaron Wesch, Kaylie Huizenga, Rachel Deters, Carley Travis and Libby Vandelist. Pictured in the back row are: Alex Rodhouse, Nathan Bonifer, Joel Schultz and George Rever. Curt Rincker received the 2017 Honored Alumnus Award at the Lake Land College Agriculture Banquet. Lake Land College celebrates agriculture students at annual awards banquet Lake Land College recently honored students in its agricultural majors at the 46th Annual Agriculture Banquet. More than 600 people filled the Lake Land College Field House for the banquet, which honored outstanding agriculture students and alumni. Ryan Orrick, division chair agriculture/agriculture instructor, said everyone in the room has had a part in the division’s success. “Each year in the Ag division we are fortunate to work with some of the best and brightest talent. We get to see this every day in the classroom.” Throughout the evening, various groups were recognized for their outstanding efforts including: the Agriculture Transfer Club, the Agriculture Business Club, the Horticulture Club, student leaders in the agriculture division, the Livestock Judging Team and members of the Post-Secondary Agriculture Students group. In addition, 59 students who achieved the state FFA degree were recognized and 12 students who have held or are currently holding a FFA section office. Twenty students were recognized as state or national proficiency winners and two students, Travis Winans, Mattoon and Maddison Caldwell, Elmwood, were recognized as National FFA winners. Within that group, 16 received the American FFA degree which is “one of the highest honors a student can achieve in their FFA career,” Orrick said. Orrick also recognized Laker agriculture legacy families. More than 34 families at the banquet had at least one parent and child attend Lake Land. Curt Rincker, retired Lake Land College agriculture division chair, received the 2017 Honored Alumnus Award. Rincker was an agriculture instructor from 1981 to 2011. During that time, he spent 10 years coaching Lake Land’s nationally recognized Livestock Judging team. As the judging coach, he recruited students from throughout the United States and expanded Lake Land’s name and reputation beyond our district borders. “Curt spent 30 years developing and enhancing Lake Land’s Agriculture division into one most respected programs in the nation,” Orrick said. Rincker was named division chair for agriculture in 1991 and saw the enrollment in the agriculture division jump from 130 in 1991 to a record 300 in 2011. He worked with industry to bring the John Deere Ag Tech program to Lake Land, as well as the professional training. Since retiring, he has “transitioned” to full time employment in production agriculture in Shelbyville and has developed one of the most successful Simmental operations in the Midwest. He continues to host the livestock judging team and animal science classes on his farm. He sponsors a scholarship that goes to the ag division’s outstanding student. He serves in leadership roles in many state agriculture organizations and also serves as the president of the Illinois Association of Community College Agriculture Instructors. He was a recipient of the Lake Land College Faculty Association Outstanding Service Award and the University of Illinois College of ACES Alumnus Award. Orrick also recognized John Althaus, former agriculture division chair, who is now the vice president for academic services, thanking him for his service and contribution to the Lake Land College Foundation in honor of his parents – the George and Lilly Bell Althaus Memorial Fund scholarship. This will be awarded to the students receiving the highest GPA and outstanding student for each division. Later that evening, Carley Travis, Oblong, received the Outstanding Agriculture Division Student Award for 2016-2017 and received a $500 scholarship on behalf of Rincker and his family. Travis is an agriculture transfer student. Mary Moenning of Hayfield, Minn. received the Phil Rincker Scholarship. This scholarship was named after Phil Rincker, Strasburg resident and 2006 graduate, who died in a farming accident in 2009. Rincker was an active member of the Livestock Judging Team. The $500 scholarship was contributed by his teammates, Sara Beckman, Schuyler Boyden, Blane Olson and Tucker Wood, and his family –Otis, Donna, Will and Cody. It is an annual scholarship given to a livestock judging team member who scores the highest in the beef category to honor Rincker’s memory and his love of beef cattle. Other students recognized at the banquet were as follows: Recognized for Agriculture Business and Supply/ Professional Custom Application were: Rachel Deters, Sigel, High GPA and Outstanding Student Recognized for Agriculture Production were: Julie Wente, Sigel, and Aaron Wesch, Arcola, High GPA Julie Wente, Outstanding Student Recognized for Agriculture Power Technology were: Joel Schultz, Stewardson, High GPA George Rever, Taylorville, Outstanding Student Recognized for the John Deere Ag Tech program was: Nathan Bonifer, Velpen, Ind., and Justin Reinneck, Belleville, High GPA Alex Rodhouse, Pleasant Hill, Outstanding Student Recognized for the Horticulture program were: Tim Kerans, Oakland, High GPA Libby Vandelist, Effingham, Outstanding Student Recognized in the Agriculture Transfer program were: Blair Monroe, Bethany; Kaylie Huizenga, Morrison; Kaden Sweeney, Charleston; Zoe Ray, Greenup, High GPA Kaylie Huizenga, Outstanding Student Recognized for receiving the American FFA degree were: Colin Cole, Toledo Adam Casey, Bingham Jordan Schutte, Mexico, Mo. Justin Reinneck, Belleville Matthew Stock, Hoopeston Grant Powell, Palmyra, Mo. Mary Moenning, Hayfield, Minn. Catherine Largent, Slanesville, W.V. Anna Landstrom, Odell Carley Travis, Oblong Karley Barrington, Mayo, Fla. Austin Terrell, Mexico, Mo. Joel Schultz, Stewardson Lacey Knodle, Fillmore Alec Meyers, Edinburg Recognized as Illinois FFA Star winners were: Maddison Caldwell, Elmwood Cole Fredrickson, Maroa Travis Winans, Taylorville Austin Walter, Grand Ridge Recognized as holding a leadership role with various state and national junior livestock associations were: Carson Goff, Hopedale, national board member for American Junior Chianina Association Kaylie Huizenga, Morrison, president of the American Junior Simental Association Megan Myerscough, Champaign, president Illinois Junior Simmental Association Mary Moening, Hayfield, Minn., president of the Minnesota Junior Simmental Association Kade Patton, Frankfort, Ind., past vice president of the Indiana Junior Angus Association -30- Lake Land College District 517, located in Mattoon, Illinois, serves the second largest community college district in the state, with a total population of 189,869. The Lake Land College district comprises all or part of 15 counties and 31 public school districts in rural east central Illinois. Counties served by Lake Land College include: Christian, Clark, Clay, Coles, Crawford, Cumberland, Douglas, Edgar, Effingham, Fayette, Jasper, Macon, Montgomery, Moultrie and Shelby.
Diane Sterchi to receive Lake Land College Alumnus Achievement Award Posted on May 3, 2017 Diane Sterchi will receive the Lake Land College 2017 Alumnus Achievement Award during the annual Commencement Ceremony, Friday, May 12, at 7:30 p.m. in the Lake Land College Field House. The Alumnus Achievement Award is awarded annually to an individual who has attained outstanding success and distinction in his or her field of endeavor; has gained favorable statewide or national recognition; or has performed service which has proven beneficial to society. Sterchi is currently an independent histotechnology consultant, the president of the National Society for Histotechnology and a member of the American Society for Clinical Pathology. She is a leading researcher in the field of histotechnology, the study of tissue abnormalities and treatment for the diseases which cause these abnormalities. Though she still acts as a consultant, she considers herself to be retired most of the time. “Histotechnology is a highly specialized profession and one in which Diane has been a clear leader and advocate resulting in distinctions and invitations from all over the world,” nominator Jacqueline Joines, executive director for college advancement, said. After serving in the U.S. Navy as a medic, Sterchi and her husband settled in his hometown of Olney. She enrolled in a local community college in nursing. However, when she transferred to Lake Land College, she had to change majors. At that time, Lake Land did not offer nursing. She went on to earn an associate degree from Lake Land College in 1975 and then transferred to Eastern Illinois University. There she received bachelor’s degrees in both zoology and chemistry. She has a master’s degree from Indiana Wesleyan University and has taken graduate courses from the University of Illinois. “My life would not have been this great without going to a community college. I would have not had the experience of all the possibilities a community college can direct you to. I struggled in high school even with an 85% average, I felt I was not smart enough to go through or even get into a four-year college. So, I joined the Navy. The Navy put me through training in the medical field which I did well in and they felt that was what I was best suited for. After serving in the service I still didn’t have confidence in pursuing college except for nursing. I had the GI Bill and I knew that I needed to use it to get at least technical certification or an associate’s degree. That is where a community college came in,” Sterchi said. She said she struggled at Lake Land because she was taking classes in subjects she never had before, but her “stubbornness and determination to learn more and do better” motivated her to complete her degree at Lake Land and go on to earn bachelor’s and master’s degrees in a specialized medical field. “All from starting in a community college,” she added. Sterchi first discovered the world of histotechnology through her mentor Dr. Ruskin, who she first met while acquiring laboratory supplies to collect samples from her home care patients. Ruskin, then the head pathologist at Sarah Bush Lincoln, offered her a part-time job mixing reagents, allowing her to utilize her chemistry degree. Seeing Sterchi’s dedication and love for tissues motivated him to send her to the Armed Forces Institute of Pathology to be trained in histotechnology. From there, both Sterchi and Ruskin went to work for the University of Illinois Veterinary School. Sterchi moved on to more exclusive jobs at top-end bio-medical companies, such as Eli Lilly & Co., crediting her success to having Ruskin as her mentor throughout her journey until his passing. Along with receiving numerous employment opportunities, Sterchi has gone on to share her expertise through countless presentations, paper and even training other histotechnologists around the world. She has also served on numerous boards and committees as an executive officer, competitive judge and curriculum consultant. “Diane has presented as an expert in the field of histotechnology all over the world including China. She is often called upon to help others in the profession with difficult cases and in training and grading others. Her current passion in developing curriculum ensures that she will leave a legacy in her profession. With each honor, position and opportunity, Diane promotes her Lake Land College education,” Joines said. Originally from Reading, Pa., Sterchi and her husband now live in New Palestine, Ind. They have been married for 46 years and have a daughter. – 30 –
Scott Lensink to be Honored with Lake Land College Distinguished Service Award Posted on Lake Land College will posthumously award the 2017 Distinguished Service Award to Scott Lensink, the sixth president of Lake Land, during Commencement on Friday, May 12 at 7:30 p.m. The award acknowledges an individual who has rendered outstanding service to the college. Lensink served for six years as the college’s sixth president, retiring in 2013. His career in higher education spanned 30 years, starting with a teaching position at Eastern Illinois University. He joined Lake Land College in 1993 as a business instructor and head coach for the Laker women’s basketball team. He went on to hold several positions at Lake Land prior to retiring as president. “Scott will forever be remembered at Lake Land College for the impact of his professional career; but just as importantly, he will be remembered by employees and students as a jovial, caring, larger-than-life personality, who inspired us to make an impact at Lake Land College,” David Cox, director of alumni relations and annual giving, said. Lensink’s wife Michele Lensink and their sons Zachary and Alex will receive the award on his behalf. Zachary Lensink will graduate that evening with an associate degree in pre-medicine. In his nomination, Cox listed several student testimonials, one of which came from Jenny (Westendorf) Lange, Laker Nation Class of 1998: “Scott Lensink was a huge part of my college career. He was both one of my instructors and my basketball coach. Scott taught us how to enjoy ourselves and laugh through most of life’s situations. We also learned that a good pizza and movie night would help fix almost anything.” During Lensink’s tenure, Lake Land College emerged as a national leader in the sustainability field, attracting grants and attention from public officials from coast to coast. In addition, the college received prestigious Aspen Institute recognition, which named Lake Land among the top 10 percent of community colleges in the nation. The college was also named the safest campus in Illinois. Upon Lensink’s retirement in 2013, Lake Land College Board Chairman Carl Hart said, “President Lensink has been a driving force in the continued success our students, faculty, and staff experience here. Under his leadership, the college has continued to grow and develop despite tough economic times.” Lensink was very active in the higher education community and local area. He served on numerous task forces and committees for the Illinois Board of Higher Education and Illinois Community College Board. Locally, Lensink served as a member of the Sarah Bush Lincoln Health Systems Health Center Board of Directors, the Coles County Historical Society Depot Restoration committee and Mattoon Foundation Board. He hosted international exchange students and volunteered as a coach for youth league baseball and football programs. His previous experience included consulting, working in the insurance industry and owning and operating his own business. Lensink had a bachelor’s degree from Northwestern College and a master’s degree from Eastern Illinois University. -30- Lake Land College District 517, located in Mattoon, Illinois, serves the second largest community college district in the state, with a total population of 189,869. The Lake Land College district comprises all or part of 15 counties and 31 public school districts in rural east central Illinois. Counties served by Lake Land College include: Christian, Clark, Clay, Coles, Crawford, Cumberland, Douglas, Edgar, Effingham, Fayette, Jasper, Macon, Montgomery, Moultrie and Shelby.
Nancy Caldwell honored with Lake Land College’s Faculty Association Outstanding Service Award Posted on Nancy Caldwell, Lake Land College music instructor, will receive the 2017 Faculty Association Outstanding Service Award at commencement ceremony on Friday, May 12 at 7:30 p.m. in the Lake Land College Field House. In her 20 years at Lake Land College, Caldwell has impacted students, faculty, staff and community members through her leadership in developing a music curriculum, enhancing the college’s fine arts culture, steering achievements in general education expectations and leading musical groups. “Nancy sets the bar high for her students. Her standards and rigor in the classroom are beyond reproach, yet her teaching style is relatable and approachable. This can be a difficult combination to acquire. Nancy does it beautifully,” Lara Bacino-Althaus, psychology instructor, said in her nomination of Caldwell. In 1997, Caldwell joined Lake Land as the college’s first full-time music instructor. She developed the curricula, selected textbooks and equipped a classroom dedicated to the fine arts. She went on to develop a new course, Music in American History and Culture, to give Lake Land College students more options in the area of fine arts. She also created an online version of the course. “She never loses sight of the fact that earlier musical styles, particularly classical music, are quite foreign to the typical 19-year-old student in east central Illinois, and works hard to draw a connection between these unfamiliar styles and the music students listen to every day,” Bacino-Althaus added. Caldwell is the founder and director of the college’s Community Choir, which is celebrating its 20th year anniversary. The choir includes 50 people from the college and surrounding communities who come together to share their love of music and perform two concerts each year. Caldwell also directs the annual Johnston Junior High Music Festival, an honors band and choir festival for area middle school students. In addition to the fine arts, Caldwell shares her passion and dedication to educational excellence with her colleagues. For the past 12 years she has led the General Education Committee. During her tenure, the group solidified general education goals for all degree seeking students. In the past, these expectations were only set for students in transfer majors. In 2004, Caldwell co-authored the college’s self-study report to the Higher Learning Commission and in 2012, she was nominated for the college’s employee Shine Award for her contributions to Lake Land College. Caldwell serves on the executive committee of the Lake Land College Faculty Association as the president-elect. Next academic year she will serve as the vice president, followed by a year as the president. Caldwell majored in piano performance at the College of Wooster in Wooster, Ohio, and has a bachelor’s degree in music. She has master’s degrees in piano performance and music history and literature from the University of Houston and a doctorate in musicology from Indiana University. Caldwell lives in Effingham with her husband Tom and two daughters, Madeline and Felicia. -30- Lake Land College District 517, located in Mattoon, Illinois, serves the second largest community college district in the state, with a total population of 189,869. The Lake Land College district comprises all or part of 15 counties and 31 public school districts in rural east central Illinois. Counties served by Lake Land College include: Christian, Clark, Clay, Coles, Crawford, Cumberland, Douglas, Edgar, Effingham, Fayette, Jasper, Macon, Montgomery, Moultrie and Shelby.
Posted on May 2, 2017 During a special meeting on Monday, May 1, the Lake Land College Board of Trustees recognized Gary Cadwell, Mode, for his two years of service as the board chair. Pictured left to right are Dave Storm, newly elected chair, Cadwell and Josh Bullock, president. During a special meeting on Monday, May 1, the Lake Land College Board of Trustees elected new officers and seated newly elected board members. Mike Sullivan, Doris Reynolds and Robert Luther, all of Mattoon, were re-elected in the April 4, 2017 election. They will serve six-year terms. The board also held elections for officers who will serve one-year terms. Those elected were: Dave Storm, Effingham, chair; Reynolds, vice chair; and Ann Deters, Effingham, secretary. The board also recognized Gary Cadwell, Mode, for his two years of service as the board chair. ###